STATE OF NEGRI SEMBILAN, MALAYSIA

Port Dickson

Port Dickson or more popularly known as PD has long been a weekend retreat for many inland dwellers, specially those from the city seeking to temporarily escapethe hustle and bustle of a hectic life. Located about 32km from Seremban, PD which is in the Pantai Laut district, offers one of the best beaches on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. All along the 18 km of beach front are shady casuarina trees that "sing" along with the gentle breeze.



Port Dickson usually comes alive in August each year during the "Pesta Port Dickson". Besides this, there are also cultural presentations at the annual festival. The most famous picnic spot in PD is the Blue Lagoon near Cape Rachado. One can easily reach the Blue Lagoon either by bus or taxi that ply along this popular coastal route from the main terminus in town.

PD boasts of many international class and budget accommodation, ranging from luxury establishments to simple guesthouses. Currently, rates are from as low as RM80. Food stalls can be easily found along the beach as well as the town center. PD's specially is seafood, be it Malay, Chinese or Western cuisine.






State Museum

The state museum is a "must" item for local history lovers. Located within the grounds of the Cultural Handicraft Complex, it is actually an old wooden palace which has been reassembled for public viewing. Built entirely of wood, this palace which has seen greater days of royal spiendor at its old site at Kampung Ampang Tinggi, houses various old and historical artifacts which will interest those with a keen eye for local history, like weapons as well as brass and silverware. Also on display is a tableau portraying a grand royal wedding.

Situated next to the state museum is the "Rumah Minang", depicting an actual Minangkabau house. Also found at the Complex grounds are the megaliths from Fort Kempas






State Secretariat Building

Built in 1987, this building takes the function of administering all the districts. Located in the same compound is the Dewan Persekutuan. The third building in the compound is the Dewan Undangan Negeri, designed in the famous Minangkabau architecture.






Sri Menanti Palace / Royal Museum

Negeri Sembilan's rich traditions go back a long way. One of these has been manifested in the construction of the Sri Menanti Palace in Sri Menanti. Built at the turn of this century to replace an older palace which was burnt down, this uniquely constructed palace has now become a tourist attraction after it was turned into a Royal Museum in 1992.

The Sri Menanti Palace was the official residence of the royal family until 1931 when it was found to be inadequate for the growing functions of the state. Designed by two local craftsmen and carpenters, "Tukang Kahar" and "Tukang Taib", the wooden palace or "Istana Lama" (old palace), which was completed in about six years in 1908, was built without the aid of any nails or screws. The palace, which features 99 magnificent pillars to denote 99 warriors of various "luak" or clans, is often the subject of study and research among students of architecture.






Seremban Lake Garden

The Seremban Lake Gardens is one of the most picturesque gardens in the country. Its lush greenery and well-maintained lawns are a delight to the tired eye and often have a calming effect on many a weary soul.

There are jogging tracks in The Lake Gardens for the more energetic visitor while children can frolic in the playground. For those who are content to watch the world go by, this is just the place with benches erected in various spots overlooking the lake and greenery.






Ulu Bendul Recreational Park

The Ulu Bendul Recreational Park located some 16km from Seremban on the Kuala Pilah Sri Menanti route, at the foot of Bukit Angsi provides a welcome respite to the weary traveler. The park is one of the six recreational parks in Negeri Sembilan developed for ecotourism purposes. Picnic lovers should find this place inviting because of its shady and leafy surroundings.

The refreshing and cool water from the stream that meanders through the park offers a fun place for visitors bent on having a dip. For the more adventurous, they can go jungle-trekking. To savor the best out of this park, visitors may prefer to stay at the specially designated camping grounds or rent one of the chalets in the park.





Accommodation in Negeri Sembilan

Bahau (9)

ACBE Hotel
Bahau Hotel
Bunga Raya Hotel
Embassy Hotel
Jan Yatt Hotel & Restaurant
Lucky Hotel
Miniva Hotel
Rumah Rehat Bahau
Sinaran Hotel

Kuala Pilah (2)

Rumah Rehat Kuala Pilah
Sri Menanti Resort

Nilai (3)

Allson Klana Bandar Baru Nilai
Allson Klana Hotel Putra Nilai
Nilai Springs Resort

Port Dickson (34)

Ancasa All Suite Resort & Spa Port Dickson
Avillion Admiral Cove
Avillion Port Dickson
Bayu Beach Resort
Casa Rachado MAA Training Resort
Corus Paradise Resort Port Dickson
Duta Hacienda Riviera Resort Palm Spring
Duta Villas Golf Resort
Eagle Ranch Resort
Glory Beach Resort
Golden Straits Villa Beach
Guoman Port Dickson
Kong Ming Hotel
Le Paris Hotel & Resort
Lido Hotel
P.D World Marina Resort
Pantai Ria Hotel
PNB Ilham Resort
Port Dickson Golf & Country CL
Residence Desa Lagoon Resort
Sea View Hotel
Selat Hotel
Selesa Beach Resort
Seri Malaysia Port Dickson
Sunshine Bay Resort
Tanjung Biru Condominium
The Legend International Water Homes
The Legend Water Chalets
The Nuri Hotel
The Regency Tanjung Tuan Beach Resort
The Travers Hotels Sdn Bhd
Thistle Port Dickson Resort
Tiara Beach Resort
We Young Hotel

Seremban (9)

Allson Klana Resort
Carlton Star Hotel
Guest Inn Hotel
Kemayan Park Inn Int. Hotel
Lake View Hotel Seremban
Mee Lee Hotel
Milo Hotel
Seremban Inn
Seri Malaysia Hotel Seremban

source: cuti.com.my

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STATE OF NEGRI SEMBILAN- MALAYSIA

Introduction

Negeri Sembilan simply means 'Land of Nine States'. The name is so-called because it once comprised nine separate districts, each ruled by a Malay Chieftain. Seremban, its capital is easily accesible by road and rail to Kuala Lumpur, about 50 kilometres away. Among the main attractions of the town are the Cultural Handicraft complex, the State Museum, the State Mosque and the Lake Gardens.

The state is often associated with the influence of Minangkabau migrants from Sumatra who came during the settlement era into Malaya long ago. The settlement then led to its strong unique and distinctive characteristic, best seen in the architecture and styles reflected in the construction of buildings as well as homes. One unique feature is the horn-shaped roof. The Minangkabaus also brought with them their 'adat' or traditions, in particular the matrilineal kinship system. This system is evident until today especially in the marriage customs, ownership of property and dance forms.

The music and dance, though not widely practised today by the locals, is still an area which is a pride here. There are different types of songs and dances. The songs are mostly lively and fast beat. They mostly have a significant sound of metal-made hollow drums called the 'cak-lempong' in the background. The 'tarian lilin' (candle dance) is a popular dance among the Minagkabaus where the dancers dance in the dark, with candles lit on saucers placed on their palms being the only lights that could be seen. Then, there is also another interesting dance performance called the 'endang'. 'Endang' is a unique dance that requires the dancers to sit on the floor in a yoga position or what the Malays call 'bersila' and do synchronized rhythmic movements in accordance to the lively background music.

When you're in 'The Nine States', there are lots to explore as it is a perfect example of a modern state embraced by rich customs and traditions. Here is a good balance of old and new attractions.

The Seri Menanti Palace, converted to the Royal Museum in 1992, is a classic showcase of Minangkabau structure and design. Built at the turn of the century by two local craftsmen, the wooden palace took six years to complete and is an architectural wonder as no screws or nails were used in its construction. Elsewhere, the pretty village settings are reminiscent of the Minangkabau influence.

The Arts & Culture Park or popularly known as Taman Seni Budaya Negeri is indeed a typical example where the legacy of the Minagkabau architecture exists. It exhibits some of the rich cultural traditions and artefacts of the state. In this area stands the Istana Ampang Tinggi (a palace which has been converted into the State Museum) in its original state since it was built in 1861. The palace exhibits various old weapons as well as brass and silverware used by the Royal families. One will also get to see a tableau that potrays a grand royal weddings on display.

Negeri Sembilan has a popular beach, Port Dickson (also known as PD), about 33 kilometres west of Seremban. PD lies on the shores of the Straits of Malacca. This resort town with its miles of golden beaches and a wide range of accommodation is a favourite 'playground' for the city dwellers of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore as well as the neighbouring towns. PD also host the annual Pesta Port Dickson or PD Fiesta between July and August. The Fiesta offers all sorts of fun and games as well as sea sports activities.

And if you've seen the film "Blue Lagoon", spend some time visiting Blue Lagoon - a popular spot subtly tucked away from the busy town of Port Dickson. Though not the actual location as in the film, those with video camera can at least imagine doing another sequel to the famous film. Once you leave the Blue Lagoon beach, take a half kilometre drive through an area surrounded by lush jungle which will lead you to a flight of steps. The 63 stairs will then lead you to the foot of a 16th century lighthouse, Tanjung Tuan lighthouse built by the Portugese, formally known as Cape Rachado. With prior permission, one gets enter the lighthouse to see a magnificent view the Straits of Malacca.

Another little town which has its own attraction is the Pedas Hot Springs. Pedas Hot Springs is where anyone can get a chance to relieve muscle ache or body ache in private bathing enclosures. Many believe that the hot water from the underground springs has medicinal values for certain skin and rheumatism problems.

One must also try out something refreshing for the mind and body. Ulu Bendol which is about 25 km south of Seremban on the road leading towards Kuala Pilah, is a perfect escapade. It is cool and peaceful and has lots of space for picnickers. Not far away from this fine spot, for those who are a little bit more adventurous, going for a hike up to Gunung Agsi is a great experience. Every step there is to make to the top is sheer pleasure as you will find lots of beautiful birds, lizards and sometimes snakes that you hardly find elsewhere.

One should also try out some of the traditional dishes offered by the locals like beef rendang (beef cooked in rich spices and coconut), gulai lemak cili api (tumeric gravy with chilli).

Negeri Sembilan is definitely a state of difference. With a culture so unique, put together with its music, lovely destinations and delicious food, it is a wholesome package that will undoubtedly cause one to bring home a wonderful exploration experience.




Blue Lagoon

About 15 km from Port Dickson town lies the Blue Lagoon which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding greenery and the blue open sea. The lagoon is an ideal spot for swimming, boating, wind surfing and water skiing. This is where the action is when it comes to having fun in the sun. Accommodation is easily obtainable as a number of hotels and motels are located here.






Cape Rachado (Tanjong Tuan)

Near the Blue Lagoon is Tanjong Tuan, formerly known as Cape Rachado, renowned for its lighthouse built many years ago on a hillock overlooking the Straits of Melaka. On a clear day, one can see Port Dickson town and the outline of Sumatra across the Straits of Melaka from this vantage point.






Cultural Handicraft Complex

The Complex, which has been modeled along the traditional Minangkabau dwelling, is located on a four-hectare site along Jalan Labu. Various handicraft items and historical artifacts are on display in this Complex which seeks to preserve Negeri Sembilan's rich cultural traditions.






Fort Lukut

This fort, situated about 30 km from Seremban, is steep in history. Painstakingly built between 1826 and 1827 to be exact, its existence came into being during the heyday of the state's tin industry.

Located about a kilometer from the Seremban-Port Dickson trunk road, Fort Lukut was built by Raja Jumaat to provide a safe haven during more turbulent times in the state's history. The fort has now become another tourist attraction for Negeri Sembilan. Traveling to Fort Lukut will bring the visitor past many neatly-planted rows of rubber trees and oil palms, which are among the mainstays of the state's economy.

Lukut Museum:
Open: 9.00 am - 5.00pm (Sun - Thurs)
9.00am - 12.00pm/3.00pm - 5.00pm (Fri)






Fort Kempas

In Fort Kempas, about 23 km from Port Dickson, lies the grave of a leading historical personality, Keramat Ujong Pasir, Ulama Sheikh Ahmad Makhtum. Beside his grave are the famous stone inscriptions or "batubersurat" which depict his struggle and history






Pedas Hot Spring

it is located on the 16km road from Seremban on the way to Tampin. Rooms are provided for those who like to feel natural warm baths at reasonable prices. There are also restaurants serving delicious Negeri Sembilan dishes.




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source: cuti.com

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