The magical islands of Johor Bahru

JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia – Johor, the southernmost state of the Malaysia Peninsula, is steeped in history and is a haven for nature lovers. The state has an unbroken coastline flanked by the South China Sea in the east, extending around its southern tip to the western shoreline overlooking the Straits of Malacca.

With a diverse and beautiful natural scenery in her possession, Malaysia offers visitors a wide variety of beaches, parks and unique slices of her tropical paradise.

Like a necklace of glittering jewels, the islands of Sibu, Rawa, Pemanggil, Aur, Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Mensirip, and Hujung lay nestled off Johor’s eastern coast. They are accessible from Mersing, a charming coastal town and the jump-off point to the world-renowned Tioman Island.

Lush vegetation and endless stretches of golden beaches characterize the Sibu Islands. They are accessible from the Tanjung Leman jetty, 60 km. from Mersing.

The islands abound with water sports activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking.

One can opt for a visit to a nearby "kelong’’ where anchovies are caught. For some adventure, hike through the jungle trails leading to unspoiled mangrove swamps.

The island of Raw in Johor, is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing. Famous for its tall palm trees, white sand and scheduled coves, this is the ideal tropical getaway. It was among the earliest islands here to be developed as a tourist destination.

Pemanggil is the largest among the cluster of islands of Johor. Squid fishing is an enjoyable seasonal sport here. Other popular activities are jungle trekking, snorkeling and diving.

The unspoiled island of Aur is the perfect dive destination. Encounters with pelagics including jacks, barracudas and black tip sharks are a big draw. The best time to dive is between April and October when the sea is calmer and visibility is at its best.

The islands of Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Mensirip and Hujung are idyllic secluded getaways. These islands boast of beautiful beaches with shady cool trees and clear waters.

A visit to the Moorish-style Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque with its majestic domes and minarets gives a view of the Straits of Johor.

Besides the mosque, some of the most important landmarks of Johor Bahru are the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, Clock Tower, and the majestic Istana Bukit Serene.

One can also see a mini Orchid plantation, a typical scenic Malaysian waterfront, and the majestic Bukit Serene Palace, where the Sultan of Johor resides.

The Kampong (village) provides a first-hand experience of the simple and quiet rural Malay lifestyle.

Also famous for its batik, the batik art started during the 12th century. It is a process of applying molten wax and dyes. Batik designs are created by waxing areas of a fabric before applying colors with dyes. The waxed areas resist the dye and thus create a pattern. After the wax is removed, the process is repeated for each colors used.

The Johor islands are not isolated with the rest of the world for anyone can call their loved ones thru Smart Communications, Inc. the leading wireless operator in the Philippines, which has partnered with Maxis.

Malaysia’s population of 18.2 million people is made up of the main racial groups of Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazan, Dayaks and numerous other minority groups that have spawned a great many cultural and religious festivals earning the title of "the land of festivals.’’

This diversity spills well into her population mix, creating a little Asia within Malaysia.

The federation of Malaysia is made up of 13 states with two Federal Territories – Kuala Lumpur (Capital) and Labuan. Nine of the states have hereditary rules from which the supreme Head of State (the King) is elected.