Visitors can appreciate deeper cultural experience in Johor after a series of high-impact upgrades and tourism initiatives totalling RM3.6mil were rolled out at the Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex (KWSAB).
State unity, heritage and culture committee chairman K. Raven Kumar (BN-Tenggaroh) said this was part of the state government’s Visit Johor 2026 plans to establish KWSAB as a cultural hub to promote its history, heritage and culture.
“The package features four main attractions, namely the traditional Rumah Limas Johor, Johor Art Gallery, Johor Weaving Gallery and Rumah Zapin Johor.”
He said visitors could immerse themselves in Johor’s traditions at these distinctive cultural stops.
“At Rumah Limas Johor, guests are introduced to the philosophy and architectural layouts of traditional Malay houses.
“These are complemented by traditional games, authentic cuisine and fittings of traditional Malay attire.
“Johor Art Gallery showcases children’s artworks alongside interactive tie-dye and graffiti workshops while at Johor Weaving Gallery, once a royal residence, visitors can admire intricate Johor textiles and watch the delicate weaving process.
“Rumah Zapin Johor allows visitors to explore 15 styles of the state’s iconic Zapin dance and even learn its five core steps,” he said during the Johor state assembly sitting at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar.
He was responding to a question from Mohd Yusla Ismail (BN-Senggarang) about the promotional and improvement measures planned for KWSAB.
Raven Kumar also highlighted Yayasan Warisan Johor’s bilingual social media efforts to strengthen KWSAB’s digital presence.
He said social media videos had attracted visitors to explore KWSAB.
“We have also enhanced the visibility of Johor’s heritage through digital tourism platforms,” he said.
“The development works at KWSAB includes new disabled-friendly pathways, upgraded toilets and surau, revamped signage and enhanced public amenities such as souvenir shops, a culinary gallery and a modernised ticketing system.” ― By YEE XIANG YUN and RHEMA SENG
