In Johor Bahru, Malaysia, a long-overlooked 100-acre brownfield site has been reimagined into a model of resilient, sustainable urbanism. Arena Larkin is a visionary 20-million-square-foot, transit-oriented masterplan that redefines what a livable, connected community can be.
Anchored by a continuous linear park and strategically located near the Johor–Singapore Causeway, the development offers a diverse mix of uses, including 15,000 rental apartments, 1.1 million square feet of public and private office space, 600,000 square feet of regional, sports, and community retail, 620,000 square feet of educational and cultural facilities, and 11.5 acres of public open space.
The masterplan is organized into five distinct districts, each walkable within 10 minutes and centered around a new intermodal transit hub that enhances regional connectivity. Sustainability is at the core of the project, with district cooling systems, integrated renewable energy, water reuse strategies, and generous green public spaces addressing urban heat and enhancing livability. Arena Larkin is envisioned as a benchmark for resilient, low-carbon urban development—redefining the public realm and positioning Johor Bahru as a global leader in sustainable city building.
- Location
- Johor Bahru, Malaysia
- Size
- 95 sq acres
- Client
- JCOPR Johor Corporation
- DIALOG Services
- Collaborators
Glumac Inc.
SWA
Urban Design International Studio
Architecture
Urban Design
The Lake and Mosque Park District is centred on a mosque and water feature, surrounded by trees, shaded seating, and patios that foster relaxation and community connection.
The Central Park and Government Center form the core of Arena Larkin, providing a vibrant public space for events, leisure, and civic activities, and serving as a focal point for the community.
Arena Larkin is designed as a transit-oriented development, with a new intermodal transit hub that enhances regional connectivity and encourages the use of public transportation, reducing reliance on private vehicles.
The Bridge Park district seamlessly integrates business, education, and sports facilities.
The development contains five districts, each with distinct characteristics but when combined form a fully realized community.
A continuous green, lush corridor connects all five districts, promoting walkability and providing residents with ample access to parkland and recreational areas.
With the whole community within a single mile, each neighbourhood can be crossed on foot in 10 minutes or less.
This map highlights some of the masterplan’s key components and structures.
Arena Larkin is a bold vision for the next-generation urban development of Johor and Malaysia.
The Team
