Taman Awam Jalan Keliling and Taman Malaysia Seremban.

Taman Awam Jalan Keliling and Taman Malaysia Seremban. 

In the heart of Seremban, two public parks quietly stand as part of the town’s history and green lungs, Taman Awam Jalan Keliling and Taman Malaysia Seremban. Although these places are often overshadowed by newer recreational spots, they have been important community spaces for decades, providing relaxation, exercise, and a sense of nostalgia for the people of Negeri Sembilan.

Taman Awam Jalan Keliling is one of the earliest public parks developed in Seremban. Located near Jalan Keliling, the park has long been a favorite for morning walkers, joggers, and families seeking a simple outdoor escape. Its open spaces, shaded trees, and walking paths offer a calm environment amidst the hustle and bustle of Seremban town. Decades ago, this park was a common gathering spot for evening strolls, casual football matches, and even small community events. Although it may not boast the modern facilities of newer parks, Taman Awam Jalan Keliling carries sentimental value for the older generation of Seremban residents who grew up spending time here.

Meanwhile, Taman Malaysia Seremban represents a slightly different story. Developed during the 1970s, this park was intended to be a symbol of national pride and community spirit. Its name itself reflects the idea of unity, “Malaysia,” where people from all walks of life could gather. Situated not far from the town center, Taman Malaysia once hosted cultural shows, school sports days, and festive celebrations. Older locals recall how the park served as a venue for Merdeka-related activities, making it not just a recreational space but also a place of shared memory.

Both parks highlight how urban green spaces serve purposes beyond physical exercise. They are community hubs where relationships are built, where children play freely, and where elderly residents enjoy conversations under the shade of old trees. In fact, Taman Awam Jalan Keliling and Taman Malaysia Seremban played crucial roles before the era of modern shopping malls and indoor entertainment — they were the go-to places for family leisure, especially on weekends.

From an environmental perspective, these parks continue to provide important “green lungs” for Seremban. The mature trees, some of which are decades old, help regulate the urban temperature, provide shade, and create a healthy balance in the town’s landscape. Urban planners often stress the importance of preserving older parks because they embody the city’s history while serving as vital ecological buffers.

Today, while newer parks and recreational areas such as Taman Tasik Seremban attract larger crowds, both Taman Awam Jalan Keliling and Taman Malaysia still hold their charm. Morning walkers can still be seen doing their routine exercises, and families occasionally bring their children for picnics or outdoor play. These parks are reminders that sometimes the simplest spaces with trees, open fields, and quiet paths are enough to bring happiness and community spirit.

As Seremban continues to grow and modernize, perhaps it is worth appreciating and preserving these older public parks. They may not be glamorous, but they represent the everyday lives, memories, and shared moments of generations of Seremban people.