As Equals: The Oei Women Of Java

by Daryl Yeap

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.

260 pages, Paperback

Published October 10, 2023

Reviews

[Jess Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished the book within 48 hours. Got to know this book from Aesop’s Woman’s Library where they gave out books written by local female Malaysian authors. It is of the most underrated books!

It was really eye opening and I could really relate and have so much respect for woman in the 80s and 90s who had so much traditional and outdated expectations of them as a woman - they stood up for themselves and lived a life that is true for themselves. Of course, this comes with having the financial means.

But as woman in the current era, this book has such a good and important lesson which is do not live for man or continue to stay in a bad marriage. We need to remember to love and live a life that is true for ourselves!

[Francine Chu · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating read of a bygone era; just the right balance of academic history blending with enough personal photos of the three protagonists to satisfy both the casual nosy reader and the serious scholar.

[Rose Gan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fascinating read not just for its recounting of the Oei family, in particular its women, but also for the illuminating context to their world.

[YuliaD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the author's story of three remarkable women of the same Oei family, interwined with the story of the Chinese in Southeast Asia and the West in early 1900s. Well written and complemented with a lot of real photographs of the family and that time.

[Rachel Cardoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d say 80% on the men and the rest on the women but its coz of the history. It’s great to know extraordinary women like them exists at that period of time.