SAHABAT Alam Malaysia notes with grave concern the increasing number of upcoming new zoos in Malaysia.
Many such zoos are built replicating designs and infrastructure of bad zoos. One such zoo is the RM52 million Kemaman Recreational Park and Zoo, where the bears are displayed in barren concrete structures with the animals looking up at visitors asking to be fed. Visitors looking down at animals are more likely to cause stress as the animals feel threatened by them. Furthermore, when viewed from above eye level, people will subconsciously perceive them as subordinate beings.
This antique display is most inappropriate, and can be found in sub-standard zoos.
SAM is even more shocked about the recently-opened Bukit Gambang safari park.
Pictures forwarded to SAM revealed a hideous mess of runways and high-rise blocks with small cell-like dwelling resembling a penitentiary.
Such a monstrous building is associated with ignorance, and lack of common sense or concern for the animals by holding them captive in such bizarre living conditions.
Another terrible scenario is the petting zoo depicting a honey bear being mobbed by a group of teenagers just for a photograph with the animal.
Children and grown-ups, including zoo operators, do not understand the limit animals can take, and visitors are ignorant of the discomfort these small creatures endure as they are being petted, pushed, ridden or teased.
There are other pathetic scenes of a white lion sitting forlornly on concrete, horses and ponies that are all skin and bones, and two young elephants “head weaving”, showing signs of frustration, boredom and sadness.
How did the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry and the Wildlife and Natural Parks Department (Perhilitan) permit its operation?
Is the department blind to the terrible flaws in design, the terrible condition of the animals and the trauma inflicted on animals at the petting zoo? The minister and Perhilitan must act responsibly and conscientiously in upholding the trust vested in them.
Most zoos in Malaysia are wretched places operating under substandard conditions, and animal care and welfare are almost nil. Many are managed mainly to benefit humans’ need for amusement and entertainment.
It is time the minister and Perhilitan focused on the improvement and betterment of the many wretched zoos, mini zoos, aviaries, and bird parks.
Perhilitan should ensure that zoo fraternities comply with the Wildlife Conservation (Operation of Zoo) Regulations 2012.
S.M. MOHD IDRIS, President, Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM)