Journey to the soul of Malaysia’s southern peninsula, where the lesser-known towns of Batu Pahat and Pontian in Johor await, brimming with cultural marvels, tantalising culinary options, and offbeat attractions. From the enigmatic dragon tunnel to the serene rice fields, and from vintage cafes to cultural galleries, these towns promise worthwhile experiences for all travellers!
Pack your bags and explore the following underrated gems on your next trip!
BATU PAHAT: Where Tradition Meets Quirk
Yong Peng Fortune Dragon
Step into a 115-metre-long dragon tunnel brimming with Chinese folklore paintings. Legend has it that a stroll through this magnificent tunnel brings blessings of wealth. Don’t rush through though; remember to explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and koi ponds that invite you to soak in the serenity. All this for just MYR 10 per person!
ADVERTISEMENTS
Kampung Sawah Sagil
Embrace the idyllic charm of rice fields against the village backdrop at Kampung Sawah Sagil, especially on Saturdays when you can witness radio-controlled (RC) model enthusiasts flaunt their handmade seaplanes, soaring high above this serene landscape.
And mark your calendars every September 16th because this is when the annual RC competition takes place, and everyone is welcome to participate.
Kopi Confident
For those with an eye for unique finds and penchant for sustainable fashion, Kopi Confident is your go-to spot. It is a thrift store-cum-café where you can scavenge through racks of vintage tees and accessories while sipping on silky coffee. Oh, their pizza and croissants are also pure bliss for your taste buds!
Kedai Dalam Satu
Nearby, Kedai Dalam Satu beckons with top-quality thrifting with carefully curated items from Japan, Korea and United States that cater to every taste and style.
Kopi Khu
Experience a sip of heritage at Kopi Khu, where Arabica and Liberica beans reign supreme. Don’t be surprised to find drinks named after local villages because the Liberica beans used in this café are grown right here in Batu Pahat. The owner’s personal collections add an extra layer of nostalgia to this beautifully adorned café.
ADVERTISEMENTS
Don’t forget to pair your coffee with their freshly baked pastries; the pavlova and cinnamon buns are divine!
eSpace Café
Nestled in a nearly century-old house built by the First Malaysian Chinese Association Batu Pahat President, Ping Tei, this café not only serves delectable treats but also hosts local vendors for a varied dining experience. Next to it, 7 AutoSpa, allows you to have your car washed while dining in.
WOW Café
Tucked away in a warehouse of vintage memorabilia collected over three decades, WOW Café is your nostalgia haven that brings back fond memories of past Malaysia. Vintage pieces aside, their menu boasts a delightful array of coffees and light bites.
Sitam Sup Corner Delicious Kiosk
This eatery has been a Batu Pahat legend since the 1970s. Their variety of soups—tongue, tail, chicken, meat, lamb, and yes, gearbox (the bones of the cattle that look like car gear box) — have made locals swear by its wholesome flavours. Just imagine savouring them during chilly, rainy days! Affordable and delicious — what’s not to love?
Kiri Kanan Café
Refuel at Kiri Kanan Café, where Chef Zain’s culinary magic crafts Western, Nyonya, and Malay dishes using only the freshest ingredients. The menu changes every three months to ensure you’ll never have the same meal twice. Don’t miss the café’s signature dishes like Asam Nanas and free-range chicken rice, all served in generous portions and with a fast friendly disposition.
PONTIAN: Where Heritage Meets Nature
MyKerang
Venture into the heart of eco-tourism crafted by the Sebatang Pulai fishing community. Glide through the Pulai Sebatang River on a kayak, witness stunning birdlife, and learn the art of cockle foraging. Once you reach back to the land, then get ready for a traditional cockle-grading demo and taste test.
Bugis Museum
Founded in 1982, this gallery has been the guardian of the local Bugis community heritage. Here, expect to learn about the rich culture through displays of ancient weapons, traditional clothing, and precious artefacts. For a dose of immersion, slip into Bugis attire available for a mere MYR15 to embrace the Bugis cultural spirit.
Hujung Tanah Art Residency
This isn’t your average gallery; it’s an ode to creativity and community. This traditional house-turned-gallery is home to an array of mesmerising artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures, each piece telling a story, by Malaysian artists. Feeling inspired? Take home a piece of Malaysian artistry or join their workshops to channel your inner artist.
Mee Tongkang
In the heart of Pontian lies a unique dining destination aboard a ship, where the star of the show is none other than the Mee Tongkang, the dish created from a secret family recipe that involves boiling a fusion of fresh catches together. This eatery provides cabin rentals for weary travellers to rest too.
Sogama Café
Seeking a chill spot? Look no further! With retro vibes and an alfresco area, this café offers a wide range of menu including juicy Zinger burgers, bakso, and tender satays that melt in your mouth. Gather friends and family here for a laid-back dining experience. Prices are also affordable.
Selera Tradisi Catering
For three decades, Selera Tradisi Catering has been the go-to spot for locals and travellers seeking authentic Johorean dishes like burasak and lepat lui, made with traditional flair. Do try pairing burasak with asam pedas for the authentic Johorean experience!
For more info on Batu Pahat, Pontian and the rest of Johor, check out https://tourismjohor.my/.
