Bukit Serene Palace, Royal palace in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Bukit Serene Palace is the official residence of the Sultan of Johor, standing on Serene Hill above Danga Bay in Johor Bahru. The building has a green roof and a 35-metre tower that can be seen from Danga Bay, and its carvings show Art Deco influence. The grounds cover 121.4 hectares and hold a garden used for royal gatherings.

Construction of the palace began in 1933 and was completed in 1939 as a major royal structure of that era. During World War II, the building became a site of military significance and activity in the region's wartime history.

The palace blends Art Deco style with detailed carved ornaments that reflect the design preferences of Johor's royal family. These architectural features remain visible from outside and show the refined taste of its creators.

The grounds are secured and closed to public entry, but visitors can photograph the exterior from designated areas around the perimeter. Approach only these open viewpoints and respect the boundaries when taking pictures from outside.

General Tomoyuki Yamashita moved his headquarters into the palace in early 1942 and used its 35-metre tower to watch Australian positions across the Straits of Johor while planning the invasion of Singapore. Told the palace was an easy target, he judged the British would not shell the Sultan's own residence, and they did not.