More Singaporeans are choosing Johor Bahru for their festive meals, balancing tradition with affordability.
The tradition of the Chinese New Year reunion dinner, a deeply cherished occasion symbolizing family unity and prosperity, is witnessing a shift as more Singaporeans choose Johor Bahru (JB) for their festive gatherings. With cost savings, variety, and proximity as key factors, families are dining across the border rather than in Singapore.
Rising Trend of Reunion Dinners in Johor Bahru
For 38-year-old Ting Feng, a self-employed Singaporean, this year’s reunion dinner will mark a change from previous celebrations. “Since it’s our first time celebrating outside Singapore, my family has been supportive of the plan,” he shared.
Although concerns over holiday traffic congestion remain, he has booked a table at Trove Johor Bahru, citing its close proximity to the Causeway. Ting estimated spending SGD 500 (MYR 1,640) for a table of six to ten people, a significant cost reduction compared to Singapore, where the same amount would only cover five to six diners.
“JB offers a greater variety of food, and in many cases, I feel the quality is better than in Singapore,” Ting added.
Strengthening Family Bonds Across the Border
For 27-year-old Bryan Nambiar, a product manager in Singapore, the choice to celebrate in Johor Bahru is driven by family. His parents live in Iskandar Puteri, just a short drive from the Causeway.
“My parents are the reason I cross the border for reunion dinner,” he said. His small gathering at a local restaurant reflects a growing trend among Singaporeans with Malaysian relatives.
“Despite checkpoint congestion, he finds the cost savings compelling. He expects to spend MYR 600 (SGD 166) in Johor Bahru for a meal for four, whereas a similar experience in Singapore would cost SGD 250 (MYR 820).
“Travelling into JB takes time, but it’s worth it for the savings and the chance to be with family,” he added.
Affordability and Festive Atmosphere Make JB a Preferred Choice
For 49-year-old Andrew Seah, a Singapore permanent resident working in engineering sales, celebrating Chinese New Year in JB has always been a tradition.
“Getting back to my parents’ home in JB from Singapore during the festive period isn’t easy, but reunion dinner is something I hold dear,” he shared.
Seah estimates that a meal for six to eight people in JB costs around MYR 1,000 (SGD 299), while in Singapore, it would be about SGD 800 (MYR 2,625). The cultural vibrancy and affordability in JB make it worth the trip.
“The festive atmosphere in JB is livelier than in Singapore, and it reminds me of my childhood celebrations,” he added.
Some Still Prefer to Celebrate in Singapore
Not everyone is keen on crossing the border. 77-year-old Hannah Lee, a retired medical care assistant and naturalized Singaporean, has chosen to stay in Singapore for her reunion dinner despite having extended family in JB.
“At my age, I avoid travelling to JB during Lunar New Year because of the massive congestion,” she explained.
Previously, she would visit her siblings in JB, but over time, the travel hassle became too much. Now, she plans visits on the third or fourth day of the New Year, when traffic is more manageable.
“I still make a trip before Chap Goh Meh to catch up with family and enjoy my favorite festive dishes,” she shared.
With rising costs in Singapore, more families are turning to Johor Bahru for their reunion dinners, finding greater value, variety, and family connection. The trend reflects broader economic and cultural shifts, where cross-border travel for dining and celebrations is becoming the norm.
As Singaporeans continue to balance tradition with modern convenience, Johor Bahru’s affordable dining and vibrant celebrations are expected to attract even more families for future festive occasions.
Sources: Malay Mail, Newswav (2025)
Keywords: Singaporeans Lunar New Year, Johor Bahru Reunion, Festive Dinners
