IOI Mall Kulai in Kulai, Johor
It’s no surprise that Singaporeans love heading to our neighbours across the Causeway whenever the weekend hits. Be it grabbing brunch at its various new cafes or swinging by retail havens like JB City Square, we just can’t get enough of JB. Well, if you resonate with the latter crowd, there’s another shopping mall to add to your list.
IOI Mall Kulai has recently undergone a revamp, and so it’s been the talk of the town as of late. But, is it worth the drive up? We popped by to find out.
The current exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$0.30 as of 26th May 2025.
How to get to IOI Mall Kulai?
IOI Mall Kulai is located in Kulai, Johor – the best and most convenient way to get there from Singapore is by car. It takes about 40 minutes from the Tuas Checkpoint. Parking is free at the mall’s open-air car park, and those who choose to park at the mall’s basement car park will be subject to a RM1 (~S$0.30) fee. Pay using a Touch ‘n Go card, or your Visa or Mastercard.
You can also opt to take bus T30 from the JB Sentral bus interchange near the checkpoint and alight at the Pertubuhan Peladang bus stop, which will take you around 1 hour. However, you’ll have to walk for about 30 minutes as the mall is still 2km away, so we strongly recommend booking a Grab to take you there instead.
What is there to do at IOI Mall Kulai?
We swung by IOI Mall Kulai on a weekday afternoon and were greeted by peace and quiet. The mall spans 2 storeys, but it’s pretty spacious and you’ll still get a decent leg workout walking from one end to the other. That said, IOI Mall Kulai is in its post-revamp glow-up phase, and some units are still pending tenants.
We’ve helped to suss out some of the more interesting stores and tenants that were already open at the time we visited, so you won’t have to wander around aimlessly wondering what’s worth checking out.
1. GSC
Kid-friendly cinema with a playground & ball pit
When shopping gets stale, rest those feet and catch a movie at the mall’s Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC).
It has a Play+ hall that’s basically a godsend for parents – there’s a playground just outside the theatre, and it’s free to use if you’ve got a movie ticket. Kids get 30 minutes before and after the movie to go ham – that’s already an hour of energy burnt if you think about it.
Inside, there’s a ball pit right in front of the screen for little ones to play while you enjoy the show. You’ll still be able to keep an eye on them, and the lights don’t go completely dark for safety reasons.
There are 3 seat options:
- Single seat: RM18 (~S$5.45) for adults, RM11 (~S$3.33) for kids
- Twin seat: RM44 (~S$13.33) for 2 pax
- Couch seat: RM76 (~S$23.03) for 4 pax
Kids aged 3 and below enter for free.
Just note that the playground is open for children aged 2 to 12, and kiddos must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Socks are a must for both the Play lounge and the hall, so make sure to pack a pair.
Book your GSC Play+ movie tickets online.
2. Target Supermarket
Affordable groceries to stock up on
Nope, it’s not that Target from the US. There’s no dollar section and no trendy home decor at Target Supermarket. But what you’ll find is a massive space packed with groceries and household essentials.
We spotted a pack of 6 Ramly burger patties going for just RM7.99 (~S$2.42) – that works out to be about S$0.40 per patty. Throw in a burger bun and an egg, and it’s still cheaper than the Ramly burger you would get at a pasar malam back home.
3. MR.TOY
Toys for kids at affordable prices
If you have little nieces, nephews, or your own kids to spoil, stop by MR.TOY for a wallet-friendly toy haul.
Image adapted from: Wei Yin
We did a little price sleuthing and found that a Hot Wheels Monster Truck collectible goes for RM8.90 (~S$2.70) here, compared to S$4.99 at Toys“R”Us. A basic cash register toy retails for RM35 (~S$10.61), while the cheapest option we spotted at the Toys“R”Us online store was S$31.49.
Of course, prices can vary depending on the toy brand, and it’s always good to check the quality before purchasing. But it’s a great option for budget-friendly gifts or party favours.
4. Ninso
Household products, snacks, accessories & stationery galore
Ninso is a household name in Malaysia – the brand started out in Kluang back in 2017 and has since expanded into 98 outlets across the country. The IOI Mall Kulai outlet has shelves stocked full of everything from household essentials and snacks to car accessories, toys, stationery, and even plants.
It’s like Daiso and Valu$ combined, with a lot of items going for just RM2.60 (~S$0.79). Be warned, though: you’ll probably walk in for “just one thing” and come out with a basket full.
5. Molly Fantasy
Claw machines & arcade games from RM1 per try
Head to Molly Fantasy if you have time to kill. This arcade is filled with claw machines and games that start from just RM1 (~S$0.30) per try.
Even the “fancier” ones cap out at around RM4 (~S$1.21), so it won’t feel too heart-pain if you don’t catch anything.
6. Food Street
Fast food, Japanese restaurants & more
They’ve dubbed this area Food Street, but when we dropped by, it felt more like Food Stretch – as in, you’ll need to stretch your expectations a little.
There’s a Marrybrown and an Ichiban Ramen already up and running, so you won’t go hungry. Beyond that, it’s still looking a bit sparse, with only a handful of restaurants open at the moment.
But the space looks prepped for more eateries to move in, so we’re guessing it’s just a matter of time before this “street” gets a proper crowd.
More stores to check out at IOI Mall Kulai
We know that MR.DIY exists in Singapore too. But the moment we see one across the Causeway, we’re suddenly in the mood to buy random tools and storage boxes. Blame it on the favourable exchange rate.
The outlet here is decent if you’re already in the mall and in the mood to browse, but if you’re after the full experience, the MR.DIY Plus at Mid Valley Southkey is still the real MVP.
There’s also E-books, an old-school bookstore with rows of books, stationery, and knick-knacks that’ll bring back memories of Popular runs before exam season.
For some retail therapy, you’ve got a slew of options at your fingertips. For instance, VOIR Gallery has trendy silhouettes for both men and women, while YFS Concept Store practically reels you in with its “SALE” posters.
While there’s the usual Chagee and Starbucks at IOI Mall Kulai, try Coolblog for smoothies and ice-blended drinks, or NEW JUiCE for fresh juices – these brands aren’t available in Singapore.
Wrap up your trip at the A&W drive-through just outside the mall on your way back to Singapore with some curly fries and a root beer float.
So, is IOI Mall Kulai worth a visit?
IOI Mall Kulai could be worth a quick trip, especially if you want to escape the more crowded malls like City Square or Mid Valley Southkey. There’s a decent mix of shopping and food options, with familiar favourites plus budget-friendly spots.
Alas, the mall still feels like it’s finding its footing, with some empty units and a Food Street that’s not quite bustling just yet. It’s not the most happening spot, so don’t expect a full-day itinerary here.
TLDR: come with low expectations, but you’ll defo walk away with some snacks, bargains, and maybe a claw machine win to brag about.
For more things to do on your day trips across the border:
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local
Photography by Cassia Leong.