Kuala lumpur: The Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) is strengthening its collaboration with the Negeri Sembilan State Museum Board (LMNS) to promote and showcase the uniqueness of the Adat Perpatih heritage nationwide through Perpatih Fest 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, JMM deputy director-general (Museums) Mohd Razaimi Hamat emphasized the strategic collaboration's importance in preserving and appreciating the nation's cultural identity and values for present and future generations. He described Perpatih Fest 2026 as an ideal platform to present the identity of Adat Perpatih to a broader audience, attracting researchers, cultural activists, and tourists both local and international.
"The pre-launch event also serves as an early promotional platform to raise awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage, while attracting more visitors ahead of the main festival, which will take place from Nov 27 to 29 at Seri Menanti, Kuala Pilah," he said during his speech at the pre-launch ceremony of Perpatih Fest 2026 at the National Museum Square, which was officiated by Negeri Sembilan Tourism, Arts, Culture and Heritage Action Committee chairman Datuk Razali Abu Samah.
Mohd Razaimi stated that JMM had consistently maintained an open approach to collaboration with various parties, including government agencies, the private sector, and communities, to strengthen the national heritage preservation agenda. He added that JMM plans to organize 126 programs throughout 2026, including special exhibitions, museum education programs, curator talks, and cultural activities.
Meanwhile, Razali highlighted the potential of Adat Perpatih as a cultural tourism product capable of attracting visitors from outside Negeri Sembilan, including foreign tourists, to explore its unique heritage. He emphasized the need for the younger generation to be introduced to Adat Perpatih to ensure the heritage is known, understood, and appreciated.
Among the highlights of the upcoming festival are exhibitions on the luak-luak (districts) of Negeri Sembilan, traditional food demonstrations, craft workshops on making destar (headgear) and ikatan sampin (sampin tying), and traditional arts performances. The festival aligns with efforts to strengthen Negeri Sembilan's position as a competitive cultural tourism destination in Malaysia.