Southern Region
A sense of history that echoes beneath the rich verdant landscape becomes evident as you journey down the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia to the states of Malacca and Johor Bahru. Malacca is known for its historical prominence and its cultural appeal. This is the country's historically richest state. Ancient tales reek out of odd places in Malacca, and the ruins of fortresses and derelicts tell of her glorious past. In reality Malacca was a gem in the crowns of her invaders who held her for short periods only but she was a much coveted prize.
Malacca promises an eyeful for the visitor. It is the place where those who are hunting for treasures of the past will be rewarded if they look deep into its quaint shops for curios and antiques. The rich multi-cultural heritage of Malacca's people is reflected in their unique customs and traditions, food, festivals, dances, buildings and lifestyles. So as you stop to ponder the ruins, or bargain over some curio, don't forget to savour the food which is distinctively her own.
Malacca - Where it all began
The historical city of Malacca was an important trading post in Malaysia's early history and attracted Asian, Chinese and Indian traders from the region. Founded by a refugee prince named Parameswara, Malacca rose to become a powerful nerve centre of trade between East and West. Its trade of spice, gold, silk, tea, opium, tobacco and perfumes attracted the attention of colonial powers from the West and Malacca was later governed at various times by three colonial rulers the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English. Some parts of the city still retain an old-world charm in the legacy of buildings and architecture left by Malacca's past rulers. The local population reflects an engaging inter-cultural heritage of customs, cultural practices, festivals and variety of cuisine. Particular attractions include the Portuguese Settlement, the Dutch Stadhuys government buildings, Porta de Santiago and the Baba-Nyonya ancestral homes in the heart of the city.
Johor – Southern Gateway
Johor, the southernmost state of Peninsular Malaysia, is made up of eight districts comprising Johor Baru, Pontian, Batu Pahat, Muar, Mersing, Kota Tinggi, Kluang and Segamat. Johor has a long coast line flanking the Straits of Malacca on its western seaboard and the South China Sea on the east. Retaining much of its natural splendours, the state has miles of golden sand beaches and beautiful offshore islands with clear waters which are excellent for diving. The state is also endowed with several forest reserves. Nature lovers will find the Endau-Rompin National Park located on the Johor-Pahang border an unforgettable experience. This lush and virgin lowland dipterocarp forest is home to several rare and endangered species including the two-horned rhinoceros. Its rocks and hills have been estimated to be nearly 250 million years old.
Johor adventures
Some the best nature spots in Johor for adventures are:
Mountain Climbing
- Mount Ledang (1276m)
- Mount Belumi (1010m)
Jungle Trekking
- Endau Rompin (Lowland rainforest)
- Mount Ledang (Highland rainforest)
White Water Rafting
- Endau River
Angling
- Aur Island (Sea Fishing)
- Pemanggil Island (Sea Fishing)
Scuba Diving
- Rawa Island
- Besar Island
- Hujung Island
- Aur Island
- Sibu Island
- Tengah Island
- Pemanggil Island
- Tinggi Island
- Berhala Island
Customised from Malaysia Travel Manual - Tourism Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism