Negeri Sembilan
Negeri Sembilan means “Land of the Nine States” – after the nine districts that used to make up the state.
It is known to be the home of Malaysia’s Minangkabau culture, which originally came from West Sumatra and settled in the area in the late 15th Century. They are best known for their unique and stylish architecture with curving and ornate rooflines – which are said to resemble buffalo horns.
Attractions
Some of the top attractions that can be found in Negeri Sembilan include Port Dickson, which offers family-friendly activities and beaches. Nature lovers and hikers would love the challenge presented by Gunung Datuk, Gunung Angsi, and Gunung Telapak Buruk. On the other hand, guests who love exploring different cultures and temples would love visiting the Sri Menanti Palace, Lukut Museum and Fort Lukut, Virgin’s Temple, and Gemencheh Bridge (Sungai Kelamah) Memorial.
Getting There
Negeri Sembilan does not have its own airport, but the Kuala Lumpur International Airport is located quite near so flying in through this airport is an option. From the airport, you can reach Negeri Sembilan via:
· Buses, taxis, or rented cars: you can take a taxi or a rented car and travel around 40 kilometres from the airport to Negeri Sembilan. Another option is to take an air-conditioned bus from the Puduraya Bus Terminal in Kuala Lumpur.
· Train: if you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, you can take the commuter train at the KL Central Station to Seremban, Negeri Sembilan’s capital.
Money Matters
Establishments in Negeri Sembilan accept the official Malaysian currency of Ringgit Malaysia – MYR or RM. The state’s close proximity to the capital of Kuala Lumpur means that banks and ATM machines are available throughout the state. Hotels and other big establishments also accept credit cards.
Weather
Average temperatures in Negeri Sembilan are always high, with the possibility of rain all throughout the year. On average, April is considered the warmest and wettest month, September the coolest, and June the driest month.
Food
Negeri Sembilan has a lot of restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines: from Malaysian, Asian, and Halal, to seafood and vegetarian dishes. Must-try dishes in Negeri Sembilan include Seremban siew pow – a crispy baked pastry bun with a variety of fillings such as pork, chicken, curry chicken, or vegetables; and Seremban beef noodles – which can come in dry or soup versions. Popular restaurants in the state include:
- Lucky King Bun
- Haji Shariff’s Cendol
- Wati Corner
- Mira Beriani House
- Mee Rebus Hj Wahid
- Mimi Ikan Bakar and Kerang Rebus
- Koffeekabin by Umai Kopitiam
Negeri Sembilan may be small in size, but its packed to the brim with tourist spots guaranteed to make every traveller come back for more. If anything, its small size is an advantage, as guests can hop from one attraction to the next in no time at all.