Welcome to Negeri Sembilan
Negeri Sembilan is a small but interesting state with a rich culture and
history. It is about 50km south of Kuala Lumpur. Negeri Sembilan which literally
means nine states or districts is often identified with the pervasive influence
of the Minangkabau culture.
The Minangkabau people migrated across the Straits of Malacca from Sumatra
centuries ago and their traditional houses consist of upswept roofs reminiscent
of buffalo horns. Many of the state's modern buildings are fine examples of this
distinctive architecture.
A unique feature of the state is the Adat Perpatih, a matrilineal social system
practised by the present-day descendants. This system is evident in clan and
marriage customs, property ownership and dance forms.
The state capital of Seremban is an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur and is a
flourishing urban centre with several historic and cultural landmarks.
There is a wide choice of food and dining settings in the state from
international cuisine at beach or golf resorts to open-air food courts selling
local delicacies. For accommodation, choose from luxury resorts to modest
family-run inns or even homestays where you can live like the locals. Major
hotels and resorts can be found in Seremban and Port Dickson while smaller towns
offer basic accommodation.
Places of Interest
Sri Menanti Royal Museum This former palace is a classic showcase of Minangkabau
architecture and design. The wooden structure is an architectural wonder as no
screws or nails were used in its construction. It is a repository of the regalia
of the Negeri Sembilan royal family, with exhibits such as costumes, ceremonial
weaponry, bed chambers and documents on the royal lineage.
Port Dickson The
coastal resort of Port Dickson or PD is a popular weekend retreat on Peninsular
Malaysia's southwestern coast. Its sunny beaches, lined by tall coconut trees
and shady casuarinas, are perfect for a short beach holiday. There are numerous
locations here for family outings and picnics. Its famous beaches, Teluk Kemang
and Blue Lagoon, abound with watersports and beach activities.
Lata Kijang Waterfalls This is one of the highest single drop waterfalls
in Malaysia. Situated deep in the jungle in the district of Jelebu, it is
accessible by four-wheel drive. The two-hour trip through rugged terrain,
traversing Orang Asli or aboriginal settlements and a plethora of wild plants,
rewards visitors with the breathtaking sight of this waterfall.
Ulu Bendul Recreational Forest This recreational forest is ideal for
activities such as mountain climbing, jungle trekking, camping and picnics. Its
verdant greenery and clear river water make it a favourite weekend retreat.
Cultural Handicraft Complex Visit this complex, to view a building
modelled like a traditional Minangkabau dwelling. Various examples of the
state's handicraft and historical artefacts are on display in this complex which
preserves Negeri Sembilan's rich cultural traditions.
State Museum Located within the grounds of the Cultural Handicraft
Complex, the museum is an old wooden palace which has been reconstructed. On
display are artefacts like weapons, brass and a tableau portraying a grand royal
wedding.
State Mosque This mosque was built with nine pillars to symbolise the
nine districts in Negeri Sembilan. From here, one can enjoy a scenic view of the
Seremban Lake and the gardens surrounding it.
Wet World Pedas Hot Springs The hot springs, about 15km from Seremban, is
a delightful retreat for the whole family. Its two open-air pools are popular
with adults and children. Attractions include underwater reflexology footpath,
twin slides, wave pool and wading pool provide splashing fun for all.
House of Pendita Za'ba Also known as Teratak Za'ba, this historic house
chronicles the life and times of Za'ba or Tan Sri Zainal Abidin bin Ahmad, an
icon of Malay literature and thinking who made many contributions in the
economic, political and social fields. This house is another fine example of
traditional Negeri Sembilan architecture with its raised stilts and long
up-ended roofs.
Pengkalan Kempas Historical Complex Situated 35km from Port Dickson, this
complex houses the tomb of a renowned missionary from Sumatra, Sheikh Ahmad
Majnun, topped by a hollow stone with Arabic inscriptions. An interesting
feature here is the mysterious stone megaliths, referred to as batu hidup or
living rocks.
Eagle Ranch Resort Sports Paradise Situated in Port Dickson, this retreat
resembles a cowboy ranch and offers a variety of fun-filled activities. Enjoy
horse riding and archery, or opt for thrills such as go-karting, canoeing and
rafting.
Ostrich Farms Drop by the Jelita Ostrich Farm in Seremban or the PD
Ostrich Farm in Port Dickson to take a close look at these huge birds. Enjoy
feeding the ostriches or watch other animals such as turkeys, rabbits and
horses. The souvenir shop in the PD Ostrich Farm offers a range of rare and
exotic products like Ostrich leather wallets and handbags, Ostrich feather
dusters and a cafe serving healthy and delicious food items made from Ostrich
meat like burgers and dried meat.
Army Museum Port Dickson was home to the first Malay Regiment batch in
1933. As time went by, several army museums sprouted in PD such as the Muzium
AngkatanTentera Darat which showcases canons, tanks, locomotives and vehicles
used during the war.
Nilai Nilai in the northern part of the state has become an important industrial
area due to its proximity to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in
nearby Sepang district in Selangor. Shopping is also a favourite pastime here as
there are countless shops selling various merchandises from textiles to
decorative items.
Homestays Participate in a homestay program to experience the local
lifestyle. Watch interesting cottage industries such as traditional
sugar-making, handicraft weaving or learn the art of rubber tapping. Try your
hand at indoor games like congkakor participate in a colorful local dance.
Getting There
The capital of the state, Seremban, is only 40km away from the Kuala Lumpur
International Airport (KLIA). Taxis, buses and car rental services are available
from the airport to designated destinations in Negeri Sembilan. Buses and
Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) Komuter trains also leave frequently from Kuala
Lumpur to the town of Seremban.
Useful Contacts
Seremban Immigration Office Tel: 606-762 0000
KLIA Information Tel: 603-8776 2000
KTM Railway Services Tel: 603-2267 1200
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