Malaysia maps

The Johor Racing Circuit

The 3.86km circuit in Pasir Gudang was developed by the Johor State Economic Development Corporation and promoted by Sports Communications Sdn Bhd, in accordance with the standards set by the Federation Internationale Motorcyclists and Federation Internationale Automobile. The circuit is built on undulating terrain with twelve challenging corners and it offers excellent viewing for spectators. Events hosted yearly include the World Superbike, World Endurance, and the Johor Race Series for cars and bikes

Sibu / Tengah / Tinggi / Besar & Rawa Island

The Marine Parks of Johor are centered around the islands of Sibu, Mentinggi, Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Hujung, and Rawa. Lying a few nautical miles off the coast of Mersing, the islands are surrounded by deep blue waters, fine white beaches, and colorful coral reefs. Swim to your heart's content in the cool clear water or go snorkeling in the fascinating depths where an underwater treasure throve awaits your discovery. The wondrous colors and sheer artistry of the coral garden also offers ample scope for underwater photography.

Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest

This 8-hectare forest reserve is a catchment area of unique flora and fauna and a fascinating recreational haven. Along the course of a river are several waterfalls with pools at its bottom. Apart from being an ideal picnic spot, the forest is a favorite venue for seminars and workcamps and is a focal point for adventurers trekking to the summit of Gunung Pulai.

Mount Ophir

The mountain is said to be the home of a legendary Princess, "Puteri Gunung Ledang", who was once wooed by the last Sultan of Malacca, Sultan Mahmud Shah. The mountain is a favorite among local mountaineers in search of excitement and adventure. The sagil waterfall at its base is a favorite picnic spot. Crystal clear rivers and breathtaking waterfalls in tranquil, unspoiled environment beckon visitors to this area for a cooling bath or quiet rest. There are also tracks leading to the summit of Gunung Ledang.

Tanjung Piai

Located at the southern most tip of mainland Asia, 75km from JB, Tanjung Piai is famous for its mangrove swamplands, which are homes to many exotic aquatic life-forms, including multicolored mangrove crabs, beady-eyed mudskippers, and crab-eating macaques. Here, one can see "Gula Melaka" (palm sugar) processed the traditional way and experience the lifestyle of a typical Malay Kampung community. Tanjung Piai is also home to one of nature's rarely seen spectacular phenomena, the fireflies. When certain conditions prevail, these fireflies will swarm and transform the mangrove swamp into a twinkling wonderland

Muar

Also know as Bandar Maharani, Muar is a picturesque town popular for delicious yet inexpensive food. A town where trishaws and bicycles abound, Muar bears a striking resemblance to Malacca geographically, culturally, and in terms of their interconnecting historical and commercial roles. It is also known as the home of the "ghazal" music, a traditional Malay culture that remains very popular with the older folk.

Desaru

A major tourist attraction, Desaru the "Village of Casuarinas", is just 8km northeast of JB. Situated on a 25km stretch of virtually untouched beaches, it is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, boating, canoeing, windsurfing, water-skiing, catamaran-sailing, and even jungle trekking. One can also make arrangements for night fishing on a floating pontoon. There are two first class beach resorts, several chalets, and other amenities. Golf enthusiasts can try a round of their favorite game at the nearby 18-hole international standard golf course. Food stalls and restaurants provide some of the finest Malay, Chinese, and Western cuisine.

Johor Lama (Old Johor)

Johor Lama is a small quiet village 19km from Kota Tinggi on the banks of the Johor River. Historically, it holds many secrets to the past, particularly since it served as the seat of the Johor Sultanate after the fall of the final destruction of the town fort by the Portuguese in 1587. The earth mount fort has since been restored.

Located 56km north of JB, the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls have for years been renowned, not only for its continuous rush of cool waters that run down the slopes originating from Gunung Panti and cascades 34 meters into a pool deep enough for swimming, but also for its beautiful, tropical surroundings of flora and fauna. A few chalets have been built near the falls for visitors who wish to spend the night and be rejuvenated by the fresh mountain air. A restaurant serves both Chinese and Western food. There are also food stalls. A camping site has been opened for the young and adventurous. Ample parking space is available for buses, cars, and motorcycles.

Tanjung Balau Fishing Village

Visitors should visit this village, which is located close to Desaru, if they are looking for a taste of rustic life. Established in 1985 by the Johor Tenggara Development Authority (KEJORA), this village is an enriching experience for visitors who wish to learn about the arts, skills, and lifestyles of the Malay fishermen. Local fishermen's houses and dormitories are available for those who wish to stay overnight. One should also visit the Fishermen Museum, which preserves and displays material and information on fishing practices, taboos, and types of equipment used.

Gunung Arong Recreational Forest

Located approximately 17km from Mersing, Gunung Arong is a tranquil lowland forest with crystal clear waters, offering a refreshing retreat for visitors. A Forestry Museum has even been established with exhibits of various forest products. Picnic spots are provided for visitors, along with a well-equipped garden, campsites, and meeting halls. Jungle trails are also provided for the more adventurous visitors. Campers are advised to bring their own camping gear

Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest

This forest is located to the northeast of Kluang town. Its name is derived from the slippery and slimy stones that can be found all over the mountain. It takes about four hours to reach the peak, which is 1,004m above sea level. This forest is a haven for camping, picnicking, and mountain climbing. Gunung Belumut promises exotic vegetation and breathtaking waterfalls.

Mersing

Located 135km from Johor Bahru, Mersing is a small fishing village whose rivers bustle with fishing boats. It is also the departure point for boats that travel between the mainland and a number of islands in the South China Sea. They include Pulau Tioman, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Besar, and Pulau Sibu. There are a number of fine seafood restaurants in Mersing, along with an impressive mosque on a hill above the town. There are some good beaches nearby, including Sri Pantai, Sekakap, Air Papan, and Panyabong. Mersing is indeed a pleasant town that makes for quite a relaxing stopover

Batu Pahat

Batu Pahat is a regional business and conference center that is famous for its Chinese cuisine. It is also a favorite resting place for road travelers. A brief stop here should give you a chance to taste a wide range of fruits, groundnuts, and other local delicacies, as well as to buy souvenirs and curios. There are a few notable buildings, such as the Art Deco's mosque and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce building.

Johor Bahru (JB)

Located at the southern tip of the Peninsula, Johor Bahru is the state capital of Johor Darul Takzim. JB, in short, was established in 1855 by the late Sultan Abu Bakar (the Father of Modern Johor) and now serves as the administrative and commercial center of the state.

Johor

Situated at the southern end of Peninsula Malaysia, Johor is the third largest state in the country. It was named after the Sungei Johor, which is the longest river in the state. Economically, it is one of the most important states in the country with various large plantations. They include commodities such as rubber, palm oil, and pineapple. On top of agricultural products, Johor is also becoming an industrial base. It has even developed to become one of the most populated states with Johor Bahru (JB), its capital city, as the second-largest city in Malaysia. A causeway and a railway line connect JB to Singapore, thus making it easier to travel to and from each country.
It is believed that Sultan Mahmud Shah, the last ruler of Malacca, founded Johor when he was forced to flee from the Portuguese in 1511. After his death, his son Alauddin Riayat Shah moved the capital to Kota Tinggi in Johor. He was able to build a strong kingdom, was feared by many, and was able to make Johor a preeminent Malay state. However, this did not mean the end of turmoil and fights. In the 16th Century, the state was attacked by the Portuguese followed by the Achinese from Sumatra, and later the Bugis from Sundawesi (Celebes). However, the Malay rulers of Johor managed to hold their own fort against all odds.
When Sir Stamford Raffles set foot in Singapore in 1819, he witnessed the factional war within the court of the Johor Sultan, which was divided by Malay and Bugis factions. He pensioned off the sultans and gave actual power to the "temenggong" (Malay minister). Temenggong Abu Bakar was given that privilege to rule Johor. He elevated himself to the position of Sultan of Johor in 1886. He persevered to build up the state and to modernize its administration. He established Johor Bahru (New Johor) as the capital city and began modernizing it. He was thus aptly called "The Father of Modern Johor". Johor finally became part of the Federation of Malaya in 1948.

Pedu Lake

Settled in the midst of the dense rainforest of Gunung Fakir Terbang and surrounded by an undulating terrain, this magnificent lake offers a serenity that is unmatched, a landscape that is beautiful beyond words, and a refreshing cool environment.

Pulau Langkawi

A true tropical paradise, Langkawi is steeped in history. Its past is full of legends of wronged maidens and lovelorn princesses, all of whom have left their mark for prosperity.

Payar Island

About one hour's travel by boat from Kuala Kedah, Payar Island is part of a four-island group, which consists of Sagantang Island, Kala Island, and Lembu Island. Payar Island, in particular, is noted for its white sandy beaches and colorful marine life. It is a great place to enjoy water sports. A fascinating array of hard and soft corals and multicolored tropical fishes can be seen in the crystal clear waters. There are no accommodation facilities on these islands. Camping is only allowed after obtaining permission from the Fisheries Department at Alor Setar or Kuala Lumpur.