I’ve been living in Seremban for about 5 months, and I’m still trying to figure out what Negeri Sembilan is. I’m familiar with their culture, food, and people, but it appears that it’s supposed to go beyond that.
I arrived in Seremban because I was assigned to oversee the operations of a cafe known as Brewhäus, which I co-founded. It was all functioning, but I felt empty. Opening a cafe is not my forte, to say the least, but I wanted to be as creative and free as possible, but it was difficult to fathom the environment here, Seremban or Negeri Sembilan in general, has a lot to offer, but when I told my friends about the place I lived,
“What does Negeri Sembilan have to offer?” they keep asking.
In my spare time, I prefer to go out and get lost in Seremban town, taking in as much as Seremban has to offer. Not only that, but my partner even took me on a long drive to different sections of Negeri Sembilan in order for me to truly understand what Negeri Sembilan is all about.
I tried everything I could to grasp the culture here and to think of every activity that might be done to support the arts, culture, and tourism here. To be honest, I thought something was lacking in Negeri Sembilan; all I could say when I first came was that Seremban, in particular, is just a TRANSIT TOWN. A touch and go town…where people touch down merely to travel to Melaka, Johor, or Singapore.
A few days ago, my partner and I were driving around and went for a nature stroll to clear our brains. During the walk, I couldn’t stop thinking about what might be done. How to entice people to visit Negeri Sembilan and experience it in a way that is distinct from other states
I got my answer.
Negeri Sembilan: An Escapism
It’s not always about the food, or the thousands of years of royal history or lifestyle, or the traditional music or dancing; sometimes it’s just about nature.
A hidden jewel in the heart of Malaysia, it is a retreat for people seeking peace from the turmoil of city life. With its beautiful scenery, quiet lakes, and unique cultural experiences, Negeri Sembilan is the ideal escape—a refuge where city dwellers may rediscover the serenity that nature brings.
Here is what I feel the Negeri Sembilan Tourism Board should pay attention to:
Nature’s Arms
The need for a calm escape becomes more obvious as the demands of city life increase. Negeri Sembilan, near Kuala Lumpur, is a perfect getaway. Consider exchanging the concrete jungle for undulating hills, lush forests, and the soothing rustling of leaves in the breeze. Nature transforms into a sanctuary, inviting you to calm down and breathe.
A Tour of the Greenery
The landscapes of Negeri Sembilan are a painter’s palette of green hues. The backdrop is painted with vast plantations, lush hills, and wide forests, offering a visual feast for nature fans. Explore Jeram Toi Waterfall, where the falling waters blend with a symphony of birdsong—a melody that replaces the urban cacophony.
Unveiling of a Cultural Tapestry
Negeri Sembilan’s natural beauty belies a rich cultural tapestry. The distinctive buffalo-horn-inspired roofs of Minangkabau architecture reflect stories of legacy and tradition. Traditional communities, or Kampungs, welcome visitors to a simpler and more welcoming world. Engaging in local arts and crafts, from delicate weaving to meticulous woodcarving, provides a peek into the artisanal essence of the region.
Return to Authenticity
Negeri Sembilan is more than just a transit state; it’s an invitation to reconnect with nature. The combination of environment and culture produces a holistic experience that allows visitors to thoroughly immerse themselves in the essence of the region. Every moment is an opportunity to reconnect with authenticity, whether strolling through cultural villages, enjoying local cuisines, or participating in traditional activities.
Eco-Friendly Vacations
Negeri Sembilan’s terrain is dotted with sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations, allowing guests to live in peace with nature. Eco-conscious resorts and lodges provide not only a comfortable but also an ethical stay, guaranteeing that the beauty of Negeri Sembilan is conserved for future generations.
List of eco-friendly accommodations can be found here:
- https://www.thehootonretreat.com/
- https://www.awanmulan.com/home/#page-home
- https://kairosvillapantai.com/
- https://thedusun.com.my/
- farmvill glamping
- https://www.theshorea.com/
(the list goes on and on; I will update more of it soon.)
As the sun sets over Negeri Sembilan’s calm landscapes, it colours the skies orange and pink, providing a soothing glow over the region. The city’s buzz and bustle feel like faraway echoes, replaced by nature’s soothing murmurs. Negeri Sembilan beckons, promising not only a voyage but also a rediscovery of serenity.
Consider Negeri Sembilan to be your guide back to nature. Accept the serenity, immerse yourself in the culture, and allow the authenticity of this hidden jewel to enchant your senses. Nature calls, and Negeri Sembilan is ready to respond.