Adat Perpatih in Negeri sembilan

Introduction of ‘Adat Perpatih’

In this entry, I would like to introduce to all of the readers about the culture that only Negeri Sembilan practiced in Malaysia which is Adat Perpatih. The history of Adat Perpatih in Negeri Sembilan started and grew with the transmigration of people from West Sumatra to Rembau during the 14th century. Adat Perpatih is said to have been practiced in Negeri Sembilan since more than 600 years ago and during its process of maturity has influenced the structure, concept and socio-cultural philosophy of its people. It is commonly known that the uniqueness of Negeri Sembilan lies in this exclusive customs - the Adat Perpatih. This customs had a significant impact on the way of life of the locals from the small level aspects like its political, economic and social systems, to small level issue like customs and ceremonies carried out during the King's inauguration, ways of dividing ones inherited properties and wedding procedures that are rather detailed. 

Traditional Marriage in Adat Perpatih

Characteristics of ‘Adat Parpatih’

Though being influenced and modified by other cultural elements and the changing of time bacause of its flexibility, the customs survive and is still relevant nowadays, as the saying goes:

The old to be renewed,

the withered to be replaced,

once a flood flaches,

so the soil formation goes.

Some of the principle of this customs are still evident in the Negeri Sembilan people's practices like their constitutional monarchy, cultural activities, dialects, dressing, norms and ethical codes. Moreover, the most significant concepts and philosophy of Adat Perpatih is its democratic ways that recognized the opinion of every individual ranging from the Ruler to the citizens according to the individual's position and responsibilities in the society, as illustrated by the maxim below:

The Undang's word is generous,

The word of clan chief is resolves,

The word of spiritual leader is the truth,

The word of the court clerk connects ( investigate)

The word of worrior is vigorous,

The word of the woman is gentle,

The word of people consensus.

All this things will be more interesting to learn if the readers experience it on their own by visiting Negeri Sembilan. 

 Hierarchy of ‘Adat Parpatih’

Hierarchy of the Ruler in Negeri Sembilan

 In Adat Perpatih, we practiced democracy which lower position will appoint the higher position. Undang Yang Empat will appoint Yang di-Pertuan Besar. Undang Luak that represents the four districts which are Sungai Ujong, Jelebu, Johol and Rembau. However, Undang Luak Sungai Ujong is the most senior that also known as chieftain. Meanwhile, Undang Luak are appointed by the Dato’ Lembaga which had elected by Buapak. Instead, Perut are the member of the sub-clan which have total of 12 – Paya Kumbuh, Batu Hampar, Biduanda, Somo Lenggar, Solomak, Anak Mukal, Anak Acheh, Tigo Nenek, Tanah Datar, Anak Melaka, Tigo Batu and Mungkar. I’m as a Negerian, I has my own sub-clan which is Tigo Batu. This is quite confusing about the election but I do agree with this democracy system since it make others opinion into consideration