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Situated at the southern end of Peninsula Malaysia, Johor
is the third largest state in the country. It was named after the Sungei Johor, which is
the longest river in the state. Economically, it is one of the most important states in
the country with various large plantations. They include commodities such as rubber, palm
oil, and pineapple. On top of agricultural products, Johor is also becoming an industrial
base. It has even developed to become one of the most populated states with Johor Bahru
(JB), its capital city, as the second-largest city in Malaysia. A causeway and a railway
line connect JB to Singapore, thus making it easier to travel to and from each country.
It is believed that Sultan Mahmud Shah, the last ruler of
Malacca, founded Johor when he was forced to flee from the Portuguese in 1511. After his
death, his son Alauddin Riayat Shah moved the capital to Kota Tinggi in Johor. He was able
to build a strong kingdom, was feared by many, and was able to make Johor a preeminent
Malay state. However, this did not mean the end of turmoil and fights. In the 16th
Century, the state was attacked by the Portuguese followed by the Achinese from Sumatra,
and later the Bugis from Sundawesi (Celebes). However, the Malay rulers of Johor managed
to hold their own fort against all odds.
When Sir Stamford Raffles set foot in Singapore in 1819,
he witnessed the factional war within the court of the Johor Sultan, which was divided by
Malay and Bugis factions. He pensioned off the sultans and gave actual power to the
"temenggong" (Malay minister). Temenggong Abu Bakar was given that privilege to
rule Johor. He elevated himself to the position of Sultan of Johor in 1886. He persevered
to build up the state and to modernize its administration. He established Johor Bahru (New
Johor) as the capital city and began modernizing it. He was thus aptly called "The
Father of Modern Johor". Johor finally became part of the Federation of Malaya in
1948.
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