The Royal Town of Seri Menanti

A local Malay adage, "Biar Mati Anak, Jangan Mati Adat" which means no matter what happens; never ever forget your customs and traditions, stands strong in the state of Negeri Sembilan.

Negeri Sembilan is well known for its rich royal custom. Although it’s not widely practiced these days, it still plays and important role in everyday life. Facets of it can be seen, not only in social interaction, but also in local architecture. One such customary eminence is the Seri Menanti Palace which enthrals every visitor as they explore the history of Seri Menanti.

Historical Seri Menanti

Seri Menanti is known as the Royal Town of Negeri Sembilan. It is located about 40 km from the town of Seremban and 14 km from Kuala Pilah town. Seri Menanti sits in a lush and beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. Just being there gives you a sense of peace and tranquillity.

According to local residents, Seri Menanti was conquered by the Minangkabau’s around the 15th century. The story goes, as the Minangkabaus were exploring their new domain they found three stalks of fresh green paddy. That spot was christened Padi Menanti. As time passed it was changed to the more elegant Seri Menanti. 

Seri Menanti Palace

One of the beauties of history in Negeri Sembilan is the Seri Menanti palace. Exquisitely designed with perfect architecture and lovely crafted emblems. The beauty of the palace is evident inside and out, enticing visitors to stay longer in the palace grounds.

The palace, which belonged to the Yang Di Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan (in other states, rulers are called Sultans or Rajas) once, is now a museum. Royal paraphernalia like clothes, equipment, crafts, beds, banquet, royal chair and more are kept in its original placement.

The lovely interior shows off some beautiful furnishings covered in gold cloth and design. The palace and its surroundings are so well maintained that it doesn’t even look a year older than the day it was built.

As you walk a little further to the third floor, there is a certain brilliance which lights up the room; portraits of those who played important roles in Negeri Sembilan history lines the walls. These include Al – Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman Ibni Al – Marhum Tuanku

Muhammad, Seri Paduka Baginda Raja Permaisuri Agong I Tuanku Kurshiah Bind Al-Marhum Tunku Besar Burhanuddin, Tuanku Munawir, Cik Engku Maimun, Tuanku Aidah (YTM), Seri Paduka Baginda Tuanku Ja’afar and many more Construction on the palace started in 1902 and final touches were put in 1908. It was done by Tukang Kahar and Tukang Taib.

Beautiful Historical Town

The humble town of Seri Menanti has more to offer than the palace, historical sights and royal touches. This beautiful town is also blessed with fine-looking villages, most of which would make the finals of the Most Beautiful Village Competition. Even the names of the villages are unique; Kampung Lapuk, Kampung Sakai, Kampung Beruang, Kampung Gunung Pasir and many more. You will be enticed by the colour, cleanliness and of course the friendliness of these villages.

As you walk along the paths and roads of these villages, you will be stunned with the uniqueness of each residence and craftsmanship of each house. If you would like to hear more about this unique royal town, have a chat with some of the villagers. They will tell you wonderful stories which keep you in awe.

One such interesting story is about Penghulu Na’am. This warrior was to be put to death. Bizarrely, the only way to kill him is to chop off his head three times and place the head far away from his body. Other wise, he’d live again. Interesting tale. Other than beautiful villages, there is the new Seri Menanti palace, a golf club and the Seri Menanti Resort.

GETTING THERE:

Driving there from Kuala Lumpur takes about an hour by car. Take the Seremban / Labu highway. You could also opt for the commuter. Take the KTM from Kuala Lumpur and stop at Seremban station. From here, you can take a cab to Seri Menanti.