The history and the origins of Naning is closely related to the advent of the arrival of the Minangkabau people to Malay Peninsular. Naning used to be an independent Malay state before the coming of the colonial powers. Naning then was free to conduct its administration under the command of the Chief of Naning or ‘Penghulu Naning’ and ‘Pembesar Empat Suku’.

Naning territory was founded by a group of family from Pagar Ruyung, Minangkabau Sumatera on the 12th century, led by Datuk Perpatih Pinang Sebatang. The family entered the mainland of Malay Peninsula, and settled in Taboh. On their arrival, they heard a sound of drum as if to announce their presence. Due to that, they realized that Taboh was a suitable place for settlement, as well as an administrative centre for the state.

Politically, Naning used to be a part of Melaka. However, the society in general likens Naning to Negeri Sembilan, which practiced the Adat Perpatih. The level of rank and power of Penghulu Naning or Chief of Naning during that time was very similar to the rank of the other Raja or Sultan in the Malay Peninsula.