TRANSFORMERS fans can now visit Gurney Paragon Mall in Penang, as iconic characters Optimus Prime and Bumble-bee are in town to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the popular Hasbro franchise.
The heroic Autobot leader and his loyal sidekick have taken a break from battling the evil Decepticons to ‘parade’ at the mall’s atrium from now until July 13.
Eschewing their truck cab and sports car vehicular disguises, they stand proud in robot mode, measuring 7m and 5m tall respectively.
The giant statues, made predominantly from metal, depict the characters in their guises from the previous movies, and should resonate with all Transformers fans.
Joining them is an actual fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro, Bumblebee’s alternate mode, sporting his recognisable yellow with black stripes paint scheme.
Hunza Properties (M) Sdn Bhd group executive director Khor Tze Ming said this was the first time the much-loved robots-in-disguise have made Penang their stomping ground.
The mall’s executive director Lily Tan expressed delight at being able to bring something new and different to these shores, as such fanfare normally occurs in the Klang Valley.
Shoppers can redeem exclusive photo opportunities with either Optimus Prime or Bumblebee when spending RM200 and above in a single receipt.
Alternatively, one can purchase photo passes at RM38 to pose with one of the giant robots, or RM88 for both characters and the car.
Social media fans can also participate in a selfie contest via the mall’s Facebook or Instagram. Winners stand to walk away with Transformers goodies worth over RM3,000.
The event also features a toy fair from now until June 22, while from June 23 to July 13 there will be a showcase of Transformers merchandise and collectibles.
Besides that, shoppers can also head to TGV Cinemas on Level 8, to snap more photos with 2.1m tall statues of Optimus Prime and Bumblebee.
The Transformers 30th anniversary event is organised by the mall in partnership with Hasbro & I2 Promotions, and supported by TGV Cinemas, Chevrolet and Sharp.
