Johor Bahru: Why the Malaysian city – a bridge away from Singapore – will make the ideal weekend escape when the coronavirus pandemic is over
Straddling the border with Singapore, Malaysia’s boisterous southernmost city, affectionately known as JB, may be a popular party escape – but rewards a longer stay
Since its foundation in 1855, Johor Bahru has grown from a small fishing village into a bustling city with two connecting bridges that link Malaysia with its closest neighbour, Singapore. While the character and aesthetics of Malaysia’s southernmost city – affectionately known as JB – have been shaped in recent times by its role as a regional transport and manufacturing hub, it’s certainly not a case of “all work and no play” in Johor Bahru.
On weekends, Singaporeans in search of cheap thrills – exploiting the fact the Singaporean dollar is much stronger than the Malaysian ringgit – cross the border, looking to make merry, eat well and partake in some of the most aggressive driving you’ll see in the country. Even if you’re not into roadside acrobatics, you’ll find there’s more than enough to keep you occupied in Johor Bahru for a weekend – or several, perhaps.
See and learn
Even today, the influences of British colonialism, Johor’s powerful royal family, and the country’s multicultural heritage are still visible in JB. Sultan Abu Bakar, the 21st Sultan of Johor, is often called the “Father of Modern Johor”, which is why you should head to the Royal Abu Bakar Museum and the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, which boasts an intriguing blend of English Victorian, Moorish and Malay architecture.
Close by is Zoo Johor, which has been operating since 1928 and is Malaysia’s oldest zoo. A short taxi ride will take you to Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple – a Hindu temple decorated with 300,000 glass mosaic pieces.
To get a sense of the city’s pulse, seek out Jalan Wong Ah Fook (named after a highly successful Chinese immigrant, entrepreneur and philanthropist), one of JB’s busiest roads.
As evening falls, those with an eye for a bargain can try their luck at Pasar Karat – a nightmarket that translates as “rusty market” in Malay, offering an eclectic selection of items, some more furtively acquired than others.