If you think a prison can only be a place of punishment and gloom, think again. Johor Bahru’s Kota Jail, formerly known as Ayer Molek Prison, is rewriting its story. 

It’s transforming from the feared lockup it once was into one of the city’s coolest new hangouts. 

Photo by Confirm Good 

With its 142 years of history, this heritage site is now a creative and cultural hotspot. History buffs, curious tourists, and locals alike can experience a fascinating slice of Johor’s past in addition to the various pop-up markets and art exhibitions.

Their very own Jail Market will be popping up on 26 July to 27 July 2025 and 23 to 24 August 2025, selling hand-crafted products, paintings, clothing, and more. 

Photo: @kotajail/instagram

Aside from the events, the main attraction lies in the history of the compound. 

Right in the heart of Johor Bahru, Kota Jail served as the city’s prison for well over a century before being decommissioned back in 2018. 

Although, it wasn’t just hardened criminals who ended up within its walls. Dissenters against British colonial rule were also held here, making the site a silent witness to Malaysia’s turbulent history.

For a glimpse into prison life back in the 1990s, head straight to the Ayer Molek Prison Gallery — the main draw of the compound.

Photo by Confirm Good 

As you walk through, you’ll see old photographs of the punishment blocks, visiting areas, and other facets of the inmates’ daily routines. 

Photo by Confirm Good 

The tour ends in a dimly lit audio-visual room, where official footage shows caning in action. It’s a gritty, eye-opening experience that brings history to life. 

Photo by Confirm Good

While parts of the compound have been repurposed into pop-up stalls and event spaces, much of Kota Jail’s original architecture remains untouched. 

Weathered bricks and stark corridors preserve the site’s eerie charm and serve as a reminder of what once was.

Photo by Confirm Good 

Officially reopened as a heritage site on 14 March 2025, Kota Jail is open daily from 10am to 10pm. 

Entry is free, but if you want the full experience, the prison gallery tour is just RM10 (S$3) for foreigners and RM5 (S$1.5) for Malaysians.

If you’re ever in Johor Bahru and looking for something a little different, skip the usual attractions and step behind the bars of Kota Jail (no criminal record required).

Kota JailInstagram | Website📍 Jalan Ayer Molek, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia🕒 10am–10pm (Daily)