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ENTOPIA - one of Penang's oldest tourism attractions, with its nesting for hatching butterflies, plans to attract 400,000 visitors this year to mark its 40th anniversary.
Despite the state's concern over the Middle East conflict, which is showing signs of escalation, Entopia chief executive officer Joseph Goh remains optimistic that tourism will continue to flourish in Penang.
Last year, the state recorded its highest haul of over eight million airline passengers arriving at its shores at the Penang International Airport, sparking a good momentum to take the state into the "Visit Malaysia Year 2026" campaign.
The figure bested the marks set before the pandemic, and in the words of state exco for tourism, Wong Hon Wai, it shows that tourism has rebounded impressively here.
Goh, who is also the landmark's managing director, said that the ambitious target is within reach, driven by a lineup of exciting promotions and programmes curated specially for Entopia’s 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 told the state newsletter - Bulletin Mutiara here.
Despite Penang’s relatively modest tourism market compared to larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, Goh said that he is optimistic.
“Penang may be small, but we believe in the strength of our offerings and the growing interest in nature-based experiences,” he added.
Previously known as the Penang Butterfly Park, the facility, which is the last of the major attractions along the scenic Batu Feringghi - Teluk Bahang tourism belt, is among the top attractions on the island.
Entopia will roll out a vibrant calendar of programmes designed to captivate visitors.
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, said Goh.
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 December 5 with prizes worth up to RM100,000, including a RM20,000 cash reward.
There is also an 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.
“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. - April 3, 2026.