Johor

The Royal Crown

PedraBranca-MapofDominionsofJohore-Hamilton-1727

万国来朝图 Johor (柔佛国) delegates in Beijing in 1761

Sunset on the Johore River, Singapore Wellcome V0037493

Johor is a state situated in the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia. It is bordered by Pahang to the north, Malacca and Negeri Sembilan to the northwest, the Strait of Malacca to the west, and the Johor Strait and Singapore to the south. Johor has a diverse geography that includes beaches, rainforests, and plantations, making it a significant area for both agriculture and tourism within Malaysia.

History

The history of Johor dates back to the 16th century when it was established as a successor state to the ancient Malay kingdom of Sultanate of Malacca which fell to the Portuguese in 1511. The region came under the influence of various foreign powers over the centuries, including the Dutch, the British, and the Japanese during World War II. The modern state of Johor was formed with the federation of Malaya in 1948 and became part of Malaysia in 1963.

Economy

Johor's economy is diverse, with major contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The state is one of Malaysia's leading producers of palm oil, rubber, and other agricultural products. Johor is also home to several industrial estates and is a key player in Malaysia's electronics and petrochemical manufacturing sectors. The development of Iskandar Malaysia, a major economic zone, has further boosted the state's economic growth, attracting investments in various sectors including education, healthcare, and tourism.

Geography and Climate

Johor covers an area of approximately 19,984 square kilometers, making it the third-largest state in Peninsular Malaysia. Its landscape is characterized by a mix of flat plains, hills, and mountains, with the Endau-Rompin National Park being one of the notable natural attractions, known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. Johor experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year, although it is also affected by the monsoon seasons.

Culture

Johor's culture is a rich tapestry that reflects the diversity of its population, which includes Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups. Traditional Malay culture is prominent, especially in rural areas, where customs and traditions are preserved. Johor is also known for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes such as Laksa Johor, a spicy noodle soup, and Mee Bandung Muar, a rich and flavorful noodle dish.

Tourism

Tourism is an important part of Johor's economy, with attractions ranging from natural wonders like waterfalls and beaches to modern theme parks such as Legoland Malaysia and the Sanrio Hello Kitty Town. The state's capital, Johor Bahru, serves as a gateway to Singapore, with many visitors crossing the border to explore the city's shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Administration

Johor is divided into 10 districts, each governed by a local authority. The state's constitutional monarch, the Sultan of Johor, plays a ceremonial role in the administration of the state, while the executive functions are carried out by the state government headed by the Chief Minister.

Education

The state is home to several institutions of higher learning, including Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), one of the country's leading universities in engineering and technology. Johor also has a wide network of public and private schools providing primary and secondary education.

Transportation

Johor has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including roads, railways, and air links. The Senai International Airport serves as the main gateway for air travelers, while the extensive road network facilitates easy access to other parts of Malaysia and Singapore via the Johor-Singapore Causeway and the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.