Traveling to Malaysia on a holiday and lazing in a fancy hotel in Johor Bahru City might be a good idea, but there are key attractions tourists can’t simply shun for its historical significance. Here are some of those destinations that have shaped the city’s diverse and vibrant culture.
Royal Abu Bakar Museum
Completed in 1886, the Royal Abu Bakar Museum was commissioned by the late Sultan Abu Bakar. The building was constructed by local artisans, and the original furniture used was all shipped from England. Visitors of the museum can catch a glimpse of the royal family’s grand lifestyle through the elegant ornaments and opulent items. Pictures of Sultan Abu Bakar and his family, as well as gifts from other dignitaries, are also on display.
Operating hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Saturday to Thursday)
Chinese Heritage Museum
Chinese merchants first came to Johor Bahru during the 14th century, and soon started trading with the locals. They were able to put up businesses particularly in farming, and eventually contributed to the city's growth. The Chinese Heritage Museum tells this history through documents, photos, and other artifacts like old money, porcelain, and musical instruments. Tourists visiting the museum can also learn how the Cantonese brought carpentry as well as herbal medicines and coffee, which kick-started the coffee shop trends that are still popular even up to this day.
Operating hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim
One of the landmarks in Johor Bahru, Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim is a former state building completed in the 1940s during the British colonial government. It has a Saracenic design that combines Malay architecture and European design, and was once the tallest building in Malaya. In spite of the damage brought by the attacks during World War 2, this historic structure still stands. Some have it that the Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim will soon be an art museum.
Arulmigu Rajamariamman Temple
Founded by Kootha Perumal Vandayar, the Arulmigu Rajamariamman Temple was built as a place of worship for Hindus. History has it that Vandayar approached Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Abu Bakar and requested for land, and he was given an acre as a donation. Today, the 5-tier, 75-foot ornate tower is known as the tallest in Indian temple in Johor Bahru. Colorful sculptures of Hindu deities are displayed all over the temple. Non-local visitors should be aware of the temple rules that include charges for entrance, shoe storage, and taking photos.
Church of the Immaculate Concepcion
The oldest Catholic church of Johor Bahru, Church of the Immaculate Concepcion, was founded in 1927 by the late Father Saleilles, M. AP. The original church was built way back in 1883, and named as “Our Lady of Lourdes”. Today, it is the considered as the active center for Catholic life in Johor Bahru city.
To get to these tourist attractions easily, come and stay at Grand Bluewave Hotel in Johor Bahru City. This is situated along Jalan Bukit Meldrum, which also gives quick access to office complexes, shopping malls, and transportation stations.
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