NIGHT SAFARI PROPOSAL FOR ZOO JOHOR UNDER REVIEW - MB

ISKANDAR PUTERI, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- The Johor government is studying the proposal to introduce a Night Safari at Zoo Johor, following an overwhelming response from visitors since the zoo’s reopening on Aug 31.

Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said there have been many suggestions and feedback from visitors who express interest in experiencing a Night Safari at the historic zoo.

“Insya-Allah, if everything progresses smoothly during the second phase of upgrades, we are considering opening a Night Safari at Zoo Johor.

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“While this won’t happen immediately, the proposal is under review as we need to prioritise the safety of visitors and the animals.

“We need to thoroughly examine the enhancement of infrastructure, including eco-friendly lighting that mimics natural nocturnal conditions without disturbing the animals’ habitat, and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities and the elderly before moving forward with this plan,” he said.

Onn Hafiz was responding to a supplementary question from Tan Chong (DAP-Bekok) on visitor turnout since the zoo reopened.

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Zoo Johor, the oldest in Malaysia, had been closed since 2020 and reopened on Aug 31 after undergoing upgrades.

Spanning over 12.5 hectares, the zoo can accommodate up to 5,000 visitors at a time and is home to more than 100 animal species.

Onn Hafiz said the zoo has welcomed 500,000 visitors since its reopening, which he described as highly encouraging after nearly four years of closure.

“Zoo Johor’s reopening was made possible through collaboration with various parties, including three local councils—Johor Bahru City Council, Iskandar Puteri City Council and Pasir Gudang City Council—which contributed RM9 million in funding.

“Next year, we anticipate one million visitors, with an expected revenue of RM6 million. With such strong public support, the zoo is projected to operate sustainably on its own income,” he added.

-- BERNAMA