Johor Bahru (JB), the bustling southern city of Malaysia, is a shopping paradise for locals and tourists alike. With a wide array of shopping malls in Johor Bahru, the city offers everything from luxury brands to budget-friendly finds, entertainment hubs, and unique dining experiences. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a foodie, or simply looking for a place to unwind, the malls in JB cater to every need. In this article, we’ll explore the top Johor Bahru shopping malls, highlighting their unique features, amenities, specialties, standout businesses, and driving times from Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints.
City Square Johor Bahru
Located in the heart of the city, City Square Johor Bahru is one of the most popular shopping malls in JB. This mall is a favorite among Singaporeans due to its proximity to the Woodlands Causeway. It boasts a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and a variety of dining options. Among its standout features are its serene rooftop garden and a cinema for entertainment seekers. A major highlight is its direct connection to JB Sentral (the first stop after crossing Malaysian customs), making it incredibly convenient and easily accessible for travelers, especially those crossing over from Singapore.
Fashion enthusiasts will love the Padini Concept Store, a go-to destination for trendy and affordable clothing that spans men’s, women’s, and children’s collections. For those who crave international style, H&M delivers with its chic highstreet fashion. And when hunger strikes, Hock Kee Kopi Tiam offers a nostalgic taste of local flavors, serving up classic Malaysian kopitiam dishes that are both comforting and delicious.
What we like: The last stretch of quick service food kiosks with brands Singaporeans are familiar with plus ones that are unique to Malaysia such as The Founders, Nonya Sister, Street Churros etc. that lined the way on level 3 (outside Uniqlo). You can easily pick up snacks on your way back to the train station/Malaysian customs. Efficient and cost-effective with the current exchange rate!
Address: 106-108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 10-15 minutes (4 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 30 minutes (38 km)
The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey
A luxurious and exciting shopping experience awaits for you at The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey. Since its opening, this sprawling mall has quickly risen to fame, offering a premium retail haven filled with high-end and mid-range brands that cater to every taste. Families will love Kiddytopia and Village Grocer with its array of groceries and imported produce. For those who are looking to decorate their homes, Muji, Nitori, MR. DIY PLUS and Hooga are here to transform your spaces. FUIYOH! it’s UNCLE ROGER will be opening its JB outpost soon. And if you cannot wait, there are still plenty of other choices from Meng Meng Roast Duck, the ever-popular Oriental Kopi to TGIFridays and more. For the beauty hunters, look no further than Jo Malone London, Kiehl’s, L’Occitane all located conveniently on the ground floor. The Mall is seamlessly connected to two hotels (OPERO Hotel and St. Giles) making it the perfect destination for a staycation—everything you need is literally under one roof. Some may even say, it’s the best shopping mall in Johor Bahru.
What we like: The wide spaces and high ceilings within the mall that don’t make us feel like sardines in a tin. No need to jostle with the crowd as there’s plenty of room even during peak hours.
Address: Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 17 minutes (8 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 35 minutes (42 km)
KSL City Mall
If you’re a savvy shopper with a knack for sniffing out great deals, the KSL shopping mall in Johor Bahru is going to be a winner for you. This vibrant mall has cemented its reputation as a favorite among budget-conscious visitors, offering a treasure trove of affordable prices and a diverse mix of retail options. Whether you’re hunting for trendy fashion, stylish accessories, or everyday household essentials, KSL City Mall is a one-stop hub that ticks all the boxes.
But it’s not just about retail therapy—this mall is packed with special amenities to enhance your visit. Need to fix your phone? You’ll find a multitude of mobile repair and accessory shops where you can compare prices and save a few bucks if your device ever takes a tumble. Stock up on groceries at Lotus’s, indulge in some well-deserved pampering at one of the many massage spots, or make a splash at the KSL Resort Johor Bahru City Centre, home to an exciting water park that’s perfect for family fun.
And if you happen to visit during durian season, you’re in for a treat! Just outside the mall’s back entrance, fruit vendors set up shop, offering the king of fruits at its peak freshness. Whether you want to feast on the spot or bring some back across the Causeway, they’ve got you covered—even vacuum-packing the thorny delicacy for convenience.
What we like: The amazing night market on Mondays. From 5pm, the stretch of road in front of the mall’s main entrance transforms into a bustling bazaar. Here, you’ll find everything from household bargains and local delicacies to street food favorites, even stinky tofu!
Address: 33, Jalan Seladang, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 15-20 minutes (8 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 30-35 minutes (22 km)
Bukit Indah Aeon
Nestled in the Bukit Indah residential area is family-friendly suburban mall Aeon Mall Bukit Indah. Popular for its spacious layout and extensive range of retail and dining options, this mall is a clear choice if you are looking to shop, dine, and unwind under one roof.
Aeon Mall Bukit Indah has a straightforward design layout with Aeon departmental store and supermarket situated on one end of the mall. It is complemented with thoughtful amenities (wheelchairs, kiddie car and baby strollers are available) and designed with families in mind. Kids can burn off energy at the children’s playground, movie buffs can catch the latest blockbuster at the cinema, and a number of mobile phone shops (Samsung, Huawei, Oppo) are available too. With its location near to Legoland, it is a pit stop for some shopping if you are ever in the area.
What we like: Aeon Supermarket. This massive, well-organised space is always impeccably clean and stocked with fresh produce, making grocery shopping a breeze. You’ll also find the Aeon Wellness Shop, perfect for health and beauty essentials, as well as a couple of bakeries offering freshly baked treats. And when hunger strikes, the spacious food court next door serves up a variety of delicious options.
Address: 8, Jalan Indah 15/2, Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 25-30 minutes (20 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 20-25 minutes (26 km)
The COMMUNE Lifestyle Mall
The COMMUNE Lifestyle Mall is a relatively new shopping mall in Johor Bahru, situated a bit further up north of JB, within the Kulai vicinity. (Pro tip: Pair your visit with Johor Premium Outlets—they’re just a 5-minute drive apart, making it easy to hit both spots in one day!) This mall is a breath of fresh air wih its minimalistic style and spacious indoor parking spaces complete with EV charging too. But what really sets The COMMUNE apart are its 10 indoor badminton courts and two premium basketball courts—yes, they’re free for visitors! Just remember to call ahead (+60 018-364 9551) to reserve your slot.
After working up a sweat, refuel with a hearty hotpot dinner at Guoma Seafood Express, a Muslim-friendly spot where you can choose from eight flavourful soup broths. And don’t forget to save room for dessert—Dekori Premium Cafe serves up Instagram-worthy Japanese shaved ice that’s the perfect sweet ending to your day.
Getting here is a breeze too. Hop on the yellow Causeway Link bus JPO1 from JB Sentral, and you’ll be at The COMMUNE in no time.
What we like: Three words—Chagee drive-thru. Convenience level: unlocked! Now you can get your boba fix without even stepping out of your car. Perfect for those days when you’re in a hurry or just feeling extra lazy. And if you’re not driving? No worries—this Chagee outlet has plenty of cozy seats where you can kick back, sip your drink, and recharge after a long day of shopping.
Address: No. 291, Jalan Kiambang 10, Pusat Komersial Indah, Indahpura 81000.
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 50 – 60 minutes (50 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 40 – 45 minutes (41 km)
Johor Premium Outlets
Johor Premium Outlets is a haven for bargain hunters, featuring over 150 stores offering high-end fashion, accessories, and lifestyle products at unbeatable discounts. What sets this mall apart is its charming open-air, colonial-style architecture, which is reminiscent of a chic European village with beautifully designed walkways. Bottega Veneta is a must-visit for its iconic luxury handbags and accessories, while the Nike Unite Johor store offers a wide range of athletic wear and footwear at discounted prices. For those who love timeless elegance, Tory Burch delivers with its sophisticated designs and high-quality pieces.
What we like: The direct buses from Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints. Causeway Link (yellow buses) now brings you directly to Johor Premium Outlets. Look out for the yellow signs after you have cleared Singapore immigration, directing you to the JP02 (Woodlands) and JP03 (Tuas) buses. At Malaysian customs, you will need to alight the buses, clear Malaysian immigration and reboard after. JPO2 and JPO3 run on a fixed schedule and each one-way journey takes 45mins long. Fares are between RM4.50 to RM6.
Address: Jalan Premium Outlets, Indahpura, 81000 Kulai, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 35-40 minutes (35 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 25-30 minutes (36 km)
Toppen Shopping Centre
At Toppen Shopping Centre, the parents may be the customers but the kids are the real users! The mall’s management nailed it by creating plenty of free play areas, including a splash park, to keep the little ones happily occupied. While the kids are busy playing, parents can shop with ease at IKEA Tebrau or Aeon Tebrau City, both conveniently connected to Toppen.
To top it off (literally), the Rooftop Active Zone offers many free sporting activities. Just pay a small fee for equipment rental, and you’re all set to rock climb, skate, or even play basketball and badminton at the multi-purpose court.
What we like: TGV Cinemas. This isn’t your typical cinema experience. With five unique theatre halls, there’s something for everyone. If you are ever worried about other cinema-goers giving you the side eye if you are catching a show with rowdy young ‘uns, then the Family-friendly Hall is for you. It features lounger seats for four and even a playroom linked to the hall for when the kids need a break. Other halls include halls with sophisticated sound tech and premium experience.
Address: 33, Jalan Harmonium, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 30 minutes (16 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 35-40 minutes (43 km)
Eco Galleria
Eco Galleria is a visual treat with its European-inspired architecture and striking black-and-white design. Every corner feels like it’s straight out of a Pinterest board. It’s also a haven for unique, thoughtfully curated shops. The mix of independent businesses and local chain stores gives it a distinct charm. For example, Grandma Ong is a cozy little spot that feels like stepping into your grandma’s kitchen, serving up nostalgic Nyonya-inspired treats and traditional kueh. Then there’s Neo, a boutique that blends modern fashion with timeless elegance, perfect for those who love understated style. Cafes in JB are top notched as well and one of the more popular ones, Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe has also set up a branch here. It is a must visit if you’re a fan of artisanal baked goods. The cafe offers everything from flaky pastries to hearty sandwiches in a warm, inviting setting.
What we like: LOST in JB escape room. It’s a full-blown, heart-pounding adventure that pulls you into its world. With live characters, scare actors, and intricately designed sets, it’s an immersive experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Address: Jalan Eko Botani 3, Taman Eko Botani, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 25-30 minutes (25 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 17 minutes (17 km)
Sunway Big Box Retail Park
Sunway Big Box Retail Park lives up to its name—big spaces, big experiences, and big fun. Spread across 24 acres, this integrated retail destination even includes the Sunway Hotel Big Box, making it a one-stop spot for shopping and stays.
While the shopping variety may be limited, what it lacks in diversity, it makes up for in size and specialty. Dive into a world of books at BooksXcess, stock up on groceries and household essentials at NSK Trade City, or spruce up your home with furniture and decor from SSF Home. And for thrill-seekers, EnerG X Park is a must-visit, offering adrenaline-pumping activities like parkour trails, trampolines, and zip lines.
What we like: VEP collection centre. Now you can collect your VEP tag on a shopping day out. The collection centre is located in Sunway’s lower ground floor, west wing. Be sure to make your collection appointment in advance via the JPJ’s official website and bring your collection slip to the centre.
Address: Jalan Sunway, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 30-35 minutes (28 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 15 minutes (14 km)
Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru
Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru in the Skudai area extends more than just retail therapy, it is a one-stop hub for shopping, dining, and a whole lot of fun.
For the adventurous souls, there’s Escape Challenge Park, where exciting rides and games are set in a sleek, contemporary space. If you’re into climbing, head over to Camp5 for some rock-climbing action, or glide across the ice at the Blue Ice Skating Rink. Families with little ones will love the multiple indoor playgrounds scattered around the mall—perfect for keeping toddlers entertained while you shop. Prefer something more low-key? Catch the latest blockbuster at Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) or belt out your favorite tunes at Singcube Karaoke.
When hunger strikes, Paradigm Mall has you covered. The food court is a treasure trove of local and international flavors, while popular eateries like Manzanita Patisserie & Boulangerie, MyeongDong Topokki, and Papparoti offer everything from artisanal pastries to Korean street food and fluffy coffee buns.
Shopping-wise, the mall doesn’t disappoint. Parkson is a go-to for fashion, beauty, and household products, while KKV—China’s biggest lifestyle retail chain—is a must-visit for cute snacks, quirky merchandise, and everyday essentials.
What we like: Chucky Cat Cafe. Okay, we’ll admit it—we’re totally biased when it comes to this place, but how can you not be? Chucky Cat Cafe is a paradise for cat lovers, and it’s worth every mention. Most of the resident cats here are majestic Maine Coons, so prepare yourself for an overload of fluff, adorable ear tufts, and big, soulful eyes. And if that’s not enough to win you over, some of the more “princessy” kitties strut around wearing chunky gold chains like tiny feline gangsters—it’s both hilarious and adorable.
Address: Jalan Skudai, 81300 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
- From Woodlands Checkpoint: Approximately 25-30 minutes (16 km)
- From Tuas Checkpoint: Approximately 25-30 minutes (30 km)
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