ON THE last day of the Asia-Pacific Climate Week 2023 (APCW 2023), some 30 delegates joined a free Tourism Johor tour.
The five-hour tour started with a visit to the Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Museum, which is currently closed to the public. There, they learned about the history of Johor and its royal family.
They were later brought to the Warisan Sultan Abu Bakar Complex where they were briefed on the arts, crafts and food that are unique to Johor before the tour ended with a stop at Laman Mahkota for a chance to take photos.
Researcher Sindra Adil, 29, from Pakistan said she was glad she had the opportunity to join the tour.
“I was in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor for a few days before heading to Johor, and was able to explore some of the natural attractions such as Bukit Gasing.
“As a nature lover, I wish that I could have had more time to explore some of the natural attractions in Johor but at least, I managed to visit some places before returning home. I hope that I get to visit Johor again,” said Sindra.
Nathaniel Yuen, 31, from Hong Kong, said it was his second time in Johor.
“The first time I was here was probably about 10 years ago. I was visiting Singapore and decided to make a stop in Johor to visit Legoland.
“However, it was just a day trip. This is the first time I have stayed in Johor Baru. I am very impressed with the development the state has undergone over the years.
“I walked around the areas near my hotel and the event venue. I plan to come back to explore as some of the local delegates told me about several interesting places here, such as Desaru.”
Rachana Mattur, 27, from India, said she was impressed with the friendliness and kindness of Johor folk.
“I visited a market near my hotel and I found that the people here were very nice, warm and helpful. Things are cheaper here compared to most places I have visited.
“I plan to visit some of the temples around Johor Baru before going home.
“So far, my experience here has been great but I wish that I had more time to explore other parts of Malaysia, including iconic places like Batu Caves.”