Johor Bahru District

Malaysia’s Southern Gateway of Growth and Global Connection

Johor Bahru District, often referred to as JB District, is the southernmost district in Peninsular Malaysia and serves as the administrative, financial, and cultural heart of Johor State. Bordering Singapore, the district plays a crucial role in international trade, logistics, education, and urban development.


Basic Information

CategoryDetails
District NameJohor Bahru District
StateJohor
District CapitalJohor Bahru City
Other Major TownsIskandar Puteri, Pasir Gudang, Masai, Skudai
Population (2025 est.)Over 2.5 million (fastest growing in Johor)
AreaApprox. 1,063 sq. km
Local GovernmentsMBJB, MBIP, MBPG (3 City Councils)
Parliamentary Seats6 (e.g., Johor Bahru, Tebrau, Pasir Gudang)

Administrative Divisions

Johor Bahru District is divided into several mukims (subdistricts) and governed by three separate local authorities:

1. Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB)

2. Majlis Bandaraya Iskandar Puteri (MBIP)

3. Majlis Bandaraya Pasir Gudang (MBPG)


Strategic Importance

  • Gateway to Singapore via Causeway and Second Link
  • Part of Iskandar Malaysia – one of Southeast Asia’s most ambitious economic corridors
  • Hub for manufacturing, logistics, education, health tourism, and ICT development

Key Infrastructure & Connectivity

  • Highways: North–South Expressway, Coastal Highway, EDL, Pasir Gudang Highway
  • Ports: Johor Port (Pasir Gudang), Tanjung Langsat Port
  • Transport Hubs: Larkin Sentral (main bus terminal), future RTS Link to Singapore
  • Air Access: Near Senai International Airport (30–40 minutes away)

Education & Institutions

  • International & public schools
  • Universities:
    • Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
    • Raffles University
    • Southern University College
    • Sunway College JB
  • Polytechnic and TVET centers

Healthcare & Medical Tourism

  • Hospitals: KPJ Johor, Sultanah Aminah Hospital, Regency Specialist, Columbia Asia
  • Known for attracting medical tourists from Singapore and Indonesia

Economy & Industry

  • Pasir Gudang: Heavy industries, port logistics, chemicals
  • Iskandar Puteri: Tech parks, business districts, education city
  • Tourism: Shopping, theme parks, waterfronts, heritage zones

Tourism & Attractions

  • Legoland Malaysia Resort
  • Danga Bay – waterfront leisure and property
  • Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
  • Johor Zoo
  • Angry Birds Activity Park
  • Johor Bahru City Square & KOMTAR JBCC
  • Night markets & local food hubs (Taman Sentosa, Taman Pelangi)

Culture & Demographics

  • Multicultural population: Malay, Chinese, Indian, Orang Asli
  • Strong influence from Singapore in lifestyle and economy
  • Diverse religious institutions and cultural harmony
  • Local food scene: Laksa Johor, Mee Rebus, Kacang Pool, Nasi Briyani Gam

Summary

Johor Bahru District is more than a border town—it’s a thriving metropolitan engine powering Johor’s future. With world-class infrastructure, investment zones, global connectivity, and a rising middle class, JB District is a symbol of Malaysia’s southern success.