Anchored on a 32ac former quarry site that ceased operations about 15 years ago, Millennia Village is a purpose-built senior living and wellness village located in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. With five medical centres and shopping hubs nearby, the site is a mere 41-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Led by five founders—the Chia family trio of John, Diane, and Joanne, together with siblings Peter and Susan Ho—this enclave is designed to meet the lifestyle needs of independent and active seniors aged 50 to 80, allowing them to explore new interests, surrounded by lush greenery and a canopy of native trees.
As locals from Seremban and of Hakka descent, the five founders saw an opportunity to give back to their hometown and was motivated to transform this expansive landscape into something meaningful. Reflecting on the genesis of Millennia Village, executive director Diane Chia recounts: “About eight years ago, five of us collectively decided to create a resort that would cater specifically to seniors, inspired by our own aging family members who wanted a place where they could live actively alongside their friends.” Undoubtedly, the pandemic posed significant challenges during the construction of Millennia Village, which pushed back their timeline by approximately two years. In hindsight, this delay may have been serendipitous, allowing the market time to catch up with their vision.
Millennia Village takes its architectural spur from the ‘Hakka Tulou’ (客家土楼) structures, which symbolise central recreational spaces integral to traditional Hakka communities. This design ethos aims to offer senior citizens a chance to embrace communal living and cultivate camaraderie among fellow cohorts. The founders were really drawn to the idea of constructing a space where everyone could gather, share ideas and encourage each other to thrive. “Peter brought a modern touch to Millennia Village with facets such as exposed brick walls and extensive airflow, which depart from traditional Asian styles,” Chia explains. “However, he was adamant about preserving the essence of Hakka Tulou at the heart of our village.”
Enveloped by curated gardens and pathways, the village includes a dedicated 3ac nursery for eco-farming, enabling residents to adopt sustainable practices such as cultivating organic product and composting food waste. Residents can also explore the regenerated 8ac forest on prime land, providing access to trails formed by Orang Asli. To broaden this experience, residents can also enjoy an array of activities and workshops, such as group fitness sessions, arts and crafts, and cooking classes. “Our director Susan hosts cooking demos and art classes, which complement our holistic approach,” Chia says. “I collaborate closely with nutritionists, physiotherapists, chiropractors and trainers to ensure a well-rounded wellness programme tailored to our residents’ needs.”
The living spaces are thoughtfully built to prioritise residents’ comfort and safety—from spacious rooms and wheelchair-accessible features to ramps, minimal steps and practical amenities such as panic buttons and bathroom handrails. Accommodation options range from 465 to 878 sq ft, appointed with soothing colours, natural light pouring in through wide windows, and panoramic views from the balcony. Chia also elaborates on the decision to employ a lease-only business model at Millennia Village: “The primary consideration for us was maintaining full control over our tenant profiles and the entire facility.” Unlike the easier route of building and selling, the lease-only model requires upfront investment, akin to equipping a fully-fledged hotel. “My father and I shared a vision of not burdening families with debt,” Chia adds. “By leasing only, we ensure our rental rates are affordable for our tenants and we can safeguard the community’s intended demographic.”
Launching in 2028, the Assisted Living Residence will provide essential care for seniors who may require additional support in the future. This three-story care centre is set adjacent to the main building and will extend round-the-clock assistance by professionally trained staff.
For more information about Millennia Village, call +06-760 9677, email dianechia@millenniavillage.com, or visit their official website.
More photos of Millennia Village
Photography: Michael Yeoh