Johor’s Coastal Treasure of Seafood, Nature, and Harmony
Pontian District, located on the western coast of Johor, is a peaceful district known for its fishing heritage, mangrove-rich ecology, and multicultural charm. It’s a place where village life, agriculture, and coastal development go hand in hand—offering a serene alternative to Johor’s fast-paced cities.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Pontian District |
| State | Johor |
| District Capital | Pontian Kechil (also known as Pontian Town) |
| Area | Approx. 919 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 180,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Pontian) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Pontian (MDP) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Pontian District is divided into 2 main sub-districts (mukim):
- Pontian Kecil (Kechil) – the administrative and commercial hub
- Pontian Besar – covers rural areas, farms, and coastal settlements
Some notable localities include:
- Pekan Nanas
- Ayer Baloi
- Serkat
- Benut
- Rimba Terjun
- Tanjung Piai
Geographic Features
- Borders the Straits of Malacca
- Features mangrove forests, estuaries, and lowland coastal terrain
- Neighboring districts: Batu Pahat (north), Johor Bahru (east), Kulai (northeast)
Economy & Livelihood
- Fisheries & aquaculture: Primary traditional industry
- Agriculture: Oil palm, pineapple (especially in Pekan Nanas), rice
- Seafood restaurants & dried seafood trade
- Tourism (Tanjung Piai, Kukup) is gaining popularity
- Small and medium industries: food processing, boat making, crafts
Education & Healthcare
- Public schools and vocational centers in Pontian Town and Pekan Nanas
- Kolej Komuniti Pontian
- Clinics in rural zones
- Main healthcare facility: Pontian Hospital
- Private clinics in urban areas
Transport & Connectivity
- Accessible via Federal Route 5 and Skudai–Pontian Highway
- Buses and ride-hailing (Grab) available
- Short drive to Johor Bahru and Second Link to Singapore
- Pekan Nanas is a satellite town for commuters
Tourism & Attractions
- Tanjung Piai National Park
- Southernmost point of mainland Asia
- Mangrove boardwalks, birdwatching, coastal views
- Kukup Fishing Village
- Stilt houses, seafood restaurants, island hopping
- Pulau Kukup Johor National Park
- One of the world’s largest uninhabited mangrove islands
- Pineapple Museum (Muzium Nanas) in Pekan Nanas
- Benut Town Market & Local Night Bazaars
Culture & Food
- Malay, Chinese (Teochew & Hokkien), and small Indian communities
- Strong fishing village culture
- Local cuisine:
- Ikan Bakar Kukup (grilled fish)
- Lontong Kering Pontian
- Mee Rebus Pontian
- Dried shrimp, salted fish, keropok
- Seafood is central to every festivity
Summary
Pontian District is Johor’s peaceful coastal escape, offering a lifestyle built on fishing, farming, and cultural harmony. From Tanjung Piai’s mangrove trails to Kukup’s seafood charm, Pontian is a haven for nature lovers, foodies, and cultural travelers alike.