AT Zoo Negara, young Malaysians are discovering what it means to care for animals. Through the KeeperKu programme, students and young adults work alongside professionals, learning about animal husbandry, preparing diets, cleaning enclosures and understanding how zoos contribute to species conservation.
Launched as part of Zoo Negara’s mission to engage the community in wildlife conservation, the programme offers individuals aged 16 and above the rare chance to experience life as a zookeeper. What makes KeeperKu special is that it is cultivating a new generation of conservation-minded Malaysians.
The programme can be described as “a classroom without walls”. Volunteers get hands-on experience not only with animals but also with the many teams that keep the zoo running – from veterinary staff and education officers to park and garden caretakers.
Most participants come thinking the programme is about feeding animals, but they leave with a deeper understanding of the responsibility behind conservation, such as observing animal behaviour and ensuring their welfare.
Participants, who must commit a minimum of 40 hours over several days, will receive a KeeperKu certificate when they complete the programme. The registration fee is RM55.
For students pursuing biology, veterinary science or environmental studies, the programme offers an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. For others, it is a chance to develop empathy, responsibility and respect for living things.
Volunteers often describe their time at the zoo as transformative. Some discover new interests in wildlife education or conservation careers while others return year after year simply to reconnect with the animals and the people who care for them.
Zoo Negara believes programmes like KeeperKu play a vital role in strengthening the bond between people and wildlife. By involving the public directly in animal care, the zoo helps participants understand the broader conservation message – that every individual has a role to play in protecting the environment.
Beyond the enclosures, volunteers also assist with education activities and public engagement programmes, such as helping visitors learn about animal behaviour, conservation issues and responsible wildlife practices. This interaction fosters communication skills, confidence and environmental awareness.
KeeperKu participants also become ambassadors for wildlife by spreading messages of conservation to their schools, universities, workplaces and communities.
Malaysia’s rich biodiversity faces increasing challenges from habitat loss due to development and climate change. In this context, every effort to build public understanding matters.
KeeperKu stands as one of the few local programmes that combine education, volunteerism and hands-on conservation in one impactful experience.
By giving Malaysians the opportunity to work alongside professional zookeepers, the programme nurtures a sense of stewardship and belonging by showing that caring for animals is not just the job of experts but a shared responsibility.
The KeeperKu programme is open throughout the year and welcomes participation from individuals, schools, universities and colleges. Those interested can register through Zoo Negara’s official website (www.zoonegaramalaysia.my) or ticketing platform (www.ticket2u.com.my).
Each new volunteer adds another helping hand and another heart to Zoo Negara’s ongoing conservation story.
KeeperKu is an initiative that reminds Malaysians everyone can play a part in protecting the country’s natural heritage. When you care for an animal, you start caring for the planet. At Zoo Negara, that care begins with a pair of willing hands.
Zoo Negara also reminds visitors and volunteers that wildlife conservation does not stop when they leave the zoo. Small everyday actions such as reducing plastic waste, supporting sustainable products, planting native trees and respecting wild habitats can all make a difference.
DR AMALINA SALLEH
and DR LINDA SALIM
Education Department
Zoo Negara Malaysia
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
