The Malay of Negeri Sembilan are closely related to the Minangkbau people of Indonesia. They are actually the descendants of Minangkbau immigrants who were gradually assimilated into Malay culture. Since the 1970's, much of Malaysia has industrialized rapidly, its economy one of the fastest growing in the world. Nevertheless, most of the Negeri Sembilan Malay remain poor farmers and fisherman whose economy is dominated by the Chinese living in the nation. Most Malay living in rural areas grow rice as their main food crop.
Fishing is also an important occupation.
In the cities, Malay are becoming involved in factory work and in governmental jobs. Since much of Negeri Sembilan is covered by jungle, the Malay settle along the coast, rivers, and roads. In villages, houses are built on pilings four to eight feet off the ground and have thatched roofs. The more wealthy Malay have houses with tiled roofs and wooden planks for floors. Local trade is conducted in the larger towns which have markets to serve the surrounding region.