From sandy beaches and lush rainforests to the bustling, diverse cities like its capital Johor Bahru, the southern Johor region of Malaysia is poised to be the next big thing in tourism. Elephants plod through the jungle as cars speed between Johor Bahru’s skyscrapers. This state encompasses everything Southeast Asia can be.

The region’s natural beauty ranges from the mountainous, waterfall-dotted jungles of Endau Rompin National Park to the resort-packed Desaru Beach. Within Johor Bahru, top attractions include religious monuments like the Hindu shrine Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple and the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, shopping centres like Johor Bahru City Square and historic landmarks like the Grand Palace and the Sultan Ibrahim Building.

Johor directly borders Singapore and connects Malaysia to its small neighbour via causeways. Singapore and Johor Bahru are less than an hour’s drive from one another. Express buses and shuttle trains also connect the two cities.

Originally a sultanate, Johor dates back to the 16th century. The name derives from the Persian “jauhar”, meaning gem or jewel. Prior to this, Malaysia’s southernmost point had the quite literal name “Ujong Tanah”, Malay for land’s end. While it may no longer bear a Malay name, Johor and particularly the capital Johor Bahru, has been a centre for nationalist Malay activism.