The art of woodcarving is synonymous with the Malays and features elements such as symbols of its respective owners. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the physical placement and significance of the carving called “buah buton” found in traditional houses of Luak Tanah Mengandung, Negeri Sembilan, whose residents practise the “Adat Perpatih” custom. Data collection involved two methods: utilising field work to identify houses with the “buah buton” carving in Luak Tanah Mengandung and interviewing the heirs, customary leaders, researchers and locals. Results showed that the placement of “buah buton” carvings was varied and not restricted to certain areas. However, “buah buton” that were placed in specific areas, such as the “serambi”(porch), may be symbolic of the statuses of its occupants in “Adat Perpatih”. Hence, the influence and practice of this tradition prove that it is not only enshrined in daily life and specific custom but also impacts the elements present in traditional visual art. To that end, this article suggests that the “buah buton” should be placed in government buildings to symbolise the meeting of leaders and professionalism in administration. In addition, exhibitions centred on the themes of monarchies or national leadership may utilise the “buah buton”as a display artefact symbolizing leadership.