The entrance atrium is the soaring natural light-filled central spine of the main building. The fair-faced concrete structure, granite flooring and stone benches create a cool environment for visitors to orient themselves, plan their visit and relax after taking in the 2000 m2 of exhibits and outdoor mangrove boardwalks.

The swamp is home to hundreds of live fish, including some impressive arawana. The trees, landscape and hand-painted diorama murals were based on research done in central Borneo. Silicone moulds of native tree bark were made and used to make scientifically accurate models. The background sounds of the forest were recorded in the Borneo forest.

The owners of the swamp are 4 fresh water crocodiles imported under special permit from Thailand. Behind the scenes is a state-of-the-art life support system that keeps the water clean and the fish and crocodiles healthy.

Visitors can pick up an RFID card that can be used to gather information and evaluate knowledge of wetland issues learned from the exhibits. The focus is on environmental threats and remedies.

The gallery looks out how wetlands have influenced human culture through the ages. A highlight is a 20 meter long print of the famous Along the River During the Qingming Festival scroll. Visitors can move display monitors along the scroll and see aspects of the many activities come to life.