KOTA KINABALU – The Sabah government has been urged to immediately resolve infrastructural, security and manpower problems faced by the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.
Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the wildlife park’s aviary has been shut since last April due to infrastructural problems, and that there was a shortage of staff caring for the 14 elephants there.
“There are only six workers looking after the elephants right now. Based on the standards set by the Zoological Garden Association and Mazpa Aquaria Malaysia, at least two workers are needed to care for one elephant.
“The parks’ aviary, reptile house and clinic also needs repairs and maintenance work immediately. The aviary is badly damaged and has been closed since April,” he said after visiting the park some 30 minutes from here yesterday.
According to Jafry, the park also needs proper fencing to curb any incidents of wildlife escaping their enclosures, as well as for the safety of nearby residents.
Last August, a clouded leopard at the park escaped but was soon caught by park workers.
Jafry said requests for the repairs have been forwarded to the Public Works Department (PWD).
He expressed hope that the PWD will fast-track the request so the repairs at the park can be expedited. – The Vibes, December 5, 2020
