trip to johor bahru

• How to Book
• Private Car To JB
• Private Car To Desaru
• Private Car To Legoland
• Private Car To Mersing
• Private Car To Malacca
• Private Car To KLIA/KLIA2
• Private Car To Port Dickson
• Private Car To Tioman Island
• Private Car To Cameron Highlands
• Private Car To Genting Highlands
• Private Car To Johor Premium Outlets
• Outside Johor
• Airport Transfer
• Full Day Service
• Innova ( 7 Seater )
• Alphard ( 8 Seater )
• Starex ( 11 Seater )
• Changi International
• Johor Senai Airport
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA/KLIA2)
• Travel Guide
• Johor Bahru
• 9 Great Options For One…

9 Great Options For One Day Trip To JB (2021): Itinerary + Where To Go

Planning a trip to Johor is crucial for a smooth and pleasant day trip to JB!

But trip planning is not something everyone enjoys though!

In fact, research from Expedia shows that at least 83% of travelers see planning an itinerary as a boring and tiresome exercise!

These are the questions you need to ask yourself concerning any trip to JB:

So to make things as easy as possible, I have prepared these 9 options for a day trip to JB (suggested by a local) based on each area in Johor.

Any of these are good for a one-day trip itinerary in JB!

Note: For more trip ideas, you can refer   Johor attractions   and   Things to do in JB   for the best trip ever!

Let’s dive right in.

Recommended Johor Day Trip Itinerary (Suggested By Local)

Want to experience the best of JB in a hurry?

This trip is ideal for business travelers or any busy travelers who will only stay in JB for a short amount of time.

Have breakfast at  Jalan Wong Ah Fook before doing a little sightseeing at:

• Jalan Tan Hiok Nee ( look for JB most popular banana cake! )

Food hunters! Don’t forget to try the local food below! These are just walking distance from City Square JB:

• Kam Long Curry Fish Head (Most Recommended)
• Hiap Joo Bakery (Most Recommended)
• JB seafood (click here:  Top 11 Seafood Restaurants in JB for more info)
• Restaurant Ya Wang

Some historical places to visit close to the JB CIQ Checkpoint include:

• Johor Old Chinese Temple
• Laman Mahkota (Recommended)
• Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
• Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Have you been to a Legoland theme park before? You can visit Legoland Malaysia with your young kids.

• Legoland Malaysia (Theme Park + Water Park + Sea Life) – You’ll need more than a day to fully explore all 3 sections in Legoland Malaysia.

After a day of fun, you can head over to one of the most famous shopping malls in JB, Johor Premium Outlets (JPO) .

And for food that is near Legoland Malaysia, might I suggest Gelang Patah for the seafood or Bukit Indah for a dose of international flavours?

Seen all there is to see in Johor Bahru? I highly recommend a day trip to Desaru with the following Desaru attractions:

• Desaru Fruit Farm (Farm Tour/ Mini Zoo/ Bee Talk / Go-Kart) (Most Recommended)
• Desaru Coast Adventure Water Park (Southeast Asia Largest Wave Pools)
• Desaru Ostrich Farm (Biggest Ostrich Farms In Malaysia)

End the day with a scrumptious seafood dinner at Sungai Rengit .

Many Singaporeans like to travel to Desaru during a public holiday that is back to back with the weekend.

The tried and true Desaru 2D1N Trip features a one-night stay at any of the luxurious Desaru resort & hotel along the east coastline.

Consider these other attractions if you find you have extra time in Desaru:

• Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm
• Desaru Beach
• Click here for more things to do in Desaru

Still not sure how you can plan your trip in Desaru?

You may read this post -> Desaru Trip . Which includes the must-see attractions along with directions and how many hours you should spend at each location.

If you want something a little different from the average day trip to Johor, you can go to Kluang after first having breakfast at JB downtown.

Below are my suggested Kluang attractions:

• UK Farm Kluang (Most Recommended) + Restoran Kari Kambing 40 Hari
• Kluang Food Tour
• Gunung Lambak (Most popular place to climb in Johor)
• Zenxin Organic Farm

After which, you can have your lunch or dinner at Kluang downtown. Click here for the most popular local Kluang food .

Escape from the hustle and busy city life with a satisfying one-day trip to rural Kukup.

Fill your weekend getaways from Singapore with memorable moments in this relaxing and comforting fishing district!

• Kukup Kelong (Most Recommended)
• Kukup (a fishing village built on stilts over the water)
• Kukup Island National Park

If you have time to spare, you can even visit these other attractions in Kukup:

• Pontian Wholesale Market (grab the fresh seafood here)
• Tanjung Piai

Want to escape the perpetual summer heat?

One way is to beat the heat through a cooling dip at the local waterfall!

• Kota Tinggi Waterfall

Start your day with breakfast at Kota Tinggi Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh (non-halal!) or at JB downtown before heading to the scenic waterfall!

Stay later until the evening and you can go for a firefly boat tour through the mangroves!

• Firefly Valley Leisure Park

A Johor island-hopping day trip is always a blast with a group of friends, colleagues or family. Visit these 5 islands for an unbeatable day!

In the morning, take a boat transfer to Pulau Raja sandbank for some hiking & off-the-boat snorkeling behind Pulau Seribuat .

In the afternoon, roam around Mersing islands and pass by Rawa Island .

Have lunch at Pulau Hujung and go snorkeling again at Besar Island & Tengah Island before you make your way back to Mersing again.

Back at Mersing town, you can check out these things to do in Mersing .

Have more than a few days to spare? Then you can go for a 3D2N Tioman & Rawa Island trip to experience these world-class snorkeling destinations first hand!

• 3D2N Tioman Island Trip (Most Popular)
• 3D2N Rawa Island Trip

Make the most of weekends with public holidays so that you have more days to relax and have fun to the max!

This one’s for all the shopping enthusiasts!

These shopping malls in JB surely won’t disappoint:

• Johor Premium Outlets, JPO (First Luxury-Premium Brand Outlet In Southeast Asia)
• Paradigm Mall (Largest Mall In JB)
• Mid Valley (Most Recommended)
• Sunway Big Box Village (New Opening)
• Toppen (New Opening)
• City Square JB
• KSL City Mall
• AEON Tebrau City

Get enough energy in first with breakfast at Jalan Wong Ah Fook or Jalan Tan Hiok Nee first before you head to the shopping malls! Which normally open at 10:00am .

For a day of outdoor (or indoor) activity fun, grab your friends and family and get a little competitive at:

• Go-Kart at Plentong Circuit
• Bubble Soccer or Paintball at AOV Paintball OLA Park

Once you’ve had a chance to release all your stress, nothing beats delicious food, a delightful beverage and cosy ambiance.

I propose Just Want Coffee, The Factory 30 at Mount Austin .

*Remember to check Singapore Public Holidays 2023 & 2024  before planning your trip in advance.

Johor Bahru One Day Trip (Attraction For Each Area)

Don’t know where to go in Johor Bahru? Below are the Johor travel tips and pre-trip reading to help you to plan Johor Bahru one day trip. It’s a time to make you great escape to one of Below Johor destinations:

Also read:  Singapore Travel Guide ( 17 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Note!)

It’s worth hopping over the border and driving over from Singapore to Johor Bahru for a break!

Because Johor Bahru has something for everyone!

1.1 City Square Shopping Mall

Eager shoppers will find no shortage of shopping malls in JB to wander like the City Square Shopping Mall  – which is a favorite among many since it is close to the customs!

1.2 Paradigm Mall & Mid Valley JB

Then, there’s Paradigm Mall with 600 shops and 6 floors! Or the brand new Mid Valley Southkey JB which just opened in 23 April 2019!

1.3 Angry Birds Activity Park & Sanrio Hello Kitty Town

Families with young kids will enjoy the colorful Angry Birds Theme Park and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town (make your own souvenirs to take back!).

Both of these JB theme parks stay true to their namesake themes and fans will find this consistency appealing!

1.4 Istana Bukit Serene JB & Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

If you like architecture, you must gaze upon the European inspired exteriors of Istana Bukit Serene JB @ Laman Mahkota and the equally gorgeous Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque !

And you cannot forget the magnificent Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple ! This is the only glass temple in all of Malaysia since 2010 & one of the places to visit in JB!

1.5 JB Old Chinese Temple

Do not miss the fair share of Johor Bahru history and have a visit to the Old Chinese Temple will demonstrate that clearly!

Here, you can learn about the roots of the different Chinese dialect groups (Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, Hakka and Hainan) that have made Johor Bahru their home!

1.6 Jalan Wong Ah Fook

You can also take a stroll down Jalan Wong Ah Fook and observe the old neighbourhood up close!

There are a number of shops and places to eat here (like Kam Long Restaurant Curry Fish Head)!

For some local flavor, try some of the crispy pastries at the long-standing Hiap Joo Bakery ! Try their signature banana cake!

Being so close to the sea makes Johor Bahru a popular seafood hub too!

1.7 JB Seafood & JB Night Market

Try Todak Seafood Restaurant in JB for their highly recommended crab platters and ocean views or Restaurant SPOA JB for a halal option.

Wander through JB Night Market and pick up a souvenir or two! And don’t worry about whether it’s a weekend or not! There are night markets every day of the week!

1.8 Horse Riding & Golfing In Johor Bahru

Or maybe you just want to get some relaxation done! There are recreational activities like horse riding and some golf courses & clubs as well!

1.9 Spa & Massage In Johor Bahru

And to cap it all off, why not get a spa massage in Johor Bahru at the end of a tiring day of sight-seeing?

• How To Go To Johor Bahru (JB) From Singapore
• 10 Best Hotels In Johor Bahru From SGD$55 For Your Next Staycation
• Where To Eat in Johor Bahru : 65 Best Food To Eat in Johor Bahru Ranging From Italian, Korean, Western, Thai, Japanese……
• 13 Best Cafe In Johor Bahru That Are Worth Travelling For
• 15 Cheap & Good Food Near KSL City Mall
• Top 11 Best Seafood Restaurants In Johor Bahru

The primary highlight in Desaru trip is, of course, the fresh and affordable seafood!

2.1 Desaru Seafood

Desaru seafood restaurants like Seafood At Sungai Rengit , Jade Garden Seafood Corner and Super Lobster Restaurant are often full during the weekends!

Which is not surprising, given the fact that you can have a savory and reasonably-priced meal while you partake in some superb views of the sea!

2.2 Desaru Ostrich Farm & Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm

Besides the incredible seafood options, there are some unique farms to visit such as Desaru Ostrich Farm (the biggest in Malaysia!) and Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm .

2.3 Desaru Fruit Farm

Or you can pick your own fruits on an informative farm tour and participate in a seasonal fruit buffet at Desaru Fruit Farm ! Especially if it’s durian season!

If you want to beat the heat and hit the water, head over to Desaru Beach where casuarina trees fringe the edge of this white sand beach.

2.4 Desaru Theme Park

Or you can make your way over to the recently opened family-friendly Desaru Coast Water Park ! The wave pool here is made to look like a real beach!

You won’t have to waste time queuing for any of the thrilling rides (including a roller coaster) here since the park is not well-known yet!

• How To Get To Desaru From Singapore (Include Desaru Attractions & Where to Eat In Desaru)
• 13 Things To Do In Desaru (Don’t Miss Out 2 & 4 In This List)
• Top 11 Desaru Food & Seafood Restaurant

3.1 Legoland Malaysia Theme Park

Even if you’re not a fan of LEGO, it’s still worth taking the little ones to Legoland Malaysia Theme Park because it is also one of the places to visit in Johor!

Certain attractions like the 4D movie and VR Coaster are a must-do!

And it’s hard to miss all of the impressive Lego constructions around the park!

3.2 Legoland Malaysia Water Park

The park is all outdoor so it gets pretty hot during the day. But that’s where Legoland Malaysia Water Park comes in! The water slides are good fun for the whole family!

3.3 Legoland Malaysia Sea Life

Don’t forget to check out the brand new Legoland Malaysia Sea Life aquarium while you are there!

• How To Go To LEGOLAND Malaysia From Singapore
• Legoland Malaysia Ticket Price & Ticket Promotion (Updated)
• 15 Best Hotels Near Legoland Malaysia From SGD$16/Pax (Include Hotel Reviews & Tips)
• Transport From Singapore Changi Airport To Legoland Malaysia (4 Easy Ways)
• 11 Best Homestay Near Legoland Malaysia Is Worth Every Dollar : Comfort & Convenience

This suburban area of Johor Bahru has its own share of attractions!

4.1 Mount Austin Water Park

Like the inexpensive and Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park . Hop on a go-kart here and try out the slides!

4.2 Mount Austin Food & Cafe

Mount Austin Food is not bad either! There are reputable establishments like Korea Fried Chicken Factory, Morganfield’s (pork rib platters!) and Restaurant Uncle Pou Wok (Steamed Fish Lips)!

If you are looking for some ambiance and excellent coffee, you can check out Mount Austin Cafés too! How about a Mickey Mouse themed cafe? Or special coffee at Just Want Coffee, The Factory 30?

4.3 Aeon Tebrau City & IKEA JB

For some shopping, there is Aeon Tebrau City Shopping Mall (Aeon supermarket, Harris bookstore, TGV Cinema) and IKEA Tebrau Johor Bahru (admire their brilliant showrooms!).

• 27 Things To Do In Mount Austin Water Park

5.1 Tioman Island & Rawa Island

Ever wanted to visit a stunning snorkelling and diving paradise like Tioman Island or the more remote Rawa island ?

Mersing Jetty is the primary reason that people come to Mersing for. As this is where you can get a ferry to Tioman Island  (and Rawa Island)!

• 29 Best Things To Do In Tioman Island (Last Minute Travel Hacks!)
• 10 Best Islands In Johor
• How To Get To Mersing Jetty From Senai Airport (The Easy & Handy Guide)
• How To Get To Tioman Island From Singapore (Travel Tips, Bus Ticket & Ferry Ticket Guide Included)
• Tioman Ferry Schedule
• Stulang Laut (All You Need To Know About This Ferry Terminal!)

6.1 Yong Peng Must-Try Food

Yong Peng Food is a must-try if you happen to be in this little town of Johor’s Batu Pahat district!

Notable places include Hokkien-style braised duck at Yong Peng Duck Noodles and delicious roti canai with lamb curry at Restoran Kari Kambing 40 Hari !

And you cannot miss out on the fresh fish balls at Kim Kee Fishball Restaurant Yong Peng !

• Singapore To Yong Peng 1 Day Trip (Include Yong Peng 1-Day Itinerary)
• 1 Day Trip In Batu Pahat : 10 Things To Do & 6 Best Food In Batu Pahat
• 1 Day Trip In  Tangkak : Where To Go & What To Eat
• 1 Day Trip In Muar Johor (Travel Tips & Resources For Planning Your Travel)
• Singapore To Segamat 1 Day Trip (The Essential Travel Guide!)

Despite its size, this small township has a lot to offer!

7.1 Johor Premium Outlets (JPO)

Get some luxury shopping done at Johor Premium Outlets ! You can find some world-famous International brands here at lower prices!

The JPO outlets are one of the malls near Legoland Malaysia with just a 15 minutes drive!

However, if you’d rather be outdoors getting your heart rate up while soaking up mother nature’s best, then consider hiking up the 654m high Mount Pulai !

7.2 Kulai Food

And after working up an appetite, you can try out the local Kulai Food too – nasi lemak, lei cha , beef noodles, dim sum and more!

• Singapore To Kulai One Day Trip : 9 Places To Drop By For Fun (Include Day Trip Itinerary)
• Le Grandeur Palm Resort Johor (Reviewed)
• 12 Best Hotels Near Senai Airport Johor From SG$19/Night

Pontian district’s Kukup maybe just a simple fishing village but this is where you can fish for your own dinner at a Kukup Kelong and have a seafood barbecue with great sunset views and fireworks!

8.2 Tanjung Piai

Along the Pontian trip , remember to spend some time in nature at either Kukup Island National Park or at Tanjung Piai .

The mangroves here are teeming with wildlife. You can see fireflies here too!

8.3 Pontian Wholesale Fish Market

There’s also the Pontian Wholesale Fish Market where you can have the experience of participating in a bid with other customers for a fresh fish to take home!

8.4 Sri Tanjung Leisure Farm

And lastly, there’s Sri Tanjung Leisure Farm where you can go on tours to interact with and feed the many animals at the farm! Give your city-raised kids a new perspective!

• 9 Fishing Kelong in Johor (Fishing Experts’ Top List)
• How To Go To Pontian From Singapore (5 Easy Ways)
• How To Go To Kukup From Singapore (Kukup Resort Package & What To Do In Kukup)

9.1 UK Farm Johor & Zenxin Organic Farm

With attractions like UK Farm Kluang and Zenxin Organic Farm , Kluang is the ultimate eco-retreat destination!

See how the sheep and goat industry works first hand! And get a better appreciation of how organic vegetables and fruits reach your table at home!

9.2 Kluang Famous Local Food

While you are in the area, Kluang Food that you do not want to miss includes beef noodles, awesome flaky Chinese pastries, dim sum and fragrant coffee!

9.3 Mount Lambak (Gunung Lambak)

And if you’re up for challenging hiking in Johor , Mount Lambak will not disappoint! Climb through steep jungle trails to get to the top for a spectacular view of Kluang and the surrounding region!

• 1 Day Trip In Kluang Johor : 4 Recommended Itineraries & 7 Things To Do
• Top 8 Kluang Attractions – Insider’s Guide On Hottest Attractions In Kluang!

Kota Tinggi is a historical town that has a couple of natural gems to check out!

10.1 Firefly Valley Leisure Park

For instance, there is the Firefly Valley Leisure Park which is unique for its firefly walking tours besides the boat tours!

10.2 Kota Tinggi Waterfall

And at the mid-sized natural Kota Tinggi Waterfall , you can cool off at the waterfall amid lush vegetation while listening to the gentle and soothing rumbling of the waterfall!

If you like bak kut teh , you must try the delightful broth that Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh serves!

This is also a great place to stop in the morning before you continue your journey to Desaru!

• Singapore To Kota Tinggi 1 Day Trip That Tourists Have Yet to Discover

19 Things To Do in Johor For Singaporeans

Let’s unveil 19 interesting things that Singaporeans do when in Johor . Before travelling to Johor Bahru from Singapore, make sure to change your dollars to ringgit in Singapore, bring your passport and plan your transport to Johor Bahru (JB).

• Buy groceries at shopping malls or store outlets
• Buy personal care items at Watsons
• Car wash, wax, polishing and detailing
• Buy baby diapers and powder
• Eat Bak Kut Teh
• Have a seafood feast at Johor best seafood restaurant
• Indulge in  Dim Sum , Chicken Up Johor Bahru and Anne’s Culture
• Buy cigarette
• Get all sorts of traditional Chinese or Malay medications
• Put on braces
• Making glasses or replace glasses
• Play paintball (More outdoor activities in Johor, click here: Outdoor Activities In Johor
• Ride the Go-Kart
• Go for JB's unique cafes such as The Factory 30 (JWC) etc
• Watch the latest movies in TGV, GSC or MBO cinema
• Satisfy our breakfast, lunch, tea break, dinner, supper cravings
• Get some traditional treatment like acupuncture, massage and spa for various ailments
• Find the best bargains at Night Market in JB (Pasar Malam)

Transport To Johor Bahru (Private Car Is The BEST Option)

When on day trips to Johor from Singapore, you will need to have affordable, reliable and punctual transport. The need to have good access to all of Johor Bahru’s attractions depends on how easily you find your way there and back.

Travelling by private taxi is the best option if you are in a big group, a family trip or a company trip.

The popular private taxi company that will make your day trip to Johor Bahru a memorable one is SGMYTAXI. They have a top of the range fleet of  7-10 seaters which are comfortable and spacious for both passengers and goods.

• You no longer have to alight your heavy baggage for immigration clearance at Singapore-Malaysia checkpoints and customs .
• You are not required to get off from the vehicle to get a passport stamp. Just sit back and relax in the vehicle. It is really convenient and hassle-free to enjoy your day trip to Johor.
• Their experienced driver will pick you up at any location in Singapore and drive you to reach your selected destination in Johor.
• Moreover, Their drivers know all the best routes for beating the traffic as well as getting to your destinations quickly and in comfort.

So, what are you waiting for! Whatsapp SGMYTAXI the necessary travel info for quotation or hired a private car service.

Related Posts

Dive Into Malaysia

22 Top Things To Do In Johor Bahru✅[2024]

Going on a Johor Bahru trip and want to know all the best things to do in Johor Bahru? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best attractions in Johor Bahru to plan your ultimate trip.

Johor Bahru (or JB) is a popular place to visit in Malaysia thanks to its easy to get to location just across the causeway from Singapore. This means it may be your first destination on your Malaysian holiday. Johor Bahru is also a major city so it’s also easy to visit here from elsewhere in Malaysia with many flights, buses and trains.

You may be wondering, what to do in Johor 2024? If so, I’ve got you covered in this guide!

Or perhaps you are in Singapore and thinking about a Johor Bahru one day trip. It is easy to take a Johor Bahru day trip and below, we also give our suggestions for what to do in Johor Bahru for 1 day, so you’ll know all the things Johor Bahru has in store.

Johor Bahru is quite spread out and there are many attraction places in Johor Bahru surrounds as well as in the city.

Below, you will find our Johor Bahru travel blog with everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Johor Bahru, where to go in JB surrounds as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday in Johor Bahru!!

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Top 18 Things To Do In Johor Bahru

Here are the best things to do in JB. Read through and select the Johor Bahru attractions that fit your interests and timeframe.

You can also listen to our podcast here to learn everything you need to know about Johor Bahru.

JB Old Town/Heritage District

When planning your Johor Bahru visit, one of the main areas of town to make sure you take in is the Heritage District of Johor Bahru.

You’ll find some of the most interesting attractions at Johor Bahru in the city centre. Here you will find gorgeous century-old buildings which are full of fascinating history.

You can easily walk around this area by yourself to find some of the best known Johor Bahru tourist attractions, and visiting some of the most popular places of interest in Johor Bahru Old Town. You can see 13 buildings of historical interest such as mosques, temples, churches and old buildings. En route, you can also see 31 heritage shops, art galleries and cafes too.

Some interesting places in Johor Bahru Old Town include the High Court Building, Sultan Ibrahim Building, Chinese Heritage Museum (see below), Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Sentral Police Station, Kampung An Fook, Old Johor Bahru Railway Station, Chinese Temple, Gurdwara Sahib, Indian Encalve, Broadway Cinema, Restoran Ya Wang and Jalan Dhoby.

While you stroll around the streets of the Old Town, you’ll enjoy admiring colourful old buildings as well as plenty of bright and colourful murals.

Chinese Heritage Museum

One of the best tourist attractions in Johor Bahru and definitely the best place to go in Johor Bahru to learn about Chinese settlement in the area is the Chinese Heritage Museum (also called Tiong Hua Museum). At this museum, you will learn about the early days of Chinese settlement in Johor Bahru.

The museum is sprawled across four floors in a building in Jalan Tan Hiok Nee (a great street to explore) and is full of Chinese immigrant history. The museum includes English signage so visitors are able to learn all about this ethnic group including the culture, traditions and the range of skills they brought with them to Johor Bahru.

To enhance your visit, there is also an audio guide available.

It’s not far from JB Sentral and easily walkable if you don’t mind the heat. Otherwise, a Grab taxi here is very cheap.

Entry is RM6 for adults and RM3 for kids/seniors.

Address: 42 Jalan Ibrahim, Johor Bahru

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory

Where to go in Johor Bahru when you’re hungry? The Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory of course!

This famous bakery has been open for over 80 years and is known for using a charcoal oven to bake its treats which is the traditional way of cooking baked goods in Hainan in China – which is where the original bakery owner was from.

At Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory be sure to sample some delicious baked goods such as buns, cakes, biscuits and their signature fluffy banana cake, you’ll understand why this place makes it to the top of the list of things to do Johor Bahru if you love tasty treats!

Be warned that there may be long lines when you visit – but believe me it is well worth the wait as it’s one of the best places to visit in JB.

Address: 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Enjoy a traditional Kopitiam breakfast

You can’t have a Johor Bahru vacation and not eat an authentic Malaysian Kopitiam breakfast. A Kopitiam breakfast consists of a cup of kopi (coffee), toast spread with kaya butter and soft boiled eggs.

Perhaps the best place in JB to get yourself a traditional Kopitiam breakfast is at Hua Mui’s. The cafe is located in an original 2 storey coffee shop and is still furnished with vintage furniture.

Address: No. 131, Jalan Trus, 80000, Johor Bahru

Royal Abu Bakar Museum In Istana Besar

Another of the interesting places in JB is the Royal Abu Bakar Museum. The museum is located at Istana Besar which is the royal palace and once the home of the Sultan of Johor. The Victorian-style building is stunning and was completed in 1866.

Since 1990, the palace has housed the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which is the best place to go in JB to see what life was like for the royal family. On display, you will see over 60,000 pieces including a range of antiques and heirlooms that once belonged to the royal family.

Address: Grand Palace, Istana Besar Johor, 80500 Johor Bahru

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

Located on a slight hill, overlooking the Straits of Johor, the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is a stunning building which features a mix of both Victorian-Moorish architecture and traditional Islamic design. The mosque features four minaret towers which are said to look like British clock towers and the interior of the building is mostly white marble. This is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in JB.

The mosque was built over a period of 8 years from 1892 and can house up to 2000 worshippers at any given time.

Be sure to include the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque on your Johor Bahru sightseeing list.

Entry is free.

Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar, 80000 Johor Bahru

A nice place to visit in Johor Bahru with kids is the Johor Zoo. The Johor Zoo dates back to 1928 and is one of the very first zoos built in Southeast Asia.

While the zoo is not overly big, you will find over a hundred different species of animals including gorillas, flamingos, crocodiles, lions, elephants and more.

In the middle of the zoo is a large lake where you can pedal boats. The zoo also has a playground, food stalls and a range of picnic spots.

Entrance fee is RM2 for adults and RM1 for kids.

Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru

Shopping at City Square

Located in the heart of the city and just a short distance from the customs and immigration checkpoint is City Square, which is a popular place to visit in Johor Bahru, Malaysia for those who want to shop.

Things to do in JC City Square include shopping at one of more than 300 retailers, you can eat at a range of restaurants, or you can opt to see a movie at the cinema complex (a great idea if you’re tired after walking around!), hire a karaoke booth or spend some time at the games arcade. There are plenty of things to do with older kids in this mall if you’re visiting Johor Bahru with teenagers and they need some entertainment.

What is here changes as well. On my last visit, it was nearly Halloween so there were some cool Halloween attractions and rides.

The shopping mall also features a pedestrian bridge which connects to the JB Sentral building.

Address: 106, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Pasar Karat

If you’re looking for things to do in Johor Bahru at night then head down to Pasar Karat.

Pasar Karat is a large flea market where you can get yourself some great bargains. Items on offer include a range of second-hand clothes, antiques and other knick-knacks. There’s also some street food on offer if you get peckish while browsing!

It’s surprisingly big and had a great vibe when I visited. Walking around here and City Square is very pleasant after the sun goes down. I visited at 7:30pm and more stalls were setting up so go a bit later if possible.

Address: 26, 20, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Church of the Immaculate Conception

One of the historical places of interest in Johor Bahru, Malaysia is the Church of the Immaculate Conception. This is a Roman Catholic church which was built in 1927 (there was a church built here previously in 1883).

It is a small, picturesque church which features a single steeple with a traditional British colonial style spire on the top.

Address: 9, Jalan Gereja, 80000 Johor Bahru

If you’re looking for things to do in JB for couples or even activities to do in JB for families, a visit to Danga Bay is a good choice. Danga Bay stretches along 25kms of scenic waterfront which faces the Straits of Johor and includes a large recreational park which has a range of attractions, the Danga City Mall and fine dining restaurants.

The fine dining with stunning views across the bay makes it a great romantic place in JB for couples, while the family attractions make it one of the fun places in Johor Bahru for kids. Some of the family-friendly attractions include the Danga World Mini Theme Park which has a range rides including a carousel, ferris wheel and teacups.

Address: Danga Bay, 80200 Johor Bahru

Taman Merdeka

Taman Merdeka is the largest community recreational park which has over 31 acres to explore. It is the perfect place to come for some outdoor activities in Johor Bahru or if you’re looking for stuff to do in Johor Bahru that is outdoors.

The park was inspired by the country’s struggle for independence and features nine lawns, each depicting a chapter in the history of the country’s fight for freedom.

The park features a lake which is great to stroll around. You can also hire some boats to pedal around the lake too. Other things in the park include an open-air theatre, a series of rock sculptures and a musical foundation.

Address: Jln Datin Halimah, 80200 Johor Bahru

Istana Bukit Serene

If you’re still wondering what to see in Johor Bahru, another popular attraction in Johor Bahru Malaysia is the Istana Bukit Serene. This is the official palace of the Sultan of Johor, so you can’t explore the interior of the building, however, the public is welcome to come and explore the gardens of the Istana Bukit Serene, which are beautiful.

The most recognised feature here is the Crown Archway which apparently actually has real jewels built into it. The manicured gardens also include lovely water fountains and the impressive light features make if a great attraction if you’re wondering where to go in JB at night.

The palace was built in an Art Deco style back in 1933 and apparently from its 35-metre high main tower there is a fabulous view of Singapore.

Address: Jalan Straits View, Bukit Serene, 80200 Johor Bahru

Legoland Malaysia

If you’re looking for super fun JB things to do with kids you can’t beat a day at Legoland. Legoland is perfect for kids of all ages and certainly one of the Johor Bahru top attractions, particularly for families with little ones and after some fun things to do in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

At Legoland Malaysia, there are multiple worlds to explore, each with their own themes such as Lego Ninjago World, Miniland and Lego Kingdoms. Each of the worlds has a range of Lego-themed rides and you’ll find all the kids favourites here.

Everyone will love spending time in Miniland where there is a range of well known Malaysian (and Asian) landmarks built from Lego. It’s pretty cool to find places you’ve visited and also looking at the detail in these scenes. It’s amazing.

Legoland also offers plenty of areas where you can build with Lego and don’t miss the Lego workshops either. The workshops are a great place to escape the heat as they are inside completely air-conditioned rooms.

There is also a great Lego-themed water park too. There are plenty of great water slides for all ages as well as the wave pool. This requires a separate entry ticket.

You can also visit the aquarium on-site while you are here, SEALIFE.

You will need two days if you want to see everything at Legoland, the water park and SEALIFE, so you might even want to consider staying on-site at the Legoland Hotel. It’s fantastic.

You can see what all of this is like in our following video. Make sure you subscribe to our channel for more Malaysian travel videos.

This is far and away my kids favourite place in Malaysia so don’t miss it!

Address: No 7, Jalan Legoland, Bandar Medini, 79250 Nusajaya, Johor

Click here to buy discounted tickets now or read our full review here.

Puteri Harbour

Once you’ve done the regular sightseeing in Johor Bahru city centre, a nice place to go in Johor Bahru is Puteri Harbour. Puteri Harbour is a long promenade on the seafront which features beautiful harbour views, a range of restaurants on Marina Walk and a shopping mall with retail stores. It’s very close to Legoland Malaysia making this one of the places to see in Johor Bahru a convenient area to stay as well.

Address: Persiaran Puteri Selatan, Kota Iskandar, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor

Little Paris

While you explore Johor Bahru you might be surprised to stumble across the area called Little Paris. Little Paris is basically an area which features a row of gorgeous little shophouses which have exteriors as if they were in the streets of Paris. Here you will find loads of high fashion clothing stores, cafes and bakeries – perfect if you love cute boutiques and are looking for some different Johor Bahru things to do.

Plus if you’re not sure what to do in JB at night – come to Little Paris when all the pretty lights are lit up and you will really think you are walking down a street in Paris.

Address: Jalan Jaya Putra 1/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru

Senibong Cove

This new Johor Bahru attraction was once an old pram farm but you’d hardly know that now. Senibong Cove is one of the newest areas in Johor Bahru which has now been transformed into a major waterfront development. Here you will find a lovely harbour which you can stroll by recreational parks, plenty of restaurants and swimming pools. This is one of my favourite Johor Bahru places to visit in the late afternoon/evening.

Address: 81750 Masai, Johor

Johor Premium Outlets

If you’ve had enough of the regular sights and want to get some shopping done, then these outlets are probably more your idea of the best JB attractions! For Johor Bahru activities that include shopping then head on down to the Johor Premium Outlets. Here you will find over 150 different outlet shops from designer brands such as Bally, Coach, DKNY, Fossil, Nike, Orton and more.

There is also a range of cafes here so you can make a day out of it.

Address: Jalan Premium Outlets Indahpura, 81000 Kulai, Johor

Top 4 Best Places To Visit In Johor Bahru Surrounds

If you are happy to travel a little bit further and you’re still wondering Johor Bahru, where to go? Here are the top 3 places to go in JB surrounds.

Zenxin Organic Park

One of the interesting places to visit near Johor Bahru is Zenxin Organic Park. Run by Zenxin Argi-Organic Food who is the leading producer of organic produce in Malaysia, at Zenxin Organic Park, you can come and visit their farm while learning all about organic farm practices. This is the first park of its kind in Malaysia and is a great way to spend a few hours if you’re looking for Johor Bahru visiting places.

At the Zenxin Organic Park, you can join a tour across the park, where you’re educated on the process of producing organic crops. Other activities at the park including cooking lessons such as making Nasi Ulam, noodles and curry puffs. There is also animal feeding herb growing workshops too.

There is also a restaurant on site where you can taste the park’s delicious products.

Entrance is RM15 for adults and RM12 for kids.

Address: 47A & 47B, Batu 9, Jalan Batu Pahat, Kluang, 86000 Kluang, Johor

Desaru Beach

If you’re after a short getaway in Johor Bahru to escape the city then head an hour east to the popular Desaru Beach. Featuring 6 kilometres of wide, white sandy beaches with the calm, warm waters of the South China Sea; Desaru Beach is not only one of the most beautiful places in Johor Bahru but also the perfect place for a swim.

As well as being a great swimming spot, there is also a range of watersports on offer such parasailing and banana boat rides. The region also has some affordable seafood restaurants too.

The area around Desaru Beach has a relaxed vibe, with a range of beach resorts, fishing villages and nature-based activities making it the perfect spot to spend either the day or even a few days.

Entrance fee to the public beach is RM4.

Address: L3-26 Aras 3, Bangunan JOTIC, 2 Jalan Ayer Molek, Johor Bahru

Read our full guide for getting to Desaru Beach from Johor Bahru here or you can book a private taxi to Desaru here.

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

What to do in Johor Bahru Malaysia when the weather is hot?  Spend the day at Aventure Waterpark of course! At this water park, you’ll find a stack of water slides and attractions perfect for kids and adults alike.

This Desaru Coast Water Park has the region’s very first water coaster – Kraken’s Revenge. This roller coast has a 27-metre drop into the water. The park also features one of the largest wave pools in the world – which is a whopping three hectares!

For the little ones, there is Kids Ahoy – a fantastic kids’ area with three play areas and 13 different slides. It’s the best kids’ area I’ve seen at a water park. Other water attractions in the park include the relaxing looping river of Penawar, the Wild Whirl, Super Twister, Riptide and the Tempest slides.

If you’re after activities to do in Johor Bahru to escape the heat, a day at Adventure Waterpark offers the perfect solution. We had an absolutely fabulous day here with our kids. So much fun!

Address: No. 4, Jalan Danau, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor

Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm

If you want to see crocodiles up close, this is the place!

Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm is the largest crocodile farm in West Malaysia. It’s home to over 1000 crocodiles including a 130 year old toothless crocodile!

You can wander around this farm from the safety of a concrete, enclosed walkway while watching these creatures. For an extra fee, you can watch them snap up three chickens. My kids thought it was a cool place to visit.

Click here to read our full review to visiting Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm.

You can see what these Desaru attractions are like in the following video including this crocodile farm, Adventure Waterpark and Desaru Beach. Make sure you subscribe to our channel for more Malaysian travel videos.

What To Do In JB In One Day

If you are taking a 1 day trip to JB or are considering planning your own Johor Bahru day tour, then the following two options allow you to make the most of your JB one day trip!

1. Visit Legoland Malaysia

If you’re in town with kids just for a day and wondering what to visit in Johor Bahru – Legoland Malaysia is the ideal choice. The kids will have so much fun on all the Lego-themed rides, plus you can also easily visit the Lego-themed water park and the aquarium on the same day too.

2. Explore Johor Bahru

If you prefer to see some of the historical sites on your one day trip to JB, then consider this Johor Bahru city tour itinerary which will allow you to visit your preferred places to go in Johor Bahru.

Start your day by having a traditional Kopitiam breakfast is at Hua Mui’s – which is said to be one of the best places to eat in Johor Bahru. From here take a short 3-minute walk to the Chinese Heritage Museum. On your Johor Bahru tour, be sure to walk via Jalan Tan Hiok Nee which is a lovely heritage street and look out for the colourful buildings and murals on the way.

Before leaving this area, take a short 2-minute walk to Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory for some delicious baked goods. If you’re still full from breakfast get them to take away for later.

From here, take a taxi or walk to the Grand Palace and explore the Royal Abu Bakar Museum. After, walk to the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque. If you are with children, you may prefer to visit the Johor Zoo (close to the mosque) instead of the Museum.

Next, take a 10-minute taxi ride to see the Bukit Serene Palace. From the palace, you could choose to head down to Danga Bay for dinner or another option would be to go back into town for the Pasar Karat or the super trendy Kilang Bateri.

If you are looking for a Johor Bahru one day tour, click here for a list of options .

Fun Things To Do In JB Map

Best Place To Stay In Johor Bahru

When it comes to where to stay in Johor Bahru, there is a great range of hotels in the city centre as well as resorts in the city outskirts. No matter what your budget, your holiday style or who you are travelling with, you’ll easily find a great place to stay.

Below, I’ve listed a few different places to consider including a budget, mid-range and more expensive option.

TOP – Legoland Malaysia Hotel Review

If you’re visiting Legoland, then staying at the on-site Legoland Hotel is highly recommended.

The rooms at Legoland Malaysia Hotel are perfect for families. They come in a range of sizes and choice of themes such as a pirate, kingdom, Ninjago or adventure theme. Families will appreciate how the rooms have two separate sleeping areas – one for adults with a king-sized bed and one for up to three children with a bunk bed, pull-out trundle bed and their own TV.

For hotel guests, there are Lego-themed activities and events throughout the day including meeting a range of Lego characters as well as dance parades and nightly movies. There is also a swimming pool, Lego play area and puzzle activities to unlock secret treasure in your room!

There is even a Lego-themed restaurant.

We absolutely loved staying here and think it’s the best family hotel in Malaysia.

Click here for the latest prices or click here to read our full review.

MID-RANGE – DoubleTree By Hilton Johor Bahru Review

The DoubleTree By Hilton is located just minutes from the Causeway, making it ideal for exploring the attractions around both Johor Bahru and Singapore. The Johor Bahru City Square is only 650 metres away while the railway station is 1.5 kilometres away.

Onsite facilities include a stunning outdoor swimming pool on the 13th floor, four restaurants, gym, steam room, spa and wifi. For families staying at the hotel, equipment such as high chairs and cribs are also available upon request.

Each of the hotel’s spacious guest rooms feature air conditioning, TV and tea and coffee making facilities. For families, there are also rooms which have separate living areas as well as rooms which have a kitchenette.

Click here for the latest prices or read our full review  here .

I also love the Holiday Inn Johor Bahru which is close to here. Read my review here.

BUDGET – Baguss Hotel And Serviced Apartment Review

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Baguss Hotel and Serviced Apartments. Only 5 minutes to Pelangi Plaza, the local shopping mall and 10 minutes to the Causeway, this boutique hotel is conveniently situated for easy access to everything.

Each of the hotel rooms feature air conditioning, a TV, wifi, tea and coffee making facilities and a refrigerator. For larger groups, there is also the option of four 3 bedroom apartments which can accommodate up to 6 people. These apartments are like your home away from home including a kitchen and lounge room.

Click here for the latest prices.

Click here to see our full guide to the best hotels in Johor Bahru.

Want the Easiest Way to travel between Johor Bahru and the rest of Malaysia or Singapore?

We can book a taxi for you from anywhere in Singapore or Malaysia directly to your hotel in JB for a great price.

You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Getting To Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is a major city and it’s easy to get here from anywhere in peninsular Malaysia. It’s also just across the causeway from Singapore and it’s easy to get here from Singapore too.

In fact, you can catch a taxi straight from Singapore for only SG$90. You can find more information and book one here.

You can also book a long distance taxi from anywhere in peninsular Malaysia to Johor Bahru here.

Comfortable buses also travel to many places in Malaysia from Johor Bahru. Find them here.

I talk much more about how to get to Johor Bahru, especially from Singapore, in our podcast here.

Final Words

I hope that this Johor travel blog has given you plenty of inspiration and ideas on how best to enjoy your visit to Johor Bahru.

Whether you cross the causeway from Singapore for a day trip to Johor Bahru or come and stay for a few days, you can see from above that there are plenty of things to see in Johor Bahru.

Whether you’re interested in historical attractions or fun family-friendly places to visit, there really is something for everyone in JB.

To get to Johor Bahru from other cities in Malaysia, check out our private taxi service here.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

If you’re travelling to or from KL to Johor Bahru, find out exactly how to get there here . You can also listen to our guide to Johor Bahru in our podcast here . This includes things to do as well as crossing the border from Singapore and more. You can find our full Johor Bahru guide here .

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru (Malaysia)

25 Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru (Malaysia)

Johor Bahru is a Malaysian town that sits just across from the border with Singapore. As is the case with many border towns, it had a rather seedy reputation for years before cleaning up its act and developing a great range of new family friendly attractions that have helped its popularity to soar.

If you are in Singapore and looking for a quick day trip then Johor Bahru is a great choice, and you will find a number of cutting-edge malls, bars, and eateries here. If you want to enjoy some of the history of this area however, then the city has a good range of historic and cultural sites, many of which date from the time of the British colonial period.

Any history buff will also enjoy the number of fascinating museums in Johor Bahru or you can spend time eating your way around the city. Like much of Malaysia, Johor Bahru has a delicious local street food scene, and some of the bakeries here are famous for having been in operation for decades.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Johor Bahru :

1. Walk along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

Jalan Tan Hoik Nee is named after one of the founding fathers of Johor Bahru and is also known for being one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.

It is here that you will find a number of delicious cafes and restaurants and there is also a high concentration of antique shops dotted along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

The architecture is also spectacular here and you can expect traditional Chinese style shop houses as well as a number of colonial buildings.

2. See the animals at the Johor Zoo

Johor Zoo was one of the first zoos to be built in Southeast Asia and dates from 1928. There are over a hundred different species of animals here and you can expect to find gorillas, elephants, lions, and flamingoes, to name just a few examples of the fauna on show.

There are also bird and reptile houses at the zoo and a number of eateries dotted around in case you fancy a bite to eat.

If you are travelling with children then this is an excellent pick and there are also opportunities to interact with some of the animals during feeding times.

3. Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple is a traditional temple that dates from the 19th century and was built in honor of five deities venerated by the Chinese community.

This is one of the oldest religious buildings of its kind in the city and is instantly recognizable thanks to its bright red and white color scheme.

In addition to the actual temple you will also find some exhibits that tell the story of how the Chinese community first came to Johor Bahru.

Certainly no trip to the city is complete without a visit to this famous site.

4. Tour the Istana Besar

The Istana Besar is the Royal Palace and would have been the home of the Sultan of Johor in the days of old.

This impressive building was constructed in 1866 during the time of Sultan Abu Bakar and is a stunning mix of Malay and Western architecture.

Make sure to look out for the large dome that tops the structure as well as the signature blue roof.

Other points of interest here include the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which has a collection of antiques and heirlooms that would have belonged to the Royal Family.

5. Have fun at Legoland Malaysia

Anyone traveling with children should make sure not to miss Legoland Malaysia which has some 40 different rides that younger visitors will love.

The park opened in 2012 and there is an adjoining water park here where you can cool off with a range of water related rides and pools.

Some of the highlights at the parks include bumper cars and planes as well as a laser quest maze.

This is one of the most popular theme parks in Johor Bahru so expect it to be busy whenever you visit.

6. Explore the Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

The Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery is a museum that is located in two traditional shop houses that date from 1907. The buildings would have been used as the headquarters of the Kwong Siew Clan Association that was created by Wong Ah Fook, a Chinese born businessman who worked closely with the Sultanate of Johor.

The museum tells the story of the members of this clan and you will find ancient photographs as well as weapons, traditional costumes, and even oddities like antique opium pipes.

Make sure to check out the collections of old coins as well as the fortune telling equipment and the traditional cups, plates, and bowls.

7. Visit Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque was built over a period of some eight years starting in 1892 and is a mix of British colonial architecture and traditional Islamic motifs.

One of the signature features of the mosque is the four minarets that are located on the top and are meant to look like traditional British clock towers.

Much of the interior is covered in white marble and you will find a pretty blend of quaint Victorian design features mixed with Moorish motifs.

The mosque can accommodate some 2,000 worshippers at one time and if you like religious architecture then this is not to be missed.

8. Admire Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is one of the most important buildings for the Hindu community in Johor Bahru and was the first Hindu building in the world to be made of glass.

Both the interior and exterior are decorated with glass which makes it glitter in the light of the sun, and you will notice statues of Christ and Buddha inside even though this is a traditionally Hindu building.

If you like unusual structures then make sure not to miss this quirky stop off the itinerary.

9. Sample the pastries at the Salahuddin Bakery

The Salahuddin Bakery first opened its doors in 1937 and has been in operation ever since.

Here you will find a delicious selection of baked treats, but one of the main reasons that people have been flocking here for years is for the curry puffs which are a traditional Malay snack of curried meat or vegetables stuffed inside flaky pastry.

The bakery has not changed much since the days of old and the inside still looks like it would have done in the 1930s.

10. Istana Bukit Serene Johor Bahru

Istana Bukit Serene is now the official residence of the Sultan of Johor and as such it is not open to the public.

Many people still come here however to check out the exterior and you will find an arch here topped with a large model of the crown of the Sultan and you can also check out the manicured lawns from the outside.

The palace dates from 1933 and was built in the Art Deco style and as such it is a riot of interesting carvings and is topped with a main tower that soars to a height of 35 meters.

11. Visit Danga Bay

Danga Bay is a waterfront complex that has a range of dining and lifestyle attractions.

It is a very popular spot for tourists in Johor Bahru as it is also the home of the Danga World Petting Zoo which is smaller than the main zoo in Johor but has animal shows where younger visitors can get up close to the animals.

Danga World Theme Park is also located in the Danga Bay Complex and has around 20 rides such as a scenic Ferris wheel and spinning tea cups.

12. Sample Kam Long Fish Head Curry

Johor Bahru has a great food scene and one of its famous dishes is the traditional fish head curry.

If you fancy trying some then head to Kam Long Fish Head Curry which will probably be easy to spot as it usually has a long line of hungry patrons outside.

They only serve one dish here which is the aforementioned curry, although there is the choice of having the head replaced with fish tail if you prefer.

Either way the curry base is the same and you can expect a delicious thick sauce that comes with bean curd, ladyfingers, and tomatoes.

13. Tour the Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception

The Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest buildings that still stands in Johor as it was built in 1883. The structure is known for its lone steeple that is topped with a scenic spire and it is designed in the traditional British colonial style.

The church is also known for its colorful Harvest Festival which takes place in January and is based on the Tamil datival of Pongal, so if you are in town at the right time of year make sure not to miss it.

14. Go shopping at the Johor Premium Outlets

One of the big reasons that visitors flock to Johor is for the bargain shopping opportunities here, the best of which are found at the Johor Premium Outlets.

This shopping mall style complex carries a huge range of international and local brands all of which are sold at competitive prices and there are also some eateries and cafes here so you can get a bite to eat in between all the shopping.

15. Visit Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru

One of Johor’s great claims to fame is its religious diversity and with that in mind you can visit a Sikh temple here which was built in 1992. Visitors come here to check out the signature yellow window frames as well as the pretty crenellated roof and this is an important place of worship for the 250 Sikh families who call Johor Bahru home.

If you are visiting all the other religious sites in town then make sure not to give Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru a miss.

16. Visit the War Memorial

Located on Jalan Abu Bakar is the War Memorial which is made up of two obelisks that are dedicated to servicemen who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars.

It was built in 1962 and is a moving stop off on a tour of the city.

It is also known for its pretty views that look out over the Strait of Johor.

17. Get outside at Taman Merdeka

Taman Merdeka is the largest public park in the city and is a great choice if you want to get outside and enjoy one of Johor Bahru’s green spots.

The park has a range of interesting sections such as an open-air theater and a series of rock sculptures.

Other points to look out for include the monument dedicated to Malaysia’s independence as well as some cannons and a clock tower.

18. Have dinner at Medan Selera Meldrum Walk

Johor Bahru, like the rest of Malaysia, is known for its amazing hawker street food.

With this in mind, if you want to sample some of the best in the business, then come to the Medan Selera Meldrum Walk which sets up in the evening and has a wide selection of typically Malaysian dishes.

Some of the highlights sold here include delicious laksa which is a creamy soup flavored with coconut milk as well as ikan bakar which is fish rubbed in a spice paste and then grilled over coals.

19. Sunbathe on Desaru Beach

Johor Bahru is next to the water and looks across to the Strait of Johor.

As a result, you will find a long strip of sand along the coastline here and one of the best places to take it all in is on Desaru Beach.

A day on the beach may be just the ticket in Johor Bahru if you are looking for a place to relax away from the main hubs which are often filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, and shopping malls.

Some of the activities that you can enjoy here include going for an exhilarating banana boat ride or you can have a go at jet skiing.

This area is also known for its beach resorts if you want to stay in Johor Bahru a little longer.

20. Hunt for bargains at Pasar Karat

Johor Bahru is known for its shopping options but this usually comes in the form of high tech malls.

If you are looking for something a little different, then head to Pasar Karat which is a large flea market that has a wealth of hidden treasure just waiting to be discovered.

On a trip here you can expect to find a wide selection of second hand goods such as clothes and antiques and haggling is expected.

Make sure to note however that the market only opens in the evenings and things usually get moving only after 8 pm.

21. Relax at a spa

As is the case with many border towns, Johor Bahru is known for its spas.

As such, if you are looking for a way to relax and unwind while you are in town, then you will have come to the right place, and you will find spas all over the city.

One of the best known venues is a chain called Wang Zu Bu Luo and most of the spas in town offer similar services.

These include massages, facials, manicures, and more traditional treatments such as ear candling and cupping.

22. Explore Pasir Gudang Kite Museum

Opened in 2002, the Pasir Gudang Kite Museum, or Muzium Layang-Layang as it is called in Malay, has the claim to fame of being the first museum in Malaysia to be completely dedicated to the history and cultural impact of these colorful kites.

As a result you will find a number of galleries with information about how layang-layang evolved and are made, as well as posters and videos about kite flying.

There is also an annual Kite Festival in Pasir Gudang and you will spot the museum a mile off as it has a quirky windmill structure on its roof.

This also serves to generate electricity to run the museum and if you are looking for a quirky attraction in Johor Bahru then this is a great pick.

23. Visit Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory

This bakery in Johor Bahru is famous for having been in operation for more than 80 years.

As you can tell, they must be doing something right, and you can come here to sample the toothsome baked goods for yourself such as buns, cakes, and biscuits.

The bakery is known for using a charcoal oven to bake its treats, which was inspired by the traditional way of making biscuits in Hainan in China which was the hometown of the original owner.

Don’t be surprised if you have to queue here and make sure to try the signature pillowy banana cake.

25 Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru (Malaysia):

• Walk along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
• See the animals at the Johor Zoo
• Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
• Tour the Istana Besar
• Have fun at Legoland Malaysia
• Explore the Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery
• Visit Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
• Admire Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple
• Sample the pastries at the Salahuddin Bakery
• Istana Bukit Serene Johor Bahru
• Visit Danga Bay
• Sample Kam Long Fish Head Curry
• Tour the Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception
• Go shopping at the Johor Premium Outlets
• Visit Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru
• Visit the War Memorial
• Get outside at Taman Merdeka
• Have dinner at Medan Selera Meldrum Walk
• Sunbathe on Desaru Beach
• Hunt for bargains at Pasar Karat
• Relax at a spa
• Explore Pasir Gudang Kite Museum
• Visit Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Travel & Food, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

My ALTERNATIVE Weekend Johor Bahru JB Itinerary (2024 Update)

April 2, 2024 by Bino 1 Comment

Johor Bahru or JB in the southernmost state in Malaysia is just a causeway bridge away from Singapore annd as such, is heavily familiar to most Singaporeans. As a popular weekend getaway for shopping, food and leisure; Johor Bahru offers a cheaper alternative to the higher cost of living in Singapore. If like me you have been to this city several times and in need of some fresh ideas of things to do in Johor Bahru or JB, check out this easy to follow Johor Bahru itinerary that you can do during a weekend.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – JB Old Town, Nature Trails

Explore the old town of johor bahru.

johor bahru old town

Johor Bahru’s compact old town has recently been renovated and now boasts of charming street art, colorful heritage shophouses that have been repainted, museums and art galleries. It is lined by 3 parallel streets – Jalan Dhoby , Jalan Ismail Sultan and Jalan Tan Hiok Nee – the latter usually considered as the epicenter of the old town.

restoran hua mui

breakfast at hua mui

Start with a most local breakfast of kopi and kaya toast . There are at least 2 very old school coffee shops in the area – the first is Restoran Hua Mui (daily, 8AM to 5:30PM) which is said to be one of the haunts of Johor’s royal family. They serve British Hainanese cuisine such as chicken chop, beef steak and the like. They are also popular for their breakfast offerings such as kaya toast, polo bun and local noodles. Another option is Restoran Kin Hua (daily except Tuesday, 5:30AM to 5PM) just down the street.

3-in-1 nian gao from pacific kopi

When it comes to eating in JB, I would suggest taking light bites in each venue as there are simply too many eateries to choose from. This will allow you to try as many items as possible during a short trip. Not far from Hua Mui is Pacific Kopi (daily 8AM to 9PM) which is known for its 3-in-1 Nian Gao – essentially 3 layers with purple potato, glutinous rice and sweet potato. This is a must try when you are in the area. 

hiap joo bakery

After having your fill of breakfast, proceed to the Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory (open Mon to Sat 7:30AM to 5PM) and queue up for the venue’s famous banana cake. Located in Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, you can also take a short stroll and explore the cafes and quirky shops that have opened recently in the area.

Tip: If you intend to bring some of the famous banana cakes home, do note that Hiap Joo is closed on Sundays. You will need to make your purchases on Saturday if you are in JB on a weekend trip.

the old town of johor bahru

You can also find some of JB’s best shophouses in the area including the photogenic Red House which now houses a Marrybrown outlet.

senso art gallery cafe

Some of my favorite shops in the area include Senso Art Gallery Cafe (daily, 10AM to 6PM) which is run by extremely friendly staff. Here, you can browse through artworks and souvenirs done by local artists while enjoying a cup of coffee. There is usually an exhibition held at the gallery’s second floor. I love hanging out at the upstairs space as it’s usually quite serene and one can catch a nice glimpse of the happenings of the old town from the window. 

jb chinese heritage museum

To gain a better understanding of Johor’s Chinese diaspora, head to Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum (daily except Monday, 9AM to 5PM). It’s a well-maintained museum filled with dioramas, photos and artifacts showcasing the history of the community in the region. 

sultan abu bakar mosque in johor bahru

From here, it’s a short walk to the old administrative center of Johor Bahru where you can find the Moorish-inspired Sultan Ibrahim Building as well as the Zaharah Botanic Gardens . East of the gardens, the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is also a must see for its combination of Islamic and British architectural features. Non-muslim visitors cannot enter the main prayer hall but the exteriors here are the highlight.

Marvel at the Sparkling Glass Temple

inside the glass temple

One of the less known attractions in Johor Bahru is the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple (admission MYR 10). One of the major Hindu temples in the city, a must-see is the interiors which are filled with pieces of glass. You’ll also see some reminders of other faiths here. Statues of Jesus Christ, Buddha and even Mother Teresa are found throughout the temple.

Try JB’s Famous Paper-Wrapped Chicken

paper-wrapped chicken from teck sing

For lunch, check out Restaurant Teck Sing (3&5 Jalan Sutera Satu, Taman Sentosa) for its paper-wrapped chicken. This is quite a beguiling dish where native chicken is marinated with various Chinese herbs and is baked for hours while wrapped in paper.  

Nature Tripping JB Style

If you enjoy the outdoors, you can also check out Pulai Waterfall located in Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest . On the way, you can also make a detour at the Istana Bukit Serene , the official residence of the sultan. While you won’t be able to enter the palace, you can check out the adjacent gardens. Of note is the crowned archway which serves as a symbol of royal prerogative.

the blue lake at kangkar pulai in johor

A relatively picturesque tourist attraction in the Pulai area is the Blue Lake of Kangkar Pulai . Located inside a quarry, the lake has a mysterious baby blue hue to it which is quite unusual for a lake in the tropics. To get here, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Grab which will drop you off at the parking lot. From there, it’s a 15 to 20 minute hike up some pretty steep slopes. The views are worth it. If you are coming here, try to arrive early before 9AM or after 5PM when it’s relatively cooler. Do note the path going up can be really muddy if you visit just after it rains.

End with a Massage

A favorite activity of many Singapore residents visiting Johor Bahru is to go for massage. While there are several massage parlors around town, only a few are worth their salt. One I could recommend is Thai Imperial (201 Jalan Dato Sulaiman, +607 333 1355) which stays true to authentic Thai treatments. The therapists are mostly from Thailand and they offer soothing massages like aromatherapy, traditional Thai massage and foot massage. Expect to pay around MYR 100++ for a one hour massage. Multiple locations of Thai Imperial can be found in town but I suggest going to the outlet near KSL Mall.

Seafood Dinner or Supper

seafood from ong shun

Johor Bahru has a myriad of seafood restaurants that it’d be a separate article to list them all. A reliable (and affordable) one that I always visit is Ong Shun (daily except Monday, 1PM to 1AM). Food is very tasty and you can order a variety of seafood such as crab, oyster, fish, prawns and cuttlefish and have these cooked according to your preferred style. They are halal and they also open until very late. 

Day 2 – Iskandar Puteri, Legoland & Weekend Markets

One of the most pleasant areas to stay and to start your second day around Johor Bahru is the recently developed Nusajaya which ironically is in the outskirts of Johor Bahru. During my last visit to Johor Bahru, I stayed at the Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour Nusajaya which has the feel of an exclusive marina with yachts parked on the shore. You can easily glimpse Singapore from the higher floors and especially at the rooftop restaurant.

state government building of johor

You can head to Legoland  ( discounted tickets here ) if you have kids. Otherwise, the area around Iskandar Puteri (formerly Nusajaya) has a couple of interesting cultural attractions as well. Of note is the newer State Government Building of Johor which is open to the public through guided tours. Like the older Sultan Ibrahim Building in JB itself, the former has a distinct Moorish-Malay influence though its recent construction means that there’s none of the British colonial elements that its predecessor had. A short walk from here is the Masjid Negeri Kota Iskandar .

Explore JB’s Weekend Markets

one of the weekend markets in johor bahru

Alternatively, if you are in Johor Bahru on a Saturday morning, you can check out Pasar Tani – the farmer’s market which is open only during Saturdays. Especially popular among Singaporeans for cheaper seafood and produce, you’ll need to come early. Most goods will be sold out by noon.

In the evening, a market to check out is Taman Ungku Tun Aminah Pasar Malam which is the largest in JB. It is open on Saturdays only from 6pm onwards.

If you prefer to stay in the city center of Johor Bahru itself, the highly convenient  Amari Johor Bahru is located right smack in the city centre. If you decide to walk here straight from customs, it’s about 10-15 minutes.

Waterfront Dining on Stilts

restoran todak in johor

One of the most recommended places for seafood around Johor Bahru is Restoran Todak Orang Asli (open daily 11:30AM to 11:30PM). If you are heading here for dinner, try to come before 6PM to avoid the queue. The venue is famous for crabs as well as other live seafood. Despite its plain seaside setting, Restoran Todak does accept credit cards as well.

Getting to Johor Bahru From Singapore

There are a couple of ways to get to Johor Bahru if you are coming from Singapore. Here are the options, excluding having a private car:

• Public Bus: CW1, CW2, Bus 950, 170, 160 will take you to the border crossings up to JB Sentral. If you would like a direct bus connection to Johor Bahru from Singapore’s city centre, you can take CW2 which is a direct bus between Queen Street (Bugis) to JB CIQ.
• Train:  It’s a 5 minute journey from Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore to JB Sentral. You can book tickets here . It is now possible to book for train tickets several months in advance. Do note that if you take the train, you won’t be able to take the CW2 direct bus to Singapore’s city area but you can still take Bus 170 which goes to the city with several stops in between.
• Private Bus: The TS3 shuttle bus from Marina Square to JB CIQ is currently suspended. It is not known when it will reopen but you can call the bus company here (+65 6292 9009). 
• Private Transfers: (resumption pending) Yes, it’s possible to hire a private car to bring you to Johor Bahru (JB) from Singapore . This saves you the hassle of queuing with hundreds of people at customs. This also suits folks whose drop off points in Johor don’t lie within the city centre – including Nusajaya, Forest City, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, etc.

Getting Around

My preferred way of getting around Johor Bahru and the surrounding towns like Iskandar Puteri (Nusajaya) is by a ride-sharing app like Grab. Fares in Malaysia are relatively inexpensive and you don’t have to worry about parking.

Where to Stay in Johor Bahru

The spanking new Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre boasts of functional guest rooms decked in cheery colors. It is also connected to JB Sentral for easy access to transport hubs. A little bit farther out is Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru which is great for apartment style living. The property also has a club lounge. 

You May Also Like

Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

More Posts - Website

Reader Interactions

Older posts.

May 20, 2022 at 8:17 am

Binq, thank you for your post on JB. May I know where the Pasar Tani is located?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travel . Lifestyle . Dining

1 Day Johor Bahru Itinerary / Planning the Perfect day trip to JB

The Replacement - Lodge & Kitchen

Giant Hypermarket Leisure Mall

Taman Mount Austin/ Taman Desa Tebrau

Places to eat near Taman Mount Austin/ Taman Desa Tebrau

Shopping Mall near Taman Mount Austin/ Taman Desa Tebrau

Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.

Follow our adventures @ Ourtravelitinerary

• Visa Application Helpline

Subscribe to our newsletter

Learn how to live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle.

By signing up, you agree to the our terms and our Privacy Policy agreement.

Top 27 Places to visit in Darjeeling, Explore the Beautiful Hills of Darjeeling

Top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

The Best 21 Things to do in Johor Bahru: Where to Go and What to See

A tourist soul never stops exploring, and your exploration can achieve its highest peak by visiting some interesting parts of this Malaysian city Johor Bahru . Let’s make it more exciting for you.

There are lots of places to visit when you are in Johor Bahru.   From those places, let’s talk about Where to Go And What To See the  best places to visit in Johor Bahru, which will be worth it to visit once you enter the city.

Johor Bahru is the city and the state capital of Johor in Malaysia. This city is surrounded by suburbs, industrial parks, and extended waterfront areas in the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia. The exciting part is that the city is bordered by Singapore. It has got several historical and cultural sites along with religious sites to have a visit. Most of those places were built in the British Colonial Period.

While visiting a city, an itinerary can be helpful to plan how to spend your vacation days check out 5 reasons why you need a travel itinerary .

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Unlocking Adventure: The Top 21 Things to Do in Johor Bahru

1. a day with all the animals at johor zoo.

Johor Zoo was established in 1928 by the late Sultan Ibrahim. The zoo is the home of numerous different types of species of animals. Here you can explore several beautiful animals such as gorillas, horses, lions, elephants, flamingoes, crocodiles, wild cats, camels, bears, chimpanzees, swans, and so on.

There are some fun and interesting opportunities like interacting with some of the animals while feeding them. A photography corner has been built up there so that visitors can take pictures with the animals.

Visitors can also enjoy horse riding, boat paddling for a fun time with their family and friends. You can use restrooms to relax, try delicious food items from their food stalls, kids can play in the playgrounds if they are bored watching animals. If you are an animal lover, come and visit this beautiful Zoo at once.

Location:  Jalan Gertak Merah, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Entry Time:  08:30 am – 06.00 pm

Entry Fee:  For Adults: RM 2.00｜For Children (3 to 12 years old): RM 1.00

Read about: 12 Best Things to Do in Johor

2. Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

A traditional temple is also known as one of the oldest religious buildings since the 19 th century. So many people around the world visit this place on the annual Chingay, or the Parade of Deities. A 4-day parade with more than 300,000 people gathered to march around the roads together so that they could worship the 5 Deities.

This 4-day parade can give you a feeling of a colourful musical festival. A music lover should at least give it a try to experience this exciting event once in a lifetime. Temple’s architectural view can be refreshing and fun to explore.  

Location: Lot 653, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Entry Time: 07.00 am – 05.00 pm

Entry Fee: Free

3. Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque is located near the street named Jalan Skudai, which is near The Grand Palace. The State Mosque is located upon a hilltop. It was built from the period of 1982 till 1990. The Mosque will blow your mind with the mix of its two architectural styles, Victorian and Moorish styles, with a little influence of Malay style.

Mosque’s four minarets which are located on the top, look like a traditional British clock tower. You can grab ideas about grand Roman pillars and colonial-style windows featuring the entire hall. Muslims and non-Muslims both are permitted to enter the mosque. But we should try to maintain a simple, decent dress code as a sign of respect.

Location: Jalan Gertak Merah, Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Entry Time: 24 hours

4. Desaru Beach

Desaru beach is a famous tourists spot in Johor Bahru, Johor. It will give you an idea of the East Coastal part of Johor, which is also very near to Singapore. Though it is not a huge town, there are many activities to do for all ages of people.

If you would like to have fun and relax for a while with the waters around you, then Desaru can be the best place for you. The water there is warm, so swimming is fun out there. Moreover, kids can play around in the water. 

There are some fun attractions you can add to your list when you pay a visit to Desaru Beach:

• Desaru Coast Adventure waterpark
• The Els Club Desaru Coast
• Desaru Fruit Farm
• Desaru Ostrich Farm
• Tanjung Balau Fishing Village
• Fishermen Museum 

You can explore these places easily, and if you want to stay a little longer, there are so many famous hotels you can check in for your night stay. A night’s stay in Desaru can make you feel at home. To know hotel prices and facilities, visit booking.com .

Location: 81600 Bandar Penawar, Johor

5. Istana Besar

Istana Besar is known as the Royal Palace, and it was supposed to be the home of the Sultan of Johor in the old time. It was established in 1866 during the time of Sultan Abu Bakar.

Their architectural pattern will give you a stunning Malay and Western mix feel. Istana Besar is also known as The Grand Palace in general. It is a great place where you can visit the Royal Abu Bakar Museum with its various types of royal heirlooms and artefacts collection.

Location: 107, Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Entry Time: 09.00 am – 05.00 pm (closed on Friday)

6. Enjoy Rides with Legoland Malaysia

Legoland is the biggest thrilling theme park in Johor Bahru of Malaysia. This can be the dream place for rider lovers with its various fun-filled rides around the park. Rides, slides, shows, and what not? Enjoy every moment with numerous activities you and your family will fall in love with.

If you think one day visit is not even enough and you want to stay there for another day, then no need to worry about it. Because you can enjoy your night by staying in the Legoland resort. So, hurry up and start enjoying your vacation with some amazing rides with your family.

Location: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, Bandar, 79250 Nusajaya, Johor

Entry Time: Wednesday to Monday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm

7. Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery is a well-known museum for its history of the Clan association. A lover of ancient artefacts should not miss the chance of visiting this place. A great collection of some priceless artefacts such as Cantonese opera costumes, weapons used in Chinese martial arts, old Chinese musical instruments, jewellery, opium pipes are the main attraction of this place.

Learning about so many ancient histories through a single visit to this gallery can be both fun and knowledgeable. 

Location: 24, Jalan Siu Nam, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

8. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Arulmigu Glass Temple was the first Hindu Temple in the world that was made of glass. The whole place is made with glass which gives a glittery and shiny view in the sunlight. Temple’s floors, pillars, and walls are all covered in colourful glasses. An awestruck view with glasses is waiting for you there.

Location: Jalan Tun Abdul Razak 1/1, Wadi Hana, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor

Entry Time: 07:00 am – 10:00 am, 01.00 am – 05.00 pm

Entry Fee: Free for Malaysian citizens, RM 10.00 for foreigners

9. Danga Bay

Danga Bay waterfront is one of the most popular tourist spots in Johor Bahru. If you are searching for a place for a complete package of both leisure and entertainment with some luxury in it, then this can be the best suitable place for you to visit.

You can also have a visit at Danga world theme park while you are there. If you wish to eat something fancy and tasty, want to shop, have a visit through Danga City Mall there. You will easily find some of the best hotels of Johor in Danga Bay, in case you need to find accommodation for the night stay.

Location: Skudai, 80200, Johor Bahru

10. Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception

Catholic Church always offers a serene feeling no matter which religious background you hold inside of you. This catholic church was built in 1883 in Johor. Its British Colonial Style is awe-inspiring and soothing to the eyes of visitors. If you love exploring different kinds of religious attractions, this catholic church will be an interesting visit for you.

The architecture of this church shows attractiveness in its design. Well, a visit to a church is always peaceful, right?

Location: Alternate Entrance, Jalan Abdul Rahman Andak, 80010, 9, Jalan Gereja, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

11. Sultan Ibrahim Building

One of the must-visit historical landmarks in Johor Bahru is Sultan Ibrahim Building . It’s also one of the tallest and oldest buildings in this town.

A renowned British firm designed Built-in the era of 1936 to 1939, the building and that’s why you’ll be able to see a perfect combination of western and Malaysian architecture here.

As it’s still a government asset, you need to take permission from the existing guards to enter the compound of the building. Its picturesque view and stunning background can give you iconic photos for your Instagram profile.

Location: Jalan Bukit Timbalan, Johor Bahru

Entry time: Monday to Friday 08:00 am to 05:00 pm (closed on weekends)

Entry fee: Free of charge

12. Jalan Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. This street is charming because of its traditional Chinese-style shop houses, traditional Malay architecture, and colonial buildings.

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is one of the founding fathers of Johor Bahru, and the street name also comes from him.

The street is more famous for housing a number of delicious cafes and restaurants. All these cafes and restaurants have tasty food which is available at a reasonable price as well.

At the same time, this street has numerous antique shops where you can buy some amazing antique pieces for your home decorations.

Its old-school style will impress you, and you can take pictures of this heritage street.

Location: Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

13. Istana Bukit Serene

Visiting a royal residence is always fascinating, and Istana Bukit Serene is such a royal palace. It is the official residence of the Sultan of Johor.

Unfortunately, this palace is not open for public visits; you can only check out the exterior part of it. But don’t think. there is nothing special!

The most enchanting beauty here is an arch that is topped with a large model of the crown of the Sultan. And the crown is decorated with real jewels.

Apart from this, the manicured gardens also have spectacular views with lovely water fountains and stunning lighting. You should visit the night look, it’s outstanding.

Location: Jalan Straits View, Bukit Serene, 80200 Johor Bahru

Entry Time: Everyday 24 hours

14. Get around Taman Mount Austin for cafe-hopping

If you’re looking for a place where you can get a cafe-hopping adventure in JB, none can be better than Taman Mount Austin . It’s a cafe haven in Johor Bahru.

The best part is that you will not only get outstanding coffee, bubble tea, and snacks but also these items are available at a cheap price.

Mount Austin has more than 30 bubble tea shops. It’s definitely great news for those of you who have bubble tea cravings.

Location: Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru

15. Johor Premium Outlets

Who doesn’t love shopping? Even many visitors come to Johor Bahru only for shopping.

JB’s most famous and luxurious mall is the Johor Premium Outlets . It’s also called an elite shopping mall and is located at the heart of Johor Bahru.

Here you’ll get countless local and international brands of fashions, jewellery, furniture, electronics, shoes, and so on. The ground floor of this mall is filled with delicious eateries, while the first floor houses fashions, shoes, and jewellery stores and the second floor has furnishing shores.

Location: Jalan Premium Outlets, Bandar Indahpura, 81000 Kulai

Entry Time: Everyday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

16. Forest City

The new attraction of Johor Bahru is the Forest City . It’s a green futuristic paradise that is built with four man-made islands.

The Forest City has a combination of nature and technology which gives it a dynamic look. You can spend a day here as it has many serene parks, sea views, and lush greenery.

Furthermore, Forest City also offers you to enjoy duty-free shopping here.

Location: Forest City, Pulau Satu, 81500 Johor Bahru

17. Pasar Karat (Bazar JB)

You will always find local flavour at the local night flea markets. And in Johor Bahru, the most popular night market is Pasar Karat which is also known as Bazar JB.

The market is always busy with visitors because of its wide variety of products like antiques, electronics, vintage items, clothes, fashion accessories, and many more. If you’re good at bargaining, then you will surely get good stuff at a very cheap price here.

Furthermore, you can’t resist the street food stalls that are placed here and there at Pasar Karat. You can get fresh-made takoyaki at only RM4/5 and can have a cold Lime & Plum juice at only RM3.

Location: 26, 20, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Entry time: Everyday 06:00 pm to 02:00 am

18. Have the best curry puffs @ Salahuddin Bakery

Whoever is looking for curry puffs in JB, without wasting time opt directly for Salahuddin Bakery . It’s a family-run bakery that first opened in 1937 and has been giving its service for the last 80 years.

Curry puff is a traditional Malay snack that is stuffed with meat or vegetables inside. And at Salahuddin Bakery, you can have the authentic taste of curry puffs which attracts most people to come here and try it.

Apart from curry puffs, here you’ll get fresh pastries and light snacks which are also yummy.

Location: 26, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Entry time: Saturday to Thursday 09:00 am to 06:00 pm (closed on Friday)

19. Skyscape, Menara Jland

Skyscape is the first aerial entertainment space in Johor Bahru that can give you an extraordinary experience. It has so many attractions and activities for its visitors.

But the star attraction is the sky bridge view deck because of its unique view. From here you can watch Malaysia as well as Singapore. It is a 149m high glass flooring bridge that attracts most visitors at Skyscape. You can take some iconic pictures here as well.

Apart from this, you can try other attractions of this entertainment space like watching movies at the mini-theatre, play at interactive floor games, and using VR devices. All of these are stunning and elegant.

Location: Level 34, Menara JLand Johor Bahru City Centre (JBCC, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 80000 Johor Bahru

Entry time: Sunday to Friday 09:30 am to 04:00 pm (closed on Saturday)

20. Try street food @ Medan Selera Meldrum Walk

You will never know Johor Bahru entirely without trying its local food or street food. And everyone knows Medan Selera Meldrum Walk is a paradise for foodies.

This area will completely transport you to a different realm of food. The sizzling aroma will force you to try their delicious food items. It’s a very busy area. And the hawkers who set their stalls here are very friendly to visitors.

I highly recommend you to come here and try some famous food items like fried oysters, chicken BBQ, Daud Kambing Soup, fish dishes, and so on.

Location: Jalan Meldrum, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Entry time: Everyday 01:00 pm to 06:30 pm

21. Fanpekka Indoor Playground

Fanpekka Indoor Playground is a place for your kids where they can learn and play together. It’s a family entertainment theme park by Aeon Fantasy where they promote the concept of “learning while playing”.

You kids can develop problem-solving and communication skills here by participating in lots of exciting and fun activities. This indoor theme park has been specially designed to increase the creativity of your child.

Location: Persiaran Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru

Entry time: Everyday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

Entry fee: RM74.00 (inclusive of 1 child RM62.00 & 1 adult RM12.00)

Getting to know some new places is always fun, isn’t it? Johor Bahru is a place where visitors can find almost everything.

Either connecting with nature, animals, or some different religious places with their rich architectural and ancient history or even some luxuries hotels and parks, Johor Bahru offers versatility at its best. So, a visit through this beautiful city is a must for people who cannot live without exploring new places.

Related Posts

The best day trip to sky mirror from kuala lumpur, pulau pangkor travel guide: explore an island paradise in malaysia, air terjun sungai chiling: discover the hidden beauty of chiling waterfalls, 20 best beaches in malaysia: your ultimate guide to paradise.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

3-Day Johor Bahru Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Johor Bahru in 3 days
• 1-Day Johor Bahru Itinerary
• 2-Day Johor Bahru Itinerary
• 4-Day Johor Bahru Itinerary
• 5-Day Johor Bahru Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: south side of town, day 3: proximity is everything, legoland malaysia.

Sanrio Hello Kitty Town

KSL City Mall

Larkin stadium.

Taman Merdeka, Johor Bahru

Danga bay park, pasar karat (bazar jb), komtar jbcc, city square, where to eat, restoran ya wang, d laksa ksl city mall, amaya food gallery at amari johor bahru, chez papa french bistro and wine bar, ikea tebrau, austin heights water & adventure park, aeon mall bandar dato' onn, hutan bandar mbjb, johor ancient temple, faculty of caffeine, basilico restaurant, kacang pool haji, rosmarino italian restaurant, top searches in johor bahru, popular road trips from johor bahru, what's the weather like in johor bahru.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Johor Bahru for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Johor Bahru in January
• Weather in Johor Bahru in February
• Weather in Johor Bahru in March
• Weather in Johor Bahru in April
• Weather in Johor Bahru in May
• Weather in Johor Bahru in June
• Weather in Johor Bahru in July
• Weather in Johor Bahru in August
• Weather in Johor Bahru in September
• Weather in Johor Bahru in October
• Weather in Johor Bahru in November
• Weather in Johor Bahru in December

All road trips from Johor Bahru

• Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur drive
• Johor Bahru to Bangkok drive
• Johor Bahru to Melaka drive
• Johor Bahru to Siem Reap drive
• Johor Bahru to Ho Chi Minh City drive
• Johor Bahru to George Town drive
• Johor Bahru to Kathu drive
• Johor Bahru to Krabi Town drive
• Johor Bahru to Pattaya drive
• Johor Bahru to Phnom Penh drive
• Johor Bahru to Chiang Mai drive
• Johor Bahru to Hoi An drive
• Johor Bahru to Hua Hin drive
• Johor Bahru to Ipoh drive
• Johor Bahru to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Johor Bahru to Luang Prabang drive
• Johor Bahru to Batu Caves drive
• Johor Bahru to Patong drive
• Johor Bahru to Hue drive
• Johor Bahru to Ayutthaya drive
• Johor Bahru to Chiang Rai drive
• Johor Bahru to Sepang drive
• Johor Bahru to Kanchanaburi drive
• Johor Bahru to Khao Lak drive
• Johor Bahru to Vientiane drive
• Johor Bahru to Ao Nang drive
• Johor Bahru to Bagan drive
• Johor Bahru to Da Lat drive
• Johor Bahru to Mandalay drive
• Johor Bahru to Phan Thiet drive

Explore nearby places

• Johor Bahru
• Iskandar Puteri
• Gelang Patah
• Pasir Gudang
• Pekan Nanas
• Kota Tinggi
• Pontian Kecil
• Tanjung Uncang
• Waterfront City
• Batam Center
• Bandar Penawar
• Tanjung Balau

All related maps of Johor Bahru

• Map of Johor Bahru
• Map of Plentong
• Map of Yong Peng
• Map of Skudai
• Map of Iskandar Puteri
• Map of Ulu Tiram
• Map of Senai
• Map of Gelang Patah
• Map of Jurong
• Map of Pasir Gudang
• Map of Masai
• Map of Singapore
• Map of Kulai
• Map of Pekan Nanas
• Map of Changi
• Map of Kota Tinggi
• Map of Kukup
• Map of Pontian Kecil
• Map of Sekupang
• Map of Tanjung Uncang
• Map of Batu Ampar
• Map of Nagoya
• Map of Waterfront City
• Map of Batam Center
• Map of Batu Aji
• Map of Nongsa
• Map of Bandar Penawar
• Map of Tanjung Balau
• Map of Lagoi

Johor Bahru throughout the year

• Johor Bahru in January
• Johor Bahru in February
• Johor Bahru in March
• Johor Bahru in April
• Johor Bahru in May
• Johor Bahru in June
• Johor Bahru in July
• Johor Bahru in August
• Johor Bahru in September
• Johor Bahru in October
• Johor Bahru in November
• Johor Bahru in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Johor Bahru?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 3-Day Singapore Itinerary
• 3-Day Batam Center Itinerary
• 3-Day Nagoya Itinerary
• 3-Day Kulai Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• The Top Things To Do...

The Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Between the cosmopolitan buzz of Kuala Lumpur and the luxury lifestyle of Singapore , it’s easy to forget that Johor Bahru , Malaysia, has more than a few exciting attractions to offer. Here’s a reminder for you.

Johor Bahru sits at the strategic — and sometimes uneasy — position between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Traditionally, it has been the fertile site for agriculture, electronics manufacturing and food processing, but in recent years Johor’s economy has increasingly come to rely on urban tourism and retail. As a result, the city is now one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Malaysia , which means you won’t be short of things to do here.

1. Take pictures of the Istana Bukit Serene

It’s impossible to miss the Istana Bukit Serene from the Skudai Highway. The official palace of the Sultan of Johor, this stately home boasts a strategic bird’s-eye view of Singapore, which proved particularly useful for the Japanese Army during World War II. The palace is not open to the public, but the gardens surrounding it are. The most iconic feature is the crown archway, but the gardens also feature tall fountains, manicured landscapes and dazzling light features (at night).

2. Twinkle with the fireflies at Kota Tinggi

Architectural Landmark

Also known as the Firefly Valley Leisure Park, this is where you get to see nature’s twinkles on land. For a small fee, you’ll be able to take a small boat with other passengers to coast along the sides of a mangrove swamp, where the fireflies shimmer and glimmer in the night. It’s best to visit on a new moon when the fireflies won’t be outshone by the moonlight.

3. Hike and swim at the Pulai Waterfall

Natural Feature

Do you like nature, water and walking? If so, you’ll get your fill at the Pulai Waterfall. If you begin from the foot of the hill, it will take you about two hours to reach the base of the waterfall. It’s no Niagara Falls, but the water is clean, and the area is shaded by thick tropical trees. Want to go for a swim? Bring your swimwear.

4. Say hello to the animals at Johor Zoo

At RM3 (£0.50) per entry, how could you not visit? Tigers, monkeys and flamingos sleep, swing and swim in equal measure, and children will be delighted by the expansive grass field with happily grazing deer. While the Johor Zoo is not a large zoo by any means, the animals here are nevertheless well fed and live in healthily spacious enclosures.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,395 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

5. Stroll along Puteri Harbour

This is the place to go with your beau or belle. The long promenade at Puteri Harbour is the highlight of the seafront here, as you can enjoy the sea breeze, rocking yachts and view of the horizon. Restaurants and retail shops line the walkway, including a Sanrio Hello Kitty World, and quirky art features decorate the retail-free area. It has a similar vibe to the Straits Quay in Penang.

6. Go cafe-hopping in town

Cafe, Coffee

When it comes to food and drink, Johor locals are crazy about two things – spicy curry laksa noodle soup and coffee. There’s a cafe on every corner, selling everything from gourmet Indonesian Kopi Luwak espressos (made from beans that have passed through Asian palm civets) to cappuccinos with petting cats. The Atlas Maison is popular with office workers and Singapore commuters, who come for the signature blends from the celebrated barista JH Yee and the hearty big breakfasts.

7. See what glitters at the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Hindu Temple

8. Pay your respects at the Sultan Abu Baker Mosque

Mosque, Museum

One of the largest architectural triumphs in Johor Bahru, the Sultan Abu Baker Mosque features Victorian-Moorish architecture from the late 19th century and can house up to 2,000 worshippers at any given time. For those who prefer not to enter the mosque, the view from the outside will more than make up for what you’re missing inside. The mosque overlooks the Straits of Johor, and the silhouette of Singapore can be seen from a vague blue-green distance.

9. Go for a ride at Legoland

Amusement Park, Park

Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

See & Do

Must-visit attractions in johor bahru, malaysia.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in johor bahru, malaysia.

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,395 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 509907
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Johor Bahru

Trip.Best: Johor Bahru

Top 5 Premium Hotels in Johor Bahru

Top 7 Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru

Top 10 Local Restaurants in Johor Bahru

Popular Family Hotels in Johor Bahru

Popular Family-friendly Attractions in Johor Bahru

Top 8 Fine Dining in Johor Bahru

Popular Scenic Hotels in Johor Bahru

Popular Nightlife Districts in Johor Bahru

Top 4 Bars in Johor Bahru

Popular Gourmet Hotels in Johor Bahru

Top 5 4-star Select Hotels in Johor Bahru

Johor bahru travel guide.

Things to do in Johor Bahru

LEGOLAND Malaysia

Jalan Wong Ah Fook

Johor Ancient Temple

MarryBrown Peranakan Heritage Restaurant @Tan Hiok Nee

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

Sultan Ibrahim Building

LEGOLAND SEALIFE Malaysia

Tanjung Piai National Park

Where to stay, holiday inn johor bahru city centre, renaissance johor bahru hotel, doubletree by hilton johor bahru, legoland malaysia hotel, forest city golf hotel, ksl hotel & resort, hotel granada johor bahru, amansari residence resort, austin park hotel, capri by fraser johor bahru, amansari hotel nusajaya, what to eat.

Amaya Food Gallery

ROWAN & PARSLEY food atelier

Makan Kitchen

Ho Seng Kee City Square

IT Roo Cafe

Bev C'afe

Flowers in the Window

Restoran Hua Mui Johor Bahru

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory

W.W Laksa House

Restaurant Teck Sing

Grand Straits Garden Seafood Restaurant

Johor bahru moments: through travelers' eyes.

How much do you know about Johor Bahru?

Best of johor bahru, popular best things to do near johor bahru.

Petronas Twin Towers

Aquaria KLCC

Kuala Lumpur Tower

KL Hop-On Hop-Off

Putra Mosque

Petaling Street Market

National Mosque of Malaysia

Merdeka Square

The Stadthuys

Zoo Negara Malaysia

Malacca River

Popular luxury hotels near johor bahru.

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort

One&Only Desaru Coast

Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson

Mangala Estate Boutique Resort - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur

Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur

Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

W Kuala Lumpur Hotel

The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

Popular family hotels near johor bahru.

The Westin Desaru Coast Resort

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka

Movenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA

Swiss-Garden Beach Resort, Kuantan

Le Meridien Putrajaya

Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel & Residences

Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral

Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, City Centre

Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel & Convention Centre

Sunway Resort Hotel

Popular scenic hotels near johor bahru.

Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa

Casa del Rio Melaka

Grand Lexis Port Dickson

Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort

Popular cultural hotels near johor bahru.

The Majestic Malacca Hotel - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Liu Men Melaka

Baba House Melaka

Villa Samadhi by Samadhi - Age 12 and Above Only

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection

Popular instagrammable hotels near johor bahru.

WOLO Kuala Lumpur

The RuMa Hotel and Residences

EQ Kuala Lumpur

Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown

Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park

Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur

M Resort & Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Popular vacation homes near johor bahru.

Eaton Residence - Eaton Mansion by Times8.1

Platinum Suites at twin tower KLCC PAVILION By KIMIRO

Platinum Suites at Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) by Veedu Hauz

The FACE Platinum 2 Kuala Lumpur by Reluxe

Popular gourmet hotels near johor bahru.

Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

Hilton Kuala Lumpur

Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara

Popular premium hotels near johor bahru.

Holiday Inn Melaka, an IHG Hotel

Courtyard Melaka

PARKROYAL A’Famosa Melaka Resort

Tasik Villa International Resort

Sama-Sama Hotel Kuala Lumpur International Airport

Popular 4-star select hotels near johor bahru.

Japamala Resort by Samadhi – Age 12 and Above Only

Aman Tioman Beach Resort

Christee Suites Hotel

Treasures Hotel and Suites

Lexis Port Dickson

Aerotel Kuala Lumpur (Airport Hotel) - Gateway@KLIA2

Holiday Inn Sepang - Airport

Moxy Putrajaya

The Eaton Residences by Times 8

Dorsett Residences Bukit Bintang at Dorsett Kuala Lumpur

Other recommended cities.

Popular Types of Attractions in Johor Bahru

Popular attractions in johor bahru, popular ranked lists, popular restaurants in johor bahru, trending travelogues, popular destinations, recommended attractions at popular destinations, popular trip moments, popular travel types, more things to do in johor bahru.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List Your Property
• Become a Supplier

• WORK WITH US
• MEET THE FAM
• BABY + TODDLER TIPS
• TRAVEL ESSENTIALS + GEAR
• TRAVEL STORE

Discover 10 of the  best things to do in Johor Bahru that the whole family will enjoy – this rapidly growing border city is home to Legoland Malaysia, Angry Birds Theme Park and some of the most epic malls you will ever set foot in.

Johor Bahru – I’ll admit, I had never heard of this Malaysian city until some of our Singaporean family members dropped the name and mentioned that a Legoland theme park existed under an hour’s drive from Singapore. In an instant, I pulled out my notepad and scribbled down this important fact, and so, Johor Bahru landed high up on my bucket list.

If you’re travelling to this corner of South East Asia as a family, then this city needs to be added to your Singapore Malaysia itinerary. It’s also doable as a day trip if you’ve got time to squeeze in your Kuala Lumpur itinerary .

Out of all the amazing places we visited on our trip, the most memorable place for the kids was Johor Bahru. I mean, let’s be real – kids don’t appreciate culture, food or pretty sights. They just wanna get their hands dirty at playgrounds and jump on all the rides. That’s precisely what they’ll get right here.

So, allocate (at least) a couple days to get a good grasp of what Johor Bahru has to offer and bask in the cheap prices of food, attractions and shopping.

Looking for more travel destinations in Malaysia? 

• A Look Inside Legoland Malaysia: 11 Highlights of the Resort
• 13 Amazing Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur
• 16 Fun Things to do in Genting Highlands, Malaysia

Essential Must-Knows & Travel Tips

How exactly do you get from Singapore to Johor Bahru?  Pick your whip – private transfer, bus or train. It all depends on your budget – the most efficient way that requires the least amount of effort is a car transfer, which can cost between $60-120 SGD. Catching a bus is the cheapest option, often only costing $1-3 SGD each way – but, the catch? Making your way through immigration can be very time-consuming, depending on how busy it is. You can also catch the train, but be sure to book this well in advance as this is an extremely popular option.

Book a hassle-free transfer from Singapore to Johor Bahru:

Do I need a visa?  This depends on your passport, but generally speaking, you will be entering a different country, so be sure to check visa requirements for your passport in advance.

Avoid crossing the border during Singapore/Malaysia school holidays. You know one of those moments where you think, “I’ve made a huge mistake.”? We did that. Crossing the border during school holidays took us – wait for it – 4 hours by bus. To ensure you don’t make our mistake, check the Singaporean  and Malaysian school holiday calendar.

It’s cheaper than Singapore. Much cheaper. Food and many living expenses are one third of the cost, and more often than not, retail shopping is a lot cheaper, too. Hence, why there are  so many malls in Johor Bahru. So, eat up and shop up.

Grab is the best mode of transport.  Download the app. This will be your best friend in – pretty much – all of South East Asia. In both Singapore and Malaysia, you can ride share, order food from restaurants, and even arrange for courier delivery via the app. It’s basically Uber but cheaper and better.

Don’t forget travel insurance.  Don’t be that person. I worked at a travel agency for 2 years and have heard enough horror stories to direct a sequel to Final Destination. We use and recommend World Nomads, because, quite frankly, they have one of the most competitive rates in the industry. Get a quote for your upcoming trip.

Want more exclusive kid-friendly guides induced with a humour & fun? Sign up below.

10 Things to do in Johor Bahru on your Singapore Malaysia Itinerary

Is it strange to say that we spent 7 days in Johor Bahru and we still didn’t find enough time to see everything that Johor Bahru has to offer? I feel like no time is ever enough time in a place, especially if you’re travelling with kids who have the attention span of Dory the fish. You know, from Finding Nemo. If you’re stuck on which attractions and activities to your Johor Bahru itinerary, well, we’ve done all the hard work for you and narrowed it down to 10 places.

1. Legoland Malaysia

Can you claim you’ve been to Johor Bahru without having visited Legoland? Nah, uh. Nope. If this theme park isn’t the first attraction you’re adding to your Singapore Malaysia itinerary, then you might want to reevaluate your priorities.

Located in Iskandar, Puteri, roughly 30 minutes outside of central JB – Legoland Malaysia Resort is the first international theme park to have graced the country. As part of the resort, you’ll also find SEA LIFE Aquarium and Legoland Waterpark, it really is a paradise for kids and kidults.

Read our complete review of Legoland Resort Malaysia , where we provide an inside look at the hotel, theme park, water park and aquarium.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Jul 7, 2019 at 6:50am PDT

Visitor Information

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (may vary depending on school holidays)

Entry price: from 231 MYR ($55 USD) per adult, 185 MYR ($45 USD) kids aged 3-11 years, kids under 3 enter free

For more information, visit the official website .

2. Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

What happens when you combine Victorian architecture with Middle Eastern design? You get the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque.

Built in the early 20th century, this mosque is, undoubtedly, one of the most interesting cultural places to visit in Johor Bahru. On top of that, if you’ve ever wondered what a ceiling made of egg shells looks like (I mean, that’s a thought that would’ve crossed every person’s mind, right?) – well, this is where you can tick it off the bucket list.

Sitting on top of a prominent hill, the grande mosque is located within walking distance from JB Central and Komtar JBCC Mall, and accommodates up to 2,000 worshippers at any one time.

3. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The first – and only – glass jeweled Hindu temple in Malaysia, Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman is a sight to behold. Featuring a number of altars with various colourful figures and deities, it’s worth noting that each piece of glass was hand cut by the artist before being put in its respective place.

The temple takes a little more Google Map’ing and effort to find, but I can assure you that it’s well worth the extra steps accrued on your FitBit. Once inside, simply sit back and revel in the beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Opening hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon-Fri), 7am – 10pm (Sat-Sun)

Entry price: RM10 ($2.50 USD) for foreigners

4. Istana Bukit Serene

Did you know that there’s a Sultan of Johor? Yup, neither did I. The palace isn’t open for the public, but you can snap as many pics for the ‘gram as your heart desires, and soak in the majestic view from the crown arc.

If you’re stuck on what to do in Johor Bahru at night – make your way to the light show in front of the palace gates that takes place every evening. It’s a great spot to take kids at night to enjoy the colourful lights, run amuck in the gardens and play with the bubble gun.

5. Angry Birds Theme Park

Found within the Komtar JBCC mall – the 26,000 square feet indoor park is the epitome of fun. We took our boys there on our recent visit and guys, seriously, I’m pretty sure I was put into a time machine and came back out as a 10-year old because I probably had more of a blase than my kids combined.

Here’s a tip – get your tickets online for a significant discount. Entry prices at the door are fairly steep. If you’re bringing a child under 3 years, be sure to bring along their passport for verification, otherwise you’ll be forced to pay the full price.

Toddlers, kids or adults – this activity park has obstacles and play area that are suitable for all ages. Some of the highlights include the Danger Zone, where thrill-seekers can leap 2m off a suspended platform and onto a huge air bag, and the Giant Leap Foampit surrounded by trampolines and ropes you can Tarzan your way off from.

Grab your discounted Angry Birds Activity Park tickets here:

Klook.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createelement(sc), p = d.getelementsbytagname(sc)[0]; s.type = 'text/javascript'; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentnode.insertbefore(s,p); })(document, 'script', '//cdn.klook.com/affiliate_web/s/dist/desktop/affiliate_base_v3.1.js').

Opening hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sat)

Entry price: RM75 ($18 USD) per adult, kids under 3 enter free (bring passport for proof)

6. Danga Bay Park

One of the spots locals flock to on weekends to frolick with their families, Danga Bay is dotted with a diverse range of dining options, interesting shops, and a theme park with a number of carnival-like rides and fun fair games.

The area comes alive at night when the scorching heat of the day has subsided and the lights flicker on, illuminating the bay area, theme park, and walkways. If you’re searching for a place to eat, the Seafood Market offers tasty local dishes, Nonya-style fish and crunchy soft shell crab.

7. Mall Hop ’til you Drop

If there’s one thing Johor Bahru is know for – it’s shopping malls. Scores of them. Hundreds. Thousands. Okay, maybe not that many. But, you getm my drift.

‘Epic’ is probably the most appropriate word to describe some of these mega shopping centres where you’ll find everything from dining alleys to supermarkets and retail store chains. Local brands or international – you’ll find, literally, everything you could possibly need in your life in Johor.

Three of the newest (and biggest) ones are R&F Mall , Mid Valley South Key and Paradigm . Although, we loved to frequent KSL City because it gave us MBK (Bangkok) vibes – designer replicas, cheap electronics and massage parlour every 12 steps you take.

We loved eating inside shopping centres, namely because there’s so much variety and.. there’s air con. You can go real cheap at the food court ($2-3 per dish) or eat at a dine-in restaurant.

8. Desaru Beach

Feeling suffocated from the city life? Book a Grab car and get yourself over to the one place where most humans recharge – the beach. Positioned on the east coast of Johor, Desaru Beach is little over an hour’s drive from the city centre.

Covering a 25km long stretch – this is the place to get back in touch with nature by way of fishing, boating, swimming and hiking.

If you’re keen to turn your Johor Bahru day trip to Desaru into an overnight or multiple-day getaway – take a look at these gorgeous hotels and resorts in the area.

9. Thomas Town & Hello Kitty World

If you’re headed to Johor Bahru with kids and you’re planning to visit Puteri Harbour – Thomas Town and Hello Kitty World are a must-visit. Little boys and girls, rejoice, for dreams do come true.

Visit the Island of Sodor for an unforgettable adventure where little ones can jump on rides, like, Harold’s Helitour, Bertie the Bus and Colin Crane Drop. But, the absolute highlights are the entertaining live shows filled with singing, dancing, bubbles and games.

HOT TIP: Tickets at the door are pricey. To get a huge discount on the 2-Park Pass – buy your entry passes on Klook .

For anyone who’s a lifelong fan of Hello Kitty, you can even waltz into her house and roam through her bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. If you or your little ones love pink and everything cutesy, then this is worth a visit.

The fun doesn’t stop here – there are 3 levels of fun to be had. Check out the arcade for a round of air hockey or basketball shootout or clamber your way through Bob the Builder’s obstacle playground.

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (Wed-Mon)

Entry price: RM139 ($34 USD) for 2-Park Pass, kids under 3 enter free (bring passport for proof)

10. Johor Zoo

Okay, so the entrance fee this zoo will set you back a whopping RM2 (50 cents) per adult. Pretty impressive, right? That being said, with low cost comes low maintenance. So, don’t set the bar too high.

One of the cheapest Johor Bahru activities for kids – you’ll find a decent variety of animal species in here, from lions and tigers to monkeys and crocodiles. You can even feed a couple of super friendly camels and get up close for some selfies.

Where to Stay in Johor Bahru: Capri by Fraser

Oh, my – where do I even begin? This brand new hotel in JB is a luxury serviced apartment that’s not just modern and absolutely gorgeous (definitely adds bonus points in our book), but what completes this place is the unrivalled customer service that comes with it. From the concierge to the breakfast staff – they’re, undoubtedly, some of the friendliest and most helpful employees we have come across on our travels through Malaysia.

Conveniently located next door to Johor Bahru customs, Capri by Fraser is within close walking distance (or super short Grab ride) to some of the biggest and most popular malls in the city, such as, Komtar JBCC, Johor Bahru City Square and R&F Mall.

Minimalist and contemporary in design, this place ticked  all the boxes for our wee little travelling family. Our 1-bedroom apartment included a well-equipped kitchen, which included a convection stovetop, microwave and kettle. This is perfect for when you need to quickly prepare meals or soft foods for your hangry little ones.

But, guys. Just wait until you set foot into the bathroom. I don’t even know if it can be classified as that because it’s, legitimately, the size of a bedroom. It is – hands down – the biggest bathroom I have ever had the pleasure of using in my lifetime of hotel stays. Naturally, my first instinct was to jump in the bath, switch off and recover from a hard day of running amuck with kids.

The bedroom also comes with a huge king-sized bed that you could probably fit your entire family into, and a killer view overlooking downtown JB and the bridge crossing into Singapore. If you’re on a high enough level, you can even see Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer on a clear day.

Here’s the real amazing thing about staying here though – it basically feels like you’re in the comfort of your own home, but with all the facilities and services of a 5-star hotel. Gym? Check. Beautiful pool? Check. Large buffet breakfast? Checkity, check. Oh, and on top of that? A fun coin laundry where you can play a game of FIFA on the Playstation while you wait for your laundry. How cool is that?

But, I’m not gonna deny it – the one thing we looked forward to the most every day was breakfast. Held in a gorgeous and well-lit space with floor-to-ceiling windows, the buffet selection includes everything from local Malaysia delights to a Western-style breakfast, featuring eggs, cereals, breads, sausages, cold-cut meats and many more yummy treats.

Kids or no kids – this stylish apart-hotel has rooms suited for all types of travellers. From Studios to 1-Bedroom Suites, this is the place to stay in Johor Bahru if want all the amenities from home, yet still want to experience the perks of hotel life (ahem – breakfast and housekeeping).

We stayed as part of the hotel’s Family Package, which included buffet breakfast for all 4 of us and a 20% discount on food and beverages. We were also provided a cot for our youngest one, which easily fit into the large bedroom.

Check Prices & Read Reviews: Booking.com | HotelsCombined

Psst.. New to Airbnb? Get $40 travel credit when you book your first stay!

Didn’t quite find what you were looking for?

Find more accommodation in Johor Bahru

Check out homes & apartments on Airbnb

Compare prices on Hotels Combined

Don’t skip away just yet – discover more of Malaysia and South East Asia:

• 16 Insanely Fun Things to do in Genting Highlands, Malaysia
• Genting Dream Cruise: WHY this is the Best Cruise from Singapore for Families
• Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur: Hotel Stripes by Autograph Collection
• 12 Mystical Places in Asia you to put on your Bucket List

Did this guide help you plan your trip to Malaysia? Sign up for more exclusive South East Asia guides.

Like it? Pin me.

Resources to help plan your trip to Singapore Malaysia:

Visit our Travel Resources to find the best deals on flights, accommodation and attractions. We love and use these services ourselves to plan all of our family trips – they save us a ton of time and money.

Sweet accommodation deals for you:

• $15 USD / $20 AUD OFF your reservation on Booking.com
• $40 USD / $50 AUD OFF your first Airbnb booking  

For ideas on what to pack for a family trip, check out our  gear and accessories  that we take with us on every single trip.

Come say hi to us on YouTube , Instagram and Facebook . I promise we’re funny and resourceful. At least, I like to think so.

21 Highlights Of The Genting Dream Cruise

Why Genting Dream Is Perfect For Kids

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Hyatt Place Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall

Stay, Play and Unwind Within Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru

Stay at Hyatt Place Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall and enjoy direct access to an expansive retail complex with department stores, boutiques, casual eateries & a movie theater in Johor’s largest retail, leisure and entertainment destination – Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru. Only a 15-minute drive from Johor Premium Outlets and Legoland Malaysia, and surrounded by five golf courses, our modern hotel is the ideal base for a comfortable stay, whether on a work trip or exploring the city’s best attractions.

LOOK AROUND OUR PLACE

ROOMS & SUITES

The 202 spacious, modern rooms offer at Hyatt Place Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall offer a cozy haven to rest, work and recharge with upscale comforts, a separate workspace and complimentary Wi-Fi.

On Seven Bistro

Start your day with freshly prepared breakfast spread featuring an extended Continental Breakfast with some selections hot serving food. For lunch and dinner, enjoy an authentic taste of Homemade Italian Pasta. Amid the bistro’s relaxed rustic ambience, savory fresh homemade pastas as well as classic Italian appetizers and desserts. On Seven Bistro also offers a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including premium Italian coffee.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Meetings & events.

Hyatt Place Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall offers three flexible function spaces equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and modern audiovisual facilities, including LCD projectors to facilitate Zoom meetings and conference calls. Our spaces can be configured to your needs, making them ideal for meetings, private dinners and social events.

Business Services

Fitness Center

Free Internet Access

Meeting Facilities

On-Site Restaurant

Accessibility at Our Hotel

We are committed to providing equal access and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. The features also make this hotel more accessible for older individuals with changing abilities to ensure a seamless experience. Our overall goal is to improve usability throughout the hotel for all guests.

Explore hidden gems of Johor Bahru and indulge in the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and culinary goodness. It's your invitation to relax, rejuvenate, and indulge with exclusive dining credits for a memorable stay filled with delightful moments. Inclusive of:

• MYR 50 Food and Beverage Credit per day
• Complimentary high-speed Wi Fi

Whether you choose to unwind over a satisfying lunch or savor an evening meal, our culinary offerings promise to delight your taste buds and satisfy your appetite. From hearty Italian dishes to comforting classics – experience convenience and select your preferred flavours that fit your palate. Inclusive of:

• Daily Breakfast Buffet for registered guest(s)
• Set Lunch OR Dinner for registered guest(s) per day

World of Hyatt members can earn 2X points for qualifying stays completed July 9 through October 15, 2024, at 550+ Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels worldwide, up to 25,000 Bonus Points. Registration required.

Plan your next event with Hyatt and earn more!

Book a qualifying meeting or event between July 1 and September 30, 2024 at a participating Hyatt hotel in Southeast Asia, South Korea, Japan and Micronesia for events held by March 31, 2025 and be rewarded with:​

•  20,000 additional World of Hyatt Bonus Points​ •  A complimentary wellbeing experience or amenity for all event attendees​

Offer code NSEA20 must be requested at time of inquiry and disclosed in a signed contract to qualify. ​ The above promotion may be combinable with World of Hyatt event benefits including earning Two (2) Tier Qualifying Night Credits for every $5,000 USD in Eligible Event Charges. See World of Hyatt Terms & Conditions to learn more about the World of Hyatt benefits associated with Qualifying Events.​

How can you use your 20,000 points?​

1. Redeem for $250 USD using 20,000 points toward dining, spa & more credits at participating locations worldwide​ 2. Redeem for $200 USD using 15,000 points toward Future Meeting Credit​ 3. Redeem for Free Night Awards on standard room using 20,000 points at hotels and resorts such as those listed below. For a complete list of hotels and resorts where you can redeem your points, please visit Hyatt.com 

• Caption by Hyatt Namba Osaka, Japan – starting from 3,500 points per night during off-peak​ • Hyatt Place Kuala Lumpur Bukit Jalil, Malaysia – starting from 3,500 points per night during off-peak​ • Grand Hyatt Bali, Indonesia – Starting from 6.500 points per night during off-peak​ • Hyatt Regency Sydney, Australia – Starting from 12,000 points per night during off-peak​ • Park Hyatt Siem Reap, Cambodia - Starting from 12,000 points per night during off-peak​ • Grand Hyatt Seoul, South Korea - Starting from 17,000 points per night during off-peak​

​Hyatt reserves the right to reclassify any hotel or resort at any time for any reason in its sole discretion. May not be redeemable where a hotel or resort imposes a minimum-length-of-stay requirement.​

Book Now:  hyatt.com/events

There's more to earn—and enjoy—when you book smart, only on hyatt.com. Members can save more . Book a standard or premium room at participating hotels.

Not a World of Hyatt member? Join now or as you book your stay to enjoy exclusive member benefits like this one.

Terms and Conditions Apply.

GETTING HERE

Things to do.

With direct access to Paradigm Mall, you won’t need to go far from Hyatt Place Johor Bahru for shopping, dining and entertainment. We’re also just a short drive from Johor Premium Outlets and Legoland Malaysia, and we’re surrounded by five golf courses.

3.8 Miles away

Paradigm Mall

0.05 Miles away

Johor Premium Outlets

7.58 Miles away

Legoland Theme Park

7.21 Miles away

Hotel Info & Requests

• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Steamed to Perfection: Halal Din Tai Fung at Midvalley JB

DIN by Din Tai Fung at Mid Valley SouthKey Mall (NO PORK)

Popular trip moments, popular travel types, trending travelogues, popular destinations, recommended attractions at popular destinations, popular attractions, popular restaurants in johor bahru, popular ranked lists.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy and Cookies
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List Your Property
• Become a Supplier

• CNA Explains
• Sustainability
• Latest News
• News Reports
• Documentaries & Shows
• TV Schedule
• CNA938 Live
• Radio Schedule
• Singapore Parliament
• Mental Health
• Interactives
• Entertainment
• Style & Beauty
• Experiences
• Remarkable Living
• Send us a news tip
• Events & Partnerships
• Business Blueprint
• Health Matters
• The Asian Traveller

Trending Topics

Follow our news, recent searches, johor-singapore sez: businesses say malaysia’s ‘stickier’ government boosts their confidence in project, but brain drain remains a risk, advertisement.

Firms told CNA they have overcome initial concerns over the proposed special economic zone, but competing with Singapore for technical and skilled workers still poses a potential challenge. 

Racer Technology operations manager Tai Benn Cherng monitors his workers at the company's factory in Senai, Johor. (Photo: CNA/Zamzahuri Abas)

This audio is generated by an AI tool.

JOHOR BAHRU: Singaporean manufacturing firm Racer Technology has based some of its factory operations across the Causeway in Malaysia’s Johor Bahru for close to 20 years. 

During this period, the company has seen six different prime ministers take the helm of the country’s federal government.

For Racer Technology - which has a diverse corporate clientele including Japanese watch manufacturer Seiko and US hypermarket giant Walmart - political stability in the countries they operate in is important, given that relocating factory operations is costly. 

Besides its three factories in Johor’s Senai, the firm, which is headquartered in Changi in Singapore, has also branched out with operations in China, India and Batam in Indonesia. 

For CEO and founder Willy Koh, the political instabilities and uncertainties in Malaysia have previously triggered him to be cautious and scale back operations during the course of his time in Johor, he told CNA. 

“As a business, we are looking at the long term. During the periods (of political uncertainty), a lot of foreign businesses in Malaysia diversified their projects, some went back to Singapore and in my case, I turned to Batam,” said Mr Koh. 

“Because of the political issues, as a company we have to diversify, this also reassures our customers that we have backup plans in case anything happens,” he added.  

But now he is optimistic that under the current administration led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, foreign companies who invest in Johor will be supported and that the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone will be viable in the long term. 

“I think with the SEZ, Johor will boom - the political cooperation is good, synergy is good, the atmosphere is good. Who knows what the SEZ will be like in 30 years, but (for) now it is promising,” he added. 

In January, Singapore and Malaysia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the SEZ with an aim to boost economic cooperation between Singapore and Johor. 

Under the MOU, both sides will work towards increasing the cross-border flow of goods and people and develop a framework that will lead to a full-fledged agreement on the zone.

While some firms told CNA they were initially concerned that the proposed special economic zone could fizzle out the same way as previous cross-border economic projects, relative political stability and efforts from both sides have buoyed their expectations, and their commercial interest in the region. 

Their confidence has also been lifted by concrete steps already taken to fulfil some of the terms of the MOU - such as the implementation of QR-code immigration clearance towards passport-free travel across both sides of the Causeway. 

At an investor forum for the SEZ in Kuala Lumpur on Jul 10, Malaysia’s Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli - who is heading SEZ negotiations for his country - said that the signing of the agreement is on track for September , with officials from both sides “burning the midnight oil” to iron out the finer details ahead of the Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat. 

The Johor state government has also proposed that the geographical scope for the area within southern Johor to be gazetted for the SEZ encompass a land mass of 3,505 sq km, more than four times the size of Singapore.

Johor chief minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi added that the proposed area would span across six districts - Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Pasir Gudang, Pontian, Kulai and Kota Tinggi. 

Malaysian agri-business owner James Tan, who recently relinquished his post as president of SME (small and medium enterprises) Association of Southern Johor, told CNA that the steps taken to boost connectivity and alleviate congestion at the land crossings showcase determination from both authorities to work together towards smooth border flow which will be key for the SEZ. 

“They are working to ease the jam - QR code clearance, the use of e-gate scanners, all of this will make travelling between Singapore and Johor a breeze.

"Passport-free travel will increase the transportation of people and also ease bottlenecks for movement of goods” said Mr Tan, who transports vegetables and fruits from his farm in central Johor district Segamat to Singapore.  

He explained that his company is considering whether to expand its business into Singapore but is waiting to see if the terms of the SEZ will be favourable for Malaysian companies. 

“This time I am hopeful it will be different. The SEZ looks promising and we can increase our volume of exports more in the future,” he added. 

“THIS GOVERNMENT MIGHT BE STICKIER” 

Businesses added they are confident that the SEZ will not go the same way as other similar cross-border projects implemented in the past to boost economic cooperation between Johor and neighbouring territories. 

This includes the Iskandar Malaysia project, which was conceptualised in 2006 under the Malaysian government led by then-prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

The proposed economic growth corridor in 2006, spanning 2,217 sq km across southern Johor was supposed to grow by tapping on synergies with neighbouring Singapore.

However, the region, slated to be one of Malaysia’s main economic engines, saw its progress halted during the COVID-19 pandemic as border curbs curtailed investment and the property market was left in an overhang. Longstanding issues on connectivity have also hamstrung the region’s development. 

Another proposal which failed to take off was the SIJORI Growth triangle, established in 1989 to boost economic cooperation between Singapore, Johor and the Riau Archipelago in Indonesia. 

Yet, the project fizzled out in a decade, due to unanticipated limited progress and uneven regional economic performance. 

IN FOCUS: Johor’s Iskandar region languished during COVID-19. Could it flourish again?

Johor's special zones including with Singapore could help its economy outpace other Malaysian states: PM Anwar

President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation Lennon Tan told CNA that he is hopeful that the SEZ will not go the same way as the SIJORI Growth Triangle and the Iskandar Malaysia projects because of the intensive business engagement from government officials this time round.

“There is a lot more private sector consultation, industry consultation and this is true for both sides of the government,” said Mr Tan.

“There are very deliberate efforts by high-profile government officials on both sides to endorse and push the SEZ initiatives forward so there’s reason to be hopeful that it will come to fruition,” he added.  

Mr Tan, who heads data security firm Adera Global, told CNA that the timing of the SEZ proposal is helpful for some manufacturing companies in Singapore who are grappling with rising costs and inflation. 

“Smaller businesses are managing survivability issues with these challenges so the SEZ is a new avenue for businesses to move some of their operations to Johor, maintain competitiveness and keep the same cost structure as it used to have,” he added. 

“Businesses are waiting for more information on the SEZ … but I think they remain very, very keen and very interested,” said Mr Tan. 

Mr Jason Su, managing director of Singapore venture capitalist firm Farquhar that invests in small companies branching out to Johor, told CNA that he is optimistic that the SEZ will be “successful” in part due to the support of the federal administration led by Mr Anwar which he regards as a pro-business technocratic government. 

Mr Anwar has garnered praise from regional business leaders for facilitating a positive environment which encourages foreign investment.

During his tenure as prime minister, multinational corporations (MNCs), including Microsoft, Nvidia and Alphabet have all announced partnerships and investments in Malaysia. 

US tech giant Microsoft pledged a US$2.2 billion investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing in May to help develop the country's AI infrastructure.

Moreover, during his visit to meet Prime Minister Anwar in December 2023, Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang jokingly referred to Mr Anwar as the “AI Prime Minister” and lauded the administration for its “excellent infrastructure” to advance AI development in the region. 

Mr Su told CNA that based on his company’s research and data, even though the SEZ terms have not yet been announced, Singapore firms are already signalling interest in moving some operations across the Causeway. 

“There’s a reason why we didn’t choose to do more in Malaysia four to five years ago. We only chose to come over starting from last year as we see the current regime having a firmer grip on power,” said Mr Su.

“I think we communicate better (with) a dedicated and committed government, which seems to unify more Malaysians. This government might be stickier, might be around for a long time,” he added. 

SKILLED MANPOWER SHORTAGE A LINGERING CONCERN

However, some businesses, especially those headquartered in Singapore, remain cautious of investing due to potential issues.

One of which has garnered some attention is the possible difficulty in sourcing technical and skilled workers, referring to trained, educated and experienced members of the workforce.

According to a Singapore Business Federation report released earlier this month , more than 90 per cent of Singapore firms surveyed said they are keen to invest in Johor as part of the SEZ, but nearly 60 per cent anticipate difficulties in finding technical and skilled workers. 

The Johor government has acknowledged the problem exists. On Jul 17, Mr Onn Hafiz said that the problem needs to be addressed ahead of the launch of the SEZ and to overcome it the government will propose the launch of a talent development council.

He added that the council will liaise with universities and colleges to groom graduates for specific jobs to meet industry needs.  

A case in point for this lingering issue is how Racer Technology took more than a decade of multiple failed hires before they managed to appoint a suitable candidate to be general manager. 

Mr Koh told CNA that he wanted to hire a local to lead the staff based there as Johoreans would best understand the working culture.

He eventually promoted a staff member from within the ranks - Mdm Chloe Hong who has been with the company for 18 years. 

“So crazy … It took us a while to look for a good general manager and … this is because most of (the skilled workers in Johor) have gone to Singapore to work because of the (large) difference in exchange rate,” said Mr Koh. 

He added that finding a skilled local employee like Mdm Hong, whose head will not be turned by offers from across the Causeway, was like finding a “needle in a haystack”. 

Mr Koh added that he anticipates the brain drain in Johor to worsen even with the SEZ as better connectivity will encourage more Malaysians to go across the Causeway for perceived better career prospects. 

He also said that the government should allow for Singapore employees to travel freely under special expatriate passes as part of the SEZ. 

“In (the) future we will see there will be a shortage of engineers and middle management people because they will be all going to Singapore. So this again, Malaysia needs the government to open up another channel for expatriates to come in to run the facility (and help with) the production operation,” said Mr Koh. 

Mdm Hong told CNA that she is not keen to work in Singapore as she wants to be close to family, but she acknowledges that many of her friends and even the younger generation in Johor will likely choose to go across the Causeway to work. 

“I think maybe the number of skilled workers left in Johor will be much less, and this could be a problem for companies looking to set up here,” she added. 

The Malaysian agri-business owner Mr Tan echoed similar sentiments. He noted that he has faced difficulties hiring middle managers in Johor and has resorted to taking some of the responsibilities up himself. 

“Singapore companies can pay these managers higher but I think it's worth convincing them to come back because the expenses in Singapore are high as well. 

“Many Johoreans these days need to change their mindset and show their capabilities at firms here at home. I hope as part of the (SEZ) the income level of Johoreans will go up and many will no longer need to go to Singapore to find work,” he added.

Sign up for our newsletters

Get our pick of top stories and thought-provoking articles in your inbox

Get the CNA app

Stay updated with notifications for breaking news and our best stories

Get WhatsApp alerts

Join our channel for the top reads for the day on your preferred chat app

Related Topics

Also worth reading, this browser is no longer supported.

We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be.

To continue, upgrade to a supported browser or, for the finest experience, download the mobile app.

Upgraded but still having issues? Contact us