Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia

ISBN 978-967-5626-24-1 

Area Character Statement

Area Character Statement 

Blueprint for Iskandar Malaysia

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

List of agencies/ departments involved in developing ACS blueprint 

Federal 

Ministry of Information, Communication & Culture (KPKK) 

Badan Warisan Malaysia 

Jabatan Pembangunan Bandar dan Desa (JPBD) Johor 

State 

Chief Minister of Johor Office 

Yayasan Warisan Johor 

Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB) 

Majlis Perbandaran Johor Bahru Tengah (MPJBT) 

Majlis Perbandaran Pasir Gudang (MPPG) 

Majlis Perbandaran Kulai (MPK) 

Majlis Daerah Pontian (MDP) 

Majlis Tindakan Pelancongan Johor 

Tourist Guide Associations 

Historians 

Local Community

Foreword 

Iskandar Malaysia is a National Project to develop a vibrant new region at the southern gateway of 

Peninsular Malaysia. A regional authority body Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) was 

formed with specific roles to plan, promote and facilitate in which to coordinate the economic, 

environmental and social planning, development and management of Iskandar Malaysia. IRDA refers to 

The Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) as the guiding document in developing Iskandar 

Malaysia, and subsequent to that, blueprints are prepared as a subset and supplementary document to 

CDP, which outlines detail findings, strategies, implementation and action plans. 

The Iskandar Malaysia Area Character Statement blueprint has been prepared to assist the public and 

private sector and the community to work together in managing heritage and cultural concerns within 

the Iskandar Malaysia region so that all can benefit in making the region a place to invest, work, live and 

play. The document is a non-statutory document that identifies the distinctive qualities and 

characteristics of Iskandar Malaysia, and suggests how they can be preserved and enhanced through 

proposed programs or project proposals as well as relevant guidelines. 

The Blueprint focuses on Area Character Planning addresses issues of design and character and involves 

more than looking at just the physical layout of development or the amount of open space to be 

provided. Therefore the study of an area character can be understood as a study that describes the 

distinctive qualities and characteristics of an area. This blueprint has twenty-five (25) initiatives and 

action plans to manage future Area Character planning in Iskandar Malaysia. 

The key objectives underpinning in this study are : to ensure that the historical and cultural aspect of 

the state are preserved, promoted and enhanced, and not lost amidst the on going anticipated modern 

development of Iskandar; to develop identity for Iskandar Malaysia by understanding the historical 

events that shape southern Johor since its beginning, that can contribute to the overall character of 

Iskandar and promoting Iskandar as a unique place to live, work, play and do business; and to ensure a 

well managed system of implementation of proposed enhancement and preservation of all Iskandar 

identity and character, which includes stakeholder engagement and public participation.

CONTENT 

1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1 

1.1 Definition 1 

1.2 The Study 1 

1.3 Objective of the Study 1 

1.4 Targeted User 1 

1.5 Identification of Character 2 

2.0 STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVEMENT 2 

2.1 Stakeholders 2 

2.2 Workshops 3 

3.0 ELEMENTS OF CHARACTER 3 

3.1 Natural Elements 3 

3.2 Man-made Elements (including Built Heritage) 6 

3.3 Social & Cultural Elements 7 

4.0 ASSETS AND POTENTIALS 9 

5.0 ISSUES AND THREATS 10 

5.1 Nature 10 

5.2 Urban Design 11 

5.3 Built Heritage 11 

5.4 Society & Culture 11 

6.0 AREA CHARACTER 12 

7.0 THE WAY FORWARD 14 

8.0 STRATEGY AND PROPOSED PROGRAMS 17 

8.1 Nature 17 

8.2 Built Heritage 19 

8.3 Society, Culture & Tradition 20 

8.4 Urban Design 22 

8.5 Implementation 23

1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 

1.1 Definition 

"Character" can generally be thought of as the look or feel of a place-that which sets it apart from other 

areas. Character planning addresses issues of design and character and involve more than looking at just 

the physical layout of development or the amount of open space to be provided. Character areas cover 

geographical areas of different size and each has a common setting, land use pattern or character of 

development that will lead to a logical character study. Thus the study of an area character can be 

understood as a study that describes the distinctive qualities and characteristics of an area. 

1.2 The Study 

The Iskandar Malaysia Area Character Statement is a non-statutory document that identifies the 

distinctive qualities and characteristics of Iskandar Malaysia, and suggests how they can be preserved 

and enhanced through proposed programs or project proposals as well as relevant guidelines. The first 

of its kind, the study which started in March 2009 was undertaken by Iktisas Planners Sdn. Bhd. 

together with Hamdan Abdul Jamal Architect and Badan Warisan Malaysia, with Yayasan Warisan Johor 

as its key study advisor. 

1.3 Objective of the Study 

The objectives of this study are: 

i. To ensure that the historical and cultural aspect of the state are preserved, promoted and 

enhanced, and not lost amidst the ongoing anticipated modern development of Iskandar. 

ii. To develop identity for Iskandar Malaysia by understanding the historical events that shape 

southern Johor since its beginning, that can contribute to the overall character of Iskandar and 

promoting Iskandar as a unique place to live, work, play and do business. 

iii. To ensure a well managed system of implementation of proposed enhancement and preservation 

of all Iskandar identity and character, which includes stakeholder engagement and public 

participation. 

1.4 Targeted User 

The State: 

As a guidance for heritage listing, register and heritage building conservation especially those owned by 

state and royalty 

The 5 Local authorities: 

As a guidance to the characterization of landscaping (hardscape and softcape) of heritage values, ie: 

character for gateway, landmark signage and selection of trees (implementation of 3K: Kebersihan, 

Keindahan dan Keceriaan initiatives) 

MBJB, in particular: 

As a framework, and content for heritage related buildings and architectural, ie: JB Transformation, 

Heritage Trails 

Yayasan Warisan Johor: 

As a framework to assist in the improvement, upgrading and implementation of programs. 

Tourism Johor and Tourist Guide Association: 

As the content for tourism purposes, ie brochure, pamphlet and maps of historical and heritage significance

Developers: 

As a framework to characterization of buildings and townships and data banks for naming of street, 

buildings and development 

General public: 

As a documentation to learn and understand the Southern Johor heritage and as a framework for 

further investigation and studies 

1.5 IDENTIFICATION OF CHARACTER 

Four key elements were used in the identification of character: 

Natural Element - Coastline, beaches, mangroves and other forests, rivers, 

mountains, hills, plants and animals. 

Built Heritage Element - Historical buildings, infrastructure and gardens 

Social, Cultural and Traditional Element - People, food, attires, dances, 

performances, music, songs, games and festivals. 

Urban Design Element - Gateway, landmark, edges, nodes, path, etc. 

2. STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVEMENT 

2.1 Stakeholders 

The involvements of stakeholders were sought during workshops and discussions for clarification and 

verification of data, and for their opinions on proposed programs and guidelines. 

Key stakeholders consulted were: 

1. State Planning Committee 

2. Local Authorities 

• Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB) 

• Majlis Perbandaran Johor Bahru Tengah (MPJBT) 

• Majlis Perbandaran Pasir Gudang (MPPG) 

• Majlis Perbandaran Kulai (MPK) 

• Majlis Daerah Pontian (MDP) 

• JPBD Johor 

3. Yayasan Warisan Johor 

4. Majlis Tindakan Pelancongan Johor 

5. Badan Warisan Malaysia 

6. Tourist Guide Associations 

7. Historians

2.2 Workshops 

Over the course of the study, 3 workshops have been conducted involving stakeholders: 

• WORKSHOP 1 (14-15 April 2009): 

Bengkel Pemugaran Sejarah, Senibudaya & Tradisi Johor Di Iskandar Malaysia 

• WORKSHOP 2 (15 July 2009): 

Bengkel Inventori, Penemuan Dan Cadangan Awal Bagi Pernyataan Karektor Kawasan Iskandar 

Malaysia 

• WORKSHOP 3 (21 October 2009): 

Bengkel Identiti Dan Warisan Iskandar Malaysia 

3. ELEMENTS OF CHARACTER 

The findings of the study have identified elements that are significant to the character of the area based 

on different category: 

3.1 Natural Elements 

• Mudflats & Mangroves 

1. Pulau Kukup FR (650ha.) 

2. Tanjung Piai (part of Sg. Pulai FR) (526 ha.) 

3. Sungai Pulai FR (7,633 ha.) 

4. Sungai Perepat 

5. Sungai Pendas 

6. Sungai Danga 

7. Sungai Kim-Kim 

8. Sungai Johor FR (3,215ha.) 

Tg. Piai mangroves 

• Sandy Beaches 

1. S tulang Laut 

2. Pantai Lido 

• River Basins 

Major basins (sub-basins in brackets): 

1. Sungai Pulai 

2. Sungai Skudai (Sungai Danga) 

3. Sungai Tebrau (Sungai Plentong) 

4. Sungai Johor (Sungai Layang) 

5. Sungai Pontian Kechil 

Smaller basins: 

1. Sungai Pendas 

2. Sungai Perepat 

3. Sungai Melayu 

4. Sungai Masai 

5. Sungai Kim-Kim 

Stulang Laut beach 

Sungai Pulai mangrove 

exploration

• Seagrass beds 

1. Tg Kupang-Tg Adang-Pulau Merambong 

2. Tanjung Surat-Pasir Gogok 

• Dipterocarp Forests (DF) 

1. Lowland DF - Sedenak Forest Reserve (587 ha.) 

2. Lowland DF - Bukit Hantu Forest Reserve (97 ha.) 

3. Hill DF – Gunung Pulai Forest Reserve (3,521ha.) 

• Prime Agriculture Areas and Rural Settlements 

Various sites, largely the FELDA schemes and settlements, 

as well as the rural villages along the western and eastern 

provinces. 

Dipterocarp Forests 

Rural settlement 

• Urban Parks and Open Spaces 

Hutan Bandar, Dataran Bandaraya, & various pockets parks. 

• Fauna Of Significant Character 

1. Dugong 

2. Spotted seahorse (Hippocampus kuda ) 

3. Keluang (Pteropus vampyrus) 

4. Kupang 

5. Malayan Tiger 

6. Kijang 

7. Burung Perling 

8. Burung Punai 

9. Burung Layang-layang 

10. Tiram 

Urban park 

Dugong Spotted seahorse Kupang 

• Flora Of Significant Character 

1. Gambir (Uncaria gambir) 

2. Pepper (Lada Hitam, Piper nigrum) 

3. Coffee (Coffea spp., most likely C. liberica species) 

4. Pinang, betel palm (Areca catechu) 

5. Kayu Manis (Cinnamomum iners, more possibly C. javanica spp.) 

6. Clove, Cengkih (Eugenia aromatica) 

7. Coconut (Cocos nucifera) 

8. Pineapple (Ananas spp.) 

9. Rubber (Hevea spp.) 

10. Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) 

11. Kempas (Koompassia malaccensis) 

12. Tampoi (Baccaurea macrocarpa) 

13. Sinai (Leptaspis urceolata) 

14. Gaharu/cendana (Aquilaria malaccensis) 

15. Getah Taban, Getah Perca, Taban Merah (Palaquium gutta) 

16. Piai Raya (Acrostichum aureum) 

17. Gelam (Melaleuca leucadendron) 

18. Merbau (Intsia spp.) 

19. Teberau (Saccharum arundinaceum) 

20. Stulang (Setulang, Coptosapelta griffithii) 

21. Bemban (Donax arundastrum) 

Coffee 

22. Pulai (Alstonia spp.) 

Pineapple 

Black pepper 

Piai 

Perepat 

Seagrass

23. Tembusu (Fagraea fragrans) 

24. Nibong (Oncosperma tigillarium) 

25. Seagrass (Halophila ovalis & Enhalus acoroides) 

26. Redan (Nephelium glabrum) 

27. Rinting (Ptychoraphis singaporensis) 

28. Perepat (Sonneratia griffithii) 

29. Buloh Kasap (Ochlandra ridleyi) 

30. Duku (Lansium domesticum) 

• Historic Hills 

A. Bukit Zahrah (Botanical Garden & Zoo) 

B. Bukit Redan (Abu Bakar mosque) 

C. Bukit Bintang 

D. Bukit Jepun (former Dato’ Onn’s residence) 

E. Bukit Mahmoodiah (Royal Mausoleum/cemetery) 

F. Bukit Cengkih (Officer’s Ward) 

G. Bukit Gambir (Jalan Dato’ Menteri) 

H. Bukit Sri Lalang (former Dato’ Abd. Rahman Andak’s residence) 

I. Bukit Seri Manggis (former Istana Pantai site) 

J. Bukit Serene (Sultan’s Palace) 

K. Bukit Senyum (Dato’ Jaafar’s building) 

L. Bukit Setulang (former Tengku Mahkota Johor’s residence) 

M. Bukit Tanjung Puteri (Bukit Meldrum) 

N. Bukit Cagar 

O. Bukit Timbalan (Sultan Ibrahim’s building) 

P. Bukit Polis (now TM building) 

Q. Bukit Kopi (former Dato’ Munsyi Mohd Ibrahim’s residence) 

R. Bukit Kurnia (former private residence)

3.2 Man Made Elements (including Built Heritage) 

• Residential Building 

1. Istana Besar 

2. Istana Bukit Serene 

3. Istana Pasir Pelangi 

4. Dato’ Jaafar Residence 

Istana Besar Istana Pasir Pelangi Dato’ Jaafar Residence 

• Public/ Government Building 

1. Sultan Ibrahim Building 

2. Courthouse 

3. Balai Zaharah 

4. Datuk Abdullah Jaafar Building 

5. JMF Headquarters 

6. Balai Polis Central 

7. Sultanah Aminah Hospital 

8. Hospital Permai 

9. Dewan Jubli Intan 

• Institutional Building 

1. UTM 

2. English College 

3. Sultan Ibrahim Girls’ School 

4. Sekolah Tun Fatimah 

5. Sekolah Infant Jesus Convent 

• Places of Worship 

1. Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar 

2. Masjid Istana Pasir Pelangi 

3. Church of Immaculate Conception 

4. Ku Miao Chinese Temple 

5. Hindu Temple 

6. Gurdwara Sahib 

• Commercial Building 

1. PERSADA Johor 

2. City Square 

• Infrastructure 

1. Causeway 

2. Johor CIQ 

3. JB Railway Station 

4. Port of Tg. Pelepas 

5. Senai International Airport 

• Open Space/Recreational 

1. Danga Bay 

2. Dataran Bandaraya 

3. Legaran Segget 

4. Istana Garden 

Sultan Ibrahim Building 

Balai Polis Central 

English College 

Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar 

Persada Johor 

Causeway 

Dataran Bandaraya 

Courthouse 

JMF Headquarters 

Sekolah Infant Jesus 

Convent 

Ku Miao Temple 

City Square 

JB Railway Station 

Istana Garden

3.3 Social & Cultural Elements 

• Local Foods 

Main dishes 

1. Laksa Johor 

2. Lontong 

3. Soto 

4. Nasi Beriyani Gam 

5. Nasi Ambeng 

6. Nasi Berkat 

7. Nasi Bukhari 

8. Mi Bandung 

9. Mi Rebus 

10. Mi Bakso 

11. Roti Jala 

12. Asam Pedas Daun Kesum 

13. Kerutup Ikan 

14. Ungkep 

15. Burasak 

16. Botok-botok 

17. Harisa 

Side dishes 

1. Otak-otak 

2. Telur Pindang 

3. Rojak Petis 

4. Pechal 

5. Tauhu Sumbat 

6. Kacang Phol 

7. Pisang Salai 

8. Mi Siput 

9. Rempeyek 

10. Pendaram 

11. Tempe 

Drinks 

1. Sirap Bandung Soda 

2. Air Katirah 

3. Sirap Selasih 

4. Air Beh 

Desserts 

1. Bubur Sumsum 

2. Serawa 

3. Lempuk Durian 

4. Halwa Maskat 

5. Bubur Putih Bubur Merah 

6. Penganan Kacau Keledek 

Laksa Johor 

Mi Bandung 

Roti Jala 

Otak-otak 

Pisang Salai 

Sirap Bandung Soda 

Bubur Sumsum 

Soto 

Mi Rebus 

Harisa 

Telur Pindang 

Tauhu Sumbat 

Sirap Selasih 

Bubur Putih Bubur Merah

• Busana Johor (Traditional Costumes) 

Costumes 

1. Kurung Teluk Belanga 

2. Kurung Cekak Musang 

3. Baju Melayu-Riau 

4. Baju Belah Kebaya Panjang 

5. Pakaian Kehormatan Barat 

Accessories 

1. Songkok Tinggi 

2. Samping Dagang Dalam/Luar 

3. Justar Diraja Singa Menoleh 

4. Johor Crown 

5. Keris Berlok 

6. Selendang Mantul 

7. Sarung Kelubung 

Woven Fabric 

1. Kain Mastuli 

2. Kain Bugis 

3. Kain Telepuk 

4. Kain Gerus 

5. Kelingkan Embroidery 

• Traditional Dance and Arts & Performance 

Traditional Dance 

1. Zapin 

2. Kuda Kepang 

3. Ceracap Inai 

4. Sarah Dance 

5. Lion Dance 

6. Bhangra 

Musical and Instruments 

1. Ghazal 

2. Keroncong 

3. Kempling 

4. Gamelan 

5. Tajuk Johor song 

6. Bangsa Johor song 

Arts and Performance 

1. Wayang Kulit Purwa 

2. Wayang Wong 

3. Barongan 

4. Hamdolok 

5. Silat Sendeng 

6. Chinese Opera 

7. Ketoprak 

8. Ludruk 

Kurung Teluk Belanga 

(women version) 

Songkok Tinggi 

Kain Telepuk 

Zapin 

Ghazal 

Wayang Kulit Purwa 

Kurung Teluk Belanga 

(men version) 

Selendang Mantul 

Kelingkan Embroidery 

Kuda Kepang 

Gamelan 

Silat Sendeng

Arts and Performance 

1. Wayang Kulit Purwa 

2. Wayang Wong 

3. Barongan 

4. Hamdolok 

5. Silat Sendeng 

6. Chinese Opera 

7. Ketoprak 

8. Ludruk 

• Local Games 

1. Gasing Pangkah 

2. Wau Merak 

3. Sepak Raga 

Wau Merak 

Sepak Raga 

• Events and Festivals 

1. Kembara Mahkota Johor 

2. International Kites Festival 

3. Johor Baru International Orchid Festival 

4. Johor Zapin Festival 

5. Johor Ghazal Festival 

6. Maulidur Rasul Parade 

7. Maal Hijrah 

8. Marhaban 

9. Tilawah Al-Quran 

10. Chingay 

11. Thaipussam 

Kembara Mahkota Johor 

International Kites Festival 

Maulidur Rasul Parade Marhaban 

4. ASSETS AND POTENTIALS 

There are several very significant assets and potentials within Iskandar Malaysia that need to be 

protected and conserved because they represent some unique characteristics that can represent the 

character and identity of Iskandar Region: 

1. Natural Environment and Resources 

• The mangroves areas, including those outside the 

Ramsar sites of Pulau Kukup, Tanjung Piai and 

Sungai Pulai FR. 

• The seagrass beds between Tanjung Kupang, 

Tanjung Adang and Pulau Merambong. 

• Gunung Pulai Forest Reserve. 

• Bukit Hantu Forest Reserve and Sedenak Forest 

Reserve. 

• Historic Hills. 

• Urban Parks and Open Spaces. 

• Rural settlements. 

Mangroves at Ramsar Sites 

2. Heritage Buildings Conservation 

• Potential for adaptive reuse of historical buildings with the relocation of government offices to 

Nusajaya. 

• Heritage sites could be better interpreted especially through design and marketing of themed 

heritage trails to attract tourists.

3. Southern Gateway 

• The long ties that have long existed with Singapore can be 

further capitalized for tourism and commercial activities. 

• Due to its location, Johor Bahru can be the staging point for 

not only Singapore but to Sabah, Sarawak and Indonesia. 

4. Historical Values, Social and Cultural Traditions 

• Strong historical background, particularly history on Johor 

rulers and royalties. 

School children performing 

• Marketable and gradually gaining popularity traditional 

during Zapin Festival 

performances such as ghazal and zapin. 

• Distinctively Johorian food are many and can be popularised for commercial or tourism purposes. 

5. ISSUES AND THREATS 

5.1 Nature 

a) Degradation of Natural Resources 

Development is fast encroaching into environmentally sensitive areas. The followings are natural 

resources under threat and in need of protection: 

• Terrestrial forest reserves 

Only three of terrestrial forest reserves left in Iskandar region left now, due to encroachment 

threats and illegal forest clearings, fragmented and isolated of the locations of these forests, 

poor habitat quality and lack of baseline information on existing flora & fauna species present, 

compared to Johor National Parks sites. 

• Mangroves 

Sungai Pulai Forest Reserve mangroves are now threatened by shipping activities as well as 

environmental pollution which exposed the environments to impact on fisheries, impact on 

Sungai Pulai seagrass beds and loss of wildlife habitats. 

• Seagrass Beds 

The existing seagrass beds is the largest and longest in Malaysia. They are also home to the 

largest population of dugong and spotted seahorse in the country. However, their protection 

and potential for research and tourism are not fully capitalised. Seagrass bed at Beting Tg. 

Adang is smothered by sediments and seagrass habitat at Sungai Pulai is diminishing as a result 

of port activities. 

• Historically Significant Commercial Crop 

Many commercial crops which are of historical significance to Johor are in danger of being 

forgotten. They include: 

a. Commercial crops that help build Johor; 

b. Plants that lend their name to name of places. 

c. Plants that are associated with fauna species. 

d. Urban parks & opens spaces potential for enhancement 

b) Urban parks 

Some existing urban parks are fragmented and of poor habitat quality.

5.2 Urban Design 

a) Undefined Urban Character 

Urban landscape is homogeneous and contiguous. With most townships looking similar to each 

other, it is difficult to set most settlements apart, characteristically and physically, hence 

devoiding them of any distinct character. 

b) Poor quality of Urbanscape 

• Lack of gateways and poor sense of welcoming. 

• No unique identity and character of towns. 

• Edges such as coastline and river reserves are underutilized and not properly maintained. 

• Poor pedestrian / cyclist connection. 

• Poor landscaping along major roads. 

• Lack of road and directional signage. 

• Lack of information kiosk / road map. 

• Some landmarks are not distinguished enough. 

• View corridors have no clear vista and some parts are obstructed. 

5.3 Built Heritage 

a) Poor Management 

The uninformed renovations have altered the authenticity of the old shop house buildings that has 

brought to jeopardising the integrity of the historical core of the city. The built heritage is poorly 

managed and not exploited to enhance the social, cultural and economic aspects of the people 

and area. 

b) Storyline 

The storyline of heritage is not well documented. The local population is not aware of the history 

of Johor. 

c) Conservation 

Little or no conservation works on heritage buildings are being carried out which led to few tourist 

attractions and there may be discrepancy in assessment and implementation of conservation 

among different local authorities. 

d) Threats from Developments 

• New buildings in large-scale development zones may create a new identity for the region. 

• No statutory regulations or guidelines for control of developments on or near heritage 

buildings and sites ie no buffer zones, which could affect the integrity and heritage values of 

the area. 

• Recent developments have not been sensitive to preserving the heritage built environment 

especially because of traffic impact and the building of the CIQ. 

5.4 Society And Culture 

a) Confined popularity 

With the exception of zapin and kuda kepang, many of other Johor cultural elements are still less 

popular outside Johor.

) Difficulties in imparting skills and knowledge 

Some of the difficulties involved in the preservation and appreciation of cultures and traditions 

are: 

• Experts are getting fewer. 

• Skills and knowledge are not passed down by elders. 

• Influence of popular culture is stronger than traditional ones. 

c) Academic Research and Formal Recordings 

• Historical detail, storyline and ‘know-how’ are still lacking 

• Publication of original recipes, dancing steps, performances, skills are very few, not distributed 

to wide circle of audience and could be made more appealing 

6. AREA CHARACTER 

The character of Iskandar Malaysia is the sum of physical attributes existing today, largely in the forms 

of natural landscapes, commercial activities, industrial estates and townships, as well as intangible 

feature such as traditions, history and cultures. There are six key character areas identified: 

1. JB City Centre 

Johor Bahru city centre, the place where it all began is the most urbanised locality in Iskandar Malaysia. 

Image and Character: 

• State capital 

• Commercial centre 

• Culture city 

• Established settlement 

• Heritage building 

Sultan Ibrahim Building sitting at 

the top of Bukit Timbalan

2. State Administrative Centre 

A newly designated area for development which aspires to become the State’s new administration 

centre and new development anchor for South East Asia. 


• New administration center of Johor 

• International finance centre 

• Development catalyst for growth 

The Johor State New Admistrative 

Centre at Nusajaya 

3. New Townships 

The Johor Bahru suburban corridor is the main residential core for Iskandar Malaysia stretching from 

Tanjung Langsat on the east to Pekan Nenas on the west. 


• Johor Bahru suburban areas 

• Large townships that absorb the city growth 

• UTM campus 

• Pasir Gudang Port 

• Tanjung Langsat Port 

• Industrial areas 

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia 

(UTM), Skudai 

4. Nature East 

The eastern region of Iskandar Malaysia which is predominantly natural areas and very much 

untouched compared to other areas in the region. 


• Sungai Johor river basin 

• Seagrass 

• Dugong 

• Spotted seahorse 

• Mangroves 

Dugong 

5. Nature West 

This is the natural green corridor for the western side of Iskandar Malaysia. Half of this area consists of 

wetland areas recognised as Ramsar Site. 


• Green area; natural and agricultural 

• Ramsar Site 

• Tg. Piai -southern most tip of Asia 

• Rural settlement 

• Seagrass, dugong, sea horse 

Johor National Park at Tg. Piai 

6. Urban Hinterland 

This northern area remains as the green lung for Iskandar Malaysia and it contains relatively 

low-density settlement and large plantation estates and FELDA which contribute to its rural landscape. 


• Large plantation/ agricultural area 

• Land bank 

• Rural 

Palm Oil Plantation

7. THE WAY FORWARD 

The following key strategies have been formulated for the enhancement of character in Iskandar 

Malaysia. They are based on the issues raised pertaining to the four main elements identified in the 

study. 

a) Built Heritage 

• Increase data collection, documentation and archival 

Interviews as part of data collection and 

heritage documentation process 

• Ensure retention of heritage integrity 

Example of form used in heritag 

building inventory 

Discourse on history and heritage with local 

experts, historian and relevant stakeholders 

Model restoration project as interpretive 

centre for future conservation efforts 

• Introduction of heritage awareness programs 

Heritage trail 

Heritage guide book 

b) Society, Culture and Traditions 

• Aggressive promotion of social and cultural elements 

Culture promotional tours 

Website 

14

• Enhancement of cultural resources and development of a rejuvenation plan of Johor culture 

Classes/workshop to learn local culture 

Culture in school activities 

• Provide avenues for cultural related activities to grow. 

Centre for performing arts 

Identification and recognition of 

‘adiguru’ or culture experts 

c) Natural Elements 

• Conservation of unique marine environment. 

Mangrove environment should be 

monitored regularly 

Spotted seahorse and dugong are considered 

as unique marine wild life in Johor 

• Conservation and management of inland forests, river basin and wetland environment. 

Conservation of forest enables people 

to learn and appreciate nature 

River basin is part of natural support 

system 

15

• Conservation and preservation of natural features associated with historical and cultural 

significance. 

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque sits on top of Bukit 

Redan, one of many historic hills in Johor Bahru 

Black pepper is very significant to 

the history of Johor 

d) Urban Design 

• Enforce individual character for each town. 

Creation of a town slogan helps to 

introduce area character 

Design of street furniture can reflect 

area identity 

• Enhance or create remarkable gateways and landmarks for identity and navigation. 

Illustration of proposed new gateway 

Illustration of proposed new landmark 

16

8. Strategy and Proposed Programs 

8.1 Nature 

Strategy 1 : CONSERVATION OF UNIQUE MARINE ENVIRONMENT 

Proposed Programs 

2010- 

2015 

Implementation 

2015- 

2020 

N1-1 Establishing the Merambong-Kupang marine reserve 

N1-2 Establishing a transboundary cooperation with Singapore 

N1-3 Extending the seagrass protection zone into Sungai Pulai 

estuary 

N1-4 To establish the Iskandar Centre for Marine Interpretation, 

Conservation, Research & Observation 

 

 

 

2020- 

2025 

 

Strategy 2 : CONSERVATION OF RIVER BASIN & WETLAND ENVIRONMENT 


N2-1 Preparing the Sungai Pulai Integrated River Basin 

Management Plan 

N2-2 Preparing the Management Plan for Selat Teberau Relic 

Mangrove Patches 

2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

To be implemented in 

Shoreline Management 

Blueprint for IM 


Environmental Planning 


Strategy 3 : CONSERVATION OF INLAND FOREST 


N3-1 To prepare a management plan for the preservation and 

conservation of the remaining examples of lowland and 

hill dipterocarp forests in Iskandar Region and southern 

Peninsular Malaysia 

2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 


Shoreline Management 


17

Strategy 4 : CONSERVATION OF HISTORIC HILLS 


N4-1 To conserve and document the historic hills within Johor 

Bahru city 

2010- 

2015 

 


2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

Strategy 5 : PRESERVING FLORA OF HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE 


N5-1 To create a Flora Heritage and Interpretation Centre to 

preserve plant species of historical and cultural 

significance to Iskandar Region 

2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

 

2020- 

2025 

 

Strategy 6 : GREENING OR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE 


N6-1 To establish a comprehensive network of green corridors 

to link up all the open spaces, parks and other green space 

within the city with the surrounding terrestrial and 

mangrove forests 

2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

 

2020- 

2025 

Strategy 7 : RESTORING SUNGAI SEGGET AS A RIVER HABITAT AND HERITAGE SITE 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

N7-1 To re-establish Sungai Segget as a naturally flowing river To be implemented in JB 

Transformation project 

18

8.2 Built Heritage 

Strategy 1 : DATA COLLECTION AND ARCHIVAL 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

H1-1 To commence heritage building inventory 

H1-2 To carry out measured drawings 

H1-3 To create a central archive for heritage resources 

H1-4 To develop a GIS database on heritage resources 

2020- 

2025 

Strategy 2 : RETAINING HERITAGE INTEGRITY 


2010- 

2015 

H2-1 To carry out a discourse on Johor architecture and story 

H2-2 To develop design guidelines for heritage zones and 


2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

training for relevant officers 

H2-3 To embark on a model restoration project 

H2-4 To initiate a signage project for heritage buildings 

H2-5 To enforce guidelines and monitor activities 

H2-6 To implement guidelines to control and reverse existing 

 

facades to original form 

H2-7 To initiate conservation of selected heritage areas 

 

Strategy 3 : LEGAL PROTECTION 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

H3-1 To consolidate existing heritage laws 

H3-2 To initiate state and local heritage register 

2020- 

2025 

Strategy 4 : GUIDANCE AND COUNSEL 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

H4-1 To set up Heritage Aid Bureau 

H4-2 To hold workshop for small contractors 

H4-3 To develop home owner’s manual for heritage properties 

H4-4 To develop template for repairs 

2020- 

2025 

19

Strategy 5 : ADAPTIVE REUSE 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

H5-1 Royal buildings 

H5-2 State owned buildings 

2020- 

2025 

Strategy 6 : HERITAGE AWARENESS 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

H6-1 To develop heritage trail 

H6-2 Pocket guide book 

H6-3 South Johor architecture and heritage map 

H6-4 Plaque program 

H6-5 Street signage 

2020- 

2025 

8.3 Society, Culture & Tradition 

Strategy 1 : CULTURAL RESOURCES 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

 

C1-1 To develop research and publication centre for Johor 

cultural heritage 

C1-2 To initiate cultural mapping 

C1-3 To increase the production of printed materials 

C1-4 To focus on the development of Johor Malay traditional 

performances 

2020- 

2025 

 

Strategy 2 : REJUVENATION PLAN 



2010- 

2015 

2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

C2-1 To conduct an annual cultural competitions 

C2-2 To conduct classes, programs and workshops for public 

participation in cultural activities 

C2-3 To initiate cultural activities and programs for schools 

20

Strategy 3 : PROMOTION 



2010- 

2015 

2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

C3-1 To develop television programs that would promote 

social, cultural and traditional aspects of Johor. 

C3-2 To produce promotional pamphlets, brochures and banners 

C3-3 To initiate promotional tours 

C3-4 To develop an official websites promoting Johor cultures 

and traditions 

 

Strategy 4 : FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE 



2010- 

2015 

2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

C4-1 To identify and acknowledge cultural experts and master 

craftmen (adiguru) 

C4-2 To develop centre for performing arts 

C4-3 To develop Johor cultural heritage museum 

C4-4 To expand programs and students intake of Sekolah Seni 

Johor Bahru 

 

Strategy 5 : ECONOMIC VIABILITY 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

C5-1 To develop cultural trail 

C5-2 To develop food trail 

C5-3 To develop an express tailor project 

C5-4 To organize an all year festivals and cultural exhibitions 

C5-5 Pasar Budaya to include the selling of traditional products 

C5-6 To encourage the growth of traditional food industry 

C5-7 To encourage the growth of cottage industry 

2020- 

2025 

21

8.4 Urban Design Framework 

Strategy 1 : GATEWAYS AND LANDMARKS FOR IDENTITY AND NAVIGATION 


2010- 

2015 


2015- 

2020 

U1-1 To develop gateways at regional and local level 

U1-2 To develop landmarks based on local character 

2020- 

2025 

Strategy 2 : ENFORCING THE INDIVIDUAL CHARACTER OF A PLACE 


2010- 

2015 

 


2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

U2-1 To develop guidelines for the naming of roads, buildings 

and developments 

U2-2 To promote town slogan based on area character 

U2-3 To incorporate local character and historical elements in 

streetscape and public realm 

U2-4 To create landscape features that accentuate the local 

character and overall image of Iskandar Malaysia 

Strategy 3 : RECONNECT THE WATERFRONT WITH CENTRAL CORE OF THE CITY 


U3-1 To create a connection between the waterfront and the 

public, either through a physical linkage or by making the 

waterfront visually clear to the public 


2010- 

2015 

2015- 

2020 

2020- 

2025 

 

22

8.5 Implementation 

Altogether there are 64 programs proposed based on 4 key elements that aim towards the 

preservation, protection and enhancement of area character, presented in the project priority matrix 

below. The priority matrix takes into consideration 2 main factors, set against each other, in 

determining the programs implementation category. Firstly, ease of implementation that includes 

among others financial, resources and administrative issues that may arise, and secondly, impacts that 

the programs are likely to have on the preservation of character. 

Based on the priority matrix, 5 programs have been identified as quick wins project, while the rest are to 

be implemented within the next 15 years with 17 short term programs, 27 mid term programs and 15 

long term programs. 

23

Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?