Knowledge Management in the World of 18th Century Chinese Business

This paper looks at the rise of new forms of Chinese business relationships with Southeast Asia in the eighteenth century. I have identified the beginning of the eighteenth century as an important era because it ushered in a new stage in China’s economic relationship with the region. It led to changes which were crucial for the foundation of Singapore and which became the basis of Singapore’s trade and economic position during much of the nineteenth century. It also highlights the role of the Straits-born or Baba Chinese who were resident in Southeast Asia at the time as the key knowledge managers in these events