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State Secretariat Building,
Johor Bahru
The building was built in 1940 and is located on a hill called Bukit Timbalan. Its columns and pillars are designs of Saracenic architecture. The building, which is a symbol of progressive and modern Johor, commands a magnificent view of the Straits of Johor. Visitors may find the Grand Hall particularly interesting. The whole building covers 11 floors above the ground and it houses 46 government offices and departments. During World War II, the Japanese occupied the building as a fortress and a store dump when planning attacks on neighbouring Singapore.
To get there: Make your way up to Jalan Duke and you will not miss the building on the top of the hill. |
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Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, Johor Bahru
A famed landmark, this century-old mosque is said to be one of the most beautiful in Malaysia. It was completed in 1900, a few years after the death of the Sultan it is named after. It look eight years to build and can accommodate 2,000 worshippers. It is located on spacious grounds overlooking the Straits of Johor and Singapore. Locals put up stalls selling souvenirs and handicrafts.
Open: Sat-Thur 9am-4pm
Enquiries: 07-223 0555
To get there: Jalan Sri Blukar (off Jalan Ibrahim) |
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The Grand Palace and Royal Abu Bakar Museum,
Johor Bahru
The beautiful palace was commissioned by Sultan Abu Bakar, who laid the foundation stone in 1864. One of the oldest buildings in Johor, it has a cosmopolitan architecture with clear Anglo-Malay influence. Today the palace assumes an additional role as the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, displaying treasures of the royal collection.
It is in the Renaissance style and was built by local workmen under the supervision of an European architect. Much of the original furniture was ordered in England by His Majesty Sultan Abu Bakar in 1866 and he personally directed the laying out of the Palace gardens.The building has been enlarged and renovated several times. In 1912 the east wing was pulled down and the present Banquet Hall was erected in its place. Today the Palace is mainly used for State ceremonies and official functions, although since 23 February 1982, it has filled an additional role as the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, displaying the art treasures of the Royal collection and historical relics of the Sultanate of Johor.
Open: 9.00am - 5.00pm daily except Friday.
Enquiries: Tel: 07-223 0555, 223 0222
To get there: Travel from Jalan Ibrahim then to Jalan Blukar
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Dataran Bandaraya, Johor Bahru
Dataran Bandaraya or City Square, was officially opened on 31 December 1993 by the Sultan of Johor. A much sought after venue for public events like parades and stage shows, this popular tourist attraction comprises a large stage, a minaret, a fountain and a clock tower reputed to be the biggest in the region. It also boasts of the tallest flag staff in the state. A mega video screen has been installed for visitors to view live transmissions. |
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Johor Art Gallery, Johor Bahru
Founded in 1910, the Johor Art Gallery houses all the discovered and historical items such as documents and cultural artifacts traditionally used by Malays, particularly from the State of Johor. Among the exhibits are clothings, weapons, currency, manuscripts and examples of calligraphy, ceramic objects and fine art.
Yayasan Wawasan Johor
JKR 304, Jalan Maryammah, 80100 Johor Bahru.
Tel: 07-224 5488
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The Royal Mausoleum, Johor Bahru
The Royal Mausoleum has been the final place for Royalty of Johor. The mausoleum is situated along Jalan Mahmoodiah. An area where one can¹t help but appreciate the serene and tranquil atmosphere befitting a resting place for eternity. The mausoleum¹s architecture is one of a fine, unique and aesthetic design of yesterday.
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Johor Old Chinese Temple, Johor Bahru
Flanked by modern skyscrapers, this temple is one of the oldest structures in Johor Bahru. A group of Chinese community leaders, led by Tan Hiok Nee, built it in the late-19th century. In 1995/1996, it underwent a major renovation at a cost of MYR1.5 million. Much of its cultural aura is preserved, however, and important relics such as the century-old bronze bell, joss stick pot and wooden tablet remain. The temple plays host to the five main Chinese gods of the Hainanese, Cantonese, Hakka, Hokkien and Teochew dialect groups. |
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Waterfalls at Lumbong, Kota Tinggi
Swim in refreshing waters or admire water cascading from a height of 32 metres. Children can safely wade in the shallower pools. Stay at the Swiss-Style chalets which are equipped with kitchens, or descend to the camping grounds and public changing rooms at the base of the falls. |
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Muar
Muar is a picturesque town popular for the delicious and inexpensive foods served by foodstalls and restaurant. Also known as Bandar Maharani, the town bears a striking resemblance to Malacca geographically, culturally and in terms of their inter-connecting historical and commercial roles. Take a stroll along the tree-lined riverside at Tanjong. There is also a hot spring at Sungai Balang on the way to Batu Pahat. |
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Batu Pahat
Situated on the main trunk road running north from Johor Bahru, Batu Pahat is a regional business and conference centre. It is also a favourite resting place for road travellers. A brief stop here should give you a change to taste a wide range of fruits, groundnuts and other local delicacies as well as to buy souvenirs and curios. |
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Pontian
Approximately one hour's drive from Johor Bahru is Pontian, where some of the fisherman, numbering about 1,500, live in houses raised on stilts above the water. Kukup is famous for its fresh seafood and most restaurants serve the "delight of the sea". The road to Pontian is flanked by pineapple plantation. |
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Kukup
Kukup is a fishing village with houses on stilts at the water's edge. There are numerous restaurant on stilts serving delicious seafood. Handicraft and delicacies such keropok, belacan and cincaluk are available at Kukup. |
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Mersing
The small fishing village in Mersing is the departure point for travellers who wish to make their way to offshore islands such as Pulau Tioman and Pulau Rawa. Its river bustles with fishing boats. Hungry travellers should check out its seafood restaurants.
Mersing has plenty of choices when it comes to rest and relax on its offshore island. Boats from Mersing reach islands like Pulau Rawa, Pulau Tengah, and Pulau Sibu. These islands offer peaceful and quiet resort-style holidaying set amid white, sandy beaches, abundant marine life, and jungle foliage. |
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