GEORGE TOWN – Hopes are still high for the Langkawi Wildlife Park, which will reopen its doors to visitors tomorrow.
General manager Teoh Cheng Kung said the zoo is not carrying out any refurbishing or upgrading works beforehand.
“We restarted our animal adoption programme, but got only RM190 in donations.
“One individual donates RM100 monthly, and three others donate RM30 each.
“We hope the ball will continue rolling so we can feed our animals and pay our staff.”
The zoo has opened and closed its doors to the public numerous times since the first movement control order was imposed last March.
Teoh said the facility has utilised RM1 million of its own savings to keep running.
Food for the animals costs around RM50,000, while salaries for 55 staff amount to RM110,000 per month.
“Budgeting is crucial as we are using up money from the fixed deposit to upkeep the zoo.”
He said some animals are “high-maintenance” and require more food, like the deer.
“There are 20 of them, and another three are in gestation.
“Though it is a tough time, we never skimp on giving our animals nutritious and sufficient food.
“Most of the animals eat 10% to 20% of their body weight every day.
“Carp can eat three times their body weight.
“And animals are like us; they know what food is fresh and what is not.
“If we don’t provide them with the food they want, they will spit it out.
“Some of our animals, like the pelicans, arapaima fish and eagles, eat fish. If we feed them fish that is not fresh, they won’t take it.”
Though many operators in Langkawi have closed up shop, Teoh hopes that plans to improve the zoo, by redesigning certain sections, painting murals and conducting repairs, will provide visitors with a new experience.
Those who want to adopt an animal or donate can do so here.
Adoption fees and donations start from RM10. – The Vibes, February 18, 2021
