ESCAPE Penang in Teluk Bahang has reached a new milestone by being named as the third top-rated theme park in Asia by TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice 2022 ‘Best of the Best – Asia in the Top Amusement Parks and Water Parks category’, outshining big global theme park brands across the region.
Tripadvisor is the world’s largest travel guidance platform, which aggregates traveller reviews and opinions on destinations, accommodation, and travel experiences, making this recognition a testament to ESCAPE Penang’s success in capturing the hearts and minds of visitors from across the globe through its innovative and creative experiences.
Sim Leisure Group founder and executive chairman Datuk Sim Choo Kheng said ESCAPE Penang, once the underdog in the theme park and attractions industry, has defied the odds by receiving the special recognition.
“I am very excited today to see that this unique retro-eco adventure park rises above big global theme park brands, placing Penang and Malaysia yet again on the world map.
“As the platform’s annual Travellers’ Choice awards are voted on by real travellers, ESCAPE Penang’s ranking is a testament to its relevance in delivering what consumers want.
“While not necessitating large capital expenditure investments, the ESCAPE brand of theme parks is fuelled by big ideas, infused with high doses of innovation and creativity, resulting in a highly successful and unique offering.
“With the Tripadvisor win, ESCAPE has outshone big global entities in Hong Kong, Japan and Dubai to become the third top-rated attraction in Asia in the ‘Amusement Parks and Water Parks category’.
“This park is also the only theme park in Malaysia to have a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor,” Sim said in his speech during the award presentation ceremony at the park today.
Also present were Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, state Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng and Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture (Motac) Penang director Jonathan Freddy P. Bagang.
The award was presented to Sim by Chow, who applauded the company for its ascent within the theme park and attractions industry.
“The company’s inventiveness had helped elevate both Penang’s and Malaysia’s tourism and attractions industry.
“It is heartening to see a Malaysian brand come this far while staying true to its ethos and philosophy.
“I see Sim Leisure Group’s win as a step forward for the local industry, and look forward to their continued efforts at putting Malaysia on the world map for exceptional attractions and theme parks,” said Chow in his speech.
Chow added that, unlike other established brands and attraction players that have come and gone, Sim Leisure Group and its local homegrown brand of ESCAPE attractions, has stood the test of time and continued to push boundaries in elevating Penang and Malaysia’s tourism.
He said from its humble beginnings in its home state of Penang, the ESCAPE brand of adventure parks has grown to make its mark across the country and beyond.
“ESCAPE never ceases to amaze me with its endless stream of innovative ideas that not only surpass expectations but also establish world records.
“For instance, it offers unique experiences like skiing, an adventure previously exclusive to cold countries but now accessible right here in Penang. This remarkable feat is just one of the many aspects that set ESCAPE apart from others.
“Today also, I must admit, I cannot help but feel a sense of pride and excitement as we add yet another regional and international accomplishment to our list.
“This remarkable recognition places ESCAPE Penang among the top three attractions in Asia, surpassing renowned parks in Japan, Korea, Dubai, and Singapore.
“This accolade not only signifies the exceptional quality of ESCAPE Penang but also highlights the extraordinary potential of our beloved state as a world-class tourist destination,” said Chow.
According to Sim, since ESCAPE Penang opens its doors in 2012, the park has attracted some 1.2 million visitors from across the world.
“We are keen to reinvent what ‘leisure’ means in this current era and for us, this means crafting authentic experiences that are unique, enriching, and spark curiosity.
“Unlike many bigger brands, we believe in a ‘low tech, high fun’ that prioritises self-directed play which utilises imagination and creativity.
“With ESCAPE in particular, we also aim to help more people fall in love with nature again, which is instrumental in pushing for more environmental preservation and conservation.
“I am proud that this unconventional approach has paid off, as it is clear that many people are receptive to our brand of fun and play,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi