The heavily polluted Danga River here is to be transformed into a major riverfront tourist destination in a project undertaken by Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor and businessman Tan Sri Lim Kang Hoo, who is also executive vice chairman of Iskandar Waterfront.

The RM2.5 billion phase 1 of The River City @ Danga Bay project aims to clean, beautify, revitalise create a new riverfront city along both banks of the 6km-long river, Iskandar Waterfront said in a statement today.

The development will have four primary components:
– The Venice (themed riverfront buildings with vibrant entertainment and shopping conveniences)
– The Gateway (where the new downtown will be created)
– The Rivera (urban living by the river)
– The Bund (new growth centre infused with historical and heritage elements).

There will also be The Fisherman’s Wharf – a place for festivals, parties and marine lifestyle.

“We will make Sungai Danga come alive with river cruises, boardwalks, street sculptures, lifestyle malls, food, entertainment and other water sports facilities under this development,” said Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin at today’s launch.

He said phase 1 of the The River City @ Danga Bay project will cover 52 acres and cost RM2.5 billion to develop.

Also included will be hotels, serviced apartments and office suites complemented with waterfront alfresco facilities, retail outlets, riverfront promenades, special lighting and a landscaped 6km-long boardwalk along the riverbank.

The highlight will be two man-made islands with thematic architectural features to showcase Malaysia’s rich ethnic and cultural diversity.

Lim said another two man-made islands will be added under phase 2 of the development.