8 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Batu Pahat, Johor

Often overlooked in favour of Johor’s bigger cities, Batu Pahat rewards travellers who take the time to explore beyond the usual routes.

This laid-back town combines local history, seaside scenery, green spaces and neighbourhood attractions, making it an easy destination for a short road trip or weekend escape. Visitors can trace the story behind Batu Pahat’s unusual name, catch the sunset at Pantai Minyak Beku, browse its shopping malls or spend a quiet morning surrounded by nature.

Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Batu Pahat.

1. Batu Pahat Mall

Image credit: Chongkian

Located along Jalan Kluang, Batu Pahat Mall is one of the town’s main shopping and entertainment hubs. You can see this huge shopping mall even from far. With over 260 retail stores, there are plenty to shop, from affordable goods to premium branded items.

Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday (9am to 10pm), Thursday to Saturday (10am to 10.45pm)

2. Chong Long Gong Temple and Segenting Fishing Village

Travel towards the coast to explore Segenting, a small fishing village known for its seaside views and traditional atmosphere.

One of the village’s best-known landmarks is Chong Long Gong Temple, a Chinese temple overlooking the water. Visitors often come to pray, admire its colourful religious details and enjoy the peaceful coastal setting.

The temple is also known for the large arapaima fish kept within its grounds. Local belief associates touching the fish with good fortune, although visitors should follow the temple’s current rules and instructions.

After visiting the temple, take some time to explore the surrounding fishing village, enjoy the sea breeze and photograph the shoreline.

3. Pantai Minyak Beku (Frozen Oil Beach) and Perigi Batu Pahat (Batu Pahat Well)

Image credit: Chongkian

At a glance, Pantai Minyak Beku looks just like any other beach. Its strange name actually comes from its history. The area is closely linked to the origin of Batu Pahat’s name. According to local history, Siamese soldiers chiselled a well into the rock here while travelling towards Melaka in the 15th century. The Malay words batu and pahat, meaning rock and chisel, eventually became associated with the surrounding settlement.

The historic Perigi Batu Pahat, or Batu Pahat Well, remains at Kampung Minyak Beku and is believed to be more than five centuries old. Look for the historical plaque that is placed by the Tourism Ministry for more information about the origin of the well and its link to the town’s name. Picnicking, fishing and enjoying the sunset or sunrise are some of the activities you can enjoy at Pantai Minyak Beku.

4. Soga Perdana Amenity Forest

Image credit: Chongkian

When was the last time you went for jungle trekking or a trip to a forest reserve? If it has been a while, then you need to explore Soga Perdana Amenity Forest, just five kilometres from Batu Pahat town. As you trek through the forest, you will encounter wildlife like monkeys and birds. On top of that, you can get a bird’s eye view of Batu Pahat and its surrounding area from the lookout tower. But take note that this activity is suitable only for those with a moderate level of fitness.

5. Square One Shopping Mall

Image credit: Chongkian

If you are fond of shopping and have already checked out Batu Pahat Mall, drop by Square One Shopping Mall which is located in Taman Flora Utama, the bustling commercial centre of Batu Pahat. While it is much smaller compared to Batu Pahat Mall, it is still a good place to shop for clothing, snacks and souvenirs. You can also find Parkson supermarket, restaurant, cafes, and a movie theatre here. For visitors who prefer a mall that’s not too crowded, this is a good spot!

6. Taman Rekreasi Tasik Y

Image credit: Gula Kapas

Another tourist attraction you should visit is the town’s Taman Rekreasi Tasik Y. Rest your mind and body at this recreational lakeside park. You will see many locals spending their day here, be it jogging, picnicking, cycling or just enjoying the cool air and magnificent lake. In the park, you will come across playgrounds, jogging tracks and a stone reflexology path. Near the Taman Rekreasi Tasik Y, you’ll also find food stalls selling Roti Canai and Rojak as well as desserts like Cendol and Ais Kacang.

7. Penggaram Square Batu Pahat

Image credit: Chongkian

No visit to Batu Pahat is complete without posing for a photo at its main landmark. Penggaram Square (also known as Dataran Penggaram) features a monument with a fountain depicting the famous chiselled rock that gave Batu Pahat its name. It is considered the main symbol of the town and is also a favourite spot for locals who like to come here for jogging and flying kites, especially in the morning and evening. Penggaram Square is also the main venue for various celebration like Chinese New Year, National Day and Hari Raya.

8. Galeri Dato Onn

Image credit: Galeri Dato Onn Batu Pahat

A respectable figure during his time, Dato Onn Jaafar is remembered by locals for his contribution to the nation’s independence, as well as his role in the formation of United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) and Rural Industrial Development Authority (RIDA). Johoreans highly regard Onn Jaafar as a local hero and a nationalist. He was also a former Menteri Besar of Johor. Pay your tribute to Onn Jaafar by stepping back in time and learning about his life at Galeri Dato Onn. You’ll see various exhibits, such as his personal items, photographs, and artefacts while touring the gallery.

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday and Saturday to Sunday (9am to 4.30pm), Closed on Friday

Be it the shopping malls, beaches, or forests, Batu Pahat is a city that offers tons of attractions for everyone. So do make a visit the next time an opportunity presents itself!