Exploring Malaysia 
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The most distinct feature greeting visitors to the little state of Negeri Sembilan is its legacy of Minangkabau culture. Tales are told of a clash between western Sumatran settlers and the Javanese, where a Bull represented the Sumatrans and a Tiger, the Javanese. The incredible culmination of the battle with the victory of the Bull over the ferocious Tiger, resulted in the title Minangkabau, meaning ‘Victorious Bull’. Negeri Sembiland not only features picturesque Malay villages with their distinctive Minangkabau architecture and quaint townships but also the thrills and experiences of verdant rainforests, fast flowing rivers and cascading waterfalls. There is much to discover in the State of Negeri Sembilan, most notably, its special character and identity.
Geography
Negeri Sembilan is located on the southwest of Peninsular Malaysia and encompasses an area of approximately 6,643 sq km which includes a 48-km coastline. It is bordered in the north by Selangor, in the east by Pahang and in the south by Melaka and Johor. Geographically, the state covers varying topography from sandy seaside terrain to valleys and plains and gentle hillsides and mountains.
The name Negeri Sembilan literally means nine states. It used to be made up of nine districts, each ruled by a different chieftain. However, today it comprises a confederation of seven administrative districts, namely Seremban (the state capital), Jelebu, Kuala Pilah, Port Dickson, Jempol, Rembau and Tampin.
The administrative centre of the state is Seremban which is only 35 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) via the North-South Expressway (NSE). Kuala Pilah, located about 38 km from Seremban, is the home district of the royal family of the Yang-Di-Pertuan Besar or ruler of the state. The royal Seri Menanti Palace here remains the most significant edifice in the area. The district resonates with nobility and heritage.
