Johor’s Northern Jewel of Nature, Legends, and Textile Trade
Tangkak District, located in the northwestern tip of Johor, Malaysia, is a district steeped in myth, mountains, and markets. Home to the legendary Mount Ledang (Gunung Ledang), Tangkak is a nature lover’s paradise and a textile shopping hotspot, making it a unique blend of eco-tourism and traditional commerce.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Tangkak District |
| State | Johor |
| District Capital | Tangkak Town |
| Area | Approx. 1,334 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 150,000 |
| Parliamentary Seat | 1 (Ledang) |
| Local Authority | Majlis Daerah Tangkak (MDTg) |
Formation & History
- Formerly part of Muar District, Tangkak became Johor’s newest district in 2008
- Historically known as “Ledang”—referencing the famous mountain nearby
- Strong ties to Malay legends and the mythical Puteri Gunung Ledang
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
Tangkak District consists of 6 mukims:
- Tangkak
- Kesang
- Serom
- Bukit Serampang
- Kundang
- Durian Chondong
Key Towns and Areas
- Tangkak Town – Administrative and textile shopping hub
- Bukit Gambir & Serom – Agriculture, small businesses
- Kesang & Kundang – Villages with traditional crafts and markets
Geography & Nature
- Borders Melaka to the north and Segamat to the east
- Dominated by Gunung Ledang (Mount Ophir) – a sacred and scenic peak
- Rich in rainforests, rivers, waterfalls, and hills
Economy & Industry
- Famous for the textile industry – Tangkak is nicknamed the “Fabric Town”
- Agriculture: rubber, oil palm, fruits (especially durian and mangosteen)
- Small-scale food processing, cottage industries, handicrafts
- Tourism and retail contribute significantly to local economy
Education & Healthcare
- Several public secondary schools and vocational institutions
- Technical training centers in Tangkak and Serom
- Hospital Tangkak – main government health facility
- Clinics and mobile healthcare in rural zones
Transport & Accessibility
- Accessible via North–South Expressway (PLUS) – Tangkak Interchange
- Well-connected to Melaka, Muar, and Segamat via trunk roads
- Bus services, taxis, and ride-hailing available within town
Tourism & Attractions
- Gunung Ledang National Park:
- Malaysia’s most legendary hiking destination
- Waterfalls, jungle trekking, picnic areas
- Taman Rekreasi Sungai Gersik – riverfront park
- Tangkak Fabric Street:
- Dozens of textile and clothing shops in town center
- Traditional Malay villages and eco-farms
Culture & Cuisine
- Ethnically diverse: Malay majority, Chinese and Indian communities
- Traditional village culture preserved
- Must-try foods:
- Asam Pedas Ikan Tenggiri
- Mee Bandung Tangkak
- Durian-based desserts during harvest season
- Kuih Tradisional, Otak-Otak, Cendol
- Local markets and Ramadan bazaars are vibrant and community-driven
Summary
Tangkak District is a hidden gem in Johor—where the mystic legends of Mount Ledang, the bustle of fabric markets, and the calm of village life come together beautifully. Whether you’re a trekker, shopper, or cultural explorer, Tangkak offers an unforgettable journey into Johor’s northern soul.