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Yap or written in Chinese as 叶 is a Chinese clan name or surname. The forefathers of Yap families in Penang mostly originated from Fujian Province of Southern China . Looking for greener pasture was the main reason that made the Chinese migrated to Penang back in 19th century being coolies at the beginning and soon turned into traders at the bustling port city of Penang.

Among the most famous Yap clansman in Penang is Yeap (Yap) Chor Ee. He arrived in Penang in late 1800s and started his as a barber. Then, he ventured into trading the local products like sugar, rubber, tapioca and all kinds of farm production. Eventually, he diversified into banking and built Ban Hin Lee Empire. A man of kind heart, he had made enormous contribution in education; of one instance whereby a huge land was donated to build Wawasan Open University in Penang.

And the piece land where Yap Kongsi or Yap Clan house stands today at the junction of Cannon Street and Armenian Street in the heart of George Town was also donated by this well-known philanthropist Yeap Chor Ee. Situated in the core zone listed in UNESCO's World Heritage Site, it was built in 1924 on a land size of 10,000 square feet.

The association building is called Lum Yeong Tong Yap Kongsi comprises Choo Chay Keong Temple and Yap Temple. Choo Chay Keong that houses Yap clansman deities  is located right at the corner of the cross road. While the taller Straits building painted in white next to it is Yap Temple which houses Yap families ancestral tablets.


From afar, Choo Chay Keong Temple is easily recognised by an extensive ornament of dragons and pearls on its green roof. The fine and elaborate stone craving are demonstrated on its wall and pillars as well. This temple was restored in 1998 and renovation cost almost RM300K.

Visiting hours: Open daily
Entrance fee: Free
How to get there? Click here for Google Map and zoom in for detail.

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Comments (3)

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written by joseph yap , June 13, 2009

hi
i found this website while searching.very handy if we going to penang. i am a singaporean, never been to penang, however, my great grandfather and grandfather is from penang who migrated to s'pore since 1930's. i was wondering if the yap konsi have any records of them. must appreciated if u have the info.

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written by Shirley T , June 14, 2009

Thanks Joseph for your kind words. To my knowledge, there is none genealogical chart at Yap Kongsi but if I happen to come across any means to trace the genealogical record, I will definitely share with you.

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written by JHEILA YAP , September 22, 2009

GOD BLESS

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