This book traces the lives of Malayalees in Singapore through their memories and experiences of moving from Kerala to Singapore and how their families subsequently built their lives here, slowly sinking their roots and becoming Singapore Malayalees. From Kerala to Singapore is the result of rigorous research into the relatively little-known Singapore Malayalees, and provides a comprehensive insight into a rich and fascinating community that has made a rich contribution to the country. This book gathers together an academic account of migration, more than 100 personal narratives – which are complemented by specially commissioned photo portraits and personal family memorabilia – and dozens of meticulously researched family trees. The ambition of this book is unmatched; never before has there been a study of the Singapore Malayalees – or indeed any ethnic community in Singapore – that simultaneously comprises academic research, oral testimonies, portrait photography, personal memorabilia and genealogical study.

Dr Anitha Devi Pillai is a fourth-generation Singapore Malayalee, an applied linguist by training and a teacher educator by profession. Anitha has a PhD in Applied Linguistics and she is the author of Singaporean Malayalam: The Presence of a Hybrid Language and has published research several articles on the Singapore Malayalee community. Dr Puva Arumugam is a Singapore born Indian playwright and poet with a Ph.D. in Theatre and Cultural Studies. She has staged plays both in Singapore and in Australia in various theatre festivals. Puva also takes a keen research and writing interest in diaspora and ethnic minority migrant communities.