Animal attractions make for fun times

Zoo Negara has a variety of activities, including this multi-animal show. — Photos: ART CHEN/The Star

GOING to the zoo is a fun-filled activity for the whole family.

It was no surprise then that Zoo Negara drew a large number of visitors, especially children, during Hari Raya Aidilfitri which coincided with the school holidays.

Noor Azlin, from Penang, said that after celebrating Raya, she had ample time to spend with her family this holiday season.

“We went back to Johor to celebrate Raya and we had a lot of time left before going back to work.

“I was excited to see the giant panda cubs as I heard that they will be returning to China soon,” she said when met at the zoo in Gombak, Kuala Lumpur.

The giant pandas at Zoo Negara were the main attraction, especially among children who were ecstatic to see the cute black and white mammals.

Mun (left), taking a picture with his family at the panda conservation centre in Zoo Negara, Kuala Lumpur.

The adult pandas, called Xing Xing and Liang Liang (formerly known as Fu Wa and Feng Yi), were lent to the Malaysian government in 2014 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia.

Their cubs, Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, are expected to return to China later this year.

Mun Chun Yip said his children were excited to see the pandas playing.

“It’s nice to see them so happy and there is so much to see and do here at the zoo,” he said.

Jasteen Chow, from Negri Sembilan, also enjoyed quality time with his family.

“I brought my children to see the animals, specifically penguins which are their absolute favourite,” he said.

There were also a variety of activities for families, such as the multi-animal show, feeding sessions with animals and tram rides.

Aside from locals, a large number of foreigners were also spotted.

Ismail Asmad from Brunei said that he and his family found there was much to explore in Kuala Lumpur.

“After the zoo, I’m taking them to Aquaria KLCC,” he said, adding that he was also looking to visit a theme park with them.

Ismail said this was his first visit to Kuala Lumpur during the Raya season and that he intended to fully embrace the festive atmosphere with his family while in Malaysia.