Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru was founded in 1855 when the Sultanate of Johor established a new administrative center close to the Straits of Tebrau which separates Singapore from Johor. It was originally named Tanjung Puteri and later changed to Johor Bahru in 1866.

During World War II, Johor Bahru was a site of significant military importance. The Japanese forces invaded and captured Johor Bahru as part of the Malayan Campaign. From here, they launched their attack on Singapore. The fall of Johor Bahru marked a decisive point leading up to the fall of Singapore.

Following tensions and political disagreements, Singapore separated from Malaysia on August 9, 1965. This event significantly impacted Johor Bahru as the city shares close economic and social ties with Singapore. The separation marked a new phase in the relationship between Johor Bahru and the neighboring republic.

The Johor–Singapore Causeway is a 1,056-meter combined railway and road causeway that links the city of Johor Bahru across the Straits of Johor to Woodlands in Singapore. It was officially opened in 1974. The causeway has greatly facilitated trade and travel between the two regions.

Launched on November 4, 2006, Iskandar Malaysia is an economic development zone in Johor which includes Johor Bahru as one of its core regions. The initiative aims to transform the region into a sustainable metropolis of international standing. It focuses on promoting investment, infrastructure development, and residential areas.

Opened on September 15, 2012, but the official opening ceremony was on June 7, 2013, Legoland Malaysia Resort is a theme park located in Johor Bahru. It is the first international theme park in Malaysia and the first Legoland Park in Asia. It marks a milestone in Johor Bahru's tourism sector, attracting families and tourists from around the world.

On December 31, 2014, Malaysia and Singapore signed an agreement to build a high-speed rail line connecting Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, with a stop in Johor Bahru. This project aims to enhance connectivity between the two countries and boost economic ties. It is expected to significantly impact the development and accessibility of Johor Bahru.

Desaru Coast, located in the southeastern region near Johor Bahru, began development as a premium integrated destination resort in early 2017. This includes luxury resorts, a water park, and golf courses, aiming to elevate Johor's appeal as a premier tourism destination in Malaysia. The development is part of a strategic plan to enhance tourism.

Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, one of the largest malls in Johor, officially opened on November 28, 2017, but held its grand opening on March 22, 2019. It features a host of retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment facilities, significantly contributing to the city's retail landscape and attracting visitors from both local and international origins.

Johor Bahru, along with the rest of Malaysia, was placed under a Movement Control Order on March 18, 2020, to curb the spread of COVID-19. This pandemic response included restricting travel, closing non-essential services, and implementing social distancing measures. These restrictions had profound effects on the city's economy and daily life.