Fahmi fishing in Stulang Laut against the backdrop of the upcoming RTS Link. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
WITH the arrival of the new year, people in Johor Baru are hoping for events and initiatives that can drive tourism and economic growth.
That is on top of seeing ongoing projects being carried out as scheduled, they say when interviewed by StarMetro.
Fahmi Rosman said he was happy to witness the progress of Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which connects Johor Baru and Singapore, from his fishing spot in Stulang Laut.
Yek wants to see more indoor programmes, especially during the monsoon season.“I fish in the area occasionally as it is a convenient and breezy spot.
“It also means that I am able to see the changes to the landscape as RTS Link progresses.
“The link will provide convenience for travellers from both countries and hopefully, this will further spur tourism and economic growth in Johor and Malaysia,” he said.
Slated to be completed by December 2026, RTS Link will connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Baru to Singapore’s Woodlands North in a five-minute train journey.
With a peak capacity of 10,000 passengers per hour in either direction, the link aims to improve cross-border connectivity.
Fahmi, who is a civil servant, also hopes the project would go according to schedule and be operational by early 2027 as planned.
Hotel manager Yek Sheon Seng hopes to see more indoor programmes, especially during the monsoon season, to ensure the tourism industry can continue to generate income.
Malanidevi calls for more cross-cultural programmes between the major races.“In Malaysia, we tend to focus on promoting outdoor activities like hiking and beach visits.
“However, during the monsoon season, these attractions are closed for safety reasons.
“For instance, if a hotel on an island shuts down for the season, it impacts other services such as boat operators and tour guides,” he said.
He suggested creating more indoor programmes, particularly in urban areas, to help the industry maintain a steady stream of income instead of relying solely on tourists during the dry season.
Businesswoman A. Malanidevi hopes for more cross-cultural programmes beyond National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
She believes Malaysia’s unique cultural diversity should be celebrated daily as it can strengthen national unity and serve as a source of pride for the country.
“We need to showcase our cultural richness through cross-cultural activities, like Malays performing traditional Chinese dances, Chinese performing Indian dances and Indians performing Malay dances.
“This will deepen understanding and show foreigners what makes us special,” the snack shop owner said.
She also suggests for Johor to focus on people-centric events such as Kembara Mahkota Johor expedition, which was the brainchild of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia when he was Johor crown prince.
“It is great to promote each district. In Pasir Gudang, you have Bukit Layang-Layang, but in Kulai, we don’t have a similar attraction.
“Instead of focusing solely on specific locations, we should highlight our communities and people,” she added.
Freelancer Joey Ng hopes to see more community events being organised to celebrate youths and entrepreneurs.
“I recently visited a market event held at the abandoned Ayer Molek prison grounds in Johor Baru, which has been repurposed into an event space.
“There were booths selling food, drinks, clothes and accessories.
“I think events like that are good avenues for young entrepreneurs to reach a wider market.
“At the same time, the public also gets to learn about the history of the old prison building.
“I hope the authorities will give more space for the public to conduct similar activities in the future,” she said.
Ng added that the public must also play their part in ensuring cleanliness and safety to make such events sustainable.
