Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia

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Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia
Area Character Statement

ISBN 978-967-5626-24-1
Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia
Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia
Area Character Statement
Blueprint for Iskandar Malaysia
Area Character Statement - Iskandar Malaysia
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
List of agencies/ departments involved in developing ACS blueprint

Federal

Ministry of Information, Communication & Culture (KPKK)
Badan Warisan Malaysia
Jabatan Pembangunan Bandar dan Desa (JPBD) Johor

State

Chief Minister of Johor Office
Yayasan Warisan Johor
Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB)
Majlis Perbandaran Johor Bahru Tengah (MPJBT)
Majlis Perbandaran Pasir Gudang (MPPG)
Majlis Perbandaran Kulai (MPK)
Majlis Daerah Pontian (MDP)
Majlis Tindakan Pelancongan Johor
Tourist Guide Associations
Historians
Local Community
Foreword

Iskandar Malaysia is a National Project to develop a vibrant new region at the southern gateway of
Peninsular Malaysia. A regional authority body Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) was
formed with specific roles to plan, promote and facilitate in which to coordinate the economic,
environmental and social planning, development and management of Iskandar Malaysia. IRDA refers to
The Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) as the guiding document in developing Iskandar
Malaysia, and subsequent to that, blueprints are prepared as a subset and supplementary document to
CDP, which outlines detail findings, strategies, implementation and action plans.

The Iskandar Malaysia Area Character Statement blueprint has been prepared to assist the public and
private sector and the community to work together in managing heritage and cultural concerns within
the Iskandar Malaysia region so that all can benefit in making the region a place to invest, work, live and
play. The document is a non-statutory document that identifies the distinctive qualities and
characteristics of Iskandar Malaysia, and suggests how they can be preserved and enhanced through
proposed programs or project proposals as well as relevant guidelines.

The Blueprint focuses on Area Character Planning addresses issues of design and character and involves
more than looking at just the physical layout of development or the amount of open space to be
provided. Therefore the study of an area character can be understood as a study that describes the
distinctive qualities and characteristics of an area. This blueprint has twenty-five (25) initiatives and
action plans to manage future Area Character planning in Iskandar Malaysia.

The key objectives underpinning in this study are : to ensure that the historical and cultural aspect of
the state are preserved, promoted and enhanced, and not lost amidst the on going anticipated modern
development of Iskandar; to develop identity for Iskandar Malaysia by understanding the historical
events that shape southern Johor since its beginning, that can contribute to the overall character of
Iskandar and promoting Iskandar as a unique place to live, work, play and do business; and to ensure a
well managed system of implementation of proposed enhancement and preservation of all Iskandar
identity and character, which includes stakeholder engagement and public participation.
CONTENT

1.0   PROJECT DESCRIPTION                                  1
      1.1   Definition                                     1
      1.2   The Study                                      1
      1.3   Objective of the Study                         1
      1.4   Targeted User                                  1
      1.5   Identification of Character                    2

2.0   STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVEMENT                             2
      2.1   Stakeholders                                   2
      2.2   Workshops                                      3

3.0   ELEMENTS OF CHARACTER                                3
      3.1   Natural Elements                               3
      3.2   Man-made Elements (including Built Heritage)   6
      3.3   Social & Cultural Elements                     7

4.0   ASSETS AND POTENTIALS                                9

5.0   ISSUES AND THREATS                                   10
      5.1    Nature                                        10
      5.2    Urban Design                                  11
      5.3    Built Heritage                                11
      5.4    Society & Culture                             11

6.0   AREA CHARACTER                                       12

7.0   THE WAY FORWARD                                      14

8.0   STRATEGY AND PROPOSED PROGRAMS                       17
      8.1   Nature                                         17
      8.2   Built Heritage                                 19
      8.3   Society, Culture & Tradition                   20
      8.4   Urban Design                                   22
      8.5   Implementation                                 23
1.    PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1.1   Definition

"Character" can generally be thought of as the look or feel of a place-that which sets it apart from other
areas. Character planning addresses issues of design and character and involve more than looking at just
the physical layout of development or the amount of open space to be provided. Character areas cover
geographical areas of different size and each has a common setting, land use pattern or character of
development that will lead to a logical character study. Thus the study of an area character can be
understood as a study that describes the distinctive qualities and characteristics of an area.

1.2   The Study

The Iskandar Malaysia Area Character Statement is a non-statutory document that identifies the
distinctive qualities and characteristics of Iskandar Malaysia, and suggests how they can be preserved
and enhanced through proposed programs or project proposals as well as relevant guidelines. The first
of its kind, the study which started in March 2009 was undertaken by Iktisas Planners Sdn. Bhd.
together with Hamdan Abdul Jamal Architect and Badan Warisan Malaysia, with Yayasan Warisan Johor
as its key study advisor.

1.3   Objective of the Study

The objectives of this study are:
  i. To ensure that the historical and cultural aspect of the state are preserved, promoted and
       enhanced, and not lost amidst the ongoing anticipated modern development of Iskandar.
  ii. To develop identity for Iskandar Malaysia by understanding the historical events that shape
       southern Johor since its beginning, that can contribute to the overall character of Iskandar and
       promoting Iskandar as a unique place to live, work, play and do business.
  iii. To ensure a well managed system of implementation of proposed enhancement and preservation
       of all Iskandar identity and character, which includes stakeholder engagement and public
       participation.

1.4   Targeted User

The State:
As a guidance for heritage listing, register and heritage building conservation especially those owned by
state and royalty

The 5 Local authorities:
As a guidance to the characterization of landscaping (hardscape and softcape) of heritage values, ie:
character for gateway, landmark signage and selection of trees (implementation of 3K: Kebersihan,
Keindahan dan Keceriaan initiatives)

MBJB, in particular:
As a framework, and content for heritage related buildings and architectural, ie: JB Transformation,
Heritage Trails

Yayasan Warisan Johor:
As a framework to assist in the improvement, upgrading and implementation of programs.

Tourism Johor and Tourist Guide Association:
As the content for tourism purposes, ie brochure, pamphlet and maps of historical and heritage signifi-
cance
Developers:
As a framework to characterization of buildings and townships and data banks for naming of street,
buildings and development

General public:
As a documentation to learn and understand the Southern Johor heritage and as a framework for
further investigation and studies

1.5   IDENTIFICATION OF CHARACTER

                       Four key elements were used in the identification of character:
                       Natural Element - Coastline, beaches, mangroves and other forests, rivers,
                       mountains, hills, plants and animals.

                       Built Heritage Element - Historical buildings, infrastructure and gardens

                       Social, Cultural and Traditional Element - People, food, attires, dances,
                       performances, music, songs, games and festivals.

                       Urban Design Element - Gateway, landmark, edges, nodes, path, etc.

2.    STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVEMENT
2.1   Stakeholders

The involvements of stakeholders were sought during workshops and discussions for clarification and
verification of data, and for their opinions on proposed programs and guidelines.

Key stakeholders consulted were:
  1. State Planning Committee
  2. Local Authorities
      • Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB)
      • Majlis Perbandaran Johor Bahru Tengah (MPJBT)
      • Majlis Perbandaran Pasir Gudang (MPPG)
      • Majlis Perbandaran Kulai (MPK)
      • Majlis Daerah Pontian (MDP)
      • JPBD Johor
  3. Yayasan Warisan Johor
  4. Majlis Tindakan Pelancongan Johor
  5. Badan Warisan Malaysia
  6. Tourist Guide Associations
  7. Historians
2.2   Workshops

Over the course of the study, 3 workshops have been conducted involving stakeholders:
  • WORKSHOP 1 (14-15 April 2009):
    Bengkel Pemugaran Sejarah, Senibudaya & Tradisi Johor Di Iskandar Malaysia

  • WORKSHOP 2 (15 July 2009):
    Bengkel Inventori, Penemuan Dan Cadangan Awal Bagi Pernyataan Karektor Kawasan Iskandar
    Malaysia

  • WORKSHOP 3 (21 October 2009):
    Bengkel Identiti Dan Warisan Iskandar Malaysia

3. ELEMENTS OF CHARACTER
The findings of the study have identified elements that are significant to the character of the area based
on different category:

3.1 Natural Elements

  • Mudflats & Mangroves
    1. Pulau Kukup FR (650ha.)
    2. Tanjung Piai (part of Sg. Pulai FR) (526 ha.)
    3. Sungai Pulai FR (7,633 ha.)
    4. Sungai Perepat
    5. Sungai Pendas
    6. Sungai Danga
    7. Sungai Kim-Kim
    8. Sungai Johor FR (3,215ha.)                                     Tg. Piai mangroves

  • Sandy Beaches
     1. Stulang Laut
     2. Pantai Lido

  • River Basins

   Major basins (sub-basins in brackets):
    1. Sungai Pulai
    2. Sungai Skudai (Sungai Danga)                                   Stulang Laut beach
    3. Sungai Tebrau (Sungai Plentong)
    4. Sungai Johor (Sungai Layang)
    5. Sungai Pontian Kechil

   Smaller basins:
    1. Sungai Pendas
    2. Sungai Perepat
    3. Sungai Melayu
    4. Sungai Masai                                                 Sungai Pulai mangrove
    5. Sungai Kim-Kim                                                    exploration
• Seagrass beds
   1. Tg Kupang-Tg Adang-Pulau Merambong
   2. Tanjung Surat-Pasir Gogok

• Dipterocarp Forests (DF)
  1. Lowland DF - Sedenak Forest Reserve (587 ha.)                                     Dipterocarp Forests
  2. Lowland DF - Bukit Hantu Forest Reserve (97 ha.)
  3. Hill DF – Gunung Pulai Forest Reserve (3,521ha.)

• Prime Agriculture Areas and Rural Settlements
  Various sites, largely the FELDA schemes and settlements,
  as well as the rural villages along the western and eastern                            Rural settlement
  provinces.

• Urban Parks and Open Spaces
  Hutan Bandar, Dataran Bandaraya, & various pockets parks.

• Fauna Of Significant Character
                                                                                            Urban park
   1. Dugong
   2. Spotted seahorse (Hippocampus kuda )
   3. Keluang (Pteropus vampyrus)
   4. Kupang
   5. Malayan Tiger
   6. Kijang
   7. Burung Perling                                    Dugong      Spotted seahorse              Kupang
   8. Burung Punai
   9. Burung Layang-layang
  10. Tiram

• Flora Of Significant Character
   1. Gambir (Uncaria gambir)
   2. Pepper (Lada Hitam, Piper nigrum)
   3. Coffee (Coffea spp., most likely C. liberica species)                                       Black pepper
   4. Pinang, betel palm (Areca catechu)
   5. Kayu Manis (Cinnamomum iners, more possibly C. javanica spp.)
   6. Clove, Cengkih (Eugenia aromatica)
   7. Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
   8. Pineapple (Ananas spp.)
   9. Rubber (Hevea spp.)
  10. Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis)                                                                       Piai
  11. Kempas (Koompassia malaccensis)
  12. Tampoi (Baccaurea macrocarpa)
  13. Sinai (Leptaspis urceolata)
  14. Gaharu/cendana (Aquilaria malaccensis)
  15. Getah Taban, Getah Perca, Taban Merah (Palaquium gutta)
  16. Piai Raya (Acrostichum aureum)
                                                                                                    Perepat
  17. Gelam (Melaleuca leucadendron)
  18. Merbau (Intsia spp.)
  19. Teberau (Saccharum arundinaceum)
  20. Stulang (Setulang, Coptosapelta griffithii)
  21. Bemban (Donax arundastrum)
                                                         Coffee Pineapple                      Seagrass
  22. Pulai (Alstonia spp.)
23.   Tembusu (Fagraea fragrans)
 24.   Nibong (Oncosperma tigillarium)
 25.   Seagrass (Halophila ovalis & Enhalus acoroides)
 26.   Redan (Nephelium glabrum)
 27.   Rinting (Ptychoraphis singaporensis)
 28.   Perepat (Sonneratia griffithii)
 29.   Buloh Kasap (Ochlandra ridleyi)
 30.   Duku (Lansium domesticum)

• Historic Hills
  A. Bukit Zahrah (Botanical Garden & Zoo)
  B. Bukit Redan (Abu Bakar mosque)
  C. Bukit Bintang
  D. Bukit Jepun (former Dato’ Onn’s residence)
  E. Bukit Mahmoodiah (Royal Mausoleum/cemetery)
  F. Bukit Cengkih (Officer’s Ward)
  G. Bukit Gambir (Jalan Dato’ Menteri)
  H. Bukit Sri Lalang (former Dato’ Abd. Rahman Andak’s residence)
   I. Bukit Seri Manggis (former Istana Pantai site)
   J. Bukit Serene (Sultan’s Palace)
  K. Bukit Senyum (Dato’ Jaafar’s building)
  L. Bukit Setulang (former Tengku Mahkota Johor’s residence)
  M. Bukit Tanjung Puteri (Bukit Meldrum)
  N. Bukit Cagar
  O. Bukit Timbalan (Sultan Ibrahim’s building)
  P. Bukit Polis (now TM building)
  Q. Bukit Kopi (former Dato’ Munsyi Mohd Ibrahim’s residence)
  R. Bukit Kurnia (former private residence)
3.2   Man Made Elements (including Built Heritage)

• Residential Building
  1. Istana Besar
  2. Istana Bukit Serene
  3. Istana Pasir Pelangi
  4. Dato’ Jaafar Residence                   Istana Besar         Istana Pasir Pelangi   Dato’ Jaafar Residence

• Public/ Government Building
  1. Sultan Ibrahim Building
  2. Courthouse
  3. Balai Zaharah
  4. Datuk Abdullah Jaafar Building
  5. JMF Headquarters                                        Sultan Ibrahim Building          Courthouse
  6. Balai Polis Central
  7. Sultanah Aminah Hospital
  8. Hospital Permai
  9. Dewan Jubli Intan

• Institutional Building                                        Balai Polis Central        JMF Headquarters
  1. UTM
  2. English College
  3. Sultan Ibrahim Girls’ School
  4. Sekolah Tun Fatimah
  5. Sekolah Infant Jesus Convent
                                                                 English College          Sekolah Infant Jesus
• Places of Worship                                                                             Convent
  1. Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar
  2. Masjid Istana Pasir Pelangi
  3. Church of Immaculate Conception
  4. Ku Miao Chinese Temple
  5. Hindu Temple
  6. Gurdwara Sahib                                          Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar        Ku Miao Temple

• Commercial Building
  1. PERSADA Johor
  2. City Square

• Infrastructure
                                                                   Persada Johor               City Square
  1. Causeway
  2. Johor CIQ
  3. JB Railway Station
  4. Port of Tg. Pelepas
  5. Senai International Airport
                                                                     Causeway              JB Railway Station
• Open Space/Recreational
  1. Danga Bay
  2. Dataran Bandaraya
  3. Legaran Segget
  4. Istana Garden
                                                               Dataran Bandaraya             Istana Garden
3.3   Social & Cultural Elements

• Local Foods

  Main dishes
  1. Laksa Johor
  2. Lontong                          Laksa Johor               Soto
  3. Soto
  4. Nasi Beriyani Gam
  5. Nasi Ambeng
  6. Nasi Berkat
  7. Nasi Bukhari
  8. Mi Bandung
                                      Mi Bandung              Mi Rebus
  9. Mi Rebus
  10. Mi Bakso
  11. Roti Jala
  12. Asam Pedas Daun Kesum
  13. Kerutup Ikan
  14. Ungkep
  15. Burasak
  16. Botok-botok                      Roti Jala               Harisa
  17. Harisa

  Side dishes
  1. Otak-otak
  2. Telur Pindang
  3. Rojak Petis
  4. Pechal                           Otak-otak            Telur Pindang
  5. Tauhu Sumbat
  6. Kacang Phol
  7. Pisang Salai
  8. Mi Siput
  9. Rempeyek
  10. Pendaram
                                      Pisang Salai          Tauhu Sumbat
  11. Tempe

  Drinks
  1. Sirap Bandung Soda
  2. Air Katirah
  3. Sirap Selasih
  4. Air Beh
                                   Sirap Bandung Soda        Sirap Selasih
  Desserts
  1. Bubur Sumsum
  2. Serawa
  3. Lempuk Durian
  4. Halwa Maskat
  5. Bubur Putih Bubur Merah
  6. Penganan Kacau Keledek          Bubur Sumsum       Bubur Putih Bubur Merah
• Busana Johor (Traditional Costumes)

  Costumes
  1. Kurung Teluk Belanga
  2. Kurung Cekak Musang
  3. Baju Melayu-Riau
  4. Baju Belah Kebaya Panjang
  5. Pakaian Kehormatan Barat

  Accessories
  1. Songkok Tinggi
  2. Samping Dagang Dalam/Luar
  3. Justar Diraja Singa Menoleh             Kurung Teluk Belanga   Kurung Teluk Belanga
                                                (women version)         (men version)
  4. Johor Crown
  5. Keris Berlok
  6. Selendang Mantul
  7. Sarung Kelubung

  Woven Fabric
  1. Kain Mastuli
  2. Kain Bugis                                 Songkok Tinggi        Selendang Mantul
  3. Kain Telepuk
  4. Kain Gerus
  5. Kelingkan Embroidery

• Traditional Dance and Arts & Performance

  Traditional Dance
  1. Zapin                                      Kain Telepuk        Kelingkan Embroidery
  2. Kuda Kepang
  3. Ceracap Inai
  4. Sarah Dance
  5. Lion Dance
  6. Bhangra

  Musical and Instruments                           Zapin               Kuda Kepang
  1. Ghazal
  2. Keroncong
  3. Kempling
  4. Gamelan
  5. Tajuk Johor song
  6. Bangsa Johor song

  Arts and Performance                             Ghazal                 Gamelan

  1. Wayang Kulit Purwa
  2. Wayang Wong
  3. Barongan
  4. Hamdolok
  5. Silat Sendeng
  6. Chinese Opera
  7. Ketoprak                                Wayang Kulit Purwa         Silat Sendeng
  8. Ludruk
Arts and Performance
     1. Wayang Kulit Purwa
     2. Wayang Wong
     3. Barongan
     4. Hamdolok
     5. Silat Sendeng
     6. Chinese Opera                                              Wau Merak                Sepak Raga
     7. Ketoprak
     8. Ludruk

• Local Games
  1. Gasing Pangkah
  2. Wau Merak
  3. Sepak Raga
                                                             Kembara Mahkota Johor    International Kites Festival
• Events and Festivals
  1. Kembara Mahkota Johor
  2. International Kites Festival
  3. Johor Baru International Orchid Festival
  4. Johor Zapin Festival
  5. Johor Ghazal Festival
  6. Maulidur Rasul Parade
  7. Maal Hijrah
                                                              Maulidur Rasul Parade           Marhaban
  8. Marhaban
  9. Tilawah Al-Quran
  10. Chingay
  11. Thaipussam

4.     ASSETS AND POTENTIALS
There are several very significant assets and potentials within Iskandar Malaysia that need to be
protected and conserved because they represent some unique characteristics that can represent the
character and identity of Iskandar Region:

1. Natural Environment and Resources
   • The mangroves areas, including those outside the
     Ramsar sites of Pulau Kukup, Tanjung Piai and
     Sungai Pulai FR.
   • The seagrass beds between Tanjung Kupang,
     Tanjung Adang and Pulau Merambong.
   • Gunung Pulai Forest Reserve.
   • Bukit Hantu Forest Reserve and Sedenak Forest
     Reserve.
   • Historic Hills.                                                   Mangroves at Ramsar Sites
   • Urban Parks and Open Spaces.
   • Rural settlements.

2. Heritage Buildings Conservation
   • Potential for adaptive reuse of historical buildings with the relocation of government offices to
     Nusajaya.
   • Heritage sites could be better interpreted especially through design and marketing of themed
     heritage trails to attract tourists.
3. Southern Gateway
   • The long ties that have long existed with Singapore can be
      further capitalized for tourism and commercial activities.
   • Due to its location, Johor Bahru can be the staging point for
      not only Singapore but to Sabah, Sarawak and Indonesia.

4. Historical Values, Social and Cultural Traditions
   • Strong historical background, particularly history on Johor
      rulers and royalties.
                                                                         School children performing
   • Marketable and gradually gaining popularity traditional                during Zapin Festival
      performances such as ghazal and zapin.
   • Distinctively Johorian food are many and can be popularised for commercial or tourism purposes.

5. ISSUES AND THREATS

5.1 Nature

   a) Degradation of Natural Resources
      Development is fast encroaching into environmentally sensitive areas. The followings are natural
      resources under threat and in need of protection:

      • Terrestrial forest reserves
        Only three of terrestrial forest reserves left in Iskandar region left now, due to encroachment
        threats and illegal forest clearings, fragmented and isolated of the locations of these forests,
        poor habitat quality and lack of baseline information on existing flora & fauna species present,
        compared to Johor National Parks sites.

      • Mangroves
        Sungai Pulai Forest Reserve mangroves are now threatened by shipping activities as well as
        environmental pollution which exposed the environments to impact on fisheries, impact on
        Sungai Pulai seagrass beds and loss of wildlife habitats.

      • Seagrass Beds
        The existing seagrass beds is the largest and longest in Malaysia. They are also home to the
        largest population of dugong and spotted seahorse in the country. However, their protection
        and potential for research and tourism are not fully capitalised. Seagrass bed at Beting Tg.
        Adang is smothered by sediments and seagrass habitat at Sungai Pulai is diminishing as a result
        of port activities.

      • Historically Significant Commercial Crop
        Many commercial crops which are of historical significance to Johor are in danger of being
        forgotten. They include:
        a. Commercial crops that help build Johor;
        b. Plants that lend their name to name of places.
        c. Plants that are associated with fauna species.
        d. Urban parks & opens spaces potential for enhancement

   b) Urban parks
      Some existing urban parks are fragmented and of poor habitat quality.
5.2   Urban Design

  a) Undefined Urban Character
     Urban landscape is homogeneous and contiguous. With most townships looking similar to each
     other, it is difficult to set most settlements apart, characteristically and physically, hence
     devoiding them of any distinct character.

  b) Poor quality of Urbanscape
     • Lack of gateways and poor sense of welcoming.
     • No unique identity and character of towns.
     • Edges such as coastline and river reserves are underutilized and not properly maintained.
     • Poor pedestrian / cyclist connection.
     • Poor landscaping along major roads.
     • Lack of road and directional signage.
     • Lack of information kiosk / road map.
     • Some landmarks are not distinguished enough.
     • View corridors have no clear vista and some parts are obstructed.

5.3   Built Heritage

  a) Poor Management
     The uninformed renovations have altered the authenticity of the old shop house buildings that has
     brought to jeopardising the integrity of the historical core of the city. The built heritage is poorly
     managed and not exploited to enhance the social, cultural and economic aspects of the people
     and area.

  b) Storyline
     The storyline of heritage is not well documented. The local population is not aware of the history
     of Johor.

  c) Conservation
     Little or no conservation works on heritage buildings are being carried out which led to few tourist
     attractions and there may be discrepancy in assessment and implementation of conservation
     among different local authorities.

  d) Threats from Developments
     • New buildings in large-scale development zones may create a new identity for the region.
     • No statutory regulations or guidelines for control of developments on or near heritage
        buildings and sites ie no buffer zones, which could affect the integrity and heritage values of
        the area.
     • Recent developments have not been sensitive to preserving the heritage built environment
        especially because of traffic impact and the building of the CIQ.

5.4   Society And Culture

  a) Confined popularity
     With the exception of zapin and kuda kepang, many of other Johor cultural elements are still less
     popular outside Johor.
b) Difficulties in imparting skills and knowledge
      Some of the difficulties involved in the preservation and appreciation of cultures and traditions
      are:
      • Experts are getting fewer.
      • Skills and knowledge are not passed down by elders.
      • Influence of popular culture is stronger than traditional ones.

   c) Academic Research and Formal Recordings
      • Historical detail, storyline and ‘know-how’ are still lacking
      • Publication of original recipes, dancing steps, performances, skills are very few, not distributed
        to wide circle of audience and could be made more appealing

6. AREA CHARACTER
The character of Iskandar Malaysia is the sum of physical attributes existing today, largely in the forms
of natural landscapes, commercial activities, industrial estates and townships, as well as intangible
feature such as traditions, history and cultures. There are six key character areas identified:

1. JB City Centre
Johor Bahru city centre, the place where it all began is the most urbanised locality in Iskandar Malaysia.

Image and Character:
  • State capital
  • Commercial centre
  • Culture city
  • Established settlement
  • Heritage building                                                       Sultan Ibrahim Building sitting at
                                                                                 the top of Bukit Timbalan
2. State Administrative Centre
A newly designated area for development which aspires to become the State’s new administration
centre and new development anchor for South East Asia.

Image and Character:
  • New administration center of Johor
  • International finance centre
  • Development catalyst for growth
                                                                                 The Johor State New Admistrative
3. New Townships                                                                 Centre at Nusajaya
The Johor Bahru suburban corridor is the main residential core for Iskandar Malaysia stretching from
Tanjung Langsat on the east to Pekan Nenas on the west.

Image and Character:
  • Johor Bahru suburban areas
  • Large townships that absorb the city growth
  • UTM campus
  • Pasir Gudang Port
  • Tanjung Langsat Port                                                           Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
                                                                                          (UTM), Skudai
  • Industrial areas

4. Nature East
The eastern region of Iskandar Malaysia which is predominantly natural areas and very much
untouched compared to other areas in the region.

Image and Character:
  • Sungai Johor river basin
  • Seagrass
  • Dugong
  • Spotted seahorse                                                                          Dugong
  • Mangroves

5. Nature West
This is the natural green corridor for the western side of Iskandar Malaysia. Half of this area consists of
wetland areas recognised as Ramsar Site.

Image and Character:
  • Green area; natural and agricultural
  • Ramsar Site
  • Tg. Piai -southern most tip of Asia
  • Rural settlement
                                                                                   Johor National Park at Tg. Piai
  • Seagrass, dugong, sea horse

6. Urban Hinterland
This northern area remains as the green lung for Iskandar Malaysia and it contains relatively
low-density settlement and large plantation estates and FELDA which contribute to its rural landscape.

Image and Character:
  • Large plantation/ agricultural area
  • Land bank
  • Rural
                                                                                        Palm Oil Plantation
7. THE WAY FORWARD
The following key strategies have been formulated for the enhancement of character in Iskandar
Malaysia. They are based on the issues raised pertaining to the four main elements identified in the
study.

   a) Built Heritage
      • Increase data collection, documentation and archival

                    Interviews as part of data collection and       Example of form used in heritag
                        heritage documentation process                   building inventory

      • Ensure retention of heritage integrity

                  Discourse on history and heritage with local   Model restoration project as interpretive
                  experts, historian and relevant stakeholders    centre for future conservation efforts

      • Introduction of heritage awareness programs

                                 Heritage trail                           Heritage guide book

   b) Society, Culture and Traditions
      • Aggressive promotion of social and cultural elements

                           Culture promotional tours                            Website

                                                                                                             14
• Enhancement of cultural resources and development of a rejuvenation plan of Johor culture

                 Classes/workshop to learn local culture            Culture in school activities

   • Provide avenues for cultural related activities to grow.

                      Centre for performing arts               Identification and recognition of
                                                                  ‘adiguru’ or culture experts

c) Natural Elements
   • Conservation of unique marine environment.

                   Mangrove environment should be          Spotted seahorse and dugong are considered
                        monitored regularly                     as unique marine wild life in Johor

   • Conservation and management of inland forests, river basin and wetland environment.

                 Conservation of forest enables people        River basin is part of natural support
                    to learn and appreciate nature                            system

                                                                                                        15
• Conservation and preservation of natural features associated with historical and cultural
     significance.

             Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque sits on top of Bukit         Black pepper is very significant to
            Redan, one of many historic hills in Johor Bahru              the history of Johor

d) Urban Design
   • Enforce individual character for each town.

                  Creation of a town slogan helps to           Design of street furniture can reflect
                       introduce area character                             area identity

   • Enhance or create remarkable gateways and landmarks for identity and navigation.

               Illustration of proposed new gateway            Illustration of proposed new landmark

                                                                                                        16
8.   Strategy and Proposed Programs
     8.1   Nature

           Strategy 1 : CONSERVATION OF UNIQUE MARINE ENVIRONMENT
                                                                                     Implementation
                    Proposed Programs                                             2010-   2015-    2020-
                                                                                  2015    2020     2025
           N1-1     Establishing the Merambong-Kupang marine reserve                      
           N1-2     Establishing a transboundary cooperation with Singapore               
           N1-3     Extending the seagrass protection zone into Sungai Pulai
                                                                                          
                    estuary
           N1-4     To establish the Iskandar Centre for Marine Interpretation,
                                                                                                   
                    Conservation, Research & Observation

           Strategy 2 : CONSERVATION OF RIVER BASIN & WETLAND ENVIRONMENT
                                                                                     Implementation
                    Proposed Programs                                             2010-   2015-    2020-
                                                                                  2015    2020     2025
           N2-1 Preparing the Sungai Pulai Integrated River Basin                  To be implemented in
                Management Plan                                                   Shoreline Management
                                                                                      Blueprint for IM
           N2-2 Preparing the Management Plan for Selat Teberau Relic              To be implemented in
                Mangrove Patches                                                  Environmental Planning
                                                                                      Blueprint for IM

           Strategy 3 : CONSERVATION OF INLAND FOREST
                                                                                     Implementation
                  Proposed Programs                                               2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                                  2015    2020    2025
           N3-1 To prepare a management plan for the preservation and              To be implemented in
                conservation of the remaining examples of lowland and             Shoreline Management
                hill dipterocarp forests in Iskandar Region and southern              Blueprint for IM
                Peninsular Malaysia

                                                                                                           17
Strategy 4 : CONSERVATION OF HISTORIC HILLS
                                                                      Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                           2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                   2015     2020     2025
N4-1 To conserve and document the historic hills within Johor       
     Bahru city

Strategy 5 : PRESERVING FLORA OF HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
                                                                      Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                           2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                   2015     2020     2025
N5-1 To create a Flora Heritage and Interpretation Centre to                         
     preserve plant species of historical and cultural
     significance to Iskandar Region

Strategy 6 : GREENING OR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE
                                                                      Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                           2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                   2015     2020     2025
N6-1 To establish a comprehensive network of green corridors                 
     to link up all the open spaces, parks and other green space
     within the city with the surrounding terrestrial and
     mangrove forests

Strategy 7 : RESTORING SUNGAI SEGGET AS A RIVER HABITAT AND HERITAGE SITE
                                                                      Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                           2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                   2015     2020     2025
N7-1 To re-establish Sungai Segget as a naturally flowing river    To be implemented in JB
                                                                   Transformation project

                                                                                             18
8.2   Built Heritage

           Strategy 1 : DATA COLLECTION AND ARCHIVAL
                                                                               Implementation
                   Proposed Programs                                        2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                            2015    2020    2025
            H1-1   To commence heritage building inventory                          
            H1-2   To carry out measured drawings                                   
            H1-3   To create a central archive for heritage resources               
            H1-4   To develop a GIS database on heritage resources                  

           Strategy 2 : RETAINING HERITAGE INTEGRITY
                                                                               Implementation
                   Proposed Programs                                        2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                            2015    2020    2025
            H2-1 To carry out a discourse on Johor architecture and story    
            H2-2 To develop design guidelines for heritage zones and         
                 training for relevant officers
            H2-3 To embark on a model restoration project                           
            H2-4 To initiate a signage project for heritage buildings                       
            H2-5 To enforce guidelines and monitor activities                               
            H2-6 To implement guidelines to control and reverse existing                    
                 facades to original form
            H2-7 To initiate conservation of selected heritage areas                

           Strategy 3 : LEGAL PROTECTION
                                                                               Implementation
                   Proposed Programs                                        2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                            2015    2020    2025
            H3-1 To consolidate existing heritage laws                              
            H3-2 To initiate state and local heritage register                      

           Strategy 4 : GUIDANCE AND COUNSEL
                                                                               Implementation
                   Proposed Programs                                        2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                            2015    2020    2025
            H4-1   To set up Heritage Aid Bureau                                     
            H4-2   To hold workshop for small contractors                            
            H4-3   To develop home owner’s manual for heritage properties            
            H4-4   To develop template for repairs                                   

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Strategy 5 : ADAPTIVE REUSE
                                                                               Implementation
                 Proposed Programs                                          2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                            2015     2020     2025
          H5-1   Royal buildings                                                              
          H5-2   State owned buildings                                                        

          Strategy 6 : HERITAGE AWARENESS
                                                                               Implementation
                 Proposed Programs                                          2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                            2015     2020     2025
          H6-1   To develop heritage trail                                                    
          H6-2   Pocket guide book                                                    
          H6-3   South Johor architecture and heritage map                                     
          H6-4   Plaque program                                                                
          H6-5   Street signage                                                                

8.3   Society, Culture & Tradition

           Strategy 1 : CULTURAL RESOURCES
                                                                                Implementation
                   Proposed Programs                                         2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                             2015     2020     2025
            C1-1 To develop research and publication centre for Johor                           
                 cultural heritage
            C1-2 To initiate cultural mapping                                          
            C1-3 To increase the production of printed materials                       
            C1-4 To focus on the development of Johor Malay traditional                
                 performances

           Strategy 2 : REJUVENATION PLAN
                                                                                Implementation
                   Proposed Programs                                         2010-    2015-    2020-
                                                                             2015     2020     2025
            C2-1 To conduct an annual cultural competitions                                    
            C2-2 To conduct classes, programs and workshops for public                         
                 participation in cultural activities
            C2-3 To initiate cultural activities and programs for schools                      

                                                                                                      20
Strategy 3 : PROMOTION
                                                                        Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                             2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                     2015    2020    2025
C3-1 To develop television programs that would promote                              
     social, cultural and traditional aspects of Johor.
C3-2 To produce promotional pamphlets, brochures and banners                        
C3-3 To initiate promotional tours                                                  
C3-4 To develop an official websites promoting Johor cultures                       
     and traditions

Strategy 4 : FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
                                                                        Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                             2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                     2015    2020    2025
C4-1 To identify and acknowledge cultural experts and master                        
     craftmen (adiguru)
C4-2 To develop centre for performing arts                                          
C4-3 To develop Johor cultural heritage museum                               
C4-4 To expand programs and students intake of Sekolah Seni                          
     Johor Bahru

Strategy 5 : ECONOMIC VIABILITY
                                                                        Implementation
       Proposed Programs                                             2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                     2015    2020    2025
C5-1   To develop cultural trail                                                     
C5-2   To develop food trail                                          
C5-3   To develop an express tailor project                                  
C5-4   To organize an all year festivals and cultural exhibitions                   
C5-5   Pasar Budaya to include the selling of traditional products                   
C5-6   To encourage the growth of traditional food industry                  
C5-7   To encourage the growth of cottage industry                           

                                                                                             21
8.4   Urban Design Framework

          Strategy 1 : GATEWAYS AND LANDMARKS FOR IDENTITY AND NAVIGATION
                                                                                 Implementation
                 Proposed Programs                                            2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                              2015    2020    2025
          U1-1 To develop gateways at regional and local level                                
          U1-2 To develop landmarks based on local character                                 

         Strategy 2 : ENFORCING THE INDIVIDUAL CHARACTER OF A PLACE
                                                                                 Implementation
                 Proposed Programs                                            2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                              2015    2020    2025
          U2-1 To develop guidelines for the naming of roads, buildings        
               and developments
          U2-2 To promote town slogan based on area character                                
          U2-3 To incorporate local character and historical elements in                     
               streetscape and public realm
          U2-4 To create landscape features that accentuate the local                        
               character and overall image of Iskandar Malaysia

         Strategy 3 : RECONNECT THE WATERFRONT WITH CENTRAL CORE OF THE CITY
                                                                                 Implementation
                 Proposed Programs                                            2010-   2015-   2020-
                                                                              2015    2020    2025
          U3-1   To create a connection between the waterfront and the                       
                 public, either through a physical linkage or by making the
                 waterfront visually clear to the public

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8.5   Implementation

Altogether there are 64 programs proposed based on 4 key elements that aim towards the
preservation, protection and enhancement of area character, presented in the project priority matrix
below. The priority matrix takes into consideration 2 main factors, set against each other, in
determining the programs implementation category. Firstly, ease of implementation that includes
among others financial, resources and administrative issues that may arise, and secondly, impacts that
the programs are likely to have on the preservation of character.

Based on the priority matrix, 5 programs have been identified as quick wins project, while the rest are to
be implemented within the next 15 years with 17 short term programs, 27 mid term programs and 15
long term programs.

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