Istana Besar

Istana Besar or Grand Palace is the royal palace of the Sultan of Johor. It is located in Johor Bahru. The palace was built in 1866 by Sultan Abu Bakar. It overlooks the Straits of Johor.

The Palace’s most distinctive feature is its integration of Anglo-Malay architecture. the Malay design of its dome contrasted with its blue roof of Anglo influence.

The Grand Palace is currently used only for investitures, state banquets and royal functions.

Located in the same building is the Royal Abu Bakar Museum.It was officially opened to public in 1990. The museum houses a good collection of royal heirloom, impressive rare artifacts and record of the history of the state’s royal family.

Image by: AngMoKio 

Operating hour

Saturday – Thursday: 9.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m

Friday: Closed

Admission

Johorean
Adult: RM 4.00
Child: RM 1.00

With MyKad
Adult: RM 5.00
Child: RM 1.00

Without MyKad
Adult: RM 21.00
Child: RM 9.00

Hear from Others

His Majesty, Sultan Iskandar converted the palace into the museum., which was opened to the public on May 11th , 1991. The museum has an extensive display of rare artefacts and treasures collected by and belonging to the Royal family. We can see the furniture that was used by the sultan and his family.

2D – Group
Learning-Journey2010

Once the Johor royal family’s principle palace, the marvellous Istana Besar was built in Victorian style in 1866.

FotoLumayan

This impressive building was constructed in 1866 during the time of Sultan Abu Bakar and is a stunning mix of Malay and Western architecture. Make sure to look out for the large dome that tops the structure as well as the signature blue roof. Other points of interest here include the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which has a collection of antiques and heirlooms that would have belonged to the Royal Family.

TheCrazyTourist

Nearby Attractions

Istana Bukit Serene

Istana Bukit Serene is the royal palace and official residence of the Sultan of Johor, located in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The palace was built facing the Straits of Johor and completed in 1933.

Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple is located in Jalan Trus, Johor Bahru. The temple is surrounded by modern skyscrapers. It is one of the oldest structures in Johor Bahru. The temple is a place of worship and a symbol of unity among Five Chinese Dialect Groups which are “Teochew”, “Hoklo (Hokkien)”, “Cantonese”, “Hakka” and “Hainan”.

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee 

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is a part of Johor Bahru Heritage Trail tour program held by Johor Bahru City Council and Tourism Malaysia-Johor. The street is named after a prominent Chinese clothes trader in Johor who was also a wealthiest man in Johor.