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MalaysiaMyDestination.com
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Johor
is on the southernmost tip of Peninsular Malaysia. The name Johor
was purportedly taken from Arabic word, 'Jauhar', which literally
means 'Precious Stones'. This is probably related to the early Arab
traders who traded spices in Johor. The name has certainly brought
prosperity as today the state is among the most developed in Malaysia.
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Its close proximity to Singapore, especially its capital Johor Bahru
(JB), has turned the state into a favourite weekend getaway for the
people of the republic. They not only shop but also take the opportunity
to visit other attractions such as the beaches, waterfalls or to simply
enjoy the food! |
Johor is also the only state in Malaysia that has a coastline both
along the Straits of Melaka and the South China Sea. |
Before you proceed to other parts of Johor, take time off to visit
interesting places in the state capital. The Royal Sultan Abu Bakar
Museum and Grand Palace with its beautiful and well-manicured garden
make a splendid background for photographs. The dome of the Royal
Sultan Abu Bakar Museum is reflective of the European influence that
manifested itself during the colonial days. On the other hand, the
Johor Art Gallery displays a wide
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array artefacts that relates to the rich
Malay heritage. And if you're looking for souvenirs to bring home,
stop over at Mawar Gift Shop and Johor Tourism Information Centre
(JOTIC).
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After touring the city, perhaps you need
some cooling fresh air and what better way to relax than to visit
the waterfalls in Kota Tinggi. About 45 minutes drive from JB, Kota
Tinggi though rapidly developed, has not lost its natural charm.
Chalets are available for those wishing to stay overnight.
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If you're in for seafood, Kukup with its
fishing village provides fresh seafood at reasonable price. Here
you can even visit the fish farms.
And for those seeking jungle adventure,
the Endau-Rompin National Park is an ideal place. The park is
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| home to many unique varieties of tropical
plants. The Endau Rompin National Park covers some 488 sq. kilometres
of forest and is gazetted as the country's second national park. This
haven for nature lovers is one of the few remaining lowland forests
in the country and possibly the oldest. In 1985 and 1986, a scientific
expedition identified 25 new species of plants within the area and
its rocks and hills have been estimated to be 248 million years old.
But that is not all, its various legends and myths add up to its overall
appeal. |
After enjoying Endau-Rompin lush greenery, perhaps it's time for some
fun on the beach. Desaru is the place to be. Its 25 kilometre-stretch
of sandy beach and the waves of the South China Sea make you yearn
for a longer holiday. You can choose from a few hotels operating at
the resort. Besides lazing under the sun and tanning your skin, you
have an array of activities to while away your time…you can go fishing,
snorkelling, windsurfing, boating, canoeing, swimming and jungle trekking. |
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Johor is also known for the islands off its eastern seaboard. Take
your pick from these wonderful islands - Rawa, Sibu, Aur, Besar and
Pemanggil. They will definitely make great escape from modern bustling
life in the city. |
A visit to a new place is not complete without exploring its art and
crafts. Ayer Hitam offers a wide range of ceramics, porcelain and
potteries. If you're already in Ayer Hitam, then proceed to the quaint
town, Muar. This serene town is a good place for you to sample delicious
and inexpensive food at the foodstalls and restaurants. The waterfalls
at the foot of Mount Ophir (Gunung Ledang) are also accessible from
Muar. |
If you want to taste Johor's famed pineapples, hasten to Pontian,
about an hour's drive from Johor Bahru. The town is also the staging
point for visitors going to Gunung Pulai - a place for waterfall picnic
and jungle trekking. |
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Just like any other states in Malaysia, Johor food is not to be missed.
Among the popular ones are Laksa Johor, Briyani Gam and Otak-otak.
Laksa Johor is a combination of spaghetti-like noodle, fish gravy
and condiments such as cucumber, onions and salad. If you want the
extra spicy "kick", add some sambal, a special |
| chilli paste to go with the dish. You should
also try the Briyani Gam - special rice cooked with spices and eaten
with chicken, beef or mutton. If you want something light, then try
the Otak-otak. Otak-otak is a traditional grilled fish cake wrapped
in coconut leaf - good to be eaten as appetiser. While you're savouring
the food, perhaps you'll also get to enjoy the well-known traditional
dance - kuda kepang. You'll be mesmerised by the charm of the dancers
and their graceful movements. |
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With such fascinating features of Johor,
there is no reason why you shouldn't visit this southern gem of
peninsular Malaysia.
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company.