From exploring the captivating world of Lego to its unique blend of old-world charm and modern comfort, the Malaysian state of Johor is full of incredible sights, unique attractions and tons of fun activities that will leave a lasting impression.
The Bruneian, along with several representatives from other local media representatives and travel agents, recently participated in a Familiarisation Trip to experience the various facets of the vibrant multicultural city.
The five-day trip which was an invitation from Tourism Malaysia Brunei and Tourism Johor included visits to some family-fun attractions and historical and cultural sites such as Legoland Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Kota Iskandar and many more.
Traveling to JB via Singapore
We arrived from Bandar Seri Begawan to Singapore Changi International Airport via Singapore Airlines.
Johor Bahru is just a bridge away from Singapore. There are several modes of transportation to choose from when traveling from cross-bordering including bus, taxi, train, private vehicle and ferry.
During our trip, we travelled by private coach via the Causeway link, which is the most convenient way to get to Johor Bahru.
Before we crossed the Singapore-Malaysia border, we went through two immigration checkpoints – one at Woodlands CIQ in Singapore and the Johor Bahru Checkpoint in Malaysia.
Moreover, both checkpoints are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing easy travel to all visitors.
Historical and modern charms of JB
Johor Bahru is a marvelous blend of history and innovation.
Affectionately known as JB, the city is juxtaposed between a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks and modern infrastructure.
JB has transformed from a small fishing village to a booming city with soaring skyscrapers and population growth.
On day one, we started from zero. We took a stroll from the Zero Kilometre of Peninsular Malaysia, admiring the kaleidoscope of old-world architecture around it.
We further drove around the city to appreciate the rich tapestry of its historical past and the remarkable transformation and vibrant pace of modern life.
From JB’s oldest Chinese Ancient Temple to the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, it is impossible to visit Johor without coming across its impressive architectural wonders that stand as a time capsule.
Our journey to the historical city continued the next day at the Kompleks Warisan Sultan Abu Bakar — a one-stop destination to experience Johor culture and heritage.
During our Kompleks Warisan Sultan Abu Bakar tour we had a chance to visit the traditional Malay House in Johor known as ‘Rumah Limas’, which translates to Five-Roofed House.
We took our time walking through every section of the house; from the ‘serambi’ area (front porch) to the ‘rumah ibu’ (living room), admiring every woodcarving and traditional architecture.
We also visited the Weaving Gallery at the heritage building within the complex where we had a closer glimpse into Malaysian textile history, admiring the affluence and detail in the ‘tenun’ motifs and colours.
One of the highlights of the tour was the introduction to the traditional Malaysian Malay folk dance, the Zapin. The dance holds a significant part of Johor’s Heritage, showcasing the unique choreography and music that complement the dance moves.
Building memories one brick at a time in Legoland
After a tour through the old and new city of JB, we arrived at Legoland Malaysia Resort’s Theme Park, where we let our inner child run free and wild as we explored the theme park built out of brightly coloured Lego bricks.
The family-friendly park is located just outside of Johor Bahru, about 30 minutes drive from the city centre.
The theme park is segmented into eight different areas namely, ‘LEGO Technic’, ‘Lego Kingdoms’, ‘Land of Adventure’, ‘Lego Ninjago World’, ‘The Beginning’, ‘LEGO City’, ‘Miniland’ and ‘Imagination’. Each themed area features fun rides, a dining area and shops to be explored throughout the day.
Opened in 2012, Legoland Malaysia is home to over 40 interactive rides and attractions, for guests of all ages to enjoy.
From the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur to India’s Taj Mahal, we travelled through the diorama of cities built from close to 30 million multi-coloured Lego bricks at the Miniland.
One of the highlights of the tour was seeing the Miniland version of Brunei’s own Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
We also explored the castle and conquered The Dragon through a thrilling ride full of twists, turns, and tons of fun at the much-anticipated Lego Kingdom.
Meanwhile, reaching for the clouds, we also had a chance to admire the beautiful skyline of Johor from the rotating Observation Tower.
Further into our adventure is the Sea Life Aquarium at Legoland, home to over 13,000 sea creatures from 120 species.
We had a swimmingly good time surrounding ourselves with sea animals from sharks to seahorses. We also got to feel the spiny sea stars and discover the texture of the enigmatic sea cucumbers.
In addition to spending time with the sea animals, there are plenty of interactive activities to keep both children and adults entertained.
Another highlighted activity at the aquarium is designing and colouring your favourite sea creatures and bringing them to life on the digital ocean screen.
After touring around the theme park, our next stop was the Legoland Resort Hotel, located just a few steps from the theme park entrance.
With an exterior that looks like it is made out of Lego, the hotel is every Lego fan’s dream come true.
As soon as you step foot into the lobby, you are immediately greeted by a huge Lego Pirate Ship and Castle surrounded by a pit of Lego blocks.
Not only that, each floor at the hotel is dedicated to a theme. Upon booking, you can choose from Pirate, Kingdom, Adventure, Ninjago and or the latest, Lego Friends.
All and all, with the combination of theme park, water park, aquarium and hotel – everything is awesome!
An exclusive Sultan Ibrahim Stadium tour
One of the highlights of our trip is that we had the privilege to step foot into the iconic state-of-the-art Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, home of Johor Darul Ta’zim FC (JDT) from 2020.
The stadium is located in the city of Iskandar Puteri and can host up to 40,000 spectators.
During the tour, we were fully immersed in the Blue, Red, White world’s epic foundation to the present day.
We further gained an insight into how the footballers prepare on a matchday, following the path down to the tunnel, and feeling the tension build as you follow the steps off into the pitch.
Not only that, but we also learned that the modern stadium pitch is laid with Zeon Zoysia grass and has a drainage system that prevents water logging.
At the stadium, visitors have the chance to buy authentic JDT kits, exclusive fashion clothing and unique JDT merchandise at the official store.
Overall, it was the ultimate football experience with the fully immersive and educational stadium tour.
Shop til you drop at JB
Johor Bahru is recognised by Tourism Malaysia as one of the top shopping destinations.
From Mid Valley Southkey Mall to the trendy Johor Premium Outlet (JPO), further into our tour, we also had a chance to shop and wander around the city’s best spot to seek retail therapy and unique shopping experience.
The Mid Valley Southkey is the southern region’s largest integrated shopping mall featuring luxury brands, high-end boutiques, popular Japanese stores and more.
Other notable retailers here include Muji, Dior, Chanel, JD Sports and even a LEGO-certified store.
Whereas, the JPO is a shopping lovers’ paradise for those seeking designer labels at discounted prices featuring 150 finest collection designer brands such as Bottega Veneta, Boss, Bonia, Burberry, Coach, Christian Louboutin and many more.
At the popular outlet, not only do you benefit from the attractive currency exchange rate, but the outlet also offers great promotions and discounts on your favourite high-end designer brands.
Experience new heights at Skyscape at Menara JLand
Our final stop before leaving Johor was the Skyscape at Menara JLand.
Not for the faint-hearted, at 34 floors up, the Sky Bridge view deck offers a beautiful panoramic view of Johor and Singapore’s skyline.
Acrophiles and avid thrill-seekers will also love crystal clear views straight down through a glass-bottom floor that allows visitors to experience how it feels to be suspended at 149m above ground.
We also had fun taking photos from the view of the horizon from the tall Sky Bridge to lying down and using the cityscape beneath our background. Overall, a fun and thrilling experience.
Looking back, Johor Bahru offers travelers a tapestry of experiences that weave together the old and the new. The cultural experiences and modern attractions created a memorable and wholesome trip for everyone.
Whether you are seeking endless adventures, exploring history-packed alleyways, or simply an all-in-one shopping spree, Johor Bahru is a city that promises to captivate your every sense.
THE BRUNEIAN | JOHOR MALAYSIAN
