Kuala lumpur: There are no mega shopping malls, traffic congestion is not part of the daily routine, and life moves at a gentler pace. Yet these are among the very qualities that give Mersing, a coastal district, its own distinctive definition of happiness. For Kluang and Simpang Renggam, meanwhile, well-being is reflected in public amenities, infrastructure, economic opportunities, safety, and the delivery of services that support everyday life. Despite their different backgrounds and strengths, the three towns in Johor demonstrate that the happiness of a town's residents is not measured solely by rapid development and modernity. It also depends on a balance between work and life, a safe environment, strong community ties, and development that meets the needs of its people.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mersing, Kluang, and Simpang Renggam were among the 10 recipients of the 2026 Happiest Towns Award, conferred by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government last April. Also making the list were Dabong in Kelantan; Kuala Terengganu, Marang, and Permaisuri in Terengganu; Lipis and Raub in Pahang; and Ranau in Sabah.
Located about 136 kilometers from Johor Bahru, Mersing is often perceived as a small, quiet, and 'old-fashioned' district. But beneath that perception lies a coastal town with a rhythm and character of its own. The activities of the fishing community, boats coming and going from the jetty, and the arrival of tourists are all part of the district's daily life. Mersing is also a gateway to a string of islands, including Pulau Aur, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Besar, Pulau Pemanggil, and Pulau Sibu, as well as Pulau Tioman in Pahang.
Mersing District Council president Abdul Karim Bakar said development in the district was being carried out with the needs of the community in mind, without sacrificing its identity and natural advantages. He emphasized the importance of safety initiatives and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature.
In Kampung Bahagia/Sri Lumpur, a strong sense of togetherness contributes to residents' comfort. Kampung Bahagia/Sri Lumpur head Daing Ibrahim Yacob highlighted the cooperation among various agencies in maintaining local harmony. Residents like Md Deiah Idris and Mohd Yassin Mohd Lazim expressed contentment with their close-knit community.
Tourism in Mersing is growing, with a focus on controlled growth that preserves the district's tranquillity. Mersing Tourism Association secretary Ahmad Firdaus Shaik Omar mentioned that the presence of marine parks and national parks strengthens Mersing's position as a nature-based tourism destination.
Kluang and Simpang Renggam offer different definitions of happiness, supported by public amenities, economic opportunities, and services that meet residents' needs. Kluang District Officer Azurawati Wahid emphasized the importance of a balanced lifestyle and strong social networks within the community. Initiatives like the Kluang Sustainable Community Programme and the Smart Town agenda aim to strengthen residents' well-being.
Recognition as a happy town comes with challenges such as maintaining urban cleanliness and infrastructure. Azurawati highlighted the need for community involvement in sustaining well-being, emphasizing the role of safety and community cooperation in maintaining a harmonious environment.