Muzium Tokoh Johor and Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex in Johor Baru, which recently reopened, have been drawing positive reviews.
For housewife Clio Lai, 35, a school holiday outing to Muzium Tokoh in Bukit Senyum turned into an eye-opening history lesson for her two daughters.
“We have been to many museums in different states and this upgraded museum is one of the best we have visited so far.
“It is comfortable, the interactive exhibitions are interesting and there are detailed explanations throughout,” she told StarMetro.
She added that the museum complemented what her daughters had learned in school and allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of historical figures beyond what was covered in textbooks.
Lai also praised the museum staff for being helpful and attentive in guiding visitors, adding that the promotional ticket prices were affordable and worthwhile for families.
Muhammad Akmal Kaderi, 25, who visited the museum with his three sisters, was impressed by how modern exhibition elements had been incorporated within the historical building.
“The interior and exhibitions look modern but the exterior still retains its classic appearance.
“We were amazed to learn that this was once the official residence of Johor’s first Mentri Besar − the late Datuk Jaafar Muhammad − and that it was built in 1893,” he said.
Akmal, who works as a barista, said he and his siblings spent about an hour exploring the museum and would recommend it to friends and relatives.
He added that visitors were given activity booklets containing simple questions that could be completed to redeem puzzle sets, while the first 100 visitors also received complimentary drink coupons.
At Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex in Jalan Sungai Chat, visitor Yuhana Md Tahir, 50, said she particularly enjoyed the gallery showcasing Johor’s woven textiles and traditional kain tenun.
She said the exhibition highlighted weaving motifs unique to Johor and provided valuable knowledge that should be preserved for future generations.
“Even being from Johor, I learned new things.
“There is also a gallery featuring traditional Johor dishes such as nasi ambang and harissa, which helps visitors appreciate the state’s culinary heritage.”
Yuhana hopes schools will be encouraged to organise educational visits and expose students to Johor’s history and cultural traditions.
Muzium Tokoh reopened on June 5 as a new heritage and educational destination featuring the stories and contributions of prominent Johor figures.
Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex began welcoming visitors on June 3 with attractions including heritage tours, cultural performances, art galleries, textile exhibitions and interactive cultural experiences as part of efforts to strengthen cultural tourism during Visit Johor 2026.
