Zoo Negara, or the National Zoo of Malaysia, is a beloved institution and a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Spanning 110 acres just outside Kuala Lumpur, it has been a haven for wildlife and a center for conservation since its official opening in 1963.
A History of Conservation and Community
The story of Zoo Negara began in 1957 with a small miniature zoo, which sparked the idea for a national-scale zoological park. The federal government designated a lush, green area in Ulu Klang, Selangor, as the site, and on November 14, 1963, Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, officially opened the zoo. Initially known as the "Zoo in the Jungle" due to its dense surroundings, it has since grown into a modern open-concept zoo, with over 90% of its animals housed in spacious exhibits designed to mimic their natural habitats.
Unlike many government-run national zoos, Zoo Negara is managed by the Malaysian Zoological Society, a non-governmental organization. This unique structure means that the zoo's operational funding is heavily dependent on gate collections, donations, and corporate sponsorships. This reliance on public support has also meant that the zoo has had to adapt and appeal to the public, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, where it received significant public donations to continue its operations.
A Home for Diverse Wildlife
Zoo Negara is home to a staggering diversity of life, with over 5,000 specimens from 476 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The zoo is dedicated to showcasing and conserving both local and international wildlife.
Giant Panda Conservation Centre: One of the most famous exhibits is the Giant Panda Conservation Centre. It has been a significant part of the zoo since 2014, when a pair of pandas, Xing Xing and Liang Liang, arrived from China as part of a conservation partnership.
The Savannah Walk: This exhibit, designed as an open-air safari experience, allows visitors to observe animals like giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos in a large, shared space.
Other Key Exhibits: The zoo also features a diverse array of other exhibits, including the Ape Centre, a large walk-in aviary, the Reptile Park, and the Malaysian River Journey, which highlights the country's unique freshwater ecosystems.
Beyond the Exhibits: Education and Recreation
Zoo Negara is not just about animal viewing; it is a center for education and recreation. The zoo's mission is to promote wildlife conservation through public education, and it achieves this through various programs and activities.
Animal Shows: Visitors can enjoy daily multi-animal shows featuring sea lions and macaws, which provide entertainment and a chance to learn about animal behavior.
Animal Feeding Sessions: On weekends and public holidays, the zoo offers scheduled feeding sessions at various exhibits, allowing for a more interactive experience with the animals.
Hands-on Experiences: The Children's World petting zoo provides a great opportunity for younger visitors to get up close with friendly domestic animals.
A Family-Friendly Destination: With its well-maintained, stroller-friendly paths and facilities like prayer rooms and food kiosks, Zoo Negara is a perfect day trip for families.
