Must visit destinations for your next Jewish trip

Have you considered going to Southeast Asia for a Jewish trip?

The Jews have had a long history in Asia. Its settlements were established by Jewish immigrants, many of them fleeing from countries that persecuted them. Some communities prospered greatly, while others remained small due to religious and governmental conflicts.

Here are some sites to include on your next Jewish vacation.

The last synagogue in Burma

The Jewish community of Burma, also known as Myanmar, was established in the mid-19th century. The Jewish traders who arrived there served as a conduit for imports and exports with the overseas cities and the British colonial rulers. Many Jews were successful in business and some even served as government officials. As the Jewish population grew, so did their economic position and their philanthropic activities. But everything changed during World War II. The Japanese occupied Burma and expelled the Jews because they were believed to be British spies.

After the Japanese occupation, only 300 Jews remained. But this time, everything, including his wealth, was gone. Over time, many Jewish families left the country. Changes in the government also forced the remnants to leave.

Now, there are approximately 20 Jews living in Burma, including the caretakers of the last synagogue.

the last synagogue, Musmeah Yeshua, it has a very high ceiling with beautiful columns, it was rebuilt in 1896. Before it had 126 silver Torah scrolls, but now there are only two. It was listed as one of Yangon’s 188 heritage buildings and receives thousands of tourists every year.

Singapore’s small but wealthy Jewish community

Here’s a fun fact: Israel is one of the few countries that helped Singapore after it gained independence from Malaysia.

For this reason, Israelis are very famous and respected in Singapore. The Jewish community is small, mostly Orthodox, but wealthy and very welcome.

There are two synagogues in Singapore: The Chesed-El and Maghain Aboth. Maghain Aboth serves as a school for 150 students and as a venue for bathing rituals. There is also a kosher shop serving delicacies and products from Israel. They also cater events like weddings, bar mitzvahs and other occasions in their banquet hall.

The synagogue is ideal for jewish journey both for businessmen and tourists due to the amenities available.

The 62 foot tall menorah in Indonesia

Who would have imagined that a giant Menorah can be found in one of the most populous Muslim countries in the world? And the fact that it is a government initiative to build a 62 foot menorah is also notable.

The first recorded history of the Jewish community in Indonesia is written by Jacob Saphire. He interviewed a local Jew who told them that there are about 20 Jewish families in Batavia and a few more in Surabaya and Semarang. Most of the Jews were merchants and allies of the colonial regime.