Johor to tap into history, culture for tourism boost
Tourism Johor director Mohammad Nazrul Abd Rahim said that, in conjunction with the Visit Johor 2026 campaign, various initiatives and promotions will be implemented comprehensively to showcase Johor's wealth of historical sites, performing arts and traditional culture.
'Among the locations with potential to be highlighted is the JKR Barracks in Parit Sulong, now known as the Parit Sulong Gallery.
'It functions as a mini museum and once served as a 'silent witness' to fierce battles between Allied (Commonwealth) and Japanese forces during World War II,' he told Bernama during the Yok Ronda BP programme here yesterday.
He said this site also commemorates an important incident in the nation's history, as it was the final battlefield before Japanese troops invaded Singapore and took control of Malaya at the time.
According to Mohammad Nazrul, in addition to its historical richness, Johor is also home to various forms of performing arts and cultural traditions, such as ghazal and the craft of gambus making, which are increasingly unfamiliar to the younger generation.
'We will continue to elevate these cultural arts as part of our tourism products. Tourism Johor will also collaborate with other agencies, including the Johor Heritage Foundation, to ensure the success of these efforts,' he said.
In addition, various small and medium enterprise products, such as kerepek and traditional snacks, will also be promoted as tourist attractions throughout the campaign.
Mohammad Nazrul stated that efforts to promote Johor's historical heritage, arts, and culture will not end after the Visit Johor 2026 campaign but will continue as part of the state government's long-term agenda.
Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has announced a target of 12 million domestic and international tourist arrivals and tourism revenue of RM42bil next year.
The state government has also allocated RM116.35mil to upgrade public facilities and enhance tourist attractions in support of the campaign.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
5 hours ago
- The Star
Tribunal orders JB woman to refund client RM15,776 for cancelled Japan holiday
Tribunal staff attending to queries at Menara Ansar in Johor Baru. A HUMAN resources executive and her three relatives had been looking forward to a holiday in Japan this year, but the trip did not materialise. Koh Ching Ting said the eight-day vacation to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka was supposed to have taken place from March 24 to 31, leaving from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). 'We had been attracted to a package promoted by a woman who had claimed to be the person in charge of the trip,' Koh said when met outside the Johor Consumer Claims Tribunal at Menara Ansar, Johor Baru. 'All together, we paid RM17,776 for four persons,' said the 36-year-old claimant. 'We were attracted to the packages after listening to my mother's friends who had gone on vacations arranged by the respondent,' said Koh, adding that the previous groups had only praises for the respondent who had arranged their trips to Vietnam in October 2024 and February 2025 'However, the woman contacted us on March 21, three days before our departure saying that there was a change of plans,' she added. Koh and her family were told by the respondent that instead of flying to Japan from KLIA, they would have to depart from Singapore's Changi Airport on May 25, and the tour of the three Japanese cities would be extended to April 1. The claimant said they agreed to the new departure date and flight arrangements. However, on March 23, the respondent called Koh to cancel the trip altogether. 'The respondent claimed that the Japanese ground agents were against the idea of Malaysians and Singaporeans, numbering about 30 people, travelling as a group,' Koh said. The respondent promised to refund Koh on April 1. 'I received RM2,000 from her on April 4, and she promised to settle the RM15,776 on May 6. 'However, by May 2, she was not reachable,' said the claimant. Koh said some of the affected holidaymakers received full refund, the others got only partial refund. Tribunal president Hafez Zalkapli ordered the respondent to refund RM15,776 to the claimant within two weeks. Those who need assistance in regard to Tribunal matters can call 07-227 1755/1766, or visit the Tribunal office at Level 17, Menara Ansar, Jalan Trus, Johor Baru, during office hours.
Hype Malaysia
19 hours ago
- Hype Malaysia
From Wagyu By La Moon To Imperial Lexus: New Dining Promos & Eateries To Check Out In KL!
If you're a foodie and always on a lookout for something new, this week brings a fresh lineup of exciting new dining spots and new promos from some of KL's best restaurants and bars! Whether you're planning a romantic date night, a casual catch-up with friends, or a solo foodie adventure, these new eateries and menus are worth adding to checking out. This week, we're bringing you picks from some of KL's best hotels and a new dining spot featuring a familiar face from across the causeway! Here are some the best new dining spots and promos to explore in KL this month: Wagyu by La Moon Wagyu is almost always the best pick of meat whenever you're ordering a steak. And recently, it's a growing market in Malaysia, but none can do it better than Zenrich Wagyu. Have a halal-certified meaty meal until 1am with Wagyu by La Moon, which offers a taste of Malaysia's unique blend of global flavours and warm hospitality. From Japanese farms to the bustling streets of TTDI, Zenrich Wagyu is crafting a delicious, bold story — and inviting everyone to take part. For more information on Wagyu by La Moon, head to their social media and for more information on Zenrich Wagyu, hear to their official website. Roselle Coffee House @ Imperial Lexis KL The SeaSational Weekend Dinner Buffet at Roselle Coffee House, located on Level 8 of Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur, is making waves with over 100 dishes on the menu. Held every Friday and Saturday from 6pm to 10pm, this buffet promises a lavish seafood spread featuring fresh lobsters, oysters, slipper lobsters, snow crabs, tiger prawns, mussels, sashimi, sushi and soft-shell crab tempura. Beyond seafood, the buffet also offers a wide range of international and local favourites. Guests can enjoy roasted meats, satay, Penang Rojak, Indian dishes like Butter Chicken and Roti Prata, and a variety of Western options. For dessert, expect a sweet finish with treats like crème brûlée, Sago Gula Melaka, Nyonya kuih and a flowing chocolate fountain. The buffet is priced at RM190 for adults and RM120 for seniors and kids aged 6 to 12. For bookings, WhatsApp +6010 784 0176 or email eat@ Substance @ Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South This July, indulge in the Lok-Lok buffet at Substance, Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South. The 'Lok Into July' buffet features over 20 varieties of skewers, 2 flavourful soup bases including Substance's homemade signature broth, and 5 tantalising house-made sauces to excite every palate. Pair it with a sumptuous buffet spread of seafood on ice during dinner, fresh sushi and sashimi, and a variety of local favourites. The Lok-Lok buffet runs from 1st to 30th July 2025. Opening Hours & Prices: Lunch (Saturday & Sunday, 12.30pm – 3pm) – Adult: RM138, Senior Citizen: RM98, Child: RM69 – Adult: RM138, Senior Citizen: RM98, Child: RM69 Dinner (Wednesday to Sunday, 6.30pm – 10.30pm) – Adult: RM158, Senior Citizen: RM108, Child: RM79 For more information and reservations, please WhatsApp +603 8682 8898 Jameson Irish Coffee Workshop at B.E.D, The Exchange, TRX As a sneak preview of the upcoming Jameson Coffee rave happening on 12th July 2025, Jameson invites you to a special Irish Coffee workshop at B.E.D (formerly Lane 23), The Exchange, TRX. Led by brand ambassador Cliona O'Donnell, the intimate session featured a hands-on experience in crafting a simple Irish Coffee featuring Jameson's iconic whiskey. Drinks were served and sweet treats indulged, come check out Jameson's upcoming events, where you can get your taste of savoury Irish coffee as well as crafted coffee cocktails. Happening on 6th July 2024 (Sunday), at the B.E.D, TRX for Cherry Bomb's 2nd anniversary and 12th July 2025 (Saturday) at UP KL, Jalan Doraisamy. Watch Hype's Exclusive Reel here: BONUS: Cream-O New Strawberry Flavour Malaysia's snacking scene just got a delicious upgrade! Cream-O, your favourite choco expert and mood booster, is turning up the fun with its latest creation, the all-new Cream-O Strawberry. Perfect for everyday treats, on-the-go munching, or spreading joy with those around you, Cream-O Strawberry is available at major supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. It's never been easier to get your Berry ONZ moment anytime, anywhere.
Daily Express
a day ago
- Daily Express
East Coast travel warnings outdated, says Saifuddin
Published on: Sunday, July 06, 2025 Published on: Sun, Jul 06, 2025 By: Julia Chan, Malay Mail Text Size: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail - pix Bernama Kota Kinabalu: Travel advisories against Sabah's east coast no longer reflect the reality on the ground, where enhanced security measures and a tourism boom have taken root, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said. He said Malaysia is actively engaging with foreign governments to correct these perceptions — including through site visits such as this weekend's tour of islands off Semporna, which were once plagued by kidnapping incidents over a decade ago. Advertisement 'The doubt stems from perception, so how do we change that? That's why we bring them here — there's no substitute for first-hand experience,' he told reporters during his visit to the islands here. Saifuddin said data showed that tourist arrivals in Sabah's east coast have been rising — even from countries that once issued travel warnings. In 2022, 64,470 tourists visited the area, with a healthy spread of nationalities including a significant number from Europe. As global travel resumed, the numbers surged to 313,128 in 2023 and 319,479 in 2024. As of May 31 this year, 107,412 tourists have already been recorded. 'These aren't just any tourists — many of them are from countries that had previously issued travel advisories, whether from Europe, the US or East Asia. They're proof that people are coming, even from countries that once issued warnings,' Saifuddin said. He added that Japan was currently reviewing its advisory following similar engagements last year. 'While Japanese arrivals are still relatively low compared to China, we're seeing progress,' he said. Saifuddin said Malaysia's strategy was to invite diplomats and foreign officials to witness the on-ground situation for themselves, followed by engagement through diplomatic channels. 'While Sabah is doing its part with tourism promotion, we are focusing on engagement and improving the perception of security — because ultimately, travel advisories carry a lot of weight. 'Instead of doing nothing and relying on second-hand sources — which isn't ideal — we take proactive steps. We brought them here so they can engage directly with us and we can explain things clearly. 'This is the approach I believe in. There is no substitute for physical, face-to-face engagement,' he said. Saifuddin said the goal is to see travel warnings revised or lifted by countries that still advise against visiting Sabah's east coast. Countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia currently maintain travel advisories against the east coast of Sabah due to past kidnappings linked to insurgent groups from southern Philippines. The zone covers coastal areas from Sandakan to Tawau, including offshore islands and popular dive sites around Semporna. This weekend's engagement programme involved 15 foreign diplomats from 10 countries — Belgium, Canada, China, Australia, Ireland, the United States, Spain, New Zealand, South Korea and Germany — who engaged with local security and government authorities. The delegation, accompanied by security officials and media, visited Omadal island — home to local and Bajau Laut communities — as well as scenic destinations like Sibuan, Bohey Dulang and Mataking, where security operations are stationed. US ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan said there has been 'tremendous progress' in Sabah's east coast security since his previous visits between 2014 and 2017. 'It's been 11 years since I first came here, but the transformation is very, very impressive. Coming offshore today and seeing how much development there's been — the resorts, the increase in tourism — I think it's extremely impressive. 'It really speaks to the tremendous effort that has gone into Esscom, from all the different parts of the Malaysian government involved,' he said. 'Coming here and seeing this first-hand is incredibly valuable,' he said, adding that he would report his observations and the data back to Washington. 'I don't want to get ahead of ourselves, because this is obviously a complex process. But I think it is very clear that there has been significant progress that reflects a real commitment by the government of Malaysia,' he said. Kagan also acknowledged longstanding US-Malaysia cooperation in the area, including radar systems supplied by Washington, training efforts and support in establishing Esscom, as well as other assets and assistance provided. 'It's clear the resources are being put to good use, so I'm very confident there's been improvement. 'We will have to make the appropriate reports to the deciding authorities in our capital,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
