KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 – Genting Malaysia Bhd is investing more than RM400 million to build the world’s first Twentieth Century Fox Theme Park to replace the old theme park at Resort World Genting, Genting Highlands.
Chairman and Chief Executive Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay said the investment on the theme park was part of a RM3 billion Resort World Genting refurbishment programme which include the construction of an additional 1,300 hotel rooms adjoining the First World Hotel.
“The development of the Twentieth Century Fox’s branded theme park paves the way for continued dynamic business growth and in ensuring that Resorts World Genting continues to be an exceptional tourist destination both locally and internationally.
“This agreement will take Resort World Genting to another level in family entertainment, making the resort and Malaysia one of the world’s top holiday destinations,” he told reporters after the agreement signing for the theme park today.
Genting Malaysia President and Chief Operating Officer Datuk Lee Choong Yan signed on behalf of the company while Twentieth Century Fox was represented by its Consumer Products President Jeffrey Godsick.
Lim said the park, slated for completion in 2015, would double the number of visitors from 20.5 million a year currently.
He said the park, to be built on a 10ha site, would feature more than 25 rides and attractions from media-based rides, thrill rides, dark rides for children and water rides.
He said prior to the construction of the theme park, the current outdoor theme park will be closed from Sept 1.
He, however, said the closure would have minimal impact to the company’s financial performance as it would bring more international exhibitions to enliven the area during the closure period.
Godsick said the theme park would be using between 25 and 30 films’ intellectual property rights including Ice Age, Rio, Predator, Alien and Life of Pi.
Started operations in 1978 as Genting Amusement and Recreation Park, Resort World Genting or better known as Genting Theme Park, expanded from three rides to 50 rides, drawing millions of visitors annually including foreigners.
– BERNAMA
