Southeast Asia’s only Tropical Spice Garden (TSG) in Penang, is reaching out to Malaysians to ask for their support to help it stay open for generations to come. The eco-attraction launched its crowdfunding campaign “Join the Family, Save the Garden” to raise the vital funds it needs to remain operational and to re-open when restrictions are lifted. The campaign which was launched on the 1st of August aims to raise the funds needed through subscription to its community-powered garden membership program, Spice Fam. Donations from the public are also accepted.

Katharine Chua, Owner and Managing Director of TSG, said “Because of COVID, our doors have been open and shut for the last 16 months and our existence is hanging by a thread. Although we’ve always prided ourselves on running a sustainable business, one that is environmentally conscious and places people at its heart, nothing could have prepared us for this challenge. So, we urgently need the community’s support to help keep this garden open for future generations to come.”

TSG is hoping to raise funds to stay operational and re-open once travel restrictions are lifted. Malaysians who want to support the gardens can either purchase a Spice Fam membership or make a donation on the campaign site. For as low as RM25/month, the subscription will allow members unlimited entry to the Garden, join monthly activities, events, virtual classes and workshops (currently ongoing) from anywhere in the world. Members are also entitled to exclusive garden camping passes.

“Your Spice Fam subscription is more than just money, it’s the garden’s lifeline to stay open. In return, I hope that we’ll be able to bring you and your loved ones closer together in nature. We’re just getting started, as there is so much in store for everyone in the years to come.” said Katharine.

Katharine added, “We want to be able to continue to share this unique and special place which does so much for bringing the community together, nurturing a love for nature and educating young and old alike. And in this new normal, now more than ever – we need green, healing spaces. Every cent raised will go into maintaining the Garden and growing the Spice Fam community. We invite you to join us on this adventure.”

Timeless and enchanting, Tropical Spice Garden is a bio-diverse living museum of the spices and other tropical plants that have shaped our global history. The five landscaped acres of the garden is a treasure trove of more than 500 living specimens of lush and exotic flora from around the world. The spices and plants you find at the Gardens have their roots deep in Penang and Malaysia’s history and culture. It’s a bio-diverse living museum of the spices and other tropical plants that have shaped our global history.

For more information on TSGs “Join the Family, Save the Garden” campaign, click here, or alternatively support its online shop.