VISITORS travelling along the main roads in Kulai, Johor, will notice colourful murals adorning several buildings.
“The initiative by Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu) is to liven up the district in preparation for Visit Johor 2026,” said local councillor Tan Kian Mean.
“The large-scale artworks highlight Kulai’s unique identity through cultural elements and local attractions such as Gunung Pulai.
“So far, three murals have been completed in August, while another is in progress.”
He said the artworks were painted on the walls of shophouses along Jalan Persekutuan 1, Senai main street and the Kulai town area.
A fourth mural is planned for a structure along the main road in Taman Kulai Utama.
Tan, who also serves as MPKu’s tourism committee member, said the mural project was part of the local council’s ongoing beautification and cultural development efforts.
“The murals not only enhance the streetscape but also foster a sense of community identity.
“By incorporating Kulai’s local character and well-known landmarks, we want to showcase the charm of our town through art,” he said.
He added that Gunung Pulai, one of Kulai’s most popular eco-tourism destinations, was featured in the murals.
The mountain attracts both locals and visitors who enjoy hiking and picnicking.
Tan urged the public to help maintain the murals for them to remain attractive for years to come.
“We hope the murals will be a highlight for tourists to take photos and experience Kulai’s unique features.
“Together, we can make Kulai a city with cultural character and strong tourism appeal,” he said.
Tan said the district has other attractions, including Putuo Village known for its bamboo valley, as well as the Johor Premium Outlets which remain a major draw for domestic and international tourists.
“Kulai is the only district in Johor with an international airport and its strategic location gives us an advantage in welcoming tourists.
“We want to encourage visitors to stay and explore what the district has to offer, such as Kampung Baru Kelapa Sawit’s Hakka village where traditional food and culture are preserved,” he said.
Beyond heritage and nature, Tan said MPKu was also positioning Kulai as a sports tourism destination.
“A large cycling park in the district recently hosted a carnival for the second year and it drew local and international participants,” he said.
“There are also several world-class golf courses in Kulai and nearby areas, favoured by golf enthusiasts who come from different countries and also parts of Malaysia.”
Tan added that MPKu was also exploring medical tourism as a new sector, pointing out that a private women and children’s specialist hospital in Indahpura was expected to open next year.
