AS EQUALS: THE OEI WOMEN OF JAVA

In this wonderfully detailed narrative, Daryl Yeap brings us the fascinating story of Hui-lan, Ida and Lucy, daughters and wife of Asia's richest man at the turn of the 20th century — Oei Tiong-ham. Flying planes, managing Asia's richest estate and charming the West with their sense of style and sophistication — at a time when bound feet, matchmaking and subservience were in vogue — the three women punctured through cultural stereotypes and challenged the ideals of womanhood. In doing so, they paved the way for millions to follow. Written in a distinct style, the book is revealing, holding surprises even for those familiar with their stories.

Contents:

• Meteor-Heavenly Orchid
• Rockefeller of the East
• A Privileged Upbringing
• Foreign Orientals
• The Go-To Guy
• 'Westernisation'
• Is the East so far Apart from the West?
• Dutch vs. British
• Taboo
• The Yellow Peril
• Birthplace of the Most Recognisable Chinese
• The Great Cabang Atas Tree
• Mesdames Oei Tiong-ham — The Wives
• Lucy
• Dollar Princesses
• An Educated Woman
• A Question of Domicile
• To Congenial Climes
• Singapore
• May Fourth Movement
• Marital Melodrama
• The Career Diplomat
• A Proposal
• Paris Courtship
• China
• Farewell To The Sugar King
• Asia's Largest Estate
• Femme Sole
• Matriarch
• Ida
• An Arranged Marriage
• When Two Poles Apart
• Forbidden Romances
• A Modern Woman
• Accounts Of Hui-Lan's Life
• A Difficile Lady
• Wealth & Style
• Madame Ambassadress

Readership: Social historians and general readers who are interested in Malaysia's history and the history of the Straits Chinese community.