History
Johor District nowdays
Johor was founded in the early 16th century by the son of Sultan Mahmud Shah, the last Sultan of Melaka when the capital was captured by the Portuguese. At its peak, the Johor empire stretched to the Riau Archipelago. In the 18th century, the Bugis of Celebes and the Minangkabaus of Sumatra controlled the political powers in the Johor-Riau empire, but in the early 19th century, Malay and Bugis rivalry dominated the scene. Even today, Johor, and Riau lie on the strategic sea route passing from the South China Sea to the Indian Ocean, through the Straits of Malacca.
In 1819, Stamford Raffles capitalised on their inter-faction rivalry to acquire Singapore for the British. As a result, the Johor-Riau empire was broken into mainland Johor, controlled by the Temenggong, and the Sultanate of Riau-Lingga, controlled by the Bugis. In 1886, Temenggong Abu Bakar elevated himself to Sultan. He was succeeded by his son, Sultan Ibrahim. In 1914, the British Adviser to administer Johor until the Japanese Occupation in 1945. In 1957, Johor joined the federation of Malaya.
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Economy
Johor's economy is based on a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, commerce, and tourism. It is the nation's major producer of palm oil, rubber pineapples, and bananas. Bauxite is mined in Pengerang, and Pasir Gudang is growing into an important international port. Many industrial estates are found in and around Johor Bahru and other major towns. Here, the factories produce electrical appliances, furniture, textiles and petrochemical products.
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Transportation
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By Air
Regular flight from Johor Bahru’s Senai Airport connect the state capital with Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. The airport also connects Johor Bahru to Bayan Lepas International Airport in Penang. Booking can be arranged through the office of the Malaysia Airlines (MAS – Tel: 07-334 1003, 334 4701). Taxis operating at the airport charge RM25.00 per person to the city centre. Air-conditioned coaches operate a shuttle service from MAS office in Johor Bahru to Senai airport at RM4.00 per person.
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By Road
By the trunk road, Johor Bahru is 368 km from Kuala Lumpur. However, travelling by the North-South Highway reduces the distance to 220 km.. A causeway carrying a road and railway connects the capital Johor Bahru to Singapura. A second bridge links Tanjung Kupang, 30 km south-west of Johor Bahru, to Tuas in Singapura. It can accommodate 200,000 cars, four times more than the traffic volume at the causeway. Taxis are a popular and cheap means of transport. All urban taxis are fitted with meters. An additional 50% is charged between the hours of 12 am to 6 am. It also possible to hire an outstation taxi on a shared or individual basis to travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Kuantan (capital state of Pahang) and Kota Bahru (capital state of Kelantan). Johor bahru is also well served by express buses offering comfortable rides at reasonable fares from all major cities and towns in Peninsular Malaysia.
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By Rail
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Johor Bahru Railway Station
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Keretapi tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) offers numerous train services connecting Singapore and other states through the Johor Bahru Railway Station.`
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By Ferry
The Tanjung Belungkor-Changi Ferry Terminal completes a vital link in SIJORI (Singapore-Johor-Riau) tourism triangle, where tourists can also enter Johor from the Riau Island. Facilities at the terminal include customs and immigration checkpoints, tourist information counter, taxis and buses, restaurants, snack counters and money-changers. The ferries can each accommodate 400 passengers, 70 cars and makes 4 trips daily. For reservations and further informations:
Tel: (0207)-2517407 Fax: (0207)-2517414 (Malaysia)
Tel: (65)-5453600 Fax: (65)-5455040
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Places to Eat
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Food wide variety
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Eating out in Johor Bahru is always enjoyable because you can obtain a wide variety of western and Asian dishes at reasonable prices. All the Major hotels in Johor Bahru offer good Western food. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of western-style fast food outlets. But the visitor is more likely to want to taste local dishes. The ethnic mix in Johor is such that cooking styles have been influenced by a variety of cultural traditions. Apart from Malay, Chinese and Indian foods, there are also local variations which have evolved from traditional Javanese methods and the innovations of the locally-born Nyonya Chinese.
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Road side stale
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The local habit of eating out (especially in the evenings) also works in favor of the visitor. Roadside stalls are numerous and offer an almost endless variety of dishes to choose from. The two main places where you will find large numbers of food stalls are the Tepian Tebrau Stalls in Jalan Skudai (Skudai Road) along the seafront and the stalls next to the Central Market.
The State capital is noted for its fresh seafood, especially oyters, prawns, fried cuttlefish, chili crab and steamed crab. The more adventurous might also like to try sea cucumber. The laksa Johor (rice noodle) and Lontong (rice cubes), both served in spicy coconut milk gravy are two well-known Johor specialities –definitely not to be missed.
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Culture
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Kuda kepang
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For the cultural treat, be spellbound by the ‘Kuda Kepang Dance’ of the War Horses performed in trance also ‘ghazal’ (a kind of traditional music). International class hotels occasionally hold cultural performances. Chinese, Indians and other races do have their fare share of exciting traditional dances. Chinese opera, lion dances and dragon dances are occassionally held, especially during major religious festivals. Many cultural centres are found in major towns all over the state.
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Place of Interest
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Royal Abu Bakar Museum, grand Palace, Johor
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Royal Abu Bakar Museum
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The imposing palace along Jalan Tun Dr. Ismail (Tun Dr. Ismail Road) was built by the late Sultan Abu Bakar, Father of Modern Johor. It houses an impressive collection of many rare and beautiful treasures from all over the world. Within the palace grounds is the Mawar Gift Shop-souvenir shop where visitors may purchase a variety of items as mementoes.
Entrance fee: Depending on price changes
Non-Malaysians
Adult -US$7.00
Children (below the age of 12) -US$3.00
Locals
Adults -RM5.00
Children (below the age of 12) -RM1.00
School children in uniform -RM1.00
Open: 10 am to 6 pm (daily-except on Friday)
Tel: 07-223 0555, 223 0222
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State Secretariat Building (Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim)
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Sultan Ibrahim building
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The building was built in 1940 and is located on a hill called Bukit Timbalan (Timbalan Hill). Despite the appearance of highrise buildings in recent years, the square tower of the massive building still dominates the Johor Bahru skyline. It houses the state secretariat as well as the other departments of the state government. Visitors may find the grand hall of particular interest.
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Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar (Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque)
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Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
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This mosque, said to be one of the most beautiful in Malaysia, was completed in 1900, a few years after the death of the sultan it named after. The mosque, which took eight years to build, can accommodate 2,000 worshippers. It is located on spacious grounds not far from the Istana Besar (Besar Castle) overlooking the Tebrau Straits.
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Dataran Bandar raya (City Square)
It 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 ans a clock tower reputed to be the biggest in the region. It also boasts of the tallest flag in the state. A mega video screen has been installed for visitors to view live transmissions.
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The Causeway
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Johor-Singapore causeway
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Entering Johor Bahru from Singapore involves travelling across the Causeway which links the two cities. Completed in 1924 after four years work, the causeway is 1,056 metres long and extends to a depth of 23 metres below the water level. In January 1942, the British Army demolished part of it as invading Japanese forces prepare to attack Singapore from the north. The Japanese soon effected repairs and the Causeway resumed its role as an important road, railway and general communications link. The crossing includes a pedestrian walkway for the energetic. Singapore gets a good deal of water supply from large water pipes which have been laid across the Causeway from Johor
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Johor Art Gallery
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| Johor Art Gallery |
The Johor Art Gallery was built in 1910 and houses all 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.
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Malaysia Legoland
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Legoland
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Legoland Malaysia is a theme park that has opened in Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia on September 15, 2012 with over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia upon its establishment. The official opening of Legoland Malaysia was made by Sultan Ibrahim Ismail, Sultan of Johor on September 22, 2012.[2] It is the centrepiece of a 5,500,000 sq ft (510,000 m2) integrated complex in the Nusa Cemerlang industrial park, within the Iskandar Malaysia economic region, consisting of a lifestyle retail centre, offices, hotels, service apartments and residential units. Besides the Legoland Malaysia, other Lego-themed attractions nearby will open sometime. The first one will be a Lego-themed water theme park opening in mid-2013 and the other one is The Legoland Hotel, a Lego-themed hotel located at the theme park and also the first to open in Southeast Asia which will open in the first half of 2014. The hotel is built under a management agreement between the company and LL Themed Hotel Sdn Bhd, a joint-venture company owned by Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd and Iskandar Harta Holdings Sdn Bhd. The cost of Legoland Malaysia and the water theme park is RM720 million, while The Legoland Hotel costs RM190 million. Only halal-certified food served at the Market Restaurant of Legoland Malaysia. This includes local and foreign delicacies. Legoland Malaysia targets 1.5 million visitors when it opens its doors and generate more than RM100 million in the first year of its operation.
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Tropical Village Resort
It is the premier theme park in Johor. Replicas of more than thirty world-famouslandmarks can be found here such as the Taj Mahal, Great Wall of China, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Statue of Liberty and others. In addition, there is a huge variety of bougainvilleas and more than 80 tropical fruit species. Experience the fascinating and exhilarating life while rowing in the wide pool or look at yourself in the Magic Mirror Hall, others can feel the winding dinasour train to discover the cave of Tropical Village. To those who love the outdoor and challenges, horse ride and the Haunted House awaits you.
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Johor Zoo
Situated on sprawling grounds at Jalan Gertak Merah is the Johor Zoo. It houses some of the most fascinating collection of animals. Include it in your itinerary for a few hours of fun. Opening from 8 am to 6 pm daily.
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Tanjung Balau
Located about eight kilometres north of Desaru, 98 km from Johor Bahru, 2 hours drive from Singapura via Kota Tinggi is the Fishermen’s Museum. Its exhibits include fish traps, fishing equipment, and paraphernalia from the fishing trade. Tourist are privileged to experience the authenic simple lifestyles of Malay fisherman, their traditional and hospitality in this village. Nelayan Resort yang terdapat di sini menyediakan 96 rooms double dengan cafetaria, seminar room, swimming pool dan multi-purpose hall (250 person).
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Mawar House (handicraft centres)
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Handicraft Centres
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Located within the Mawar Complex, this building was painstakingly restored at great cost to preserve a part of the rich traditional heritage of Johor. Today it houses the exhibition and sales centre of KARYANEKA, offering a variety of traditional and contemporary handicrafts ranging from batik, hand woven textiles, silverware, basketry, woodcarving and pottery. The Johor Are Rehabilitation Organization (JARO) maintains a shop in Jalan Sungai Cat (Cat River Road) where visitors can purchase a wide variety of goods such as baskets, soft dolls and other handicrafts made by handicapped persons.
In addition, the Johor Crafttown Handicraft Centre at Jalan Skudai Road, off Jalan Abu Bakar Abu Bakar Road, offers hand-drawn batik cloths, batik paintings, straw mats and other goods for sale. A one-stop handicraft centre destined to be Johor’s leading tourist attraction, the village is the place for a fascinating demonstration of traditional songket weaving, batik silk painting and the art of fine pottery. Tourist can pick up interesting performances while dining at the Johorcraft Restaurant. Johorcraft Sdn. Bhd., located at Jalan Johor Bahru-Kota Toffers fine rural crafts and high quality ceramic items of various colours, shapes and sizes to meet the disceming tasters of both local and overseas markets.
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JOTIC (Johor Tourist Information Centre)
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JOTIC
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JOTIC is one-stop centre for visitors to get a better understanding of Johor. Besides the availability of informative print materials like brochures on Johor, there are shops selling various types of handicrafts which are mostly Johor’s very own. Occasionally, visitors are entertained with live cultural performances. Traditional food can also be savoured at the centre’s food court.
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The Royal Mausoleum
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Royal Mausoleum
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The Royal Mausoleum has been the final resting place for Royalty of Johor. The mausoleum is situated along Jalan Mahmoodiah. An area where one can’t help but appreciate the serene and tranquil atmosphere befitting a resting place for eternity. The mausoleum’s architecture is one of a fine, unique and aesthetic design.
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Serene Hill Palace
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Serene Hill Palace
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His majesty The Sultan of Johor residens in this palace. Perched on high ground with a 350 m tower, the palace is a landmark to travellers coming from the north. It contains one of the most beautiful gardens in Johor and a private zoo.
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Sultan Abu Bakar Monument
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Sultan Abu Bakar Monument
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This monument, created in the seafront opposite the courthouse commemorates Sultan Abu Bakar (1864-1895), as the architect of moden Johor. A bronze replica of the Johor crown surmounts the monument.
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Pasir Gudang Racing Circuit
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Pasir Gudang Circuit
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The Federation International Motorcycle (FIM) has given the honour to this circuit to host one of the legs of World Motorcycle Championship in 1998. It is one of only two legs to be held in Asia. Despite its international status, this circuit is open to any motorsport enthusiasts to sample the thrill and spill of high speed adventure.
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Johor lama
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Johor Lama
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A small village in Johor Lama was the seat of the Johor Sultanate after the fall of Malacca till the final destruction of the fort in 1587. The earth mount fort has since been restored. Johor Lama, historically holds many secrets of the past,particularly since it was once the capital of the Johor Sultanate. The capital was later moved to what is now known as Johor Bahru. Historical sites can be found along the Johor river such as Panchor, Kampung johor Lama, Batu sawar, Kampung Makam and Kota Seberang. There are also kelongs which are made of wooden poles topped by small shacks located near the river mouth.
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Mersing
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Mersing
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The town of Mersing, 135 km from Johor Bahru City is one of the staging points to the islands of Pulau tioman, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Besar, Pulau Sibu, Pulau Sibu Tengah and Pulau Tinggi. Visitors normally stay overnight at one of the hotels in this fishing port to catch the ferry services to the islands as the high tide is usually at 9.00 am
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Pontian
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Pontian fishing village
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The Johor countryside is well cultivated with pineapples. Just an hour’s drive from Johor Bahru City, the fishing village has a settlement of fishermen living on stilts by shore. The town is also the staging point for visitors going to Gunung Pulai for waterfall picnics, jungle trekking or mountain climbing.
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Ayer Hitam
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Ayer Hitam
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Lovers of ceramic art will find Ayer Hitam a haven for potteries, porcelain and stoneware. The town is a popular transit point for visitors stopping for lunch or dinner on their way to Johor Bahru or Kuala Lumpur
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Muar
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Muar
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This picturesque town is well-known for its delicious and inexpensive foodstalls and restaurants. The tree-lined Tanjung is ideal for evening strolls. The waterfalls at the foot of Mount Ophir ( Ledang) is accessible from Muar.
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Kukup
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Kukup fishing village
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Kukup is a fishing village with houses on stilts at the water’s edge. There are numerous restaurants on stilts serving delicious seafood. Handicraft and delicacies such as keropok, belacan and cencaluk are available at Kukup.
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Natural Attractions
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Sebana Cove
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Sebana Cove
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Its an integrated golf, marina and holiday destination within an eco-setting. View the spectacular sunset at the marina, spend a lazy afternoon fishing or enjoy a game of golf. Numerous sports facilities and delicious food and beverage outlets make this place an ideal retreat for family getaways or corporate retreats. Destined to be Asia’s foremost international yachting, golfing and holiday destination, Sebana cove’s claims are fast becoming a reality in the heart of the region’s fastest growing tourism belt. Sebana Cove is sprawled on 1,200 acres amidst the emerald panorama of tropical rainforests and mangrove. This total resort concept is the only development that parcels an international standard residential marina, a 27 hole membership golf courses, luxurious waterfront properties and a 300 room resort hotel.
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Endau Rompin National Park
Covering about 49,000 hectares, straddles the Johor-Pahang border. It’s the one of the few remaining lowland forests. Many insects and wildlife as well as various endermic varieties of plants have been discovered within the centuries-old forest.Drained by Sungai Marong (Marong River), Sungai Jasin (Jasin River) and Sungai Endau (Endau River) and their tributaries, the park is inhabited by the Asian rhinoceros, seladang, wild pig, tiger and birds like the hornbill, babler and cuckoo.
You also can found spectacular 30 metres wide and 40 metres high waterfall at ‘Buaya Sangkut’. Two other smaller waterfalls terdapat di ‘Batu Hampar’ and ‘Upih Guling’. Toilets, dormitories, and camping sites are found at the base of the waterfalls. Trekking, swimming and bird-watching are some of the activities that could be arranged. Further information, please contact National Park (Johor) Corporation, Tel: 07-2237471/2.
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Gunung Pulai Recreational forest
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| Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest |
This 8 hectare forest reserve is a catchment area, unique flora and fauna sanctuary and a fascinating recreational haven. There are several waterfalls with pools at its bottom. Apart from being an ideal picnic spot, the forest is a venue for seminars, workcamp and jungle trekking to the summit of Gunung Pulai.
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Ledang Mountain Recreational Forest
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| Ledang Mountain Recreational Forest |
It is a recreational forest, the site of Johor’s highest mountain, Gunung Ledang (Ledang Mountain). Trekkers can climb to the summit of the mountain and camp at the Sagil Waterfall. According to legend, Gunung Ledang was the homes of a Johor princess who was wooed by the Sultan of Melaka in 15th century.
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Gunung Arong Recreational Forest
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This forest of towering and shady trees and natural setting offer a refreshing retreat for visitors. There are popular picnic spots by the riverside, a garden and a well equipped playground. Other facilities include rest shades, dressing room, toilet and tree-top huts. Jungle trails are also provided for the more adventurous visitors.
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Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest
Located at the foothill of Gunung Lambak, this recreational forest is a favourite retreat for picnics, bathing and mountain-climbing. The 510 m high Gunung Lambak is accessible by footpaths provided. Facilities including car park, benches, rest shade, dressing room, toilets and bridge leading to camp sites are provided.
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Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest
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Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest
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Lush greenery and ravishing wilderness await visitors. It is a haven for camping, picnics and mountain climbing. Gunung Belumut promises exotic vegetation and breathtaking waterfalls.
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Gunung Panti Recreational Forest
This recreational forest is a haven for those who like to camp. Facilities including camp sites and temporary accommodation are provided for visitors. Rare species of flora and fauna can be found here.
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Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
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Kota Tinggi Waterfall
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The waterfalls are favourite spot for picnics and relaxation. The water cascades 34 m down into a pool deep enough for swimming. The Kota Tinggi Waterfalls for years have been renowned, not only for its continuous rush of cascading cool waters that run down the slopes originating from Gunung Panti, but also for its beautiful, tropical surroundings of flora and fauna. Fully furnished chalets complete with cooking facilities are available for booking.
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Islands
Johor’s islands are located a few nautical miles off the Mersing Coast, like a handful of jewels flug into the South China Sea.
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1. Pulau Tioman (Tioman Island)
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Tioman Island
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Located off Mersing, is the perfect island for those seeking tranquility and retreat. Its beaches are refreshingly unspoilt, being devoid of the usual commercial trappings. It is the perfect island in the sun, with reefs for diving and clear water for swimming and snorkelling. The island has an international class hotel besides its many beach chalets.
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2. Pulau Rawa (Rawa Island)
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Rawa Island
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This is a beautiful coral island covered with white coral sand and tall palm trees. Rawa has many caves foe exploration and offshore coral reefs rich with marine life. It is a haven for fishing, skin-diving, scuba diving, shell collecting, lobster-hunting and underwater photography. Chalet accommodation are available.
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3. Pulau Besar (Besar Island)
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Besar Island
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Lying close to Pulau rawa, Pulau Besar has been developed into an island resort, with chalets and restaurants. The glistening beaches, crystal blue waters and spectacular coral reefs are enchanting attractions.
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4. Pulau Sibu (Sibu Island)
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Sibu Island
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It is the nearest island with accommodation, just two and a half hours by boat from Mersing, or two hours from Tanjung Leman (Leman Bay), 20 km south of Mersing. This tropical paradise has clean white beaches, clear blue waters and rich in marine life. One can enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, windsurfing and boating.
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5. Pulau sibu Tengah (Sibu Tengah Island)
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Sibu Tengah Island
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Covering about eight hectares. The coral-rich waters of the island is a haven for snorkellers and scuba divers. The many beaches of soft powdey sands permit utmost privacy. Its lush vegetation supports small amphibians. Kemudahan chalets turut ditawarkan daripada superior chalets to two-room executive chalets. Anda dapat memenuhi masa lapang dengan aktivities seperti water skiing, parasailing, windsurfing and fishing. Restoran turut disediakan dengan hidangan yang pasti memenuhi citarasa anda. This island also offers visitors a 20 acre resort retreat that’s exclusively private for both business and leisure. This island was gazzeted as a Marine Park due to the abundant marine life and rare species of fish and coral. Giant leatherback turtles come ashore to lay eggs yearly. Spacious and comfortable cottages are available for booking.
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6. Pulau Tinggi (Tinggi Island)
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Tinggi Island
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Pulau tinggi is a large uninhabited island. It has a long coastline and white sandy beaches dotted with caves. The seas around it are teeming with coral, fish and reef making it a photographic haven.
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7. Pulau Pemanggil (Pemanggil Island)
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Pemanggil Island
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This magical island of sandy white beaches, hilly terrain and rich marine life is irresistable. There are chalets and long houses for visitors wishing to stay on the island.
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8. Pulau Aur (Aur Island)
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Aur Island
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This is another beautiful island with secluded lagoons and offshore pool perfect for bathing and a host of water sport activities. A long house on the island provides basic accommodation
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9. Other Islands
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Other Islands
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Pulau Hujung and Pulau Tengah has no accommodation is available. In addition to the aforementioned usland, there are 50 other uninhabited islets waiting to be explored. Month of May and October usually suitable when underwater visibility is at its best.
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Beaches
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Lido Beach
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Lido beach
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This sundrenched beach of Johor Bahru, stretching over 7 km provides city tourists a variety of water adventures from canoeing, sailingto cruising.
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Desaru
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Desaru beach
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Located 98 km northeast of Johor Bahru, covers a 26 km stretch of beach. All kinds of sports, from snorkelling, swimming and canoeing, jungle-trekking to golfing can be enjoyed here. Three top-class hotels are already established at Desaru, offering impressive resort facilities for the above activities. Desaru offers almost every type of accommodation to travellers, from low-budget campsites for the more adventurous travellers, chalets for families to luxurious hotel rooms.
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Agrotourism
Is fast expanding in Johor, offering an unique experience varying from savouring local fruits in an orchard and to soaking up the tranquil ambiance of a local village, introduce the traditional Malay way of life.Also watch how rubber is tapped and tried by yourself. You can stays with a local family for day visits or long stays with a local family in the Homestay programme where you can participate in harvesting or pickings, and watch the process of palm oil involved. Its becoming increasingly popular among foreign and local tourist alike.
Ayer Hitam Animal Breeding Centre- Offering chalet, animal farm, equestrian, boating, camping/ BBQ, animal museum, dairy
Air Papan Village- Offering homestay, farm trip, padi fields, karaoke, chalet, prawn & crab breeding, hiking track.
Bumbun Village- Offering fruits, fishing, handicraft, commercial farm and village cuisine.
Kangkar Merlimau Village- Offering jungle expedition, river expedition/ fishing, traditional house/ cuisine, traditional medice, agriculture activity/ handicraft and tropical fruits.
Mardi Kluang Station- Offering chalet, farm visit, bird sanctuary, water sport activity (kayak and boat), camping, exotic garden and fishing.
Maju Jaya Village- Offering Gunung Pulai (Pulai Mount), fishing, pineapple farm, fruits, Pontian Kecil town, Pineapple Museum and village industry.
Olak Sepam Village- Offering Muar River Panorama & Recreational Park, historical landmark, NASOHA Rempah Ratus (spice) farm and traditional orchard.
Sungai Sarang Buaya Village- Offering homestay, camping, small industry, hot spring, recreation ground, seafood, aquaculture, mangrove forest tracking and river cruise
Tanjung Piai Village- Offering homestay, camping, small industry, fruits, floating resort, bee farm, seafood, fishing, mangrove forest tracking, ‘land’s end’ expedition and large marine fishtrap
Further info: Department of Agriculture Johor, P.O. Box 772, Jalan Taruka, 80350 Larkin, Johor Bahru, Johor.
Tel: 07-235 5506/ 5507/ 5508/ 5509
Fax: 07-235 5512/ 5513
E-mail: jpjoh@po.jaring.my
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Shopping
Shopping in Johor can be fun and also less of a strain on the budget. The various handicraft centres provide an interesting and tempting variety of items to choose from as sounenirs or gifts. Shops in the modern shopping complexes are equally competitive and offer irresistible bargains. If you are interested in pottery items, then the Aw Pottery factory and showroom in Air Itam is the place for you.
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Plaza Pelangi
Its, Johor Bahru’s most exciting shopping mall, has a multitude of stores which offer a wide array of value-for-money quality merchandise from handicraft itmes and souvenirs to a large selection of fashion apparel, accessories and trendy footwear. If hunger gnaws, head for the local eateries, patissererie or fast food outlets. The shooping mall is a mere 10-minute’s drive away from the causeway and is well served by taxis and regular bus services.
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The Holiday Plaza
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Holiday Plaza
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This modern shooping complex in Jalan Dato’ Sulaiman, Century Garden, has a unique design. Almost every tenant on its three floors has prime space opening out onto the pedestrian mall or the road. The complex also includes a large cinema, a medical centre, a night club, banks, a children’s playground, a hawker’s centre and a number of fast food outlets catering to shoppers.
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Tun Abd. Razak Complex
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| Tun Abdul Razak Complex |
The Tun Abd. Razak Complex is another modern shopping centre and is located along Jalan Wong Ah Fook in downtown Johor Bahru. It is the focus of activity for both shopping and business and houses a food court, shops, a supermarket and a snooker lounge.
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Plaza Kota Raya
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Plaza Kota Raya
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This extensive office and hotel complex covering an eleven acre sites is in the heart of Johor Bahru. This mammoth project is undertaken by the Johor State Economic Development Corporation and is considered to be a significant enhancement toward Johor’s economic growth and as an important business centre in the southern region of the country.
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Pasir Gudang Town Centre Complex
Built in 1986, this complex is located in the hub of the Pasir Gudang town centre. Retail outlets within the complex offer a wide variety of clothing, leather products, stationery, opticals, electrical appliances and computers. Restaurants and food stalls on the third level serve a wide variety of local and western cuisine. Located about 32 km east of Johor Bahru, the complex is about 25 minutes drive from Johor Bahru.
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Complex Lien Hoe
Approximately 5 km north of Johor Bahru, just off Jalan Tebrau, this well-knownbudget shopping centre houses department stores, retail outlets, furniture showrooms and restaurants aplenty. A regular bazaar on the ground floor concourse offers a wide range of apparel, shoes, handbags, handicrafts and household items at bargain prices. The food court on the first floor offers food stalls with a wide variety of local cuisine.
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Golf Club, Courses & Association
Outside the Klang Valley, Johor has the largest number of golf courses. Until 1992, there were barely 10 courses and most of them are 9 hole courses. Today Johor have nearly 30 courses – 3 of the golf courses have 54 holes while another 3 golf courses also offer night golfing. Compared to the neighbouring countries, the Green fees are definitely cheap.
Austin Hills Country Resort
Tel: 07-352 4300
Bukit Banang Golf & Country
(Banang Hill Golf & Country)
Tel: 07-428 6001
Daiman 18 Golf Resort
Tel: 07-351 6813
Desaru Golf & Country Resort
Tel: 07-822 2333
Fax: 07-822 1855
Dunlop Club Paya Lang
Tel: 07-949 9170
Guthrie Golf & Country Club
Tel: 07-752 7107
Kluang Golf Club
Tel: 07-771 8840
Kota Tinggi Golf Resort
Tel: 07-883 1162
Kukup Golf Resort
Tel: 07-696 0952
Mersing Resort
Tel: 07-799 1307
Nam Heng Country Club Ulu Tiram.
Tel: 07-863 0103
Octville Golf & Country Club
Tel: 07-387 3000
Palm Resort golf & Country Club
Tel: 07-599 6222
Ponderosa Golf & Country Resort Bhd.
Tel: 07-354 9999
Pulai Springs Resort
Tel: 07-521 2121
Royal Johor Country Club
Tel: 07-223 3322
Segama Country Club
Tel: 07-943 5968
St. Rhodes Club
Tel: 07-926 1209
Starhill Golf Resort
Tel: 07-556 6325
Tanjong Emas Golf Club
Tel: 07-952 1550
Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort
Tel: 07-271 1490
Tesoro (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-353 8048
The Batu Pahat Golf Club
Tel: 07-432 9221
The Legends Golf & Country Resort
Tel: 07-652 4388
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Hotels
Johor is well served with hotels to suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Visitors will also be pleasantly surprised to find that high class hotels in Johor Bahru are competitively priced compared to those of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Those who wish to stay in Johor Bahru may choose to stay at one of the city’s luxury hotels such as the Puteri Pan Pacific Hotel, Holiday Inn, Tropical Inn, Merlin Tower, Johor Bahru Merlin, Rasa Syang Hotel and Crystal Crown Hotel. For the budget conscious traveller, there are government rest houses, youth hostels and simple lodgings. Although simplistic, they do provide airconditioned rooms with a host of basic facilities.
The other major towns to the north such as Batu pahat, Kluang, Kota Tinggi, Segamat, Muar and Mersing also have a range of good hotels. The beach resort of Desaru offers visitors a choice between the luxurious Desaru View hotels and the popular Desaru Golf Hotel and more rustic chalets and camping facilities. There is also chalet accommodation on many of the islands off the east coast.
Accommodation / Hotel by District of Johor
Johor Baharu
Muar
Batu Pahat
Pontian
Mersing
Kota Tinggi
Segamat
Kluang
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@@@@@Johor State Tourism Department
Suite 5-4 JOTIC Building
2 Jalan Ayer Molek 80000
Johor Bahru
Tel: 07-2234933, 224 9960, 224 1432
Fax: 07-223 7554
E-mail: tourjoho@tm.net.my
Johor Tourist Association
Tel: 07-332 3800
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@@@@@Travel Bureaus
Airlandsea Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
195B-1 Bt. 4 ½ Jln Skudai
Tampoi 81200
Johor Bahru
Tel: 07-234 6166
Amza Travel Centre Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-334 8071
Asian Dynasty Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-333 7333
ASM Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 011-719680
B & T Holiday Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 5609
Bens Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-222 9888
Chia Sin Travel Service Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-772 5115
Chiu Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-431 5797
CK Vacations Sdn. Bhd.
44-A1 Pusat Perdagangan
Jalan Bandar 81700 Pasir Gudang.
Tel: 07-252 6300
Fax: 07-252 6200
CNL Vacation Limousine Service Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-226 1621
Commonwealth Travel Service Corperation Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 2898
Concord tours & Travel sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-235 8270
Deluxe Tours (Johor) sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-331 0718
East Coast Adventure Travel & Tour Sdn. Bhd.
07-224 2505
Executive Travel & Tour (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 0063
Fond Guan Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-434 7923
Hock Sang Travel Ctr. (M) Sdn. Bhd.Tel: 07-222 3311
Holiday Tours & Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-333 0061
Hong Yi Holidays Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-882 2998
Huxton Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 9280
IK Chin Travel Service Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-223 3859
Jamilah Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-883 8653
Kaiho Travel Coach Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-236 4208
Lim Cheng Boon Tourist Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-431 5004
Mado’s Tours & Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-334 4001
Mansfield Orchid Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 9511
Masrina Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-237 0585
MBTS Tour (Johor) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-334 7666
Mersing Waterworld Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-799 6188
MNG Travel & Tour Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-223 1493
Overseas Express (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 6611
Pelancongan Seri Utama (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 773 6800
Perdasia Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-331 1331
PPNJ Tours & Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-235 9002
SS Holidays Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-251 1577
Satria Wangsa Holiday Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-556 2054
Sin Chung Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-335 5860
Sin Thai Mah Travel & Express Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-223 8427
T.A. Holidays Services
Tel: 07-799 2309
Tiram Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-224 4533
Top-One Travel Service
Corporation (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-223 7995
Warita Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 07-222 8951
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