The Johor Zoo, one of Malaysia’s most historic and beloved attractions, celebrated a momentous reopening on National Day, drawing nearly 20,000 visitors in a single day. After being closed for three years, the zoo welcomed back the public with open arms, marking a significant milestone in its long history.
A Historical Day for Johor Zoo
The reopening of Johor Zoo on National Day was nothing short of spectacular. Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor, State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman, reported that the zoo recorded its highest number of visitors on a single day since it first opened to the public in 1962. “It was a historical day for us, and it was extra special as we celebrated our 67th Independence Day anniversary,” Jafni told the New Straits Times.
The zoo’s popularity was evident even before the official opening time, with some 3,500 eager visitors queuing at the entrance as early as 7:15 am. In response to the overwhelming demand, the zoo opened its gates half an hour earlier than the usual 9 am start time.
Free Shuttle Services and Record-Breaking Attendance
In conjunction with the Merdeka celebrations, the state government provided six free shuttle buses from the defunct Air Molek Prison to the zoo, ensuring that visitors had easy access to the attraction. These buses, operated by the Johor Public Transport Corporation, made 243 trips throughout the day, ferrying a total of 14,310 passengers to and from the zoo.
By the end of the day, the zoo had welcomed 19,461 visitors, including 310 foreign tourists, marking a record-breaking attendance for the reopened zoo. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz had also offered a 50 percent discount on ticket prices, while children, the disabled, and senior citizens were granted free entry, further boosting the zoo’s popularity on this special day.
An Iconic Destination with a Rich History
Johor Zoo is not just any zoo; it is the oldest zoo in Malaysia, steeped in history and tradition. Located on 4.73 hectares of land, the zoo was originally established in 1928 by the late Sultan Sir Ibrahim Sultan Abu Bakar. It was once known as Kebun Binatang and has been a key attraction in Johor for decades.
Today, the zoo is home to more than 275 animals, including tigers, elephants, camels, monkeys, tapirs, various bird species, and a large reptile exhibit. The zoo’s diverse range of animals and its rich history make it a unique and valuable part of Malaysia’s cultural and natural heritage.
Looking Forward: Enhancing Visitor Experience
As of 2 pm today, the zoo had already recorded nearly 9,000 visitors, including those who traveled from other states such as Perak and Negeri Sembilan. The overwhelming turnout has given the zoo’s management the opportunity to identify areas for improvement to enhance the comfort and safety of its visitors.
Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, stating that the management is committed to ensuring that every visitor has a safe and enjoyable experience at Johor Zoo. The feedback from the National Day event will be invaluable in making necessary adjustments to accommodate large crowds in the future.
A Bright Future for Johor Zoo
With its successful reopening and record-breaking attendance, Johor Zoo has once again established itself as a premier destination for both locals and tourists. The zoo is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, offering a perfect family-friendly outing for those looking to explore the wonders of nature and wildlife.
As Malaysia’s oldest zoo, Johor Zoo holds a special place in the hearts of many, and its reopening after three years marks a new chapter in its storied history. The overwhelming response from the public on National Day is a testament to the zoo’s enduring appeal and its significance as a cultural landmark in Johor and Malaysia as a whole.
As the zoo continues to evolve and improve, it is poised to attract even more visitors, both from within Malaysia and around the world. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, Johor Zoo offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the rich history of one of Malaysia’s most treasured attractions.
