Gunong Sayang Association was founded in 1910 by Babas in Singapore who were interested in the singing of Dondang Sayang (Malay Pantun). On the days that they were free, especially on Sundays, they would meet and sing their pantuns. Those who could play musical instruments, would accompany them on their violins, guitars and accordions.

In the early years, the association funtioned at Tanjong Pagar and Ceylon Road premises. However, owing to the conservation project undertaken by the authorities, GSA had to relocate to Lorong 24A, Geylang Road in the middle of 1990. At the helm, as President, Baba Victor Goh heads the association of about two hundred members.

At the beginning, membership was opened to males only. In the late 80s, spouses of members were encouraged to join the Association and later, ladies were included. Now we have the Nonya Sayang and the Adek Sayang groups - ladies and youngsters group.

Wayang Peranakan was later introduced, but on a small scale. As early as 1950s Peranakan shows were put up but this was laid off for some years. In 1985, GSA's President, the late Mr Quek Choon Chuan, conceived the idea of reviving the Peranakan shows. So, the first of the series was produced by GSA, entitled "Buang Keroh Pungot Jernih". The year 2006, our show "Mama Rosa" was the 20th GSA's production.

Besides putting up shows, our other activities include the following:

1) Singing of Dondang Sayang and Asli songs - Members meet every Monday night at the Club House with our resident band, the Dendang Irama.

2) Joget Sessions and Makan Kechil - Three to four times a year, when members are given free lunch or high-tea.

3) Outings - Visiting places of interest in Singapore or Malaysia and Thailand.

4) Celebrations - On Singapore's National Day and Chinese New Year, we either have a joget session or a formal dinner at a restaurant.

5) Anniversary Dinner & Dance - We celebrate our Anniversary every year without fail. Members and friends/supporters join in the celebration.

6) Line-dancing - Our younger and some older members meet to enjoy themselves.

7) Cooking demonstration - Members and friends are shown how to cook some Peranakan dishes.

8) Talks - Speakers are invited to talk on topics of interest, like health, food etc.

9) Sing-a-long sessions - This is on the last Friday of the month when we sing mostly English favourites.