KUALA LUMPUR – Outgoing preacher Ustaz Ebit Lew brought much-needed supplies for the famished animals at Zoo Negara yesterday (May 10).
The zoo was forced to close down in light of the implementation of MCO 3.0.
In his Facebook post, Lew said that he bought 200 kilograms of meat and ten baskets of watermelons and papayas for the animals.
“I’m filled with sadness and pity for the zoo as no one will visit it again.”
Lew also expressed his gratefulness for being able to give a small donation before the Hari Raya celebrations.
“I still get this warm feeling when I see them [the animals] during my visits.”
Zoo Negara also began its “Adopt Our Animals” adoption package to encourage the public to adopt an animal by providing financial support for the care of the animals. In return, donors will receive a certificate of adoption stating their selected animal.
Wait, who’s really running Zoo Negara?
According to Zoo Negara’s website, they are managed by the Malaysian Zoological Society, a non-governmental organization that survives mainly through ticket sales and sponsorship from individuals, schools and corporate companies.
Hence, with the onset of MCO, Zoo Negara will be losing its primary source of income.
In a June report by The Star last year, the zoo needs about RM500,000 to pay staff salaries, RM350,000 to buy animal food, RM350,000 for maintenance, repairs and routine upkeep, and RM180,000 for utility bills.
Sources: Fb/Ebit Lew, Zoo Negara Malaysia
Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
