Reptile House at Zoo Negara set to attract 30,000 visitors

KUALA LUMPUR: The Reptile House at Zoo Negara currently undergoing a facelift is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors when it is fully completed by June 2019.

The zoo's director of Zoology, Veterinary Hospital, and Giant Panda Conservation Centre Dr Mat Naim Ramli said the 0.404hectare Reptile House, which is now 94 percent completed, is set to feature 36 local and international species, double the number it currently possesses.

"When it is completed, the Reptile House will be the largest reptile conservation centre in the world in terms of area, design and number of specimens, which will help generate more income for the zoo," he said at a press conference on the launch of Zoo Negara's 55th Anniversary Fiesta here yesterday.

Also present were Malaysian Zoological Society deputy president Rosly @ Rahmat Ahmat Lana, Zoo Negara Animal Welfare and Customer Service chairman Hafidz Idris and Marketing and Public Relations chairman Zarina Idris.

Dr Naim said in an effort to add more animal exhibits, it had also collaborated with zoos from other countries such as China and Singapore.

"Although our maintenance costs reach between RM1.3 million to RM1.5 million a month, we are still able to look after the welfare of animals in the zoo as the specimens are brought in on short or long term loans and exchanges with other zoos.

Dr Naim said Zoo Negara would also move further to develop the zoo as an international breeding centre.

"We hold the record as the 'most fertile zoo' in the world, and it has been proven by our team's success of breeding some of animals which have been categorised as almost extinct, such as the panda bear and cheetah.

Meanwhile, Rosly @ Rahmat said the zoo's 55th Anniversary Fiesta which will be held throughout the month of December will feature events like the Photo Explore Competition, the Zoo Negara Xplorace and Fun Run.

"The highlight of the celebration will be on Dec 29 and 30, where there will be a lucky draw featuring a mystery gift, four motorcycles, two electric scooters and a variety of electronic items as consolation prizes. The special prize for the 'Harimau Malaya' photograph competition is worth RM5,555.55" he added. – Bernama