Khaw

Khaw is a surname of Chinese origin, predominantly found among the Hokkien Chinese community. It is a romanization of the Mandarin Chinese character 许 (Xǔ) and the Hokkien Chinese character Khó͘. The surname is common in Fujian province, China, and has spread to various Southeast Asian countries with significant Chinese diaspora populations, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

The character 许 itself has ancient roots in Chinese history and is believed to have originated from a noble lineage. Historically, individuals bearing the surname Khaw have been involved in various professions and trades, contributing to the economic and cultural development of the regions they inhabit. As with many surnames, the specific pronunciation and romanization can vary depending on the dialect spoken and the era of migration. The Khaw surname is a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese migration and cultural exchange across Asia.