Rediscover the South: A 3D2N Johor Corporate Retreat Itinerary

Are you searching for the perfect destination to host your corporate team-building retreat in the southern region of Malaysia? Look no further than Johor, a vibrant and diverse state that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. This 3-day, 2-night itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable corporate retreat in Johor, focusing on team building, relaxation, and discovery.

Day 1

MarryBrown Peranakan Heritage Restaurant

Upon arriving in Johor, kickstart your corporate retreat by satisfying your hunger at the vintage MarryBrown. Housed in a colonial-style building painted in bright red, it is easily one of the most eye-catching facades at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

Enjoy your lunch at our homegrown fast-food franchise by ordering popular choices like Nasi Lemak MB, Hotouch Burger, MB Crispy Fried Chicken and many more.

Johor Chinese Heritage Museum

The Johor Chinese Heritage Museum is a fascinating cultural institution situated in Johor Bahru. Also located at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, this museum plays a pivotal role in preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of the Chinese community in Johor and Malaysia as a whole. Fun fact: the current Sultan of Johor (Sultan Ibrahim ibni Sultan Iskandar) has Chinese ancestry that can be traced back to his great-great-great grandmother.

Visitors to the Johor Chinese Heritage Museum can explore a diverse range of exhibits that detail the contributions, traditions, and cultural practices of the Chinese community in Johor. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide insights into the daily lives, customs, and achievements of the Chinese community throughout the centuries. It not only educates visitors about the Chinese influence in the region but also serves as a bridge between different ethnic groups, fostering a deeper understanding of the multicultural society of Malaysia and promoting cultural appreciation and intercultural dialogue.

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee (Heritage Street)

Immerse your team in the rich history of Johor at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, known as Heritage Street. This charming street showcases the city's rich heritage through its well-preserved pre-war shophouses. As you stroll along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, you'll encounter an art gallery, cafes and selfie spots. 

Visiting Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is a captivating journey into the heart of Johor Bahru's history and culture. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a food lover, or someone eager to embrace local traditions, Heritage Street offers a multifaceted experience that celebrates the city's rich past and vibrant present. It's a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the charming architectural gems, sample tantalising local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the cultural richness that defines Johor Bahru's unique identity.

Check-in

Southern Johor boasts a range of hotel options for travellers. As the region's capital, Johor Bahru offers diverse accommodations with choices ranging from upscale hotels to budget-friendly options. You can find hotels centrally located for convenient access to the city's attractions. Additionally, the area of Iskandar Puteri is known for its modern developments and attractions.

Warung Pokok Cherry (Halal)

Enjoy traditional Malay cuisine at Warung Pokok Cherry. Here, visitors can savour a wide variety of Malay culinary delights in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The highlight of this humble eatery is its Kelatanese food, like Nasi Kerabu and Ulam dishes. The restaurant is especially renowned for its affordable prices. Food is served buffet style, so you can pick the dishes you want and pay for them.

Merah Kitchen & Bar (Non-Halal)

Travel back in time by hopping into this retro-looking bar. As you enter this establishment, you’ll find neon lights illuminating the interior and vintage posters plastered all over the red-brick walls. There are also board games and arcade games to keep you entertained while you’re waiting for your food. The menu consists of Asian and Western food with the likes of pasta and rice accompanied by a colourful cocktail mix.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, commonly known as the Glass Temple, stands as a captivating testament to artistry and spirituality in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. This remarkable place of worship is renowned for its intricate glass mosaic artwork that adorns nearly every surface, creating a kaleidoscope of colours and scenes depicting Hindu religious and mythological stories. 

The Glass Temple's architecture seamlessly blends traditional Indian temple design with contemporary artistry, offering a visual feast for the eyes. The temple's ornate glasswork comprises up to 300,000 pieces of glass of various colours. The embellishment extends to its ceiling, pillars, and even the floor. With its spiritual significance, architectural beauty, and cultural diversity, the Glass Temple is a must-visit destination for a team of enthusiasts who are seeking a profound cultural and artistic experience in Johor Bahru.

Day 2

Salahuddin Bakery (Halal)

Grab a quick bite at Salahuddin Bakery, a cherished bakery in Johor Bahru. This Muslim-owned bakery boasts a storied history that dates back to 1937. It is steeped in tradition and known for preserving its time-tested recipes by baking in a wood-fired oven over the generations. It offers a diverse assortment of baked goods, ranging from freshly baked bread and pastries to delectable cakes and buns, each representing a flavorful blend of cultural influences drawn from Malaysia's rich culinary tapestry.

Among its many offerings, Salahuddin Bakery is particularly renowned for its signature Bengali curry puffs, a type of triangular puff that comes with various fillings such as sardine, potato, mutton and many more. Other baked goods include coconut bun, banana cake, cream puff, etc, all baked freshly in the morning. All these mouth-watering pastries have both earned a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. 

Skyscape Johor Bahru

Start your morning with a panoramic view of this southern state’s skyline at Skyscape Johor Bahru. There are activities such as VR Games, Mini Theater, Interactive Floor Games and many more waiting for you. Nonetheless, the main attraction is the Skysbridge which provides visitors with a spectacular view of Johor Bahru from the 34th floor. To add to the excitement, this outdoor area boasts a see-through glass floor section that provides visitors with an aerial view of the houses and roads 149m below.

If the Skysbridge is not enough, there is also the fully air-conditioned Observation Deck, where you can look at the city in more detail with the binoculars. Skyscape Johor Bahru is high enough for you to catch a glimpse of our neighbour, Singapore!

Adventure Water Park Desaru Coast

Nestled within the Desaru Coast integrated resort in Johor, this thrilling aquatic playground promises fun and excitement for visitors of all ages. The park's attractions include an array of water slides, featuring everything from thrilling tube slides to body slides, and even a Tidal Wave Beach that mimics the experience of riding ocean waves. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, there's a lazy river to relax and take in the scenic surroundings.

With cabana rentals available, you can elevate your experience to a more private and comfortable setting. The water park is a part of the larger Desaru Coast resort, which also features hotels, golf courses, and beachfront amenities, making it a comprehensive destination for day trips and extended vacations, filled with aquatic adventures and relaxation.

D'Kota Seafood | Rumah Makan (Halal)

The next dining destination would be D'Kota Seafood which is a delightful restaurant renowned for its mouthwatering seafood and traditional Malay dishes. With "Rumah Makan" translating to "eating house" in Malay, the restaurant encapsulates the essence of Malaysian culinary culture. Seafood takes centre stage here, with an array of dishes featuring fresh catches from the sea, including prawns, crabs, squid, and fish, all expertly prepared to tantalise the taste buds.

While seafood is a standout feature, the restaurant also offers a diverse selection of traditional Malay cuisine, providing visitors with a genuine taste of local flavours. From beloved classics like chilli crab to the aromatic allure of butter prawns, this restaurant presents a delectable fusion of sea and land, celebrating the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Malaysia. It is also worth noting that this restaurant is spacious and can accommodate a big group of guests such as those who are on a corporate retreat.

Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

This park is renowned for its boat tours along the Kota Tinggi River at night. It offers an enchanting spectacle as the mangrove trees lining the banks twinkle with the luminous glow of countless fireflies. This mesmerising sight of nature's light show is both magical and unforgettable, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. The boat ride begins at 7:30 pm and online booking is recommended especially if you are coming in a big group.

Set within a pristine mangrove forest, the park not only offers an immersive experience with fireflies but visitors can also make a wish by releasing lanterns. The park's picturesque surroundings and serene river create the perfect backdrop for a tranquil evening, making it a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking respite from the urban hustle and a chance to connect with the beauty of nature. Kota Tinggi Firefly Park offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the natural world's breathtaking spectacle and immerse oneself in the serene ambience of a magical firefly-lit night.

Day 3

Restoran Kacang Pool Haji

Located in Johor, Malaysia, this renowned eatery is celebrated for its speciality dish, "kacang pool." This popular Johor delicacy features spiced fava beans cooked in a savoury tomato-based sauce, enhanced with aromatic spices and herbs, and typically served with a thick slice of toast, making it a perfect breakfast choice. Diners have the flexibility to choose between beef or mutton Kacang Pool.

Besides Kacang Pool, they also have other local delights such as Lontong, Roti Bakar, Mee Goreng and many more. The restaurant embodies Malaysia's diverse culinary heritage, offering a chance to relish the distinctive and comforting qualities of this beloved local dish.

Putuo Village

Putuo Village consists of the Bodhi Sanctuary which aims at honouring the Buddhist culture and The Purple Bamboo Valley which is a picturesque park. At the Bodhi Sanctuary, there are various exhibits and activities to help visitors learn, understand and appreciate the teachings of Buddhism. Worshippers can also donate for prayer offerings. For non-Buddhist, this place is valued for its photograph-worthy surroundings. On the other hand, the Purple Bamboo Valley spans many attractive spots such as the Rainbow Road, the cute inflatable pandas, the gardens and many more. So don’t forget to take lots of photos with the team to commemorate the corporate retreat.

When you are tired of all the fun, the village has a couple of refreshing treats that are Instagram-worthy, waiting for you. The Bamboo Forest Tea House has ice-creams and rice served in bamboo! They are also one of the most sought-after snacks in the village. Besides that, the Fat Bamboo Cafe at the Bodhi Sanctuary also has cakes and pies waiting for you to order along with their hand-brewed drinks.

By the end of this 3-day, 2-night corporate retreat in Johor, your team will have not only explored the rich heritage and culture of the region but also strengthened their bonds through exploring the attractions and food in Johor. This southern state offers the perfect blend of history, nature, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for corporate retreats. So, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable journey of growth and connection in the heart of southern Malaysia.