Image courtesy of
Resorts World Sentosa/Universal Studios Singapore
leader. Somehow, like the Euro Disney experience, Ocean Park not only survived, but flourished, just like Parc Asterix in Paris. “The same can be said of our own Enchanted Kingdom
in the Philippines. The coming of HK Disney has hardly affected us and in fact it has highlighted the definition of a “theme park” such that people are now more convinced to visit and experience one. China, with its burgeoning population and increasing standard of living, is also playing host to local (OCT Group) and global (Disney Shanghai) brands previously, now and in the future. And Mamon notes it is important to keep up with trends
in order to compete. “Trends previously seen in the ‘first’ world (e.g. US,
Europe) and leading edge (attractions) are evident, especially those that can bring in the wanted tourists and tourism revenues. The growth potential in Asia is second to none and seems to be on more stable foundations than in other parts of the developing world, like the Middle East. In this age of technology, communication and globalisation, one has to be abreast with trends to be able to compete. Now, it is not enough to amuse and entertain, one needs to have an experiential journey that can play on the senses and create and keep lasting memories that will last a lifetime and keep them coming back for more.” Mamon notes that there were many plans for more new
facilities when the global economic downturn hit in late 2008. Some were scrapped, others put on hold, while some continued, although at a more guarded pace. “The effect was only a temporary slowdown,” he adds,
“but I think the boom has returned and will be here for the next few years.” And he points to various places where development activity is particularly strong, notably China (theme parks, waterparks, casino resorts (Macau)), with its large population base and ever increasing disposable
income for its citizens; Singapore, with its integrated resorts (Marina Bay Sands, Resorts World Sentosa) mainly for inbound tourists; and HK, SAR of China for the HK Disney expansion and the ongoing Ocean Park expansion. So what of the future for the industry in the region in
Mamon’s eyes? “The future holds very bright for the theme park
industry in this part of the world,” he says. “Each of the countries (in the region) has suitable numbers in their populations to create a market both for the domestic and international (industries). As disposable income increases among some of the different countries in the region, then a demand for leisure/recreation alternatives increases and this includes theme parks, waterparks, zoos and aquariums, etc.
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