64 – Malaysia Travel Guide – Johor

Johor

Gateway to a World of Fascination and Adventure

Johor derives its name from ‘Jauhar’, an Arabic word that means precious stones. The southern gateway to Malaysia, Johor is linked to Singapore via the Causeway. The state has an international airport, a dynamic economic growth corridor and three major ports. It is also where the southernmost tip of Asia, Tanjung Piai, is located. The state has long enthralled visitors with its diverse range of attractions, ranging from ancient rainforests, pristine islands to world-renowned golf courses, family theme parks and shopping malls. The state capital, Johor Bahru, is famous for its historical buildings and impressive architecture. Let Johor be your gateway to a world of fascination and adventure.

MAP OF JOHOR

PLACE OF INTERESTS

LEGOLAND

Nusajaya – Johor

The internationally-famed Legoland® Malaysia boasts more than 40 rides, shows and attractions. With seven themed areas such as The Beginning, Lego® Technic, Lego Kingdoms, Imagination, Lego City, Land of Adventure and Miniland, this is an inspirational land where the children are the heroes. The newly-opened Sea Life Malaysia offers more great fun.

JOHOR PREMIUM OUTLETS

Kulai

Set within a beautiful outdoor setting, this major shopping hub is the place for competitively priced designer and branded items. Get everything from men’s and ladies’ apparel, footwear, bags as well as fashion accessories. Since opening in December 2011, it has drawn thousands of shoppers from both sides of the Causeway.

DESARU FRUIT FARM

Kota Tinggi

Housing over 100 varieties of seasonal and non-seasonal tropical fruits and over 10 plant species, the 100-acre Desaru Fruit Farm gives you the chance to sample a variety of juicy and refreshing tropical fruits such as rambutan, mango, pineapple, ciku, mangosteen and durian.

TANJUNG PIAI NATIONAL PARK

Pontian

Tanjung Piai National Park encompasses over 926 hectares of rainforest, including 526 hectares of coastal mangroves. Among its inhabitants are dusky leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, mud skippers as well as rare bird species and migratory birds. A monument here marks Tanjung Piai as the southernmost tip of Mainland Asia.

ENDAU-ROMPIN NATIONAL PARK

Covering an area of approximately 92,000 hectares, Endau Rompin National Park is a nature reserve teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Straddling across two states, Johor and Pahang, Endau Rompin is the second largest national oark after Taman Negara. It derives its name from the rivers of Endau and Rompin. The park is home to a vast species of birds, mammals, frogs, insects as well as endemic and rare varieties of orchids, herbs, medicinal plants and trees. Hikers may chance
upon leaf monkeys, long-tail macaques, white-handed gibbons and birds. The pristine jungles are home to elephants, deer, tapirs and the occasional tiger and leopard. For adventure lovers, the scenic Buaya Sangkut waterfalls and rapids are not-to-be-missed destinations. There are two entry points to the national park from Johor; one through Kampung Peta and the other at Kampung Selai. To protect the pristine environment, only limited areas of the park are open for ecotourism. Entry to the park requires a special permit from the Johor National Park Corporation.

PULAU KUKUP NATIONAL PARK

Pontian

Pulau Kukup is a 647-hectare, uninhabited mangrove island. Acknowledged as a RAMSAR site (Wetland of International Importance), it is surrounded by 800 hectares of mudflats and is reputedly one of the largest-of-its-kind. It was declared a national park in 1997, in order to preserve the island’s diverse variety of wetland flora and fauna.

SULTAN ISKANDAR MARINE PARK

Located in Mersing, the marine park is made up of a cluster of six islands – Pulau Aur, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Pemanggil, Pulau Besar, Pulau Rawa and Pulau Sibu. Covering over 8,000 hectares, the marine park is characterised by crystal-clear waters, powdery-white sandy beaches and diverse marine life. Spend a relaxing day on the beach or go snorkelling to admire the undersea paradise.

GUNUNG LEDANG NATIONAL PARK

The legendary Gunung Ledang – otherwise known as Mount Ophir – is known for its captivating natural beauty as well as the legends and myths surrounding it. The trail up the mountain is a spectacular experience as it is dotted with cascading waterfalls, flowing streams and variety of flora and fauna. On a clear day, stunning views of the Straits of Malacca and its surroundings can be seen from the top.

DESARU COAST

Desaru Coast is a premium integrated destination resort in the south.  The beachfront is dotted with numerous luxury resorts, one of the world’s largest waterparks (Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast) and championship golf courses.  Desaru also has a public beach that is popular among weekend holiday-makers for its water sports and other fun activities. 

Its 26km coastline is perfect for a relaxing swim, canoeing, water-skiing and catamaran sailing. Looking for something out of the ordinary? Try flying an ultra-light aircraft or take part in a go-kart race. This is also the place to enjoy the best of nature – try jungle-trekking, horseback riding or 4×4 adventures in the surrounding greenery. Further away, Pantai Tanjung Buloh in Sedili invites with its calm waters and rustic views

NASUHA HERBS AND SPICES PARADISE

Muar

Covering an area of 3,200 hectares, this is the place to see, touch, smell and taste nearly 150 varieties of spices and herbs from around the world. Herbs are grown free of chemicals and pesticides. Besides delving deeper into the world of herbs and their properties, visitors can also enjoy a relaxing time at the spa or sauna, try out herb-infused culinary delights at the restaurant, go camping, jungle-trekking or kayaking.

UK FARM AGRO RESORT

Kluang

Come and experience modern farm life at the 100-acre UK Farm. With a breeding capacity of 4,000, it is believed to be the largest goat and sheep farm in Malaysia. As it is located within a resort,
it provides facilities such as a restaurant, farm mart, conference room, chalet, dormitory, barbeque area, open stage, campsite and karaoke. Activities here include guided tours of the farm and visits to the Jakun Orang Asli Village, Herb Sanctuary, Passion fruit factory, Ostrich Park, mushroom and vegetable farm as well as the Mini Zoo.

 HOMESTAY PARIT BUGIS

Located about 34 km from Muar and 27 km from Batu Pahat, this homestay comprises 12 villages. Visitors can take in the clean air and rustic beauty of the landscape and learn about agricultural activities in the oil palm and pineapple plantations. Try making traditional snacks and cakes or watch cultural performances such as kuda kepang and barongan.

ADVENTURE WATERPARK DESARU COAST

Desaru

Set against the backdrop of a Malaysian village, the waterpark consists of wet and dry rides for all ages. Have fun at the Tidal Wave Beach – one of the world’s biggest wave pools – or enjoy the Kids Ahoy, Riptide, Kraken’s Revenge, Surf Wall and many more. This park is situated within Desaru Coast, a premium integrated destination resort.

ZENXIN ORGANIC PARK

Kuang

At the Zenxin Organic Park, you get to see for yourself how organic vegetables are grown. Apart from that, you can also take part in recreational activities such as cycling, walking tours around the park or simply feed fish at the pond. There is a park café, a flower nursery and a farm mart, which is a one-stop organic food shop stocked with a full range of products.

THERE’S MUCH MORE IN JOHOR

There is so much more to discover in Johor. Visit these places for a great time and an experience unlike any other:

Johor Bahru

  • Bukit Timbalan / Sultan Ibrahim Building
  • JB Bazaar
  • Kampung Sinaran Baru Homestay
  • PERSADA International Convention Centre
  • Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
  • Stulang Laut
  • Johor Bahru Visitor Centre (MBJB Gallery)
  • Kampung Perigi Acheh Homestay
  • Angry Birds Activity Park
  • Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
  • Sri Raja Mariamman Temple
  • Sikh Gurdwara Sahib
  • Masjid India Muslim
  • The Church of Immaculate Conception
  • Tiong Hua Chinese Heritage Museum
  • Dataran Bandaraya Johor Bahru
  • Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple
  • Berjaya Waterfront Ferry Terminal
  • Tiram Indoor Waterpark
  • Karosel Indoor Waterpark
  • Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park


Kota Tinggi

  • Kampung Temenin Baru Homestay
  • Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
  • Sebana Golf and Marina Resort
  • Semenchu Homestay
  • Kampung Felcra Sungai Ara Homestay
  • Kampung Lukut Homestay
  • Pantai Desaru
  • Fisherman Museum Tanjung Balau
  • Johor Lama Museum
  • Kota Tinggi Museum
  • Homestay Kg. Felda Semenchu
  • Ostrich Farm
  • Pantai Tanjung Balau
  • Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm

Batu Pahat

  • Wet World Batu Pahat
  • Kampung Parit Tengah Homestay
  • Ceramic Pottery, Ayer Hitam
  • Homestay Kg. Sarang Buaya
  • Galeri Dato’ Onn


Kluang

  • Gunung Belumut
  • Gunung Lambak Eco-Resort
  • Kahang Organic Rice Eco Farm (KOREF)
  • Kluang Railway Station
  • Small & Medium Industry, Simpang Renggam


Mersing

  • Air Papan Beach
  • Island of Mersing
  • Kampung Air Papan Homestay
  • Gunung Arong Recreational Forest
  • Pantai Penyabong


Muar

  • Kampung Parit Bugis Homestay
  • Muar River Cruise
  • Kampung Sarang Buaya Homestay
  • Kampung Batu 28 Lenga Homestay
  • Grisek Hot Springs

Pontian

  • Kukup Island National Park
  • Tanjung Piai National Park
  • Pineapple Museum
  • Kampung Tanjung Piai Homestay
  • Kampung Puteri Menangis


Homestay

  • Kampung Permatang Sepam Homestay
    Segamat
  • Selai Endau-Rompin National Park
  • Labis Hot Springs
  • Bekok Waterfall


Kulai

  • Legend Golf and Country Resort
  • Riders Lodge
  • Kampung Sri Paya Homestay
  • Kampung Sri Gunung Pulai Homestay


Islands

  • Pulau Pemanggil, Pulau Aur, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Besar, Pulau Dayang and Pulau Sibu


Tangkak

  • Everlasting Food Industries (brown rice)
  • Tangkak (Textile Town)
  • Tangkak Textiles
    Iskandar Puteri
  • Puteri Harbour Family Theme Park
  • The Ledang Urban Retreat

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

SHOPPING

Johor has an extensive range of shopping malls, craft bazaars, duty-free outlets, hypermarkets, and night markets. Many of these outlets can be found in Johor Bahru and also in the other towns. You can select from a huge variety of local and imported products ranging from designer labels, fashion accessories, electrical appliances to ceramics and handicrafts.

Popular shopping spots:

  • AEON Bukit Indah
  • AEON Tebrau City
  • JB City Square
  • Giant
  • Holiday Plaza
  • Johor Area Rehabilitation Organisation (JARO)
  • Johor Premium Outlets
  • KSL City
  • Lien Hoe Complex
  • Mini Kelantan
  • Pelangi Leisure Mall
  • Angsana JB Mall
  • Plaza Pelangi
  • TESCO
  • Berjaya Waterfront Complex
  • Danga City Mall
  • Sutera Mall
  • Skudai Parade
  • Wetex Parade, Muar
  • Kluang Mall
  • Summit Parade, Batu Pahat
  • Galleria@Kotaraya (formerly known as Plaza Kotaraya)
  • Komtar JBCC (formerly known as Komtar)
  • UO, 1Segamat
  • IOI Mall, Kulai
  • BP Mall, Batu Pahat
  • Square One, Batu Pahat
  • The Summit, Batu Pahat

DINING

Don’t forget to sample the mouthwatering spread of delicacies such as laksa johor, nasi briyani gam, lontong and mee bandung. Other Johorean specialities not-to-be- missed include mee rebus, kacang pool and otak-otak.” Seafood lovers should head for Kukup, about 10 minutes’ drive from Tanjung Piai, the southernmost tip of mainland Asia. Try these authentic local favourites:


Laksa Johor

This scrumptious blend of noodles with fish curry gravy is a Johor speciality. It is garnished with pickled white radish, onions, bean sprouts, mint leaves, coriander, cucumber and added with a dash of lime juice and sambal belacan (chilli paste) on the side.

 
Nasi Briyani Gam

Unlike other varieties, the nasi briyani gam is cooked by sealing both the rice and meat in a pot using starch or ‘gum’ so that the meat juices infuse the rice grains. It is then eaten with vegetable dalcha, pickles and chutney. This rice dish originates from Batu Pahat.


Mee Bandung

Another Johor speciality is mee bandung, a noodle dish that is eaten with beef slices, prawns, dried shrimps, tomatoes, a boiled egg and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.


Lontong

First time visitors should try this unique dish – rice cubes eaten with a rich vegetable gravy. The gravy has a coconut milk base and contains a generous assortment of vegetables, soybean cake and anchovies. This wholesome meal is complemented by flavoursome chilli paste.


Seafood

Kukup is famous for its fresh and tasty Chinese as well as Malay seafood. Select from an assortment of fish, crab, squid or cockles and have them grilled, steamed or fried. Have your meal while enjoying a scenic view of the sea. Nearby is Kukup Island, the world’s second largest mangrove island.

TRANSPORTATION

Johor, the southernmost state, ranks among the country’s main transportation hubs. It is 368 km from Kuala Lumpur and borders Singapore. You can fly, drive or take the train or ferry here as it is connected by a comprehensive transportation network.

Getting There


By Air

Apart from Kuala Lumpur and other parts of the peninsula, Johor is also accessible from Sabah and Sarawak by air. You can fly from Johor to several destinations in Malaysia from Senai International Airport, 32 km from Johor Bahru.


By Road

Johor Bahru is 330 km or a four-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Expressway. Both the Johor-Singapore Causeway and the Second Link Expressway connect Singapore to Johor as well as the rest of the peninsula. Bus services to Johor from major cities and towns in the peninsula are available throughout the day. Tickets must be purchased early during peak seasons.


By Rail

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) or the national railway connects Johor to other states in the peninsula and also Singapore. JB Sentral Railway Station is the most southern station in the country. Other stations include Kempas Baru, Kluang, Kulai, Labis, Paloh, Renggam and Segamat.


By Sea

Tanjung Belungkor is the jumping off point to Singapore by ferry. Ferry services are also available from Batam and Tanjung Pinang in Indonesia to Johor Bahru International Ferry Terminal.


Getting Around


Taxis and Rental Cars

You can get a taxi at the Larkin Taxi Station, bus stations, hotels and shopping complexes. It is advisable to request that the taxi meter be switched on or agree on the fare before you begin the ride. Alternatively, you can rent a car from car rental companies at the airport and bus stations. E-hailing services are also available in Malaysia.


Buses

Bus services to various destinations in Johor as well as other towns in the peninsula are available at the Larkin Bus Terminal.

For more information, contact:
Tourism Malaysia Southern Region Office +607 222 3590 / 3591
Tourism Malaysia Tourist Information Centre:
  • Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex, Sultan Iskandar Building
  • JB Sentral
+607-222 3590 / 3591 +607-222 3590 / 1 / 2

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS