Mersing

Beach near Mersing - Beach near Mersing

Mersing town is located on the east coast of the peninsular Malaysian state of Johor. It is 136 Kilometres north east of the state capital Johor Bahru. It is a gateway to nature and traditional culture. But for most outsiders the small semi-tourist town is hardly more than a few-hours rest en route to Tioman Island. Mersing town is thus best known for its passenger boat jetty where boats depart daily for numerous offshore islands.

Mersing Halal Explorer

Despite its estimated population of 21,000, Mersing town should not be viewed as a mere stopover, a transient path to an offshore isle. The town possesses a quiet charm that in many ways represents a fast disappearing small-town culture that once pervaded all of Malaysia. It has yet to see any typical signs of major economic and urban development.

Two primary streets run through the town. There only two junctions with traffic lights and only two traffic roundabouts. The two primary streets are lined with traditional and modern shop houses that provide a range of modern services. There are traditional fruit sellers, grocers and modern supermarkets, plus a range of local restaurants and fast food outlets, several open 24-hours.

Mersing is a throwback to the small town look and temperament that existed in Malaysia some 20 or 30 years ago. There is little if at all in the way of chic clubs, cafes or shopping malls. The town's appeal lies rather in its out-of-doors, its slow-paced life and natural surroundings such as jungle reserves and unspoiled beaches, rocky coasts and offshore kelongs for pleasure angling. Air Papan and Penyabung beaches are about 15 and 30 minutes drive north of the town respectively. There you can glimpse the remaining vestiges of traditional seaside (Malay) village life. A must do is to circumambulate the centrally orientated hill that shoots up right behind the Hindu temple, very near to the roundabout, a short walk from the bridge.

Travel to Mersing

Travel on a Bus in Mersing

Several bus companies operate direct services to Mersing, e.g. Transnasional from Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Singapore, while others that use the east coast highway (e.g. Johor Bahru to/from Kota Bahru) also call at Mersing.

From Melaka, take the S&S International from Central Bus Station (it's the only direct bus). Departure times are 8AM, 12.45 and 6:15PM. It takes about 4½ hours to arrive at the Mersing Bus Terminal (15 min walk to the island boats).

From Singapore and the cheapest way to Mersing is to first take a bus from Queen Street Bus Terminal) to Larkin terminal in Johor Bahru. It takes about an hour off-peak. But it's important to note that direct onward buses from Larkin to Mersing are limited so get there in time to catch an early bus like 8:30AM, 9AM, 10AM, 11:30AM or 2:30PM (the latter being often too late to take the last ferry to Tioman). Buses heading to Kuantan will drop you off in Mersing. There is a direct Transnasional bus from Lavender Street Terminal. It could prove easier but it's three-times the cost. The first bus departs at 9AM and reaches Mersing by 1PM. You will likely need to book a day or more in advance.

When leaving Mersing, if you don't pre-book and the bus may be full. For travel to Johor Bahru (11:30AM) and Singapore (1PM), an alternative is to take the local bus to Kota Tinggi (less than 2 hrs) and then another local bus to Johor Bahru's Larkin terminal (less than 1 hour), and then onward to Singapore (buses going all the time).

Transnasional Express

• Kuantan, Terengganu, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Singapore

S&S International Express

• Johor Bahru(RM11.70), Kluang, Muar, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur
• Tel：07-7992246（Mersing），07-2226246（JB），07-7728246（Kluang），06-2882246（Melaka）

Causeway Link Express

• Johor Bahru （RM11.70）
• Frequencies：8AM, 1130am, 7PM
• Tel：07-2242244（JB）

Utama Ekspres

• Kuantan, Terengganu, Kota Bharu、Pengkalan Kubor (Nightly 830pm)

Cepat Ekspres

• Segamat, Kuantan, Terengganu, Kelantan, Teluk Intan, Lumut

Maju Ekspres

Sepakat Liner Ekspres

Sutera Liner Ekspres

Johora Ekspres

Tenaga Layar Ekspres

Five Stars Express

Mersing Omnibus(local bus)

• Kluang Route:100
• Endau Route:105
• Kota Tinggi Route：103
• Felda Nitar
• Kem Iskandar

By car

Rental cars are available in the major Malaysian cities and town. There is as yet no reputable brand name vehicle rental company in Mersing. Visitors are advised to make vehicle rental arrangements elsewhere, but there are a few local rental agencies operating from the Mersing Bus Terminal including Green Matrix Car Rental Mersing Franchise and Mersing Car Rental.

From Johor Bahru

• Johor Bahru(Federal route 3) - Ulu Tiram - Kota Tinggi - Jemaluang - Mersing

From Kuala Lumpur/Melaka

• North South Highway - Ayer Hitam Toll - Kluang (Federal route 50) - Kahang - Felda Nitar - Mersing

From Kuantan

• Federal Route 3 - Pekan - Rompin - Endau - Mersing

Best way to travel in Mersing by a Taxi

Taxi transport to and out of Mersing is available from Johor Bahru (2:15) and other Malaysian towns, figure on around RM180 per vehicle at peak hours (Fri/Sun evenings) and as little as RM130 at other times. Taxis (official and unofficial) can be found waiting around the Tioman ferry pier.

There are also Taxis in Mersing to travel within the town and the surrounding areas.

How to travel around Mersing on a bicycle ?

Many cyclists ride to Mersing in the summer months to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the Mersing countryside.

How to get around in Mersing

Mersing town can be navigated easily by foot during the summer period. It is however advisable to travel by motor vehicle as there are many beaches to explore outside of Mersing town.

Mersing Harbour Centre

Officially opened by the Sultan of Johor on September 10 2017, Mersing Harbour Centre has assumed a central role with regards to transport in and out of Mersing, both by road and by sea. But apart from bus and ferry counters and the complex also offers a F&B section, a number of retail outlets, as well as a range of useful amenities, including a tourism information desk. In addition, taxis, hotels and trips to nearby Endau can also be booked at Mersing Harbour Centre.

What to see in Mersing

Sungai Mersing 2 - Mersing River

Mersing River and the traditional Malaysian fishing boats can be viewed from the bus terminal complex down river.

A Hindu temple is located at the base of the hill near to the central roundabout.

Mersing Mosque is located on a hill top 15 mins walk from the center of town. It has excellent views of the town.

Mersing esplanade and marine park is located walking distance from then town and nearing from Mersing Jetty.

The Beaches in the Penyabung area and at Air Papan. These beaches are all relatively isolated and visitors are advised to exercise care and caution.

• Mersing Town Forest Park - Taman Hutan Bandar Mersing
• Sultan Iskandar Sea Park - Taman Laut Sultan Iskandar

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Mersing

Mersing Town Forest Park - Mersing Town Forest Park

Take a walk through the town and savour traditional (Malay) "kueh" or confectioneries during the traditional teatime.

Have a picnic on a nearby beach.

Buy fishes and other seafood from Mersing morning market next to the Bus terminal.

Internet: an increasing number of shops, restaurants and hotels offer free wifi to clients, otherwise the standard charge in Mersing is reportedly RM 2 per hour.

You can visit Mersing year round. But it can be wet and windy in December and January. Beaches are best optionween March to October.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Mersing

If you are on a budget, it is best to buy everything you may need before you visit Tioman island or the other islands off Mersing as mainland prices are cheaper.

There is a very small "Giant" Supermarket in Mersing which is well stocked, along with others of a similar stripe. You will also a much larger "Kini" Supermarket only 2 mins walk from the Mersing Bus Terminal.

• Giant Supermarket Mersing | Supermarket with selected Halal food.

Halal Restaurants in Mersing

Seri Panchor Food Court - Seri Panchor Food Court

• Warung Ikan Bakar | Barbequed fish.

• Mersing Seafood | Chinese Seafood Recommended is Chinese Fried Rice, Squid stuffed with Chinese Century Egg, Spinach Soup, Butter prawns, (Malay) Hot "Kang Kong" vegetable dish.

• Vegetarian food Stall | Small cost-friendly stall, clean and tidy river view. Lacto-Oval-Vegetarian. Fried noodles, eggs, Rice and various vegetable, Curries and tofu dishes. Take away no problem. Open from early morning till about 10 am. Simple and friendly. English spoken. The only Vegetarian place in Mersing.

• Viet Taste Restaurant - Vietnamese Coffee, spring roll, vegetable fried Rice & noodles, soup and more. Not expensive. Cheerful owner from Vietnam. Vegetarian-friendly.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Mersing

Mersing - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Mersing, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Mersing. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Mersing and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Mersing. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Mersing. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inMersing: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Mersing.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Mersing: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Mersing, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Mersing.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Mersing, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Mersing, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Mersing and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Mersing, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Mersing, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Mersing without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Mersing is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Mersing.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Mersing is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Mersing, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Mersing Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are numerous hotels and motels in Mersing town.

Early reservation is recommended especially when your visit coincides with Singapore and Malaysia holidays.

Seri Malaysia Mersing Hotel - Seri Malaysia Mersing Hotel

These hotels are suitable for business and family vacation travelers.

• Fishing Bay Resort - A secluded resort that offers peace, quiet, and serviced activities. Rates on their website start at US$28.

• Aseania Resort Pulau Besar - Beachfront resort offering 49 fully-furnished villas with amenities such as air-conditioning and a hot/cold shower.

• Kali's Prada Villa - Lovely Balinese style place in the middle of the Rice fields before Air Papan - the beach is 10 minutes walk away, but the peaceful surroundings more than compensate for that! Pick-up service from Mersing! Rates for a double story room w/aircon around US$28.

• R Villa Resort & Hotel - Affordable and clean accommodation with swimming swimmingpool and other facilities from as little as Malaysian Ringgit (RM) 115++ per day.

• Timotel Hotel - Situated on Jalan Endau road, near the Mersing river and just after the central town roundabout. Beside Caltex Petrol Station.

• Mersing Inn - Affordable and clean accommodation.

• Seri Malaysia Mersing

• SukaLayar Sailing Centre, Inn & Cafe - Located in Tanjung Resang (Near Mersing) Johor, is an ideal holiday destination for families; those looking for a quiet retreat by the sea and companies looking for a motivational camp site. Aside from relaxing and enjoying the calming sea breeze, guests can also try out the various sea sports activities available at the Inn such as Sailing, tubing, wakeboarding, banana boat riding, bodyboarding, skimboarding, fishing or island hopping.

• Mersing Merlin Inn

Travel Next

Besar Island - Besar Island

• Tioman - everybody's real destination
• Besar Island - closer to the mainland than Tioman, very quiet, no night life. Swimming, snorkeling, beach and jungle walks.... Don't forget a good insect repellent as there may be sandflies around! A few budget and mid range hotels. Book in Mersing at one of the travel agents in town or at the jetty - no regular ferry service! During the monsoon season (November to February/March) you still get accommodation, but food wise the choice may be reduced to instant noodles....
• Kukup - small fishing village with house on stilts

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