The Peranakan Museum explores the art and culture of Peranakan communities in Southeast Asia, and possesses one of the finest and comprehensive public collections of Peranakan objects.

Its permanent galleries presents objects from Peranakan material culture and contemporary expressions of Peranakan culture exemplified in contemporary art, fashion, design and craft, created by local and regional artists, artisans and designers, and inserted into every gallery.

The three floors of the museum explore Peranakan life through themes related to origins, home, and style as aspects of identity. Community interviews, recorded demonstrations, art commissions, and other contemporary expressions of Peranakan culture provide a multi-faceted experience for visitors, encouraging them to ask themselves: "What is Peranakan?".