The Gem of Malaysia
Johor Bahru, the capital of Johor State, was known back in 1500 as the Gem or Jewel based on translation from Arabic. It was a major center on route of all trade. Today, it still is a commercial center. Its proximity to Singapore brings visitors eager to compare retail outlets, goods and their cost, as well as experience Malaysia.
Johor Bahru has both, colonial and oriental architecture. The Fortress represents the colonial era.
The old fortress, used as command center during World War II, was also used as a State Secretariat. Only a couple of years ago a new Secretariat has been built, Kota Iskandar.
Kota Iskandar is fast becoming the administrative center of JB. The new Secretariat with its spacious and well-lit Debating Chamber is modern and built in an oriental style.
The ceiling of the Debating Chamber brings in natural light and makes the building echo friendly. The concept saves electricity and ads special charm to the Chamber. This is where the Sultan oversees the debate.
Johor Bahru has many historical buildings. Royal Abu Bakar Mosque built in 1866 is considered the best mosque in Malaysia. Grand Palace, Istana Besar, has a rich history of Royal and Heads of State visits.
The architecture is impressive, royal, rich and unique to Malaysia.
However, JB is not just for those interested in history and architecture. Many visitors to Singapore are attracted by a quick causeway trip to JB to check out the goods on offer and their prices. There are many IT and electronic shops in JB with the newest staff on the market. The goods sold at local currency – MYR (Malaysian ringgit) prices are almost identical in value to SGD (Singapore dollar) prices in Singapore. That makes the cost of goods about half price with SGD equaling 2.4 MYR at the moment. Similarly, hotel accommodation and restaurants are cheaper in JB.
JB has parks and gardens as well as some 20 kilometers of waterfront. A view of Singapore across Straight of Johor is available to those strolling along the JB waterfront. Danga Bay is a waterfront district offering leisure activities and entertainment. It is gaily and colorfully lit at night. There are bars, restaurants offering local and international cuisine and music.
It is easy to stumble upon dancing performances of groups wearing national costumes. The motto “1 Malaysia” depicting the conglomerate of nations living in harmony can be found in JB.
Many say JB is trendy and the place to be. Check it out for yourself.
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