Why mix dialect, Hanyu Pinyin forms in Chinese names?

Generation Y Chinese Singaporeans’ names comprise a combination of dialect and Hanyu Pinyin pronunciations. The surname invariably follows the dialect pronunciation, while the given name follows Hanyu Pinyin.

It is hard to fathom the rationale for mixing both pronunciations in a name.

In the case of a Chinese Singaporean who also registers his or her Western name, there would be three forms.

Besides seeming odd, there is no compelling reason for doing so. Perhaps we should revert to using wholly either dialect or Hanyu Pinyin names.

TEO KOK SEAH