Semelai people

Semelai people are an Orang Asli people of the Proto-Malay people group found in Negeri Sembilan and Pahang states of Malaysia.

Settlement area

They are divided into two major groups, namely:

The Semelai people in Kampung Sungai Sampo and Kampung Sungai Lui, Jempol District, Negeri Sembilan
The Semelai people in Pos Iskandar, Kampung Bukit Rok and Kampung Ibam, Tasik Bera, Kampung Bukit Gemuroh and Bongkok, Teriang, Bera District, Pahang

The 2010 census, the Temoq people were included in the Semelai population due to the small numbers of Temoq people.

Semelai music has been passed down for generations with little modification to suit modern times. There are two musical instruments used; the Rebana and Gong. This musical style is often performed in community halls or houses during feasts, weddings, circumcision ceremonies, gatherings and welcoming visitors for the purpose of entertainment. This music is performed with songs sung in Semelai language. There are also dances but it is only done with regulation and under certain requirements. The music of the Semelai is also used for healing purposes, such as singing in fertility ceremony.