All it takes is a short drive across the causeway for the best deals in hypermarts, shopping malls, and outlet stores in JB.
Let’s face it: Singapore is great for its many kid-friendly restaurants, tourist attractions, fab local beaches and activities for children, but the shopping can also be horridly expensive. Good news, though – cheap grocery shopping, high-street bargains and designer label steals are only a causeway away. Read on for a round-up of the best of bargain shopping in Johor Bahru, from factory outlet stores and bazaars to shopping malls and hypermarts.
P.S. For a quick and effortless weekend getaway idea, check out our guide to Johor Bahru with kids.
For affordable grocery shopping
1. Maslee
This Malaysian chain is touted as the most preferred neighbourhood supermarket in the country, and it’s not hard to see why. You’re guaranteed a pleasant shopping experience, and there are many outlets in Johor Bahru. Of course, let’s not forget that everything you get here is a fraction of the cost in Singapore. Save your wallet and just get your essentials at Maslee.
Maslee, multiple outlets in Johor
2. HeroMarket
Looking to get fresh foods and produce at affordable prices? You can’t go wrong with HeroMarket. Enjoy special weekend and monthly deals when you shop at this supermarket.
HeroMarket, several branches in Johor
3. Giant
While this grocery chain can be found in Singers, its Malaysian counterpart is a whole lot cheaper. Prices are kept low here thanks to its homegrown roots and loyal clientele of bargain-hunting shoppers. Come here for the best fresh Malaysian produce, local products and loads of variety.
Giant Hypermart, various locations in Johor
For inexpensive high-street brands and chain stores
4. Mid Valley Southkey
Shopping in Johor Bahru is incomplete without a trip to the mall, and this is one place that you should never miss. This sprawling complex has everything that you need, from supermarkets and food places to clothing stores and craft shops. Be sure to check out Japanese departmental store Sogo, which used to be in Singapore. Psst – ladies, you can get your nails done here for cheap too!
Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
5. Paradigm Mall
Here’s another megamall in JB that you ought to visit. Besides getting your essentials such as clothes, beauty, and groceries here, Paradigm Mall is where you can get loads of entertainment. Catch the latest movies at a cheaper rate (compared to Singapore!), go ice skating, and even hone your archery skills. There are plenty of kid-friendly spaces for the littles, too – Utopia Jungle World is an awesome indoor playground where they can let loose while you shop.
Paradigm Mall, Skudai Lbh, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
6. AEON Terbrau City
It doesn’t matter that Singapore is bursting with shopping malls from every corner – the thought of scoring crazy deals on our favourite brands excites us senseless. Labels to look out for here include the usual suspects like Levi’s and Guess but at a discounted price thanks to the fab exchange rate.
Aeon Tebrau City Shopping Centre, 1, Jalan Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
7. City Square
City Square (pictured up top) is a hit thanks to its close proximity to the causeway link at Woodlands. If you don’t have a lot of time, make this mall the one place that you need to drop by for shopping in Johor Bahru. Dining here is cheap – go nuts and tuck into family-friendly meals at Aston’s and Din Tai Fung for half price.
Johor Bahru City Square, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
8. Komtar
This shopping centre next to City Square Mall reminds us of Ion Orchard. It houses skincare giant Kiehl’s, Bath & Body Works, Brit department store Marks & Spencer, and loads of renowned fashion brands. What do we love? The Famous Amos Café. We desperately need a sit-down area to stuff our faces with crunchy cookies and those oh-so-moist brownies.
Komtar JBCC, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
For night bazaars with street food and dirt cheap buys
9. Pasar Karat
We recommend this if you’re the more adventurous type. Pasar Karat is your ubiquitous night market but with better stalls and hidden gems – it’s got the crowds, the street food, and serious cheap shopping. For quirky dressers, check out the vintage stores here – we love treasure hunting for Japanese brands from the ’70s. We’ve seen a couple of (way) past season designer bags at a huge discount. Warning: know your workmanship, as the authenticity might be questionable.
Pasar Karat, Jalan Segget, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
10. Tebing Bandar Dato’ Onn
If you’re looking for yummy food and inexpensive shopping, the one place you should hit up is Tebing. Regarded as the longest food hub and recreational centre in Bandar Dato’ Onn, here’s where you can find food trucks, clothes and shoes at a bargain, and live performances. That’s not all – there’s something for the little ones over here too! They can while the time away going for ATV rides, scooting, and even fishing.
Tebing Bandar Dato’ Onn, Jln Dato’ Onn Utama, Nasa City, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
11. Pandan City Mall
This indoor market/bazaar is where you’d find the famed ice cream rolls and second-hand vintage goods. Best to come with an empty and adventurous stomach; there are myriad food options to choose from, be it Indian, traditional Malay or Western.
Pandan City Mall, Suite 01, Level 1, Kangkar Tebrau, Johor, 81100 Johor Bharu, Malaysia
For name brands at a steal
12. Johor Premium Outlets
Get a huge discount on your coveted (albeit past season) It bag or shoes of your dreams with any of the designer or name brands available at the Johor Premium Outlets. Labels available include Marc Jacobs, Burberry, Bally and Ferragamo, while high-street shoppers can scope out drop-dead deals over at Gap, Victoria’s Secret or Cotton On.
Johor Premium Outlets, Jalan Premium Outlets, Indahpura, 81000 Kulaijaya, Johor Darul Takzim
13. F.O.S
This chain store available in plenty of malls across Malaysia carries well-known American labels like Abercrombie & Fitch, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger. The brand also has a range of F.O.S kids stores, so your kids can be decked out in the coolest threads by brands like Baby Gap at a tiny fraction of the usual price.
F.O.S, various locations in Johor Bahru
Enjoy your shopping trip in Johor Bahru!