A long time ago, deep within the untouched forests of what is now known as Janda Baik, a small group of Temuan Orang Asli lived in harmony with nature. Their leader, a wise and respected Tok Batin named Emok, had built a peaceful life in this hidden paradise.

But love, as it often does, has a way of changing destinies.

One day, while traveling through the dense jungle, Tok Batin Emok came upon a beautiful young woman from another Orang Asli tribe in Hulu Kenaboi, a land far beyond the rivers and mountains. Struck by her beauty, he fell deeply in love. He was so enchanted that he made a painful decision—he divorced his first wife, Endut, and left his village to start a new life with the woman from Hulu Kenaboi.

At first, life seemed wonderful. But over time, the once-prosperous Tok Batin found himself losing everything. His new wife was not as kind or loyal as Endut had been. She demanded more than he could provide, and when he could no longer meet her expectations, she left him, disappearing into the jungles of Jelebu, never to return.

Heartbroken and penniless, Tok Batin Emok realized his mistake. He had abandoned a wife who had been faithful, patient, and kind. With a heavy heart, he made his way back through the thick forests and flowing rivers to the place he once called home.

To his surprise, Endut was still there. She had never left. She had waited, believing that one day he would return. And when he did, she welcomed him back without anger or resentment, only love.

The people of the village saw this as a sign of true devotion and forgiveness. They began calling their home Janda Balik, meaning “the widow returns,” as a tribute to the woman who waited for her husband’s return.

Over time, as the name was passed down through generations, the pronunciation evolved. Janda Balik became Janda Baik, meaning “the good widow,” a fitting name for a place known for its peaceful and welcoming nature.

Years later, in 1934, when officials sought to formally name the village, the people remembered the story of Endut and Tok Batin Emok. Out of three choices, they agreed on Janda Baik, honoring the tale of love, loss, and redemption that had shaped their community.

And so, today, as the wind whispers through the trees and the river sings its endless song, the story of Janda Baik lives on—reminding us all that true love and kindness can withstand even the greatest of storms.