Johor Bahru history

The history of Johor Bahru is the tale of a rapid transformation from a small fishing village into one of the key metropolises of Malaysia. The city, which has become the country's Southern Gateway, possesses a rich and dynamic past.

Foundation and First Mentions

The city was founded in 1855 by Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim, the father of one of the most revered Malay rulers, Sultan Abu Bakar. Initially, it was a modest Malay settlement known as Tanjung Puteri. In 1866, Sultan Abu Bakar moved the capital of his sultanate here, officially renaming the city Johor Bahru, which means "New Johor".

Key Factors of Establishment

The city owes its growth and prosperity to several important factors:

• Strategic Location: Situated on the shores of the Straits of Johor, directly opposite Singapore, the city naturally became a crucial trade and transport hub.
• Wise Governance: Sultan Abu Bakar, known as the "Father of Modern Johor", actively developed the economy by encouraging foreign investment and establishing relationships with British and Chinese entrepreneurs.
• Economic Boom: In the 19th century, the economy was based on the cultivation of pepper and gambier (a plant used for tanning leather), which attracted many settlers to the region and contributed to its rapid development.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Johor Bahru was formed as a multi-ethnic centre. The development of agriculture required a large workforce, leading to the mass migration of Chinese and Indian labourers. This laid the foundation for the cultural diversity that remains one of the city's main characteristics today. Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions are closely intertwined, creating a unique atmosphere that is evident in the architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle of the local residents.

Chronology of Key Events

• 1855 — Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim establishes the settlement of Tanjung Puteri on the site of a fishing village.
• 1866 — The founder's son, Sultan Abu Bakar, moves the sultanate's capital here, renames the city Johor Bahru, and begins its active development.
• 1892 — Construction begins on the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, which became one of the architectural symbols of the city.
• 1924 — The Johor–Singapore Causeway is completed, connecting the Malay Peninsula to Singapore by land for the first time.
• 1942 — During World War II, the city is occupied by Japanese forces; the causeway is partially destroyed by retreating British forces.
• 1946 — The United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the country's largest political party, is founded in Johor Bahru.
• 1957 — Johor Bahru becomes the state capital within the independent Federation of Malaya.
• 1994 — On January 1, Johor Bahru officially receives city status (bandaraya), marking its transformation into a major metropolis.
• 1998 — The "Second Link" (Malaysia–Singapore Second Link) opens to relieve growing traffic on the first causeway.
• 2006 — The massive "Iskandar Malaysia" economic development project is launched, turning Johor Bahru and its surroundings into a powerful economic corridor.

Key Milestones in the Development of Johor Bahru

The transformation of Johor Bahru from a small fishing village into a dynamic metropolis is marked by several turning points that defined its economic, cultural, and urban landscape.

• Establishment of the Modern Capital (1866): Sultan Abu Bakar moved the sultanate's capital from Singapore to the settlement of Tanjung Puteri and renamed it Johor Bahru. This step laid the administrative and political foundation for future growth, turning it into a centre of power and governance. During this period, iconic architectural structures were erected, including the Istana Besar (Grand Palace) and the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, shaping the cultural and historical appearance of the city.
• Construction of the Johor–Singapore Causeway (1924): The construction of the causeway was a crucial infrastructure project, connecting the Malay Peninsula and Singapore by land for the first time. This event radically changed the economy of Johor Bahru, turning it into the main land "gateway" for trade and the daily migration of the workforce.
• Achieving City Status (1994): On January 1, 1994, Johor Bahru officially received "bandaraya" (city) status. This was a formal recognition of its significant population growth, developed infrastructure, and transformation into a major urban centre of Malaysia.
• Opening of the "Second Link" (1998): The construction of a second bridge between Malaysia and Singapore was necessary to relieve the growing traffic flow on the first causeway. This strengthened economic ties, facilitated logistics, and contributed to the further industrial development of the region.
• Launch of the "Iskandar Malaysia" Project (2006): The creation of this massive economic corridor became the most significant transformation in the city's modern history. The project aims to turn Southern Johor into a powerful economic hub by attracting investment in logistics, tourism (e.g., Legoland Park), healthcare, finance, and creative industries. This led to rapid urbanisation, the emergence of new business and residential districts such as Iskandar Puteri, and the creation of tens of thousands of jobs.

The architectural landscape of Johor Bahru is a fascinating journey through time, where colonial heritage elegantly intertwines with Islamic traditions and skyscrapers reaching for the future. The city does not boast a single architectural style; instead, it demonstrates an eclectic mix of eras reflecting its dynamic history.

The Sultanate Era: Victorian Style and Malay Motifs (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

The foundation of the city's modern architectural heritage was laid during the reign of Sultan Abu Bakar, who actively introduced Western ideas without abandoning local traditions. This period is characterised by a unique synthesis of European and Eastern styles.

• Victorian and Moorish Styles: The brightest example is the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque (1900). Although the mosque is primarily executed in the Victorian style, elements of Moorish and even Malay architecture can be seen in its appearance. Four minarets, reminiscent of British clock towers, create a unique silhouette.
• Anglo-Malay Style: The Istana Besar (Grand Palace), built in 1866, is another iconic building of that era, demonstrating a harmonious combination of British colonial architecture and traditional Malay elements.

The British Period and Early Independence: Art Deco and Modernism (1930s – 1970s)

In the first half of the 20th century, urban planning was heavily influenced by the British administration. During this period, one of the most recognisable buildings in the city appeared, becoming a symbol of administrative power.

• Saracenic Style and Art Deco: The Sultan Ibrahim Building (1940) on Bukit Timbalan hill dominates the old city centre. Its architecture represents a monumental combination of colonial style, Saracenic design, and Art Deco elements. For a long time, it remained the tallest building in pre-war Malaya and served as the centre of the state administration.

The Modern Era: Skyscrapers and Mega-projects (Late 20th – 21st Century)

Since the end of the 20th century, and especially with the launch of the "Iskandar Malaysia" economic corridor in 2006, Johor Bahru has been experiencing a construction boom. The cityscape is changing rapidly, being replenished with modern architecture made of glass and concrete. This stage of development has turned the city into a dynamic metropolis, closely linked with neighbouring Singapore.

• Postmodernism and High-Tech: New business and residential districts, such as Iskandar Puteri, are being built up with modern high-rise buildings, world-class hotels, shopping malls, and theme parks. The architecture of this period focuses on functionality, striking appearance, and the creation of a new, ultra-modern urban environment.

Notable Figures of Johor Bahru

The history and culture of Johor Bahru are inextricably linked with the names of monarchs, politicians, entrepreneurs, and artists who have made a significant contribution to the development of the city and the entire region.

• Sultan Abu Bakar (1833–1895) — The ruler who rightfully bears the title "Father of Modern Johor". It was he who moved the capital to Johor Bahru in 1866 and began massive modernisation, turning the city into a thriving administrative and economic centre. His reforms and diplomatic successes laid the foundation for the stability and growth of the entire sultanate.
• Wong Ah Fook (1837–1918) — An influential Chinese entrepreneur and construction contractor. As a close associate of Sultan Abu Bakar, he played a key role in early urban planning, erecting many iconic buildings, including the royal palace, Istana Besar. His name is immortalised in the name of one of the city's central streets.
• Dato' Onn Jaafar (1895–1962) — A prominent Malay politician who founded the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the country's largest political party, in Johor Bahru in 1946. This fact makes the city the cradle of modern Malaysian politics and the struggle for independence.
• Sultan Ibrahim Ismail (born 1958) — The current Sultan of Johor, and since 2024, the King of Malaysia. He is an influential figure in the contemporary life of the country, known for his attention to the economic development of the state, active public service, and the founding of the annual Kembara Mahkota Johor motorcycle tour.
• Royal Professor Ungku Abdul Aziz (1922–2020) — A world-renowned economist and scholar hailing from the Johor royal family. He made a huge contribution to Malaysia's higher education system, particularly as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Malaya, and was awarded the unique title of Royal Professor.
• Fasha Sandha (born 1984) — One of the most famous and popular actresses in modern Malaysian cinema and television. A native of Johor Bahru, she has become a star of national scale and the recipient of numerous prestigious awards.
• Gin Lee (born 1987) — A Malaysian singer who has achieved great success on the Cantopop scene in Hong Kong. Born in Johor Bahru, she has become an example of a modern artist who has received international recognition, and was even praised by the Sultan of Johor for bringing glory to her home state.
• Vivian Hoo Kah Mun (born 1990) — A professional badminton player, Olympian, and multiple medalist at the Commonwealth Games and Southeast Asian Games. She has worthily represented Malaysia at numerous international tournaments, bringing fame to her hometown on the global sports arena.