Johor’s Island Gateway to Marine Paradise and Eco-Adventures
Mersing District, located on the northeastern coast of Johor, is the state’s premier gateway to Malaysia’s East Coast islands, including the renowned Pulau Tioman. Known for its pristine beaches, fishing heritage, and island-hopping tourism, Mersing is a tranquil destination full of untapped natural beauty.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Mersing District |
| State | Johor |
| District Capital | Mersing Town |
| Area | Approx. 2,838 sq. km (2nd largest district in Johor) |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 75,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Mersing) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Mersing (MDM) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Mersing District consists of 10 mukims:
- Mersing
- Jemaluang
- Tenglu
- Triang
- Lenggor
- Endau
- Labis
- Penyabong
- Padang Endau
- Sri Pantai
Key Towns and Villages
- Mersing Town – ferry terminal, main commercial hub
- Endau – fishing town bordering Pahang
- Penyabong & Tenglu – quiet coastal villages
- Jemaluang & Triang – forested and agricultural zones
Geography & Access
- Bordered by the South China Sea
- Connected to inland Johor and Pahang via Federal Route 3
- Gateway to Tioman, Rawa, Aur, and other islands via Mersing Jetty
Economy & Livelihood
- Fishing and seafood processing are primary industries
- Growing eco-tourism and marine tourism sector
- Agriculture: oil palm, rubber, tropical fruits
- Handicrafts and local seafood products drive cottage industries
Education & Healthcare
- Local public schools and religious madrasahs
- Technical and vocational education in Mersing Town
- Hospital Mersing – government hospital
- Rural health clinics in mukim centers
Transport & Connectivity
- Federal Route 3 connects Mersing to Kota Tinggi and Kuantan
- Mersing Jetty:
- Ferries to Pulau Tioman, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Besar, and others
- Buses, taxis, and limited ride-hailing available
- Mersing Airport (small airstrip for emergency and private use)
Tourism & Attractions
- Pulau Tioman: World-class diving and snorkeling
- Pulau Rawa & Pulau Besar: White sand beaches, boutique resorts
- Tanjung Leman: Another jetty point for island access
- Endau-Rompin National Park: Rich rainforest biodiversity, trekking
- Air Papan Beach: Family-friendly coastline with food stalls
- Fisherman’s Museum (Muzium Nelayan Endau) – showcasing coastal heritage
- Mersing Esplanade & Waterfront
Culture & Food
- Predominantly Malay population with Orang Asli and Chinese minorities
- Strong coastal traditions: boat-making, fish drying, island festivals
- Food specialties:
- Ikan Celup Tepung (battered fried fish)
- Mee Bandung Mersing
- Lempeng Kelapa, Ketam Masak Lemak
- Fresh seafood BBQ on the beach
Summary
Mersing is Johor’s untouched marine frontier—where lush forests meet blue seas, and village charm meets island adventures. With its strategic location, serene lifestyle, and island access, Mersing is ideal for eco-tourists, adventurers, and peaceful getaways.