Istana Besar

The Istana Besar is the Grand Palace of the Johor Sultanate. The palace was built in 1866 by Sultan Abu Bakar. The palace overlooks the Straits of Johor.

The Grand Palace’s most distinctive feature is its Anglo-Malay architecture, characterised by its dome of Malay design contrasted with its blue roof of Anglo influence. It is currently used only for investitures, state banquets and royal functions.

The most interesting part of the palace is The Royal Abu Bakar Museum located within the palace which was renovated to become a museum in 1982 and officially opened in 1990.  It is a living museum which houses a good collection of royal heirloom, impressive rare artifacts and a good record of the history of the state’s royal family.