Khaizuran RashidHas your JB routine become a bit of a snooze fest? If you’re a Singaporean seeking a dash of the unusual, you’ll find it at Kotajail, a 142-year-old former prison that’s been reimagined as a creative hub in Johor Bahru. Ready to swap your typical weekend in City Square or KSL for something way more daring? Let’s go!
Also read: Banghistory Johor Bahru: The Best Group Activity for Singaporeans Seeking Unique Experiences
A Former Prison with a Haunting Past
Believe it or not, Kotajail was once part of Johor’s colonial history. Originally built by the British in 1883 as the Ayer Molek Prison. Over the decades, it morphed from a modest detention centre for 200 people into a tightly packed fortress holding up to 1,500 inmates. During the Japanese occupation, the site took an even darker turn as it became a bunker used by the Imperial Army. Rumour has it there’s a well on the premises that once served as an execution site, so if you feel a chill, now you’ll know why!
Thanks to severe overcrowding, the prison finally shut down in 2005. Authorities later moved inmates to Kluang’s Simpang Renggam facility. Since then, the property hasn’t sat idle. Past uses include group tours featuring videos and caning demos, police lock-ups, and even paintball sessions for adrenaline junkies.
Discover JB’s New Creative Playground
These days, Kotajail is stepping away from its grim origins and evolving into an independent cultural haven. Think of it as Johor Bahru’s edgier version of a trendy arts complex (like our own New Bahru, for instance), complete with reworked prison cells that host pop-up bazaars, gigs, and creative workshops.
One of its shining stars is the Galeri Penjara Ayer Molek, an art space where you’ll see contemporary works that seamlessly blend with the building’s storied past. Stroll through narrow corridors lined with barbed wire (still very much in place for that authentic “ex-prison” vibe) and marvel at installations highlighting the property’s heritage while giving it a fresh lease on life.
Pop-Up Bazaars & Festive Events
If you’re timing your trip around Singapore’s public holidays or long weekends, keep an eye out for pop-up celebrations at Kotajail. In Mar 2025, they hosted the Lock Up Raya 2025 event, complete with retail booths, food stalls, creative workshops, live music, and even a communal break-fast gathering for those observing Ramadan. You’ll spot local lifestyle brands like Anything JB, Missy Dissy, and Hemitokids, plus F&B stalls dishing out treats like Kopi Saigon Bukit Indah’s famed Kopi Butterscotch.
When hunger hits, you can also head to Nenek in Lock Up (lol) for Rich Creamy Mee Rebus or a steaming plate of Rendang Beef. Looking for something to sip while soaking up the nightlife buzz? Try the classic Kopi Saigon, then stick around for entertaining performances by local musicians: You might even witness a surprise cameo or two on stage.
Getting to Kotajail from Singapore
Not keen on driving? Don’t worry: this spot sits smack in the heart of Johor Bahru, just a short 10-minute drive from the JB Checkpoint: Perfect for restless Singaporeans eager to dive straight into exploring! If you’re taking a public bus from Singapore to JB Sentral, hop on local routes T14, F100, or T11. The whole journey from the checkpoint to Kotajail can take roughly 48 minutes, but if you prefer a speedier ride, a Grabcar is your best bet.
Explore Kotajail on Your Next JB Adventure
So, are you ready to upgrade your usual JB day trip? Add Kotajail to your itinerary the next time you dash across the Causeway from Singapore. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just a curious traveller craving a unique experience, this repurposed prison ticks every box. Check out their socials for the latest news on events, workshops, and special exhibits. One thing’s for sure: You won’t mistake this for any old shopping centre!
Also read: 4 Escape Rooms in Johor Bahru (JB) for Singaporeans to Try
Whether you’re armed with shopping bags or a camera, Kotajail promises an intriguing fusion of art, heritage, and mystery, right in Johor Bahru’s bustling core. Go on, give it a whirl: After all, isn’t discovering something out of the ordinary exactly why we love hopping over from Singapore in the first place?
All images are credited to Kotajail’s official Instagram page.
