Malaysia International Travel Mart (MITM) 2026 Sutera Mall Johor

 

Tourism Malaysia Wilayah Selatan menyertai pameran MITM 2026 Johor pada 17-19 Julai 2026.

Pempamer seramai 9 Penggiat Industri termasuklah DFF Travel and Tours, Flywind Travel & Tours, Go Multi Travel and Tours, De SR Travel and Tours, Haniff Travel and Tours, Labis Sunrise Resort, Lotus Desaru  Resort, Ghost Museum dan Indoor theme park Kids Republic telah menyertai astaka Tourism Malaysia.

Pakej-pakej pelancongan domestik  yang dijual termasuklah Pakej ke Pulau-pulau Utama, Sabah, Desaru, Genting Cruise, Taman Negara Pahang, Train to Dabong Kelantan.

Selain itu, Labis Sunrise dan Lotus Desaru juga  mempromosikan harga pakej penginapan yang menarik dan berbaloi.

Diskaun sehingga 30% ditawarkan mengikut terma dan syarat pempamer.

Pelbagai aktiviti menarik disediakan termasuklah Meet and Greet Wira dan Manja, kuiz pelancongan dan hadiah misteri kepada pembeli yang bertuah.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Fam Trip Media Soft Adventure – Johor & Negeri Sembilan

 

Tourism Malaysia melalui Bahagian Pembangunan Pakej telah menganjurkan Famtrip Media Soft Adventure  pada 22 hingga 26 Jun 2026, meliputi negeri Johor dan Negeri Sembilan.

Program ini melibatkan seramai 17 orang peserta yang terdiri daripada media dan penghasil kandungan antarabangsa daripada Singapura, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam dan Australia, serta pengamal media tempatan.

Objektif program ini adalah untuk memberi pendedahan kepada media tempatan dan antarabangsa mengenai kekuatan produk eco-adventure dan alam semulajadi Malaysia selaras dengan pertumbuhan pasaran ekopelancongan global dan penekanan pelancongan lestari oleh Malaysia untuk meningkatkan keyakinan terhadap kualiti dan keselamatan produk.

Antara lokasi yang dikunjungi dalam program ini adalah Taman Negara Endau Rompin,  ATV Park Sungai Lebak, X Park Iskandar Puteri, Laman Bakau Tanjung Surat, Sireh Park, serta memberi pendedahan terhadap festival tempatan di Festival Rentak Negeri 2026 di Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan yang berlangsung pada 25 hingga 28 Jun 2026.

Sepanjang program, para peserta didedahkan secara dekat akan keunikan budaya tempatan seperti budaya masyarakat Orang Asli Jakun, pendedahan terhadap produk-produk ekopelancongan yang mampu memberi kesedaran terhadap kepentingan alam kepada orang ramai serta pelbagai aktiviti lasak yang menarik bagi pencinta aktiviti ekstrem.

Usaha ini diharap dapat menarik lebih ramai pelancong tempatan dan antarabangsa untuk mengalami keindahan alam semula jadi yang ada di selatan negara, serta pengembaraan yang mengujakan sempena Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Brings The Flavours Of Malaysia To Singapore

 

SINGAPORE — In celebration of the highly anticipated Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, Tourism Malaysia has officially partnered with Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore to present “Flavours of Malaysia”. Reflecting a unified national effort to promote the country's rich culinary traditions, Tourism Malaysia has fostered strong collaboration with the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore and the Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore, supported by the Malaysian High Commission in Singapore. 

Running from 1 June to 12 July 2026 at the hotel’s signature riverfront restaurant, Food Capital, this premier culinary event goes beyond standard buffet offerings. It features a distinctive ten-hands dining experience, bringing together five master chefs in a collaborative showcase of the unique and nuanced food landscapes of five major Malaysian states: Johor, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Sabah, and Sarawak. 

"Food is a universal language that transcends borders, and there is no better way to capture the spirit of Malaysia than through our diverse regional culinary heritage. By collaborating closely with our partners at the Sabah and Sarawak Trade and Tourism Offices, this promotion stands as a true testament to our 'Malaysia Truly Asia' identity,” said Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. 

The "Flavours of Malaysia" initiative introduces an authentic, multi-layered culinary perspective of both Peninsular and East Malaysia. Diners will explore a tapestry of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences alongside indigenous Bornean traditions, with dishes shaped by deeply personal family recipes and festive traditions. The esteemed culinary lineup includes: 

Chef Peter Pang – Royal-inspired flavours of Johor

Chef Andri bin Abdul Hadi – Contemporary urban classics from Kuala Lumpur

Chef Azhar bin Bah – Vibrant street food favourites from Penang

Chef Linn Yong – Indigenous and coastal flavours of Sabah

Chef Lesly Anak A'ik – Traditional heritage dishes from Sarawak

Designed to cater to a broad audience of local and international food enthusiasts, the buffet is halal-certified, offering an immersive culinary journey that highlights the stories, traditions, and cultural influences behind Malaysia’s iconic dishes. 

Event Details

Promotion: Flavours of Malaysia

Dates: 1 June – 12 July 2026

Venue: Food Capital & The Lobby Lounge, Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, Singapore 

Buffet Pricing 

Lunch (Monday–Saturday): SGD72++ per adult | SGD36++ per child

Dinner (Sunday–Thursday): SGD106++ per adult | SGD53++ per child

Dinner (Friday–Saturday): SGD116++ per adult | SGD58++ per child

Children aged five and below dine free

Singapore is highly regarded as a key market for Malaysia’s tourism industry. A total of 1.7 million visitors were recorded in April 2026, marking a 7.4 per cent increase compared to 1.6 million visitors during the same month last year. This further solidifies Malaysia’s identity as a leading destination for authentic and diverse culinary experiences, especially among gastronomy enthusiasts. 

As Tourism Malaysia continues to intensify promotional efforts leading up to VM2026, initiatives such as “Flavours of Malaysia” play a crucial role in strengthening destination awareness and inspiring travel through authentic cultural and gastronomic experiences. In turn, this further elevates Malaysia’s world-class gastronomy on the global stage.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Johor to host world's largest amateur golf final in October

 

(From left) JGTA president Col (Rtd) Jamal Salleh, Perodua chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin, Johor Tourism director Nazrul Abd Rahim, WAGC president Isac Saminathan and Tourism Malaysia Southern Region director Maizatul Liza Mukhtar at the launch of the World Amateur Golfers Championship at the Johor Tourism Information Centre in Johor Bahru. - Pic from WAGC

KUALA LUMPUR: The 30th World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) World Final will be held at Desaru Coast from Oct 23-31, drawing over 650 participants from 50 countries. 

Regarded as the world's largest amateur golf championship, the event returns to Johor for the second time and Malaysia for the fifth time. 

Matches will be played across three venues: The Els Club Desaru Coast, Forest City Golf Resort and Tanjung Puteri Golf Resort. 

The tournament was launched at the Johor Tourism Information Centre (JOTIC) on Tuesday, attended by representatives from Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, the Johor Golf Tourism Association (JGTA), Delta World, Perodua and Desaru Coast. 

Founded by Swedish sporting legend Sven Tumba, the WAGC offers amateur golfers worldwide the opportunity to compete at an international level. 

New participating nations this year include Austria, Azerbaijan, Cyprus, El Salvador, Georgia, Ireland, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Thailand and Ukraine. 

WAGC president Isac Saminathan said the championship has grown beyond sport. 

"The WAGC World Final is more than a golf tournament. It is a global platform that brings people, cultures and opportunities together through sport. We are delighted to return to Johor, a destination that offers outstanding golf facilities, exceptional hospitality and memorable visitor experiences," Saminathan said. 

JGTA president Col (R) Jamal Salleh said hosting the championship again reflects international confidence in the state. 

"With our diverse portfolio of championship golf courses, integrated resorts and strong industry collaboration, Johor is uniquely positioned to offer an exceptional experience for golfers and visitors alike," Jamal said.

-nst online.

Malaysia Showcases Authentic Homestay Experiences In Celebration Of Eid Al-Adha

 

JOHOR, 28 MAY 2026 – Tourism Malaysia successfully organised the Eid al-Adha Celebration Package Showcase, held at Homestay Sarang Buaya, Muar. The programme further strengthens Malaysia’s positioning as a leading destination for cultural and experiential tourism via the Familiarisation Trip (Fam Trip) organised in conjunction with the celebration.

The Fam Trip involves seven travel agents from Singapore as well as five international and local media representatives, as part of ongoing promotional efforts under the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

The initiative also witnesses cooperation with industry partners including Homestay Kampung Sarang Buaya as the host and the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) in supporting promotions of culturally immersive and Muslim - friendly tourism experiences to Singaporean visitors.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Petronas Cub Prix - Pusingan 1 @ Litar Lumba Tangkak, Johor ( 25 & 26 April 2026 )

 

-Malaysian Cub Prix.

Night Zoo Johor draws record 7,330 visitors on opening night

 

JOHOR BARU:  Night Zoo Johor saw a massive turnout on its opening night yesterday, with 7,330 visitors experiencing the state's newest attraction.

State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the figures surpassed initial expectations of 5,000 visitors. 

The night zoo features 35 additional species comprising 100 animals. 

"In the first three hours alone, we recorded over 3,000 visitors. We are maintaining the most affordable ticket prices in Malaysia. Currently, we have 93 species and a total of 507 animals at Zoo Johor," he said when met at the launch here last night. 

Night Zoo Johor operates from Friday to Sunday, 8pm to 11pm, with the last entry at 10pm. 

Tickets are priced at RM10 for adults and RM5 for children over five and senior citizens aged 60 and above. For foreign tourists, the price is RM30. Entry is free for children under five and persons with disabilities.

Commenting on the facility's development, Mohd Jafni said the state government spent RM9 million on the first phase of upgrades and RM7 million on the second phase, bolstered by a RM1.4 million federal contribution for a new reptile house. 

"For the second phase, we also upgraded walkways to be more friendly for those with disabilities. 

"We will proceed with the third phase, which focuses on constructing an animal clinic, additional quarantine areas, and upgrading offices and staff quarters. An allocation of RM2 million has been approved for this phase," he said. 

Visitor Muhammad Shah Fikri Sukarto, 24, a lorry driver from Kota Tinggi, said he travelled with his family to be among the first to experience the attraction. 

"I came specifically for the night zoo, and the vibe is unique. My family no longer needs to travel to Melaka or other states to experience a zoo at night," he said. 

Another visitor, Sylvia Thian Many Sia, 48, from Taman Desa Jaya, praised the zoo's cleanliness and aesthetics following its 2024 reopening. 

"It has been a long time since I visited Zoo Johor. Seeing the animals at night is exciting because I realised many are actually more active then. I will definitely come back," she said.

-nst online.

Batik Air starts daily Penang–Johor Bahru flights

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air has launched a daily direct service between Penang and Johor Bahru effective today, in a bid to strengthen connectivity between the northern and southern regions. 

The move follows strong demand during the recent Chinese New Year travel period, when additional flights were temporarily deployed to accommodate a surge in passengers returning home. 

The airline said the encouraging response from customers highlighted the growing need for more direct domestic routes that bypass Kuala Lumpur. 

Penang International Airport recorded 741,183 passenger movements in January, making it one of Malaysia's busiest aviation hubs after Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Johor's Senai International Airport is also gaining traction as a key gateway to the south. 

Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the new service reflects the airline's commitment to strengthening Malaysia's domestic air network in response to evolving travel patterns. 

"These two cities play important roles in Malaysia's tourism, trade and business landscape, and this service brings them closer together while making travel more seamless for passengers," he said in a statement.

Looking ahead, the airline said enhancing domestic connectivity remains a key priority in supporting the country's Visit Malaysia 2026-driven tourism ambitions, as well as economic growth. 

Chandran said Batik Air will continue exploring opportunities to expand routes that improve accessibility between key regions nationwide, with the Penang-Johor Bahru service marking another step towards a more connected domestic network.

-nst online.

Mandarin Oriental adds a luxurious touch to Malaysia’s southern coast

 

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has kicked off 2026 with the launch of its first beach resort in South-East Asia. Located in Desaru Coast, a tourism destination in Johor, Malaysia, the property is expected to attract multi-generational travel groups as well as travellers seeking to blend business with pleasure. 

Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast takes over the former One&Only Desaru Coast. Refurbishments as well as new dining, spa and recreational concepts will be rolled out progressively across the 44-key all-suite resort. 

Speaking at the launch party on February 5, Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, said the resort marked “the beginning of a new chapter” in the company’s history. 

According to Kleitman, Desaru Coast is a valuable and strategic addition to the group’s portfolio, as it is “genuinely unspoilt and increasingly dynamic, benefitting from rising tourism activity, improving accessibility, and very strong state-level in sustainable and cultural preservation”. 

“Set across 128 acres of ancient rainforest, the property offers something exceptionally rare – space, tranquility and authenticity. This aligns perfectly with our brand and reinforces our commitment to destinations with character, edge and long-term potential,” he added. 

Kleitman also expressed confidence in the southern state’s growing prominence in the Malaysian tourism industry. 

He revealed that a new residence project will soon rise adjacent to Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast. It will not only bring the brand’s reputable lifestyle and service quality to future residents, but also “contribute significantly to the long-term vibrancy of Desaru Coast”. 

Mohamed Nasri Sallehuddin, chairman of Destination Resorts and Hotels, the Malaysian-based company that develops and operates premium tourism projects in Desaru Coast, said the arrival of the Mandarin Oriental brand “enriches” the southern Malaysian coast “as a vibrant, year-round destination for fine resort living,” and sets a new luxury benchmark in the region that is “firmly rooted in its natural surroundings and cultural heritage”. 

Nasri added that Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast also “creates a meaningful career pathway for local talents to gain exposure to skills and global opportunities to one of the world’s most distinguished hospitality brands”. 

The resort is helmed by experienced hotelier Christian Gerart. He told TTG Asia that Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast would appeal to both leisure and corporate guests. He added that the Johor Baru–Singapore Rapid Transit System Link, which is expected to come into service by January 1, 2027, will further spur interest and demand. 

Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast offers spacious suites and villas, with a number of connecting suites for extended families. Daily complimentary activities, such as guided nature walks and archery, along with children programmes, will keep families entertained. 

The resort’s Grand Ballroom and two function rooms, proximity to a world-class golf course, and accessibility from Singapore by car and ferry make it an ideal destination for executive retreats, opined Anthony Tyler, area vice president, operations at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. 

“I believe that this resort will do so well because it is such a close getaway, one that offers a complete change of pace, scenery and rhythm from the big urban centres around us,” said Tyler.

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia Elevates Digital Visibility With VM2026 Creators Onboard Programme

 

DESARU, 16 December 2025 – Tourism Malaysia successfully concludes the VM2026 Creators Onboard programme from 10–12 December 2025, bringing together social media influencers and digital creators who actively support Malaysia’s tourism promotion. This second edition highlights the vital role of digital storytelling in positioning Malaysia as a preferred travel destination ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

The 50 selected content creators participated in a curated 3-day, 2-night (3D2N) trip across Desaru, Johor, exploring a variety of eco-tourism offerings and nature-based attractions.

Participants visited Lebam River Cruise, Tanjung Balau Birdwatching, immersive stargazing, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum, Ostrich Farm Desaru and experienced ATV rides for farm tours at Desaru Fruit Farm, and a Canon Digital Workshop at The Els Club Desaru Coast, where they enhanced their photography and videography skills using Canon cameras, all while capturing Johor’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Festival Kraf Johor 2025 @ Padang Akasia, Angsana Johor Bahru Mall ( 18 ~ 29 Disember 2025 )

 

Festival Kraf Johor 2025

Jangan lepaskan peluang untuk ke Festival Kraf Johor 2025. Save the date!

Tarikh: 18 sehingga 29 Disember 2025

Masa: 10.00 pagi hingga 10.00 malam

Lokasi: Padang Akasia, Angsana Johor Bahru Mall

-Kraftangan Malaysia.

Johor unveils 'Visit Johor 2026' with dazzling launch, targets 12 million tourists

 

JOHOR BARU: Johor officially launched its Visit Johor 2026 campaign tonight. 

Visit Johor 2026, marks the start of a year-long tourism push aimed at drawing 12 million visitors.

 It is expected to generate more than RM42 billion in economic impact.

Branded under the theme "Majestic Johor: The Jewel of the South," Visit Johor 2026 showcases the state's rich tapestry of culture, nature, sports and heritage, while its inviting tagline "Meh Lah Johor!" beckons travellers to discover everything from vibrant cities to tranquil islands in a campaign that balances modern appeal with sustainable, tradition-rooted experiences. 

The Visit Johor Year 2026, embodied the state's warm, open invitation for visitors to explore its culture, cuisine and heritage with the easy-going hospitality Johoreans are famously known for. 

The state's flagship tourism programme was unveiled at a packed Dataran Bandaraya Johor Baru here today.

Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi officiated the celebration that drew locals and tourists alike. 

The four-day event, organised by Tourism Johor with support from the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, is expected to attract more than 400,000 visitors. 

Free shuttle bus services by the Johor Public Transport Corporation (PAJ) were deployed to ferry crowds to the venue. 

The launch featured a drone show themed Visit Johor 2026 and a massive 'Zapin Mehlah Johor' performance involving 4,000 dancers, which secured an entry in the Malaysia Book of Records. 

The main stage also showcased top local artistes, cultural groups from Yayasan Warisan Johor and Istana Budaya, and a string of district-based exhibitions promoting food, culture and heritage. 

At the heart of the campaign were its new mascots — Cuping and Jucy — a pair of Malayan tigers symbolising Johor's strength, grace and hospitality. 

The duo, born at Zoo Johor in 2013 and 2018, respectively, will serve as the state's global tourism ambassadors throughout Visit Johor 2026. 

The "Meh Lah Johor!" campaign sought to position the state as a premier regional destination, supported by immersive experiences, traditional performances, culinary showcases and promotional content. 

This includes its official song 'Pesona Johor' and a cinematic tourism video capturing the state's landscapes and cultural diversity. 

Pesona Johor, celebrates the charm of all the 10 districts in Johor, through melodies and lyrics that highlight the state's cultural diversity, natural beauty and timeless identity. 

With the curtain officially raised, Johor is now setting its sights on the global stage, inviting travellers to explore its districts, traditions and modern offerings as the state gears up for a landmark tourism year.

-nst online.

Dairy valley project set to moo-ve tourism boom to Mersing

 

LOCATED in Mersing, Johor, Jemaluang Dairy Valley (JDV) is generating excitement among locals and the tourism industry, which sees it as a key attraction for tourists. 

Mersing Tourism Association (MTA) secretary Ahmad Firdaus Shaik Omar welcomed the establishment of JDV, saying it would add a fresh tourism dimension to the small town. 

He said the dairy valley had potential to spur economic growth in Jemaluang, which sits just before the gateway to Mersing town.

“JDV is already creating a lot of buzz and excitement among locals not only within Mersing, but nearby districts such as Kluang, Kota Tinggi and Johor Baru,” Ahmad Firdaus said. 

He noted that motorists passing through Jemaluang have been stopping to take photos along the entrance to the dairy valley, drawn by its picturesque scenery. 

Ahmad Firdaus is optimistic that once JDV opens to the public, it will attract both domestic and international tourists to Mersing.

He said MTA looked forward to working closely with JDV management to promote the place as a new tourism product for the district.

“Agro-tourism is among the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry,” he said, adding that JDV’s presence would boost visitor arrivals ahead of Visit Johor 2026. 

Located about 20 minutes from Mersing town and roughly one-and-a-half hours from Johor Baru, Ahmad Firdaus said JDV was well-positioned to capture passing traffic and encourage longer stays. 

He added that currently, Mersing’s tourism largely depended on its stunning islands along the coastline. 

There are 97 islands scattered along the 240km Mersing coastline, with 13 considered commercial destinations, Ahmad Firdaus said. 

He added that among the most popular islands for island-hopping and scuba diving activities are Pulau Rawa, Pulau Aur, Pulau Pemanggil and Pulau Besar. 

Ahmad Firdaus pointed out that most visitors use the Mersing jetty to catch boats to nearby Pulau Tioman, which technically falls under Pahang’s jurisdiction. 

“Tourists often spend at least three days and two nights on the islands, but mainland Mersing has little to offer them during that period,” he added. 

He said JDV could change that by providing a new attraction to encourage visitors to explore and stay longer in the town. 

“Proper promotion will be key to positioning JDV as a must-visit destination while tourists are in Mersing,” he added. 

Visitors passing through Jemaluang are also noticing the dairy valley. 

Aiman Abdul Somad, 31, an engineer from Johor Baru, was driving into Mersing with his wife, Nadia Athira Sabarudin, who is a content creator and food reviewer. 

They spotted the JDV signboard on their way back from shooting food content at local restaurants. 

Aiman said the white-painted fences leading up to the dairy valley immediately caught their attention. 

Neither he nor his wife knew about JDV until that drive, but they were impressed by the scenery. 

“JDV looks really beautiful. It feels like we are in a foreign country instead of being in Johor,” he said. 

Both Aiman and his wife said they would definitely visit JDV once it opens to the public.

-thestar online.

YTL Hotels acquires Thistle Johor, plans 2026 relaunch as five-star property

 

KUALA LUMPUR: YTL Corp Bhd's hospitality arm, YTL Hotels, has acquired the 380-room Thistle Hotel in Johor Bahru from GuocoLand Ltd in a RM150 million deal, underscoring its confidence in Johor's rise as a regional economic and tourism hub. 

The transaction, disclosed by GuocoLand in a Singapore Exchange filing, will see the Singapore-listed developer book a net gain of RM35 million (S$11 million) upon completion. 

YTL Hotels said the acquisition marks a strategic expansion milestone in Malaysia's fast-growing southern corridor, where Johor is being transformed by mega infrastructure projects, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, and increasing cross-border travel with Singapore. 

The 17-storey property located in Jalan Sungai Chat close to the city centre will undergo a full-scale refurbishment before reopening in 2026 as a five-star destination hotel featuring premium accommodation, curated dining concepts, modern event and meeting facilities, and lifestyle-oriented leisure offerings tailored for both international and domestic markets.

Executive chairman of YTL Corp, Tan Sri (Sir) Francis Yeoh, said the deal reflects the group's commitment to advancing Malaysia's tourism landscape. 

"Johor Bahru is a state of extraordinary potential, experiencing tremendous growth and transformation. We are proud to contribute to this momentum by introducing a new international hotel experience to the region. This investment represents our ongoing commitment to Malaysia's tourism landscape, delivering memorable stays that combine exceptional service with thoughtfully designed experiences," Yeoh said in a statement.

YTL Hotels currently owns and manages more than 35 properties with over 7,000 rooms across Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Australia, France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The addition of the Johor Bahru property not only strengthens its Malaysian portfolio but also reinforces its standing as one of the region's most respected hospitality groups.

-nst online.

Eyes on Johor’s upcoming tourism revival

 

JOHOR BARU: With just five months to go before Visit Johor 2026 (VJ2026), many are talking about what the southern state has to offer. 

With an upcoming trip to Johor, Sabahan Jordy Elver Osmond, 24, who is pursuing a degree in education, said he was eagerly awaiting it. 

“I have always heard from my Johor friends that the state is more advanced than many other states, especially in terms of leisure attractions.

“As a waterpark lover, I’m exci­ted. There are at least three major theme parks to explore. 

“Hopefully, there will be special promotions offered,” he said in an interview. 

Jordy hopes to see Johor elevate its appeal by hosting more international-scale events.

“Many Malaysians will agree that we need more international concerts. Why should they be limited to Kuala Lumpur? 

“I hope Johor can bring in what others cannot,” he said. 

Public relations practitioner Yew Chin Choon, 23, said a friend in Johor invited her to visit. 

“To be honest, my family and I have not seen much publicity about VJ2026, but I am excited to see what is in store compared to other states I have visited. 

“As the one who usually plans our family trips, I hope to disco­ver more family-friendly recreational spots beyond just shopping malls,” she said. 

She said eco-tourism within city areas would be an added attraction. 

“Coming from a town like Klang, I would love to see green spaces and eco-tourism destinations in urban areas, something I hear Johor has a lot of,” said Yew. 

Intern M. Daneswaren, 23, from Penang, said he was eager to explore Johor’s tourism scene, given the state’s larger size and resources. 

“As a Penangite, I am curious to see how Johor compares with Penang, which is a global tourism spot. 

“I have heard Johor is a hub for sports enthusiasts, and as someone who enjoys various sports, I do want to see what it has to offer. 

“Aside from scenic spots, international-scale events like youth forums or major sports tournaments would be something interesting,” he said. 

For pharmacist Doretty Epina Richard, 27, of Sarawak, travelling with her large family means that accessibility and convenience will be key. 

“Good transport and tour packages that suit all age groups make a big difference. It has been three years since we visited Johor. 

“I look forward to seeing how Johor has changed,” she said. 

In April, Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the state government carried out 33 infrastructure projects over the past year to improve local tourism spots. 

Among the projects were the second phase of upgrading works at the Johor Zoo, redevelopment of Kampung Sungai Melayu, opening of the Royal Botanical Garden and restoration of the Royal Abu Bakar Museum at Istana Besar Johor here. 

Other projects included the upgrade of the Gunung Ledang National Park in Tangkak and the Tanjung Piai National Park in Pontian.

-thestar online.

Plaza Premium elevates travellers’ comfort at Senai airport

 

Plaza Premium Group has soft-opened the Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru at Senai International Airport – and is the only lounge operator at this facility.

The 80-seater lounge offers a premium, comfortable and innovative space for both international and domestic travellers, making the same level of premium service accessible to travellers flying near and far.

The lounge is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to streamline the guest experience, such as self-check-in kiosks for a more efficient and hassle-free access to the lounge. Implementation of QR code-based food ordering system also allows lounge guests to browse and order their meals effortlessly.

With the aim to further enhance lounge experience with digital solutions, this facility has integrated the Smart Traveller app to enable personalised experiences, rewards and a smooth transition through the lounge and airport.

The Plaza Premium Lounge Johor Bahru has also created the Lounge To-Go corner for passengers on tight schedules. Here, they can grab a premium selection of food and beverages to enjoy on the go.

Lounge can also enjoy a spot of cultural immersion – F&B selection showcases Malaysian culinary heritage while artworks featured in the space are borne from the hands of Malaysian artists.

Cavin Loh, regional general manager (Southeast Asia) from Plaza Premium Group, said the new lounge is “more than just a place to wait for your flight – it’s a space to experience the best of Johorian hospitality, art and innovation”.

-TTG Asia.

Ombak Festival @ Desaru Coast, Johor ( 12 ~ 14 September 2025 )

 

Golden hour on the beach. World-class performances under the stars. Ombak Festival 2025 brings a new wave of music, art and memory-making to Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia.

Be part of The Ultimate Weekend from 12 -14 September. Limited Early Bird tickets are officially live, book yours before they’re gone.

Head to www.ombakfestival.com for more info.

-Ombak Festival.

Mandarin Oriental to expand in Malaysia with beachfront resort at Desaru Coast

 

Mandarin Oriental is set to expand its presence in Malaysia with the rebranding of a luxury resort and private residences in Desaru Coast, Johor. Surrounded by rainforest and fronting the South China Sea, the resort is expected to join the Mandarin Oriental portfolio in June 2025, ahead of a full rebranding as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast in January 2026.

Located along 17km of unspoiled beachfront, the property benefits from its proximity to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

The resort blends tropical modernism with the natural landscape, featuring 44 suites and villas, many with plunge pools and sea or rainforest views. Five dining venues offer global cuisine with local flavours, while a beach club and lounge bar add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Wellness is a central focus, with The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offering Oriental-inspired treatments, a yoga pavilion, gym, salon, and tennis and padel courts. A Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor facilities enhances the family-friendly appeal.

The resort also offers event spaces and panoramic views for weddings and private gatherings, and is located near the Els Club Desaru Coast, which features championship courses by Ernie Els and Vijay Singh.

Looking ahead, 40 branded residences are planned to provide year-round luxury living with Mandarin Oriental’s signature service.

“Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast represents a significant step in our strategic vision to bring the group’s legendary service and crafted experiences, that resonate deeply  with today’s luxury traveller, to new and exceptional locations,” said Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental.

Karina Ridzuan, interim group CEO of Destination Resorts and Hotels, added: “We are confident this partnership will set a new global benchmark and firmly place Desaru Coast as a destination for luxury travel.”

-TTG Asia.

Johor Calendar Of Events 2025

 

-Tourism Johor.