Historical Background of Iskandar Puteri
Iskandar Puteri, formerly known as Nusajaya, is a city located in the state of Johor, Malaysia, and serves as the administrative capital of Johor. This city is strategically positioned along the Straits of Johor at the southern end of the Malay Peninsula, making it the southernmost city of continental Eurasia.
The city has a rich historical tapestry that dates back to the 19th century. In 1855, Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim, who had claimed the Johor throne following the division of the Johor kingdom, moved the capital from Telok Blangah in Singapore to what was then known as Tanjung Puteri. He renamed this burgeoning settlement as Iskandar Puteri to honor his father, Iskandar.
This relocation was part of a broader strategy by Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim to solidify his rule and establish a new administrative center for his authority in the region. The decision to settle in this area was influenced by its advantageous location close to trade routes and its accessibility to the Malay Archipelago.
In contemporary times, Iskandar Puteri has evolved into a modern urban hub. In 2008, the Johor State Parliament was transferred from the Sultan Ibrahim Building in Johor Bahru to the Sultan Ismail Building in Kota Iskandar. This relocation marked the city's ascension as the administrative epicenter of Johor. Iskandar Puteri has since seen substantial urban development and economic growth, becoming an integral part of the Iskandar Malaysia development region.
Several key developments have furthered its growth, including the Legoland Malaysia Resort, Puteri Harbour, and Iskandar Malaysia Studio, formerly known as Pinewood Malaysia Studio. The Southern Industrial and Logistics Clusters (SiLC) also play a significant role in its industrial and logistics sectors.
The city's comprehensive development plan aims to balance urban living with sustainable practices, positioning it as a pivotal city in Malaysia's economic landscape.