From handcrafted leather goods and traditional songkok making to vibrant street murals and Javanese cultural heritage, Muar offers visitors an authentic journey through the artistic and cultural heart of Johor.
Nestled in the southern state of Johor, Muar is a destination where heritage, craftsmanship and creativity come together. Officially recognised as the Royal Town of Johor and affectionately known as the Empress Town, Muar has earned a reputation not only for its rich cultural identity but also for being one of the cleanest cities in the region, receiving the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard Award 2022.
Located approximately three hours by road from Kuala Lumpur and neighbouring the historic state of Melaka, Muar is celebrated for its distinctive local character. The town is renowned for iconic dishes such as mi bandung, mi siput and the famous Kopi 434, while also serving as Malaysia’s leading furniture-exporting district, with rubberwood forming the backbone of its internationally recognised furniture industry.
Muar is equally known as the birthplace of ghazal music and the traditional kuda kepang dance. Adding a contemporary touch to its cultural landscape, the Muar Municipal Council became the first local authority in Malaysia to introduce augmented reality murals, earning recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records in 2019.
Whether enjoying a leisurely river cruise along the Tanjung Emas Waterfront or wandering through its charming streets, visitors will discover a town filled with artistic expression, traditional craftsmanship and cultural experiences.
Experience Handcrafted Leather at Muar Leather Craft
One of Muar’s most distinctive creative attractions is Muar Leather Craft, a centre dedicated to showcasing the town’s expertise in leather craftsmanship.
Originally established in 2018 as a community initiative to educate the public about leather production, the centre has since grown into a popular destination for students, industry visitors and international tourists, particularly those from Singapore.
Visitors can browse an extensive collection of handcrafted leather products, including passport holders, RFID wallets, handbags, belts, jackets, keychains and fashion accessories made from premium sheepskin leather. The workshop also accepts custom-made orders, including luxury stingray leather products.
Those seeking a more immersive experience can participate in hands-on DIY leather crafting workshops while learning about various leather finishes such as pure aniline, semi-aniline, corrected grain and suede split leather. The experience offers an insightful look into the craftsmanship behind products supplied to international markets, including globally recognised golf glove manufacturers.
Discover the Heritage of Songkok Making
Traditional Malay craftsmanship comes alive at Songkok Masood Hussin Boutique, one of Muar’s most respected producers of handcrafted songkok, the traditional Malay cap.
Known for producing premium-quality songkok, the boutique has gained recognition for its innovative foldable songkok lipat, which has become increasingly popular among younger generations. Visitors can also admire luxurious creations such as the exclusive songkok kain kiswah, crafted using fabric inspired by the covering of the Kaaba, alongside custom-made songkok bulan, which reflects Bugis and Turkish influences.
The boutique has supplied ceremonial songkok for the Johor royal family, including those used during royal coronation ceremonies, while also attracting distinguished clients from Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia.
Each handcrafted piece reflects generations of traditional expertise, making it an ideal place to appreciate one of Malaysia’s enduring cultural symbols.
Explore Muar’s Furniture Heritage at Muar Art Gallery
As Malaysia’s furniture capital, Muar proudly celebrates its woodworking heritage through the Muar Art Gallery.
Established in 2016 by SJY Furniture as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative, the gallery introduces visitors to the town’s internationally acclaimed furniture industry and showcases the versatility of natural rattan and timber craftsmanship.
Displays highlight various species of rattan, including the commercially valuable Manau rattan (Calamus manan), widely used in premium furniture and handicrafts throughout Southeast Asia.
Visitors can also observe the journey of timber from raw logs to finished furniture while participating in beginner-friendly woodworking workshops at the Art Space. Handmade wooden products such as speakers, chopping boards and toys are available as souvenirs, while the on-site café serves locally blended coffee and signature Muar delicacies.
Admire Muar’s Vibrant Street Art
Beyond its traditional heritage, Muar has developed a thriving street art scene that brings colour and creativity to its historic streets.
Among its most celebrated works is The Loving Sisters, an impressive mural by Russian artist Julia Volchkova. Located along Jalan Arab, the portrait depicts two young sisters and symbolises family bonds, unity and community spirit. The mural was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records in 2016 as the country’s largest street art portrait.
Exploring Muar’s narrow lanes reveals numerous other murals that blend contemporary artistic expression with local stories, making the town a rewarding destination for photography enthusiasts and urban explorers.
Immerse Yourself in Javanese Culture at Keraton Embah Anang
For visitors seeking deeper cultural experiences, Keraton Embah Anang offers a fascinating glimpse into the Javanese heritage that has shaped communities in Johor.
The traditional wooden residence features intricately carved teak architecture adorned with peacock motifs, animal sculptures and beautifully crafted furniture inspired by Javanese artistry. Inside, visitors can view traditional musical instruments used for Barongan performances and kuda kepang dances, both integral parts of local cultural celebrations.
Guests staying through the nearby village homestay programme can enjoy authentic cultural activities, including batik colouring, weaving ketupat, preparing roti canai and traditional kuih, as well as experiencing village life through community-led activities.
Experience the Creative Heart of Muar
Blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary creativity, Muar offers far more than a typical heritage town. From leather artisans and master songkok makers to furniture craftsmanship, colourful murals and living Javanese traditions, every corner of the Royal Town reveals a different aspect of Johor’s rich cultural identity.
Whether visiting for a day trip or an extended cultural escape, Muar provides travellers with authentic experiences that celebrate Malaysia’s artistic heritage while embracing innovation and community pride.
Source: Malaysia Tourism
