Jom Jelajah Koperasi Johor

The last time I went to Johor was about 6 years ago so when I was invited to join a trip to this southern state of Peninsular Malaysia last month, I thought why not.

The trip was an introduction to cooperatives under Koperasi Johor so we went to a few districts in Johor to get a taste of what they have to offer.

Koperasi Kampung Sungai Latoh Kongkong Masai Berhad

This fishing village located near Masai is fast becoming an eco-tourism destination in the state, as it is rich in flora and fauna, featuring various types of mangrove and different species of birds.

Went cruising along Selat Mendana.

It was drizzling the moment we started our ride but we went on anyway. And after that, my boat almost sank after water gradually filled the front part of the boat due to waves. But luckily the boat captain managed to clear it. Pheww... what a start. Haha..



That's Jambatan Sungai Johor, which is part of Senai-Desaru Expressway.

Calm after the storm.
                                 

Demonstration on catching shrimp.

Mangrove forest along the river.

Raft house. 

The village is also a haven for anglers so you might be interested to stay in one of the raft houses along the river. The rate depends on the raft house, from as low as RM 15 per person per night.

You may contact the Tourist Information Centre (Tel: +6013-7235350) for more information about the cruise, and activities around the village. 

Koperasi Warisan Kampung Senibong Johor Bahru Berhad

For this cooperative, the trademark business is the restaurant at Anjung Senibung so we were brought dinner there. Yeay!

The restaurant is famous for its Asam Pedas but unfortunately, I didn't get the chance to try it. We had a sumptuous dinner though. 

Seafood galore. 

 Full tummy, happy me. hehe..

Call that number to reserve, now!

Apart from the restaurant, the coop also owns homestays. Nice aight? Maybe you get discounts at the restaurant if you stay there ;p

Koperasi Pemandu-Pemandu Teksi Bandaraya Johor Bahru Berhad

If you are in Johor Bahru city without your own transport, get taxi services from these gentlemen and their friends by calling +607-2352020.

The taxis are comfortable, and the drivers use the taxi meter so you'll guaranteed a pleasant journey.

Koperasi Pekebun Kecil Wilayah Johor Selatan Berhad

This cooperative's main activities include oil palm plantation and livestock husbandry. We visited one of their farms in Mersing.



Such a nice view. The farm manager told me during our drive in 4WD around the farm that Singaporeans love to come here and bike around on the trail. Homestays are available within the farm if you would like to discover agrotourism.

I've learnt so much - how the animals are raised, how kelulut honey are produced. These are things that urban residents like me could not experience in the city.

 Koperasi Homestay Kampung Parit Bugis Muar Berhad

From Mersing, we criss-crossed the state heading to Kampung Parit Bugis in Muar. As the name suggests, the cooperative manages homestays in the village.

I got a foster mother and stayed at her house. Thank you sooo much mak for your heart-warming hospitality.

I had fun and a very memorable experience during my short stay here. 

Watch cultural performance.



Taking a ride on their self-made 'gerabak'.



Fun telematch.

Visit handcraft centre - the locals made beautiful crafts from coconut shell. Amazing!

We also spent some time visiting Keraton Embah Anang, or also known by locals as 'rumah atuk'. It is one of the attractions you can find in this village.

Inside the house. I just went wow!

If you want to experience kampung life, or just wanna have a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, this might be a good getaway. 

Special thanks to the awesome people behind Gaya Travel Magazine for this opportunity. Glad I joined the trip. Made new friends and of course, the trip gave me a wonderful experience and useful insight on some of the cooperatives in Johor.