New outlet open by 2013
Merlin Entertainments has revealed plans for its first Legoland park in Asia. The new attraction is scheduled to open in the upcoming Malaysian city of Nusajaya by 2013.
As part of an agreement signed with Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), Merlin will design and operate the park and become a 20% shareholder, whilst a consortium led by IIB will own the balance. The RM750 million ($210m/€154m) joint venture will become part of Medini Iskandar Malaysia (“Medini”), a 2,300-acre international mixed-use development including retail, offices, hotels, serviced apartments and residential units.
“We love the location of Iskandar Malaysia, and Merlin is delighted by this partnership with IIB,” reports John Jakobsen, managing director for Legoland Parks. “Legoland Malaysia will build upon the success of our other Legoland parks in Europe and North America, and we have no doubt that once open it will become the ultimate destination in the region for families with young children.”
Earlier in the year, Merlin also announced plans for a Legoland attraction at Dubailand, initially estimates suggesting it would be ready by 2010.
