The House ZAABA - Museum and Memorial

Teratak Zaaba - Jempol Negeri Sembilan

Traditional Minangkabau House of Teratak Zaaba

Interior View of Teratak Zaaba

Entrance Teratak Zaaba

Another interior view of Zaaba Memorial

Mid View of Zaaba House & Memorial

Side View of The Zaaba Memorial

House of Pendita Za'ba

 Positioned in Bukit Kerdas in Batu Kikir, Kuala Pilah Jempol, the House of Pendeta Za’ba is about 50 kilometers from Seremban town. Known as “Teratak Za’ba” in local tongue, this historic residence records the life and times of Tan Sri Zainal Abidin bin Ahmad also known as Za’ba. Za’ba is an icon of Malay literature and philosophy who has made huge contributions to the economic, political and social scene. This house is another fine example of traditional Negeri Sembilan architecture with its raised stilts and long up-ended roofs.

 Born on 16th September 1895, Za’ba began his teaching career as a momentary educator while waiting for his Senior Cambridge examination results. He has made vast contributions towards Malay literature field for he was then bestowed with the title Pendeta (Scholar), the only recipient of such honor in the country. The title was granted to Za'ba in conjunction with the third Congress of Malay Language and Letters on 21st September 1965 and in acknowledgement of his contribution in the field of language and literature. Books written by Za'ba are known to be for those studying Malay grammar and syntax. Among his well-known books includes Ilmu Bahasa Melayu (Penggal I and II), Ilmu Mengarang Melayu, and Pelita Bahasa Melayu (I, II and III). Being a museum dedicated to the legacy of renowned intellectual and wordsmith figure, this place displays the history of the man himself with some interesting display of information during his golden days. This place also is a perfect example of Negeri Sembilan architecture that incorporates raised stilts and long up ended roofs.

 Also known as Teratak Za’ba, this historic house chronicles the life and times of Za’ba or Tan Sri Zainal Abidin Bin Ahmad, an icon of Malay literature and thinking, who made many contributions in the economic, political and social fields. He was recognised as Pendita Za’ba or learned man.

Located in Kg. Bukit Kerdas, about 2 km from Batu Kikir en route to Bahau, this house is a well-preserved example of traditional Negeri Sembilan architecture, with its raised stilts and long up-ended roofs.


There are some of memories in "Teratak Za'ba" meseum. So much to think of his contribution for the development of Bahasa Melayu or Malay Language and now Bahasa Malaysia.