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Cultural Handicraft Complex
The
Complex, which has been modeled like a traditional Minangkabau dwelling,
is located on a four-hectare site along Jalan Labu. Various examples of
the state's handicraft and historical artifacts are on display in this
Complex which preserves Negeri Sembilan's rich cultural traditions.
State Mosque
The
state mosque is adorned with nine pillars to symbolize the seven
districts. Described as one of the most attractive modern mosques in the
country, it offers a scenic view of the Seremban Lake amid the
tranquility of its surroundings.
State
Library
Situated
in the vicinity of the Seremban Lake Gardens is the state library which
used to be the State Secretariat Building. Built in 1912 by B.P. Habback
of Britain with the assistance of the state Public Works Department,
this stately building reflects the colonial architecture of a bygone
era.
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.
Nilai
Nilai, in the northern part of the state, has become an important
industrial area due to its proximity to the new Kuala Lumpur
International Airport in nearby Sepang district in Selangor. Once a
sleepy hollow, it now offers an interesting contrast of modern
development set against a backdrop of traditional village houses and
rows of old shophouses |
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
splendor 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.
Seremban Lake
Gardens
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. 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.
Ulu Bendul
Receational 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 traveller. 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. |