Area Character Statement

Area Character Statement
ISBN 978-967-5626-24-1
Area Character Statement
Blueprint for 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
Definition
1.2
The Study
1.3
Objective of the Study
1.4
Targeted User
1.5
Identification of Character
1
1
1
1
1
2
2.0
STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVEMENT
2.1
Stakeholders
2.2
Workshops
2
2
3
3.0
ELEMENTS OF CHARACTER
3.1
Natural Elements
3.2
Man-made Elements (including Built Heritage)
3.3
Social & Cultural Elements
3
3
6
7
4.0
ASSETS AND POTENTIALS
9
5.0
ISSUES AND THREATS
5.1
Nature
5.2
Urban Design
5.3
Built Heritage
5.4
Society & Culture
10
10
11
11
11
6.0
AREA CHARACTER
12
7.0
THE WAY FORWARD
14
8.0
STRATEGY AND PROPOSED PROGRAMS
8.1
Nature
8.2
Built Heritage
8.3
Society, Culture & Tradition
8.4
Urban Design
8.5
Implementation
17
17
19
20
22
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 significance
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)
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
5. Sungai Kim-Kim
Stulang Laut beach
Sungai Pulai mangrove
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.)
2. Lowland DF - Bukit Hantu Forest Reserve (97 ha.)
3. Hill DF – Gunung Pulai Forest Reserve (3,521ha.)
Dipterocarp Forests
• 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
provinces.
Rural settlement
• Urban Parks and Open Spaces
Hutan Bandar, Dataran Bandaraya, & various pockets parks.
• Fauna Of Significant Character
1. Dugong
2. Spotted seahorse (Hippocampus kuda )
3. Keluang (Pteropus vampyrus)
4. Kupang
5. Malayan Tiger
6. Kijang
7. Burung Perling
8. Burung Punai
9. Burung Layang-layang
10. Tiram
Urban park
Dugong
Spotted seahorse
• Flora Of Significant Character
1. Gambir (Uncaria gambir)
2. Pepper (Lada Hitam, Piper nigrum)
3. Coffee (Coffea spp., most likely C. liberica species)
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)
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)
17. Gelam (Melaleuca leucadendron)
18. Merbau (Intsia spp.)
19. Teberau (Saccharum arundinaceum)
20. Stulang (Setulang, Coptosapelta griffithii)
21. Bemban (Donax arundastrum)
Coffee
Pineapple
22. Pulai (Alstonia spp.)
Kupang
Black pepper
Piai
Perepat
Seagrass
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
Tembusu (Fagraea fragrans)
Nibong (Oncosperma tigillarium)
Seagrass (Halophila ovalis & Enhalus acoroides)
Redan (Nephelium glabrum)
Rinting (Ptychoraphis singaporensis)
Perepat (Sonneratia griffithii)
Buloh Kasap (Ochlandra ridleyi)
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
• Public/ Government Building
1. Sultan Ibrahim Building
2. Courthouse
3. Balai Zaharah
4. Datuk Abdullah Jaafar Building
5. JMF Headquarters
6. Balai Polis Central
7. Sultanah Aminah Hospital
8. Hospital Permai
9. Dewan Jubli Intan
• Institutional Building
1. UTM
2. English College
3. Sultan Ibrahim Girls’ School
4. Sekolah Tun Fatimah
5. Sekolah Infant Jesus Convent
• Places of Worship
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
Istana Besar
Istana Pasir Pelangi
Dato’ Jaafar Residence
Sultan Ibrahim Building
Courthouse
Balai Polis Central
JMF Headquarters
English College
Sekolah Infant Jesus
Convent
Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar
Ku Miao Temple
• Commercial Building
1. PERSADA Johor
2. City Square
• Infrastructure
1. Causeway
2. Johor CIQ
3. JB Railway Station
4. Port of Tg. Pelepas
5. Senai International Airport
• Open Space/Recreational
1. Danga Bay
2. Dataran Bandaraya
3. Legaran Segget
4. Istana Garden
Persada Johor
Causeway
Dataran Bandaraya
City Square
JB Railway Station
Istana Garden
3.3
Social & Cultural Elements
• Local Foods
Main dishes
1. Laksa Johor
2. Lontong
3. Soto
4. Nasi Beriyani Gam
5. Nasi Ambeng
6. Nasi Berkat
7. Nasi Bukhari
8. Mi Bandung
9. Mi Rebus
10. Mi Bakso
11. Roti Jala
12. Asam Pedas Daun Kesum
13. Kerutup Ikan
14. Ungkep
15. Burasak
16. Botok-botok
17. Harisa
Side dishes
1. Otak-otak
2. Telur Pindang
3. Rojak Petis
4. Pechal
5. Tauhu Sumbat
6. Kacang Phol
7. Pisang Salai
8. Mi Siput
9. Rempeyek
10. Pendaram
11. Tempe
Laksa Johor
Soto
Mi Bandung
Mi Rebus
Roti Jala
Harisa
Otak-otak
Telur Pindang
Pisang Salai
Tauhu Sumbat
Sirap Bandung Soda
Sirap Selasih
Bubur Sumsum
Bubur Putih Bubur Merah
Drinks
1. Sirap Bandung Soda
2. Air Katirah
3. Sirap Selasih
4. Air Beh
Desserts
1. Bubur Sumsum
2. Serawa
3. Lempuk Durian
4. Halwa Maskat
5. Bubur Putih Bubur Merah
6. Penganan Kacau Keledek
• 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
4. Johor Crown
5. Keris Berlok
6. Selendang Mantul
7. Sarung Kelubung
Woven Fabric
1. Kain Mastuli
2. Kain Bugis
3. Kain Telepuk
4. Kain Gerus
5. Kelingkan Embroidery
Kurung Teluk Belanga
(women version)
Kurung Teluk Belanga
(men version)
Songkok Tinggi
Selendang Mantul
Kain Telepuk
Kelingkan Embroidery
Zapin
Kuda Kepang
Ghazal
Gamelan
Wayang Kulit Purwa
Silat Sendeng
• Traditional Dance and Arts & Performance
Traditional Dance
1. Zapin
2. Kuda Kepang
3. Ceracap Inai
4. Sarah Dance
5. Lion Dance
6. Bhangra
Musical and Instruments
1. Ghazal
2. Keroncong
3. Kempling
4. Gamelan
5. Tajuk Johor song
6. Bangsa Johor song
Arts and Performance
1. Wayang Kulit Purwa
2. Wayang Wong
3. Barongan
4. Hamdolok
5. Silat Sendeng
6. Chinese Opera
7. Ketoprak
8. Ludruk
Arts and Performance
1. Wayang Kulit Purwa
2. Wayang Wong
3. Barongan
4. Hamdolok
5. Silat Sendeng
6. Chinese Opera
7. Ketoprak
8. Ludruk
Wau Merak
Sepak Raga
• Local Games
1. Gasing Pangkah
2. Wau Merak
3. Sepak Raga
• 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
8. Marhaban
9. Tilawah Al-Quran
10. Chingay
11. Thaipussam
4.
Kembara Mahkota Johor
International Kites Festival
Maulidur Rasul Parade
Marhaban
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.
• Urban Parks and Open Spaces.
• Rural settlements.
Mangroves at Ramsar Sites
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
Centre at Nusajaya
3. New Townships
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
• Industrial areas
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
(UTM), Skudai
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
• Mangroves
Dugong
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
• Seagrass, dugong, sea horse
Johor National Park at Tg. Piai
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
heritage documentation process
Example of form used in heritag
building inventory
• Ensure retention of heritage integrity
Discourse on history and heritage with local
experts, historian and relevant stakeholders
Model restoration project as interpretive
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
monitored regularly
Spotted seahorse and dugong are considered
as unique marine wild life in Johor
• Conservation and management of inland forests, river basin and wetland environment.
Conservation of forest enables people
to learn and appreciate nature
River basin is part of natural support
system
15
• Conservation and preservation of natural features associated with historical and cultural
significance.
Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque sits on top of Bukit
Redan, one of many historic hills in Johor Bahru
Black pepper is very significant to
the history of Johor
d) Urban Design
• Enforce individual character for each town.
Creation of a town slogan helps to
introduce area character
Design of street furniture can reflect
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
Proposed Programs
N1-1
N1-2
N1-3
N1-4
Establishing the Merambong-Kupang marine reserve
Establishing a transboundary cooperation with Singapore
Extending the seagrass protection zone into Sungai Pulai
estuary
To establish the Iskandar Centre for Marine Interpretation,
Conservation, Research & Observation
Implementation
20102015
20152020
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20202025
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Strategy 2 : CONSERVATION OF RIVER BASIN & WETLAND ENVIRONMENT
Proposed Programs
N2-1 Preparing the Sungai Pulai Integrated River Basin
Management Plan
N2-2 Preparing the Management Plan for Selat Teberau Relic
Mangrove Patches
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
To be implemented in
Shoreline Management
Blueprint for IM
To be implemented in
Environmental Planning
Blueprint for IM
Strategy 3 : CONSERVATION OF INLAND FOREST
Proposed Programs
N3-1 To prepare a management plan for the preservation and
conservation of the remaining examples of lowland and
hill dipterocarp forests in Iskandar Region and southern
Peninsular Malaysia
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
To be implemented in
Shoreline Management
Blueprint for IM
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Strategy 4 : CONSERVATION OF HISTORIC HILLS
Proposed Programs
N4-1 To conserve and document the historic hills within Johor
Bahru city
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 5 : PRESERVING FLORA OF HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Proposed Programs
Implementation
20102015
N5-1 To create a Flora Heritage and Interpretation Centre to
preserve plant species of historical and cultural
significance to Iskandar Region
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 6 : GREENING OR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE
Proposed Programs
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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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
Proposed Programs
N7-1 To re-establish Sungai Segget as a naturally flowing river
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
To be implemented in JB
Transformation project
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8.2
Built Heritage
Strategy 1 : DATA COLLECTION AND ARCHIVAL
Proposed Programs
H1-1
H1-2
H1-3
H1-4
To commence heritage building inventory
To carry out measured drawings
To create a central archive for heritage resources
To develop a GIS database on heritage resources
Implementation
20102015
20152020
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20202025
Strategy 2 : RETAINING HERITAGE INTEGRITY
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 3 : LEGAL PROTECTION
Proposed Programs
H3-1 To consolidate existing heritage laws
H3-2 To initiate state and local heritage register
Implementation
20102015
20152020
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20202025
Strategy 4 : GUIDANCE AND COUNSEL
Proposed Programs
H4-1
H4-2
H4-3
H4-4
To set up Heritage Aid Bureau
To hold workshop for small contractors
To develop home owner’s manual for heritage properties
To develop template for repairs
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 5 : ADAPTIVE REUSE
Proposed Programs
H5-1
H5-2
Implementation
20102015
Royal buildings
State owned buildings
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 6 : HERITAGE AWARENESS
Proposed Programs
H6-1
H6-2
H6-3
H6-4
H6-5
8.3
Implementation
20102015
To develop heritage trail
Pocket guide book
South Johor architecture and heritage map
Plaque program
Street signage
20152020
20202025
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Society, Culture & Tradition
Strategy 1 : CULTURAL RESOURCES
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
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20152020
20202025
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Strategy 2 : REJUVENATION PLAN
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 3 : PROMOTION
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 4 : FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 5 : ECONOMIC VIABILITY
Proposed Programs
C5-1
C5-2
C5-3
C5-4
C5-5
C5-6
C5-7
To develop cultural trail
To develop food trail
To develop an express tailor project
To organize an all year festivals and cultural exhibitions
Pasar Budaya to include the selling of traditional products
To encourage the growth of traditional food industry
To encourage the growth of cottage industry
Implementation
20102015
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20152020
20202025
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8.4
Urban Design Framework
Strategy 1 : GATEWAYS AND LANDMARKS FOR IDENTITY AND NAVIGATION
Proposed Programs
U1-1 To develop gateways at regional and local level
U1-2 To develop landmarks based on local character
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 2 : ENFORCING THE INDIVIDUAL CHARACTER OF A PLACE
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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Strategy 3 : RECONNECT THE WATERFRONT WITH CENTRAL CORE OF THE CITY
Proposed Programs
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
Implementation
20102015
20152020
20202025
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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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