Thailand to Singapore day 29 & 30
Exploring Johor Bahru: A City of History, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Johor Bahru (JB), the capital of Johor state in Malaysia, is often seen as a gateway city for those traveling between Malaysia and Singapore. But beneath its reputation as a transit hub lies a city with deep historical roots, diverse cultural influences, and a vibrant food scene. Our visit to JB, though initially planned as a relaxed stop, turned into a journey of discovery—filled with unexpected adventures, delicious food, and fascinating glimpses into the city’s past and present.
Johor Bahru: A Historical and Economic Overview
Johor Bahru was founded in 1855 by Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim, who moved his administrative capital from Telok Blangah (now part of Singapore) to Tanjung Puteri, later renamed Johor Bahru. The city quickly became an important center for trade and administration. Under the rule of Sultan Abu Bakar, known as the “Father of Modern Johor,” JB underwent rapid modernization, influenced by British governance and infrastructure development.
Johor Bahru’s strategic location at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula has played a significant role in its economic growth. The city has long been a major trading hub, first for rubber and palm oil during the colonial era and later as a center for manufacturing, retail, and tourism. Today, JB is part of the Iskandar Malaysia development project, a massive economic initiative aimed at transforming it into a world-class metropolitan area.
Politically, Johor has maintained a strong connection to the Malaysian monarchy, with the Sultan of Johor wielding significant influence. The state has also played a crucial role in national politics, often being a battleground for Malaysia’s leading political parties.
A Night of Culinary Adventures
Our evening in Johor Bahru started with a meet-up with Jae, a local motorbike enthusiast, who took us to a night market and a local restaurant. But before we could enjoy our meal, we had to survive the ride there.
We booked a Grab, expecting a routine ride through JB’s busy streets. However, our Indian driver had a different approach to navigating traffic—one that felt more like a rollercoaster ride than a car trip. He weaved through small roads, cut through gas stations, and took unexpected shortcuts, making us feel as if we were in the middle of a high-speed chase. After twenty minutes of erratic driving, we arrived at our destination dizzy and slightly nauseous, but at least we got there quickly!
At the night market, we sampled Singapore Carrot Cake, which, despite its name, contains neither carrots nor cake. Instead, it’s a stir-fried dish made from radish cake, eggs, and a mix of dark or light soy sauce. The dish was a pleasant surprise—savory, slightly crispy, and packed with umami flavor. We also tried Satay, Malaysia’s famous grilled meat skewers served with peanut sauce, which was just as delicious as we had hoped. On the other hand, the tofu with sauce was not to our taste.
The best part of the night wasn’t just the food but the company. Jae, his mother, and some friends shared stories about life in JB, giving us a deeper appreciation for the city beyond its tourist attractions.
Exploring Johor Bahru’s Heritage
The next day, after a relaxed morning at the hotel, we set out to explore Johor Bahru’s historical side, starting with the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque. Perched on a hill overlooking the Straits of Johor, this grand mosque was built between 1892 and 1900 under the rule of Sultan Abu Bakar. The architectural style is a blend of Victorian, Moorish, and Malay influences, reflecting the sultan’s admiration for British designs. It is one of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques and serves as a symbol of Johor’s rich Islamic heritage.
After visiting the mosque, we met Jae again for dinner at a hot pot restaurant. While the meal was enjoyable, we quickly realized that JB’s dining prices were significantly higher than those in Thailand. For the same price, we could have had four times the amount of food back home!
A Walk Through JB’s Old Town
After dinner, we took a leisurely walk through Johor Bahru’s city center. Thanks to Jae’s local knowledge, we explored areas we might have otherwise overlooked.
One of our stops was an Indian temple, a testament to JB’s multicultural heritage. The Indian community in Johor Bahru has deep roots, dating back to the British colonial era when many Indians migrated to work on rubber plantations and railways. Temples like this serve as important cultural and religious centers, preserving traditions that have been passed down for generations.
We also visited some colonial-era buildings, remnants of Johor Bahru’s past under British influence. Many of these structures, including the Old Post Office and Sultan Ibrahim Building, showcase British colonial architecture, reflecting JB’s historical ties to the British administration in Malaya.
Another highlight of our walk was the night market, a lively place filled with food stalls, vendors selling clothes and trinkets, and the vibrant energy of locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere was electric, and the cool evening air made for a pleasant stroll.
A New Perspective on Johor Bahru
Before this trip, we had seen Johor Bahru as just another busy Malaysian city, often overshadowed by nearby Singapore. But after exploring its streets, tasting its food, and meeting its people, we gained a new appreciation for JB. The city is a blend of old and new—colonial architecture standing alongside modern developments, night markets bustling under the glow of neon signs, and a culinary scene that reflects the rich diversity of Malaysia’s cultures.
Most importantly, we learned that having local connections makes all the difference. Seeing the city through Jae’s eyes allowed us to experience JB in a way we never would have on our own. Sometimes, the best travel experiences come not from famous landmarks but from shared meals, spontaneous conversations, and the little moments that make a place feel special.
As we headed back to our hotel for the night, we felt grateful for the experiences we had in Johor Bahru. From its rich history to its dynamic present, JB is a city that deserves more than just a passing glance. For travelers willing to look beyond its reputation as a border town, Johor Bahru offers a world of history, culture, and unforgettable adventures.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!
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