The historic rubber tree is part of the Seremban heritage trail. Planted in 1877, the rubber tree has a trunk circumference of 4.5m and a height of over 25m. — Bernama
ONE of the first rubber trees planted in Malaysia is now over a century old.
It continues to thrive in the heart of Seremban, drawing tourists to Negri Sembilan.
Planted in 1877 at the Seremban Lake Garden, the rubber tree, with a trunk circumference of 4.5m and a height of over 25m, is estimated to have a value of RM750,000.
Brought to Malaya by Sir Henry Nicholas Ridley, the pioneer of Malaya’s rubber industry, the rubber seed for the tree was one of 22 imported from England’s Kew Gardens in June 1877.
Negri Sembilan tourism, arts and culture committee chairman Nicole Tan Lee Koon said that according to records, 11 of the seeds were planted in the Singapore Botanic Garden, nine in Kuala Kangsar in Perak, and one each in Negri Sembilan and Melaka.
“This precious and historic rubber tree is part of the Seremban heritage trail.
“Visitors, especially from outside the state, should make it a point to see the first and oldest rubber tree in Negri Sembilan.
“Because of its historical significance, the tree is irreplaceable. That’s why we must protect and preserve it to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate this important heritage,” she told Bernama.
She said the tree not only served as a local landmark but also contributed to tourism.
Meanwhile, Seremban mayor Datuk Masri Razali said the Seremban City Council (MBS) Park and Landscape Department was responsible for preserving the historic rubber tree, with daily cleaning efforts to maintain its surrounding area.
He said MBS also sought the expertise of arborists to assess and monitor the risk associated with the tree.
“This is to help us determine the tree’s status, prepare an inventory and obtain advisory services for risk management.
“The arborists have suggested treatments, including pruning and pest control, to maintain the tree’s vitality and extend its lifespan,” he added.
A visitor, Mustafa Muhammad, 45, from Kajang in Selangor, said he learnt about the tree online while looking for exciting destinations in Seremban.
“I often take my children for weekend outings, and this is our first time seeing such a huge tree.
“I believe many people are unaware of its historical significance, especially the younger generation,” said the father of four.
Masita Baba, 63, from Melaka, shared her excitement at seeing one of the oldest rubber trees in the country for the first time.
“I never knew such a large rubber tree existed. I’m only familiar with the smaller ones that I used to harvest leaves for wrapping tapai,” she said.
