MELAKA: A nearly forgotten traditional card game, once a unifying pastime for the local communities in the early days of the historic city, is experiencing a revival.
The game, known as "Cherki", is being popularised by Persaudaraan Kesenian dan Kebudayaan Peranakan Melaka (Sedara), an association dedicated to preserving Peranakan arts and culture.
Sedara president, Baba Cedric Tan said Cherki was once a popular recreational activity for locals. He added that it was a cultural tradition that had historically fostered social connections across different ethnic groups.
“Cherki was once widely played by the Chinese Peranakan, Chetti (Indian Peranakan) and Portuguese communities as a form of social interaction.
“In the past, almost every village had its own Cherki group, but as the older generations pass on, the game is slowly being forgotten," he said in an interview on Tuesday (March 25).
Tan said to ensure this unique cultural heritage is not lost, Sedara recently organised a special workshop titled "Meh! Main Cherki" at a Peranakan café in Tengkera here on Saturday (March 22).
He noted that the event aimed to introduce the game to a new generation and reignite interest in this historical pastime.
"The workshop saw 40 participants from various backgrounds, including students from vernacular schools and members of the local Malay community, come together to learn the intricacies of Cherki.
“The atmosphere was filled with excitement as participants eagerly learned the rules of the game, which has become increasingly rare among the younger generation,” he said, adding that the resurgence of Cherki highlights the importance of preserving traditional games that once played a vital role in social bonding.
