The following places of outdoor adventure are within Johor state, some compilation of my years of scouting, which is useful info for scouts and nature challenger to explore and have fun. Please be note that the contacts number. are old 7 digits number, call Telekom Malaysia at 103 to acquire updated numbers.
For scout troops who which to organize activities on any outdoor places, you are adviced to prepare your letter of district commissioner approval, police acknowledgement letter or school authority letter, to ensure your scouts will be safe and protected while enjoying the outdoor fun.
Yours in scouting (YIS),
ASM Alex Tan Wei Yen
Johor is also known as (a.k.a.) "SOUTHERN GATEWAY"
Geographical info:
Johor is the southern most state in the penisula and is linked to Singapore by a causeway carrying a road and the railway across the Selat Tebrau (straits of Johor) at Johor Bahru. The state is bounded on the north by Pahang, on the west by Negeri Sembilan and Melaka, on the east by the South China Sea and the south by the Selat Tebrau. It is one of the most developed states in the country, particularly on its western side where rubber, oil palm and pineapple makes Johor the prime producer of these commodities in the whole country. It also has a timber and wood-based products industry and grows pepper. The new port of Pasir Gudang on the Selat Tebrau is fast developing into an important international port.
***********************************************************************************************
1. Endau-Rompin National Park
Endau-Rompin National Park is home to one of the oldest rain-forest and most fascinating eco-systems in the world. It is also home to a bewildering variety and spectrum of flora and fauna to be found anywhere. Endau-Rompin is best described as the hidden treasure chest of Malaysia's most beautiful execeptionally wealthy heritage. Due to its isolation and difficulty of access it remains one of the least disturbed and finest examples of lowland tropical rainforests in the region. Located on the Johor-Pahang border, this 2 1/2 century-old extensive lowland forest is home to several rare and endangered species including the two horned rhinoceros. This park is popular with conservationist and nature lovers who enjoy the treeming wildlife and virgin enviroment.
***********************************************************************************************
2. Gunung Arong Recreational Forest
This forest of towering and shady trees and natural setting offer a refreshing retreat for visitors. There are popular picnic spots by the riverside, a garden and a well equipped playground. Other facilities include rest shdes, dressing room, toilet and tree-top huts. Jungle trails are also provided for the more adventurous visitors.
***********************************************************************************************
3. Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest
Lush greenery and ravishing wilderness await visitors. it is a haven for camping, picnics and mountain climbing. Gunung Belumut promises exotic vegetation and breathtaking waterfalls.
***********************************************************************************************
4. Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest
Located at the foothill of Gunung Lambak, this recreational forest is a favourite retreat for picnics, bathing and mountain-climbing. The 510m high Gunung Lambak is accessible by footpaths provided. Facilities including car park, benches, rest shade, dressing room, toilets and a bridge leading to camp sites are provided.
***********************************************************************************************
5. Gunung Ledang Recreational Forest (Mount Ophir)
Crystal clear rivers and breathtaking waterfalls in tranquil, unspolit environment welcome visitors to this area, Various amenities, including rest shades, dressing room, camping sites, food stalls and car park are provided here. There are also tracks leading to the summit of Gunung Ledang.
***********************************************************************************************
6. Gunung Panti Recreational Forest
This recreational forest is a haven for those who like to camp. Facilities including camp sites and temporary accommodation are provided for visitors. Rare species of flora and fauna can be found here.
***********************************************************************************************
7. Aur Island
Pulau Aur, with its secluded lagoons and offshore pools, is famed for its natural scenic beauty. It is perfect for bathing and a host of water-based activities. A longhouse on the island provides basic accommodation for small groups of visitors.
***********************************************************************************************
8. Besar Island
Pulau Besar is the nearest island to the mainland, only an hour from Mersing. Its claim to history is the role it played as pirates' lair in ancient times. Today, it is probably the best known of all the islands of Johor. Pulau Besar measures 3 square miles and offers yet another alternative to city living with 60 cows and less than 50 people on the island.
***********************************************************************************************
9. Pemanggil Island
Another enchanting island paradise is Pulau Pemanggil, about five hours away by boat from Mersing. This remote island is also famed for the beauty and abundance of marine life within its clear emerald waters. Chalets and longhouses are available for visitors wishing to spend the night.
***********************************************************************************************
10. Rawa Island
Pulau Rawa is known as the Royal Island. The late Tunku Mohd. Achibald chanced upon this island and discovered it was a perfect fishing gateway. He often visited the place with his friends. Today, two generations later, it is popular with European aristocrats as well as the leisure tourists. This is the 'Fantasy Island' of Johor although it is only half the size of Pulau Aur. The fishing around Rawa is truly fantastic and some of the youngsters even go on lobster hunting trips. The water is great for snorkelling, scuba and clear enough for good underwater photography.
***********************************************************************************************
11. Sibu Island
For diving, Sibu Island's surrounding waters is a marine park. There are also opportunities for trekking, watersports and kelong visits. Situated 2 hours from Mersing, the Sibu Island Resort here with its own jetty boats of cottages furnished in typical Malaysian fashion. Some of the rooms here are air-conditioned and there is even a functional hall and KTV/disco lounge to jazz up those quiet nights. Activities here include snorkelling, fishing, wind surfing and canoeing.
***********************************************************************************************
12. Sibu Tengah Island
Pulau Sibu Tengah offers visitors a variety of accommodation at its rustic resorts plus a host of watersports activities. Visitors may also play tennis and maybe plunge into the cool emerald depths to cool off later. Other facilities include a restaurant, bar and a discotheque where one can dance the night away.
***********************************************************************************************
13. Tengah Island
Pulau Tengah, an uninhabited island, lies nine nautical miles off the coast of Mersing on the South China Sea. It is an hour away by boat from Mersing town. During the 70's, the island became famous as a Vietnamese refugee transit camp which was subsequently closed in the early 80's. In 1985, Pulau Tengah was one of the few islands gazetted by the Malaysian government as a Marine Park due to its abundant marine life and rare species of fish and coral. Giant leatherback turtles come ashore to lay eggs yearly especially during the month of July.
***********************************************************************************************
14. Tinggi Island
Pulau Tinggi, rising 2,000 ft above sea level, is endowed with fresh waters, a sheltered harbour and coral reefs which abound with prolific marine life. Swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving are some of the more popular pursuits here.
***********************************************************************************************
15. Air Papan Beach
This stretch of beach is popular picnic area. The annual 'Pesta Air Papan' celebrated on 1 st May draws thousands of people. There are chalets for rental.
***********************************************************************************************
16. Lido Beach
Located along the banks of the Straits of Johor is Lido Beach. This is a popular spot for relaxing, and it's from this point that you can have a good view of Singapore. However, using a pair of binoculars would be even better, though, as it's quite a distance from Johor Bahru. Lido Beach stretches for about 3km along the banks, and is actually the waterfront of Johor Bahru. To view the causeway that links Johor to Singapore, a boat ride would be great idea. However, you are not allowed to exceed 300m from the banks of Johor Bahru. One can go on a cruise along the straits up to Kg Melayu to see 'Kelong' (huge fish trap built on stilts) and visit farms on stilts that raise sea bass, garoupa and mussels.
***********************************************************************************************
17. Johor Bahru Art Gallery
The Johor Art Gallery was built in 1910 and houses all discovered and historical items such as documents and cultural artifacts traditionally used by Malays, particularly from the State of Johor. Among the exhibits are clothings, weapons, currency, manuscripts and examples of calligraphy, ceramic objects and fine art.
***********************************************************************************************
18. Kampung View
A village within the city that gives a glimpse of Traditional Malay Costumes & Culture. Daily presentations that introduce the traditional Malay way of life. Also watch how rubber is tapped a true cultural experience.
6-B, Jalan Inche Besar Zubaidah,
80100 Johor Bahru, Johor.
Tel & Fax : 07-222 7037
***********************************************************************************************
19. Mawar
Mawar should be on the visitors must visit list and any visitors to Johor who misses out on a visit to Mawar is poorer for the experience. The Mawar building's architectural design is traditional, and though its many amenities are modern it, neverthless, stands as a cultural monument. Many functions graced by the state's diginitaries have been held in the Dewan Kaziman and Dewan Hayati. Occasions such as dances are performed and traditional musical instruments are brought into play. The visitors to Johor can spend a very rewarding day here-have a traditional meal at the Mawaria restaurant look through Karyaneka's souvenir shops, observe how batik printing is done or just enjoy a cup od tea at the Tebrau Tea Terrace. Mawar stands for grace, culture and charity-spend a day with Mawar for culturally rewarding experience and contribute to a more graceful and charitable way of life, for yourself and for others.
***********************************************************************************************
20. The Causeway
Entering Johor Bahru from Singapore involves travelling across the Causeway which links the two cities. Completed in 1924 after four years' work, the Causeway is 1,056 metres long and extends to a depth of 23 metres below the water level. In January 1942, the British Army demolished part of it as invading Japanese forces prepare to attack Singapore from the north. The Japanese soon effected repairs and the Causeway resumed its role as an important road, railway and general communications link. The crossing includes a pedestrian walkway for the energetic. Singapore gets a good deal of water supply from large water pipes which have been laid across the Causeway from Johor.
***********************************************************************************************
21. Johor Zoo
Situated on sprawling grounds at Jalan Gertak Merah is the Johor Zoo. It houses some of the most fascinating collection of animals. Include it in your itinerary for a few hours of fun. Opening hours: Daily 8.00 am to 6.00 pm
***********************************************************************************************
22. Johorcraft Village (Kota Tinggi)
A one-stop cultural centre destined to be Johor's latest tourist attraction. The Village is the place for fascinating demonstration of traditional songket weaving, batik silk painting and the art of fine pottery. Tourists can pick up interesting handicraftss and knick-knacks as souvenirs and enjoy live cultural performances while dining in the Village's restaurant.
***********************************************************************************************
23. Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
Waterfalls is what comes to mind when Kota Tinggi is mentioned. The falls at Kota Tinggi are a great favourite among the locals. On most weekends, there will be at least 1000 visitors who come here to bath, picnic or just to laze on the rocks. Many come just to enjoy the cool air and the sight of the falls splashing down some 36 metres into the clear pools below. The surrounding greenery, falls and people make a good photographic subject and very often the visitor will be able to meet foreigners, and locals too, with camera at the ready to capture that elusive scene.
***********************************************************************************************
24. REM Experimental Farm
Be in touch with Nature and visit Johor's tropical garden of Eden, just a 45 mins drive from Johor Bahru in Ulu Tiram, near Kota Tinggi. Experience the kaleidoscope of colourful blooms of flowers, fruits and plants grown in greenhouses. Ideal for a short break and great fun as an educational retreat for city folks. Swimming, nature walks and night tours to catch fireflies and frogs make for a refreshing weekend for the young-at-heart.
***********************************************************************************************
25. Fisherman Museum
A stop one should not miss is the Fisherman Museum in the village which was established in 1985 by KEJORA to offer visitors an insight into the livehood of the fishing community with their simple lifestyle and wealth of tradition.
Located appoximately 98km from Johor Bahru. 2 hours drive from Singapore via Kota Tinggi. Taxis and buses are available from Johor Bahru or Kota Tinggi and arranged pick-up point from the junction to Tanjung Balau.
South East Johor Development Authority (KEJORA),
KEJORA Headquarters, Jalan Dato Onn, Bandar Penawar,
Desaru, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor.
Tel : 07-822 1201 / 1202, 010-718 3524
Fax : 07-822 1600
***********************************************************************************************
26. Tanjung Balau Fisherman Village
Tanjung Balau Fisherman Village, a place labelled as "where the old charm begins" is located a mere stone's throw away from the beachside of Desaru in Malaysia's sounthern-most state of Johor. Tourists are privileged to experince the authenic lifestyle of Malay fisherman, their traditions and hospitality in this village.
South East Johor Development Authority (KEJORA),
KEJORA Headquarters, Jalan Dato Onn, Bandar Penawar,
Desaru, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor.
Tel : 07-822 1201 / 1202, 010-718 3524
Fax : 07-822 1600
***********************************************************************************************
27. Tanjung Piai
Tanjung Piai is famous for its mangrove swamplands - home to many exotic aquatic life forms which include multi-coloured mangrove crabs, beadyeyed mudskippers and crab-eating macaques. Located at the southern most tip of mainland Asia, Tanjung Piai is about 75km from Johor Bahru. Visitors will be able to see how 'Gula Melaka' is processed the traditional way, and the collection of honey at the honey bee farm. They can also experience the lifestyle of a typical Malay kampung community.
***********************************************************************************************
28. Desaru Beach
This strech of beach, formerly surrounded by virgin jungle, was developed as a tourist resort by the Johor Tenggara Development Authority (KEJORA). This resort is linked to Kota Tinggi by a modern highway and has two first class hotels as well as beach chalets for rental: An 18-hole international standard golf course has also beeb built and there are facilities for day visitors. On weekends hawker stalls on the normally quiet beach, cater for an influof day trippers. There are also facilities for sports such as tennis and canoeing.
***********************************************************************************************
29. Sungai Balang Hot Spring
A hot spring located at Sungai Balang on the way to Batu Pahat, Muar.
Muar is a picturesque town popular for the delicious and inexpensive foods served by foodstalls and restaurants. Also known as Bandar Maharani, the town bears a striking resemblance to Malacca geographically, culturally and in terms of their inter-connecting historical and commercial roles. Take a stroll along the tree-lined riverside at Tanjong.
***********************************************************************************************
30. Wet World Batu Pahat Village Resort
The 'Malaysia First Milleanium Waterpark', formerly a disused mining pond is now turned into an attractive recreational resort. Spread over 44 acres of land and bilt around the famous Tasek Merdeka in Batu Pahat, Wet World Batu Pahat Village Resort is the flagship of the group of water theme parks.
Operation hours : 10am - 8pm. Rates (adult RM10.00 child RM5.00)
Lot 138, Jalan Bukit Pasir,
Taman Tasek Merdeka,
83050 Batu Pahat,
Johor.
Tel : 07-434 6060
Fax : 07-433 6161
***********************************************************************************************
31. Mersing
Mersing is a pleasant town known for its large bustling fishing fleet. It is also the setting-off point for a large number of islands in the South China Sea, including the well-known Pulau Tioman in the state of Pahang. The Mersing Boat Hire Association provides boats for inter-island travel or fishing.
***********************************************************************************************
32. Pontian
Approximately one hour's drive from Johor Bahru is Pontian, where some of the fishermen, numbering about 1,500, live in houses raised on stilts above the water. Kukup is known for its fresh seafood and most restaurants serve these "delights of the sea". The road to Pontian is flanked by pineapple plantations.
***********************************************************************************************
33. Aw Pottery
The Aw Pottery near Air Hitam has long been a favourite with both local and foreign tourists. Its brick kiln, built to a Chinese design, is 48 metres long and produces around 2,000 individual pieces of pottery at each firing. The Minangkabau showroom displays a wide variety of pottery for sale. Visitors are welcome to wander through the studio behind the showroom to watch the potters at work.
***********************************************************************************************
34. Tropical Village
Premier Theme Park in Johor. More than thirty well-known landmarks and "Wonders of the World" are found. There are more than 80 fruit species and some rare trees which are at the brink of extinction. Experience the fascinating and exhilarating life while rowing in the wide pool or look at yourself at the Magic Mirror Hall, others can feel the winding dinosaur train to discover the cave of Tropical Village. To those who love the outdoor and challenges, the Haunted House awaits you. You can enjoy the horse ride of breath the fresh air and savour your eyes at the numerous foliage around as you pass through.
Visiting hours : 9.00am to 7.00pm daily
Batu 56 1/2, Jalan Johor,
86100 Air Hitam, Johor.
Tel : 07-758 2170
Fax : 07-758 1612
***********************************************************************************************
35. Kukup
Kukup is a a fishing village with houses on stilts at the water's edge. There are numerous restaurants on stilts serving delicious seafood. Handicraft and delicacies such as keropok, belacan and cincaluk are available at Kukup. Visitors can also hire fishing boats.
