Malaysia

Arulmigu Rajamariamman Temple stands in the middle of Johor Bahru’s busy streets, but the moment you step near it, the mood shifts. The bright gopuram, the detailed carvings, and the steady flow of devotees give the place a calm weight. My visit was brief, but the colours, scents, and quiet movement inside made it easy to slow down and look closer. These photos capture what drew my eye as I walked through this landmark of faith and history.

I spent a day walking through Johor Bahru with no schedule except to see what the city would show me. From busy streets and old shophouses to quiet corners by the water, JB revealed a mix of energy and ease that was easy to enjoy. These photos capture the small moments that stood out along the way, the scenes that make the city feel alive and welcoming.

My Visit to Johor Bahru and Street Art Walk

During my visit to Johor Bahru, I was amazed by how the city blends modern energy with old-town charm. I started my day exploring the JB Old Town, where every corner tells a story — from vintage cafés and local shops to the colorful street art that brings the walls to life.

The Street Art Walk was the highlight of my trip. Hidden in narrow alleys and along quiet streets, the murals capture the spirit of Johor — its culture, people, and daily life. Each painting felt like stepping into a different scene, full of color and creativity.

After wandering through the art alleys, I enjoyed some local food at a nearby kopitiam — a perfect way to end the day surrounded by art, flavors, and friendly faces.

Penang Butterfly Farm opened in 1986. At the time, it was the first tropical butterfly farm in the world. It was what you might expect from a butterfly farm until it emerged from its cocoon in 2016 having transformed into Entopia.

Entopia Penang is located in Teluk Bahang in the Northwest corner of Penang Island. The journey from Georgetown to Entopia Penang is around 20km and it takes around 45 minutes to get to Entopia Penang from George Town (depending on traffic).

At Entopia Penang it feels like there is something living everywhere you look. Entopia Penang is split into two main parts: The Nature land Gardens (conservatory) and The Cocoon Indoor Discovery Centre. We explored all sections freely, and without time limit.

The Nature land Gardens consists of pools, waterfalls, plants, trees and bushes. There are many butterflies and insects living freely in this zone. Flower displays provide a landing pad for the butterflies and allow you to get up close to admire the intricate beauty of these creatures.

With its vibrant tropical gardens and a kaleidoscope of over 15,000 butterflies, Entopia invites you on an exhilarating adventure into the heart of nature. From the captivating indoor conservatory to the sprawling outdoor gardens, this enchanting butterfly park offers an immersive experience like no other.

A haven for Butterflies and a great opportunity to see many of them close up but still in a fairly Natural environment.

Me and my camera had a fabulous time!

Built in 1908, the Central Fire Station is Malaysia’s oldest surviving fire station.

Up until the late 19th century, residents of George Town had to rely on the police to help put out flames, tackle wildlife problems and other emergencies.

In 1898, a fire brigade was finally set up, comprising 10 trained volunteers equipped with a steam power pump carted by four horses.

It wasn’t until 10 years later, however, that the Central Fire Station was built.

The largely Edwardian two-storey building was fitted with a Mughal-style watchtower - topped with a finialed dome - that was used for observation, training and to dry off water hoses.

The Central Fire Station remains in operation 115 years later, with some new additions.

The original louvred wood shutters were replaced by colonial grid windows, and at the back of the building, a three-storey barracks was added to house firefighters and their families.

But perhaps most striking is the new red and white paint job that accentuates the building’s symmetrical beauty and classic features.

So striking, in fact, that the building got an honourable mention in Accidentally Wes Anderson, the bible of nostalgia aesthetics.

The fire station is one of 82 historic buildings listed as Category 1 in the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More recently, it was known as the Beach Street Fire Station up until 2019, when it reverted to its original name.

To commemorate its storied past, the station’s squad - led by former station chief Mohamad Rafizi Arafpin - have set up a mini gallery on site.

Items on display include old photographs, a vintage bicycle fitted with a water hose carriage, as well as different types of firefighter garb. Young visitors can even put on a kids’ uniform and sit in a fire truck - a front seat glimpse into the life of a hero.