The Entopia in Teluk Bahang is going into hibernation.
Following the announcement of the MCO 3.0, the popular tourist attraction has put out a statement announcing their temporary closure.
“We regret that the tourism and travel industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic since the very beginning of last year. As we were about to see some signs of recovery in domestic tourism, we were caught again in another wave of infections throughout our country.
“The enforcement of the movement control orders, coupled with the ongoing interstate travel restrictions and the recent total lockdown have brought our organization to realize that a temporary closure is the best route to take during this ongoing pandemic.
“Therefore, the Management would like to announce that Entopia will go into “hibernation” from today onwards until 31 December 2021.
“This temporary closure is part of our strategy to offset the financial impact and to ensure our business sustainability and continuity.
“A novel writer, Ralph Ellison once wrote in his novel entitled “Invisible Man” that “a hibernation is a covert preparation for a more overt action.
“In general, hibernation is a state of inactivity and metabolic depression.
“Animals such as bears slow their heart rate to save energy and survive the winter without foraging for food. Some species of butterfly hibernate by entering into a state of dormancy regardless of the stage of the lifecycle it is in during the winter and become active again when the weather warms up again in the spring.
To all our six million visitors who have supported us since 1986, we thank you for co-creating such beautiful memories together with us.
“We would also like to thank all our past and present employees that have given their time and dedication for sharing this dream with us.
“We also wish to thank our tourism partners, associates and vendors, for believing in us. As we prepare ourselves for the hibernation ahead, we believe that Entopia, being the pride of all Penangites, would emerge stronger once we are ready to do so.
“Thank you for this journey together, stay safe and stay vigilant.
“The Management of Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm,” read the press statement.