‘Red House’ in the corner testament of a vibrant past

Red House, at the junction of Jalan Pahang and Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, is still known by that name among tourists. — Filepic

LOCATED at the junction of Jalan Pahang and Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is one of the most photographed heritage buildings in Johor Baru.

Visitors exploring Jalan Tan Hiok Nee cannot miss the corner shophouse distinct with Chinese and European architectural styles.

The 19th century building was originally owned by a wealthy Indian family and has changed hands several times.

Formerly it was known as the Red House as its facade was repainted bright red, and contrasted with white highlights.

In August 2011, the Red House was leased to the Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Walk Committee.

The building was then used to host various cultural events to liven up this old part of Johor Baru.

In October 2009, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee was declared a heritage street by then Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman.

The street was named after Major China Datuk Tan Hiok Nee, who was one of the port owners under the kangchu system.

In 2017, the Red House was painted white by its current owner.

“We were looking for a place to open our eatery in the old part of Johor Baru and did not think twice when the Red House

was up for lease, ’’ said Marrybrown Sdn Bhd founder Datin Nancy Liew.

She said since the company started in Johor Baru in 1981, it was only appropriate to have its presence in Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

Liew said the street melded the past with the present and was an attraction to locals and foreign visitors.

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, she said was unique for its variety of local shops, neighbourhood restaurants, museum, offices and modern eateries, art galleries, shops and alfresco nightlife centres.

“The heritage building, where Marrybrown is located, is one of the most iconic buildings in the city’s old town, ’’ she said.

She said although the building was no longer bright red, many still refer to it as the Red House.

“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and movement control order, the vibrant street is rather quiet now, otherwise it is thriving with visitors, ’’ said Liew.