About the Project

This e-resource is a platform dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the endangered Baba Malay language, spoken by the Peranakan community in Singapore. It features a comprehensive digital Baba Malay dictionary, offering an extensive collection of words, their origins, meanings, and pronunciations. The dictionary content draws from Baba Malay Dictionary: The First Comprehensive Compendium of Straits Chinese Terms & Expressions (Gwee, W. T. H., 2006). Additionally, the resource includes audio recordings from a Baba Malay language learning programme for beginners, enabling users to hear and practice correct pronunciation and intonation.

This e-resource is a key element of the research project [HRG-060] “Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Digital Age: Baba Malay Language Revival with AI”, funded by the National Heritage Board. The project aims to revitalize the Baba Malay language using innovative AI-powered tools that provide interactive, rapid feedback and conversational practice.

A central component of this initiative is the development of an AI ecosystem that includes:

• ‘ChakapBot’ AI Chatbot: A conversational learning assistant designed to make language learning more engaging, accessible, and available anytime, anywhere.
• Baba Malay Contextualized Language Model: Tailored to understand and generate Baba Malay, enriching the learning experience.
• Data Analytics Module: Analyzes chatbot interactions to uncover language learning patterns and inform future enhancements.

This research explores the potential of the AI chatbot in addressing the roles of AI in preserving the Baba Malay language. The project also features the contributions of voice talent, who provided authentic recordings to aid pronunciation and foster an immersive learning experience.

The team, led by Dr. Zhang Huiyu from Temasek Polytechnic comprises Baba Malay preservers, language experts, and technology specialists to ensure a holistic and sustainable approach.

Principal Investigator (PI):
Dr. Zhang Huiyu, Senior Academic Mentor (Team Lead)

Co-Investigators:
Dr. Nala Lee Hui Ying, Associate Professor (Linguist)
Mr. Andrew Chong, Manager (AI Advisor)
Ms. Josephine Tan, Senior Lecturer (UI & User Experience Advisor)
Mr. Kenneth Y. K. Chan, Independent Writer (Baba Malay Curriculum Developer & Tutor)
Mr. Andy Gwee Boon Kheng, Independent Heritage Researcher (AI System Validator)

Voice Talents:
Ms. Lim Swee Lian, Carolyn
Mr. Lee Yong Ming

The project also benefits from the collaboration with The Peranakan Association Singapore, ensuring cultural authenticity throughout the initiative.

Reference:
William Gwee Thian Hock. (2006). Baba Malay Dictionary: The First Comprehensive Compendium of Straits Chinese Terms & Expressions. Tuttle Publishing.

Project Supported by: