Remembering the guardian of Kristang heritage

Aug 16, 2024

Joan Margaret Marbeck
July 28, 2024

Joan Margaret Marbeck passed away on July 28 at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by the Eurasian community for generations to come. Known for her distinctive bohemian style — vibrant gypsy skirts, colourful scarves, and hoop earrings — Joan embodied the spirit of freedom, art, peace, love, and joy, which defined her life and work.

Born and raised in Melaka, Joan dedicated her life to preserving the cultural heritage of the community that settled in the state after the Portuguese conquest in 1511. Central to this heritage is Kristang, a creolised version of the Portuguese language enriched with cultural expressions like songs and dances. Joan’s passion for Kristang was boundless. Reflecting on its historical significance, she once remarked, “There was a time when even Chinese shopkeepers in Melaka would speak Kristang. That’s how popular it was, how commonly spoken. My hope is that children show an interest in the language and start speaking it at home again, the way they used to.”

In 1995, Joan published her first book, Ungua Adanza (An Inheritance), an introspective account of the Kristang community drawn from her memories and observations. A decade later, she released Linggu Mai (Mother Tongue), a resource for the Kristang community and anyone interested in learning the language.

Joan’s talents extended beyond writing. After attending an intensive drama course at the Hitchen Priory in Hertfordshire, London, she became an accomplished actress and theatre director. In 1984, she co-founded The Malacca Theatre Group and directed its first stage production, Love’s A Luxury. In 2006, Joan launched ‘The Kristang Poet of Melaka’, a project that saw children of Portuguese descent gather every weekend for four months at SMK Canossa Convent in the Portuguese Settlement. There, they practised Kazamintu la Praiya, a Kristang musical she wrote. This endeavour instilled a sense of pride in the children, who also learned traditional dances like the Branyo and Farapeira, both featured in the musical.

Joan was also a specialist music teacher in primary and secondary schools across Malaysia for 24 years. She wrote Seng Marianne (Without Marianne), a monodrama thought to be the first-ever Kristang play, for the 2007 Lusophonia Festival in Macau. For her work in preserving the Kristang language, Joan was honoured as one of DIGI’s Amazing Malaysians in 2007.

Beyond her artistic contributions, Joan served as the President of the YWCA of Ayer Keroh, Melaka, from 1978 to 1981. During her tenure, she initiated ‘The Pedro Project’ at the Portuguese Settlement, which offered art and needlework classes to women, enhancing their skills and livelihood. Joan also contributed to the Malacca Community Museum, where she helped set up a mini exhibition featuring artefacts from the Selangor and Federal Territory Eurasian Association’s (SAFTEA) Heritage Exhibition, which she played a significant role in organising in 1993. This exhibition remains on display at the museum to this day.

In 2012, when the state celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Voice of Melaka, Joan released the Commemorative Bahasa Serani Dictionary, which is still available for purchase through SAFTEA.

Joan was an extraordinary individual whose unwavering dedication to her mission was evident in every challenge she faced. When asked about her motivation to preserve the Kristang language, she shared, “Someone had to document this unique language, and after receiving inspiration and encouragement from Pierre F.G. Guisan, a linguist from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, I took on this demanding task.”

Her journey was not without obstacles. She faced substantial criticism from the native Kristang community, who initially refused to acknowledge the endangered status of their language. Despite the challenges, Joan’s perseverance and dedication shone through. She remained committed to uniting all Eurasians under the Malaysian-Eurasian banner and reviving the use of Kristang. Her efforts won over many detractors and solidified her as a key figure in preserving this cultural heritage.

Joan’s passing leaves a profound void in the Eurasian community, but her legacy endures. Datuk Sheila de Costa, President of SAFTEA, said, “Joan was an icon. Much of what we know today about our heritage began with her. Long after we’re gone, her books and dictionaries will continue to educate and inspire.

Joan, you were the trailblazer!” Joan’s funeral, held on August 1 at the Church of the Assumption in Praya Lane, Melaka, was a testament to her impact, with many gathering to honour her contributions. Her work will continue to inspire and guide future generations, ensuring the Kristang language lives on.