KUALA LUMPUR: Les’ Copaque Production Sdn Bhd founder and managing director Datuk Burhanuddin Md Radzi’s dream to build an Upin & Ipin Theme Park is inching closer to reality, as the award-winning studio lays out plans for an immersive, locally inspired attraction that could soon become Malaysia’s next major tourism landmark.
Speaking to the media, Burhanuddin confirmed that the proposed park in Genting Highlands, based on the globally recognised Upin & Ipin franchise, is estimated to cost RM350 million and will be built in collaboration with King’s Park Management Sdn Bhd.
The concept, according to Burhanuddin, focuses on fully immersive indoor attractions rather than open-air rides, a strategic choice to avoid Malaysia’s unpredictable weather and to reduce wear and tear.
“We want the attractions to be immersive so we can use our local talent and update the content at any time. If we use open rides, our climate isn’t suitable, and maintenance becomes a major challenge. With immersive attractions, we can change content whenever needed,” he said, after the launch of LC Xpo 2025 at the World Trade Centre, where Les’ Copaque celebrated its 20th anniversary.
Asked how the project compares with established regional parks such as Legoland Malaysia and Universal Studios Singapore, Burhanuddin stressed that the Upin & Ipin Theme Park aims to offer something fundamentally different, something emotionally and culturally close to Malaysians.
“We want something close to the hearts of the people. We proposed this idea even before Legoland was built, but many didn’t believe in using an original local brand content name. Many doubted us.”
He said Upin & Ipin brand’s strength lies in authenticity, adding that despite its kampung setting, the story has proven universal, resonating with audiences across Southeast Asia and other continents.
“We’ve proven with Upin & Ipin that a local story can explode. People said: Can a village story sell overseas? We said the story is universal. Only the setting is a kampung. If we want to sell globally, it must be original. Don’t fake it.”
“We’re already 20 years old, almost like The Simpsons,” Burhanuddin said, chuckling.
On ticket pricing for the future park, he cautioned that Malaysians should not expect unrealistically cheap entry fees.
“We’re running a business. Don’t expect RM5 tickets. That’s what happened in Indonesia, many theme parks around Jakarta charged RM10-RM12, so they couldn’t maintain standards and eventually died.”
Earlier, King’s Park Management director Warren Yang said the company is honoured to partner with a local globally known brand. “We are honoured to partner with Les’ Copaque to create a world-class family destination in King’s Park Genting Highlands. Upin & Ipin is a cultural icon, and this theme park will celebrate Malaysian creativity on a global stage.”
Meanwhile, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chairman Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh praised Les’ Copaque at the same event, calling its 20-year journey a rare achievement in Malaysia’s animation industry.
He said the company’s ability to sustain itself and continuously improve its capabilities over two decades is extraordinary, especially in a sector where many studios struggle to survive.
“This is an extraordinary achievement. It’s rare to have a company that can sustain itself, remain consistent, and keep improving from one level to another. We’ve seen that happen before our eyes,” Syed Ibrahim said.
He added that Les’ Copaque should serve as an inspiration for local animation studios to create their own opportunities and future.
“This is proof of what can be achieved. At MDEC, we support efforts to grow the creative industry, not only to develop local creative talent but also to contribute significantly to the national economy.”
