The capital city of Johor is an incredibly interesting place with a vast amalgamation of cultures. This intriguing metropolis is known to have a very prominent Chinese touch since at one point their history there was a massive influx of Chinese people who helped develop the area out of what was formerly thick forest. Present day Johor Bahru is the state capital and a fairly prominent tourist destination with many a Johor Bahru hotel to be found such as the Berjaya Waterfront Hotel.
The best place to experience the Chinese-related history of Johor Bahru would be the Chinese Heritage Museum. Upon first glance the museum itself looks like an establishment straight out of China, with distinctly traditional architecture that is native to the Far East. The building is a three-storey structure with a variety of exhibits.
The most popular and prominent exhibit chronicles the story behind Chinese immigration in that region of the entire Malay peninsula. It began during the 1800s when Chinese and Javanese people were advocated to immigrate into Johor to aid its development into an agricultural industry. The Chinese brought with them a variety of cultural skills as well that have since entwined with the culture of Johor Bahru to a great extent. Carpentry for example is one of the most prominent skills that contributed to the development and the emerging identity of Johor Bahru. Chinese medicines and medicinal practices were also brought into the region, as well as an interest in the concept of coffee shops.
There are also many interesting components of Johor’s history which many people are unaware of, such as how children from the 50s and 60s grew up primarily on a particular brand of condensed milk since the region lacked the necessary means to produce milk for the populace.
If you’re ever in Johor Bahru, be sure to drop by this most intriguing place.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
