ENTOPIA by Penang Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang reached a historic milestone today with the signing of an exclusive franchising agreement with Türkiye-based DEMED Group, marking the Penang-born attraction’s bold entry onto the international stage.
The landmark agreement will see the Entopia experience established across eight countries over the next decade, transforming a home-grown Penang brand into a global ambassador for nature education, conservation and immersive learning.
The signing ceremony, held at The Sphere, Entopia, was witnessed by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
In his address, Entopia managing director Joseph Goh said the franchising agreement targets eight countries, namely Türkiye, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Qatar, Bahrain, Egypt and Greece with two Entopia projects planned for each destination.
“The initiative represents the organisation’s most ambitious expansion to date.
“This is not merely a business partnership. It is a collaboration built on shared values,” he said, underscoring Entopia’s commitment to education, sustainability and people-centric experiences.
DEMED Group honorary president Firuz Bağlıkaya highlighted the strength and alignment of values between both organisations.
“At DEMED Group, our experience spans mining, defence, technology, retail and museum operations,” he said, noting that one of the group’s most notable ventures is museum retail.
He added that DEMED currently manages more than 180 museum stores and cafés across Türkiye, serving over four million international visitors annually.
“Our decision to work with Entopia came naturally. We share the same values, which are a love for nature, a dedication to people, and a desire to inspire and educate.
“We believe Entopia’s story has the power to reach audiences far beyond Malaysia, and we are proud to be part of this journey,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chow commended Entopia’s remarkable evolution and its role in elevating Penang’s global profile.
“Entopia has stood as a proud symbol of Penang’s creativity, resilience and innovative spirit.
“From the pioneering butterfly and insect sanctuary established nearly four decades ago to the world-class nature learning centre it is today, Entopia has made significant contributions to tourism, education and conservation,” he said.
Chow also described the collaboration with DEMED Group as a bold and inspiring leap forward.
“To see a Penang-born brand ready to establish its presence across eight countries is a testament to the strength of our home-grown talent.
“It reflects international confidence in what Penang offers not only in tourism, but also in education, sustainability and meaningful experiences,” he said.
He added that the state government remains committed to supporting initiatives that reinforce Penang’s position as a leading hub for sustainable and educational tourism.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud