Into the heart of Negeri Sembilan’s Wild Beauty
The Forestry Department of Negeri Sembilan, in collaboration with Gaya Travel Magazine, recently uncovered the eco-tourism gems found in the Malaysian state of Negeri Sembilan, popularly known for its spicy yellow gravy dishes cooked with coconut milk and turmeric, as well as its unique matrilineal culture called Adat Perpatih.
Our journey began under the towering canopy of the PD Forest at Sungai Menyala, a place where silence is broken only by the rustle of leaves and the distant call of birds.
Walking deeper into the forest, I felt a sense of calm, as if the trees themselves were keeping ancient secrets.
Here, amidst the greenery, stands something extraordinary: The Sun Clock.
Unlike any ordinary landmark, this timepiece is carved from marble and designed with precision. It doesn’t just tell the hour but also points to the Qibla and marks the passing of months through the movement of shadows.
From there, the path led to Ecology Plot 102, a living library of the rainforest. Giant trees rise like guardians, their roots weaving into the earth, competing for sunlight in an endless race for survival. Each seed that falls, each winged fruit that spins down to the forest floor, carries a story of resilience.
Some will grow, others will wither, but together they sustain the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It is here that researchers patiently study growth, decay, and renewal, a cycle that unfolds over centuries and even millennia.
Then came the thrill of Gua Batu Maloi. Unlike the open expanse of the forest, the cave demanded courage. To enter the cave, we had to crawl through narrow passages, squeeze between ancient granite boulders, and sometimes submerge ourselves in cool, flowing water.
At times, the darkness of the cave’s interior was overwhelming, but every step deeper revealed the raw power of the earth, sculpted by time and water. It was exhausting, yes, but equally exhilarating, leaving us breathless and proud for undergoing the feat.
Nature’s softer side awaited at the waterfalls. Jeram Enggang and Jeram Tiga Lapis felt like twin siblings, each possessing its own rhythm, yet sharing the same untamed energy.
Jeram Enggang greeted us with cascades that tumble gracefully over mossy rocks, while Jeram Tiga Lapis lives up to its name with its three striking tiers, each offering a natural pool where weary explorers can pause and cool off. Together, they embody both power and serenity, a refreshing reminder of the forest’s generosity.
Jeram Berungut, on the other hand, is an adventure in itself. The journey to get there required wading through streams and slipping past boulders, but the reward is unlike any other.
The waterfall, tucked deep within the forest, seems hidden on purpose, as though only the most determined would be worthy enough to witness its beauty. Its waters roar in defiance, echoing through the gorge, creating a wild symphony that stirs both awe and adrenaline.
Finally, there is Latar Kijang, a place where time seems to slow down. Unlike Jeram Berungut, this waterfall carries an air of elegance. Its tall, silvery curtain of water descends into a tranquil pool, inviting not just a swim but reflection.
Surrounded by lush greenery, it feels almost sacred, a sanctuary where nature whispers instead of shouting. But our adventure didn’t stop at mere exploration – a survival session in the forest taught us to look at the wild differently.
Learning how to find direction using the sun, identify useful plants, and respect. the land reminded me that survival is not about conquering nature, but about coexisting with it.
By the end of the journey, I realise that Negeri Sembilan isn’t just a destination but a natural classroom, a playground, and a sanctuary all at once.
From the precision of the Sun Clock to the mystery of Batu Maloi, from the roaring waterfalls to the quiet wisdom of the forest, every stop has its own story. Together, they weave an unforgettable adventure. One that connects you not only to the land, but to yourself.
Gaya Travel team members extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Negeri Sembilan Forestry Department for making the trip possible and smooth-sailing.
About The Author
Leave a Reply