ISKANDAR PUTERI: The five-day Majestic Johor Festival 2024 is set to captivate visitors with a fresh lineup of attractions, including an exhibition of classic and antique cars belonging to the Johor royal family.
The festival, to be held from Aug 28 to Sept 1 at Puteri Harbour, is expected to draw over 600,000 visitors.
Tourism Johor director Sharil Nizam Abdul Rahim said the main highlight would be the first-time exhibition of 20 of the sultan of Johor's classic cars.
The festival also promises cultural performances, exhibitions, and entertainment.
He said the visitor estimation was based on its unique exhibitions and extensive promotional campaigns across the country and internationally, including Singapore and Indonesia.
"The royal classic car exhibition is highly anticipated. It's one of the festival's main attractions
"Also offered is the Majestic Johor Festival's parade, which will feature cultural performances, ethnic arts display, and marching bands," he said told a press conference in Puteri Harbour.
Also present were Kota Iskandar state assemblyman Datuk Pandak Ahmad and festival event organiser MaQan director Nursarah Zaide.
The festival is a key event in the state's tourism calendar.
Performances will include the JOH Johor mascot, Barongan displays, motorcade shows, and traditional dances like the Gendang Bangsa Johor, lion dances, and dragon dances.
Some 26 cultural groups and school marching bands will participate in the festival.
"The festival will offer something for everyone, from popular local artistes' concerts to tourism exhibitions, and a variety of vendors, including food. It will be a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors," he said.
He added that in conjunction with the National Day on Aug 31, a firework display will be held on Merdeka eve.
Visitors can also enjoy special tourism packages, discounts, and free souvenirs at the Tourism Johor booths.
The festival is the state government's initiative to boost tourism while contributing to the local economy through cultural, artistic, and tourism-related activities.
The festival's success was recognised in 2022 with the 'Gold Award Attractive State Tourism Event' at the Malaysian Tourism Awards.