History

Imagine a courtroom old enough to have heard cases before Malaysia was even called Malaysia. The Johor Bahru High Court traces its roots back to 1883, when the Supreme Court was first established under Judge Haji Muhammad Salleh, guided by Government Mufti Syed Salim al-Attas as legal advisor. The building on Jalan Dato' Onn that stands today came later, designed by the firm Stark and Neil and completed in 1928. Nearly a century on, its columns and archways still carry the quiet authority of a place built to deliver justice.

Why It Matters

Step inside, and this is a courtroom that is still very much in session.

The Johor Bahru High Court continues to hear cases across original criminal jurisdiction, original civil jurisdiction, and appellate jurisdiction, doing the same work today that it was built for generations ago.

Few heritage buildings continue to serve their original purpose every day, making the Johor Bahru High Court a rare living piece of history.

Travel Tips

• Admire the building's exterior architecture from public areas. 

• As it is an operational government building, follow all security guidelines. 

• Photography of the exterior is generally permitted, but avoid restricted areas. 

• Pair your visit with nearby heritage landmarks such as Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim and the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple for a heritage walking tour.

💡 Did You Know?

• The courthouse remains an active judicial institution while preserving its colonial-era architecture. 

• It forms part of Johor Bahru's historic civic district alongside several government heritage buildings.