GEORGE TOWN – The state’s popular Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is going into “hibernation”, pointing to movement restrictions as the reason for its temporary closure.
The management said in a statement today that the closure is part of its strategy to cushion the financial impact of the travel restrictions.
“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.
“Therefore, the management would like to announce that Entopia will go into ‘hibernation’ until December 31. This temporary closure is part of our strategy to offset the financial impact (of the restrictions) and to ensure our business sustainability and continuity.”
The same fate is expected to also befall more hotels in the state.
Although many hotels have rounded up their food and beverage arm to generate income while rooms remain empty, Malaysia Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang chapter chairman Raj Kumar told The Vibes that this strategy is not sustainable.
“I think the F&B pick-up and delivery business is very competitive now as many cafes and restaurants are doing the same.
“This time, it may not help hotels stay afloat,“ he said, adding that more hotels will be forced to temporarily close during this period.
However, on a suggestion that hotels look into other money-making endeavours, Raj said this is not feasible as the nature of hotels is to provide accommodation, meeting spaces and F&B, and it is not viable to change the business model at the expense of long-term benefits.
Instead, he wants to see financial assistance from the federal and state governments.
“Waive statutory expenses, such as property assessment and quit rent. Offer wage subsidy and electric subsidy.
“The Penang government should not neglect or forgo this industry as it has been contributing significantly to the state’s GDP. The government needs to have a balanced portfolio of segments to sustain future economic growth,” the general manager of The Light Hotel said.
Meanwhile, most hotels in Penang have fallen back on their MCO “routine”, with beach resorts like Rasa Sayang Shangri-La running their F&B promotions with rooms open for essential stay, and business hotels like Hotel Royal promoting their breakfast and lunch F&B promotions by setting up a stall by the roadside.
G Hotel has also expanded its offerings from meal takeaways to a drive-through laundry service. – The Vibes, June 2, 2021
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