KUALA LUMPUR: The government today gave Zoo Negara RM1.3 million to cover specially food supplies for the animals amid the Movement Control Order (MCO).
In a statement, Energy and Natural Resources (KeTSA) Minister Datuk Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the ministry handed the funds to the zoo this morning, expressing concern for the welfare of the animals.
“The money is an initial step to help ease the plight of the zoo especially in providing food for the animals following its closure throughout the MCO from March 18 until April 28 to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus,” he said.
To date, Shamsul said KeTSA had through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), issued 34 zoo and permanent wildlife exhibition (ZPT) operating permits under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716).
The enforcement of the regulations was to prevent ZPT owners or operators from neglecting the welfare aspects such as nutrition, health care and the cleanliness of the cages, he said.
Shamsul said besides Zoo Negara, ZPT operations across the country were badly affected since the operations relied on ticket sales.
“The ministry is committed to help ZPTs affected during the MCO and trying to raise funds to help,” he said.
He said proactive measures needed to be taken by the government to help ZPTs to ensure the wellbeing of wildlife species, the sustainability of ZPT operations with over 1,058 employees as well as to enhance the image of the country in wildlife conservation at an international level.
With help from non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Shamsul said ZPTs had carried out several initiatives to collect funds to ensure the sufficiency of food supplies.
He also urged more corporate bodies to contribute as part of their corporate social responsibilities.
For any wildlife-related enquiries and complaints, the public can call the perhilitan hotline at 1-800-88-5151 which is operating 24 hours during the MCO.