Johor To Restrict Hazardous Tourist Spots During Monsoon Season
As a precaution, the authorities have not allowed any sea-related activities or those in high-risk areas. But there are other alternative destinations that tourists can still visit in Johor.
By Nurul Qistina — 20 Dec 2022, 11:20 AM
Now that we have reached the school holiday season, many would have targeted Johor Bahru as one of their travel destination as it's known for its many famous tourist spots.
However, the authorities are left with no choice but to restrict certain spots for everyone's safety due to the monsoon season.
According to The Star, Johor tourist guides association president Jimmy Leong Wei Kong said that the rainy season has prompted authorities to close popular tourist locations such as national parks and islands in Johor, which will have little impact on tourism.
"As a precaution, the authorities have not allowed any sea-related activities or those in high-risk areas. But there are other alternative destinations that tourists can still visit in Johor," he said.
Besides the attractions in the Johor Bahru central business district, Kong said that areas like Kluang, Batu Pahat, and Muar were becoming more well-liked among domestic and international visitors, especially those who are looking for a "vintage vibe".
"And I am sure that the cool and cloudy weather now (is much more comfortable) for visitors going to theme parks in Johor," he added.
Therefore, he believed that the monsoon season would not severely affect the local tourism sector because it was a common occurrence during the year-end.
However, Kong thinks that the biggest fear of industry players concerning the monsoon season was the risk of road closures due to floods
Additionally, Johor Tourism director Suhairi Hashim said that national parks and islands off the coast of Mersing were closed during the monsoon season.
"Based on our experience, the monsoon season will last until the middle of January. Hopefully, the weather will improve so that our national parks and islands will be open to the public once more," he said.
"However, other top tourism destinations in Johor, such as Desaru, remain open for tourists."
Suhairi noted that the high traffic at other state tourism attractions indicates that the monsoon season had no impact on Johor's tourism business.
