ONE of Penang’s premier nature-based learning destinations, Entopia, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with the launch of a year-long ‘Calendar of Discovery’, alongside a series of new initiatives aimed at enhancing visitor engagement and strengthening the state’s tourism ecosystem.
A key highlight is the introduction of the Entopia Discovery Pass, a reimagined annual pass programme designed to encourage repeat visits and foster deeper, more meaningful engagement with nature.
In conjunction with the anniversary, Entopia is offering a limited-time promotion where Penang residents can purchase the pass at a special rate of RM40 (usual price RM200) for 40 days, from March 29 to May 7.
Entopia chief executive officer and managing director Joseph Goh said the new pass reflects an evolving shift in how visitors experience attractions today.
“The Entopia Discovery Pass is not just about access; it is about building an ongoing relationship with our visitors. We want our guests to experience Entopia not as a one-time visit, but as a continuous journey of discovery throughout the year.
“Building on our past membership programmes, this reimagined pass offers greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing more people to reconnect with nature in a meaningful and sustained way,” he said during a press conference in Komtar today.
Also present were Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekaran, Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng, Penang Global Tourism (PGT) chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan and Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MOTAC) Penang director Dr Annuar Mohamed.
The launch also unveiled the Entopia Discovery Challenge, an exclusive programme for Discovery Pass holders. The initiative will culminate in a grand finale on Dec 5, offering prizes worth up to RM100,000, including a RM20,000 cash prize.
Adding to the excitement, Entopia previewed its upcoming Bug Festival, scheduled from July 4 to July 8, featuring interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities centred on the fascinating world of insects.
Reinforcing its commitment to education, Entopia also introduced a range of targeted initiatives for teachers and schools under its Nature Learning Programmes. These include the ‘Entrance on Us’ initiative, where teachers accompanying student groups receive complimentary park access, as well as a 40% twinning bundle that encourages collaborative bookings between schools.
Additionally, a special rate of RM40 per person will be offered year-round for secondary school students participating in selected programmes.
Goh emphasised the importance of making experiential learning more accessible and impactful.
“Education has always been at the core of what we do. These initiatives are designed not only to make nature learning more accessible, but also to support and recognise educators who are passionate about bringing learning beyond the classroom.
“From a broader tourism perspective, the initiatives introduced by Entopia are expected to drive higher visitor engagement, encourage repeat visits and further strengthen Penang’s position as a destination for both leisure and educational tourism,” he added.
Meanwhile, Wong highlighted the significance of such initiatives in enhancing the state’s tourism landscape.
“Attractions like Entopia play a vital role in diversifying Penang’s tourism offerings. Beyond heritage and food, we are building a destination centred on meaningful, experience-driven tourism.
“Programmes such as the Discovery Pass and Discovery Challenge promote repeat visits and deeper engagement, which are essential for sustaining long-term tourism growth.
“In support of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Entopia will also offer MyKad-equivalent rates to international visitors from April 1 to Dec 31.
“This strategic move enhances Penang’s value proposition, making our attractions more accessible while encouraging longer stays and higher visitor spending,” he said.
Goh also revealed that the majority of Entopia’s international visitors last year came from China, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia and Taiwan.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan