PENANG’S premier nature-based learning destination, Entopia, is setting its sights on a bold new milestone, which is to welcome 400,000 visitors in 2026, doubling last year’s impressive turnout.
Entopia chief executive officer and managing director Joseph Goh expressed confidence that the ambitious target is well within reach, driven by a lineup of exciting promotions and programmes curated specially for Entopia’s 40th anniversary.
“Last year, we recorded close to 200,000 visitors. This year, we’re aiming to double that. If achieved, it will likely be our best record yet,” he shared during an interview session at Entopia in Teluk Bahang today.
Despite Penang’s relatively modest tourism market compared to larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, Goh remains optimistic.
“Penang may be small, but we believe in the strength of our offerings and the growing interest in nature-based experiences,” he added.
In celebration of its four-decade journey, Entopia has rolled out a vibrant calendar of programmes designed to captivate visitors of all ages.
Among the key highlights is the newly launched Entopia Discovery Pass. A reimagined annual pass aimed at encouraging repeat visits and fostering deeper connections with nature.
To mark the anniversary, Penang residents can enjoy a limited-time offer, purchasing the pass at just RM40 (down from RM200) for 40 days, from March 29 to May 7.
Pass holders will also gain exclusive access to the Entopia Discovery Challenge, culminating in a grand finale on Dec 5 with prizes worth up to RM100,000, including a RM20,000 cash reward.
Adding to the excitement is the upcoming Bug Festival, set to take place from July 4 to July 8. The festival promises immersive exhibits and family-friendly activities that bring the fascinating world of insects to life.
Reinforcing its role as a leading educational hub, Entopia also continues to expand its Nature Learning Programmes tailored for schools and educators.
Initiatives include the ‘Entrance on Us’ programme, offering complimentary entry for teachers accompanying student groups, and a 40% twinning bundle that encourages collaborative school visits. Secondary school students participating in selected programmes can also enjoy a special rate of RM40 per person throughout the year.
Goh emphasised that the Discovery Pass is designed not just for affordability, but to transform how visitors experience Entopia.
“We want guests to come back again and again and not just once. That’s why we have introduced monthly activities and limited-seat workshops, from terrarium-making to beetle breeding, where participants only pay for materials when required,” he explained.
Goh added that the idea for the Discovery Pass has been in the works since last year, evolving from Entopia’s earlier membership programme, ‘Friends of Entopia’.
“Our vision has always been to create a space where families can relax, bond, and learn together. The educational element is key. Entopia is not just a park, but a natural history museum, discovery centre, and science hub all in one,” said Goh.
He noted that international schools have long embraced Entopia as an extension of the classroom, integrating visits into their academic calendars.
“Teachers know how to fully utilise what we offer. In many ways, we have become their second classroom,” he added.
To further enhance the visitor experience, Goh said Entopia’s team has introduced new activities and workshops alongside existing programmes, many of which were previously conceptualised but only now brought to life.
“With fresh experiences rolled out every month and workshop slots filling up quickly, enthusiasm has been steadily building. Registrations have been coming in non-stop, almost every hour,” Goh revealed.
Goh also pointed out that many Penangites have yet to visit Entopia, an opportunity the team is eager to tap into.
“We want to use this anniversary to offer an irresistible deal and invite more locals to discover what Entopia has to offer,” he said.
With a full year of activities lined up and a renewed focus on accessibility, education, and engagement, Entopia is well-positioned to achieve its record-breaking goal.
For more information on Entopia’s 40th anniversary programmes and activities, visit its official social media platforms.
Story by Riadz Akmal