In a statement yesterday, Shamsul said the government, through his ministry, has carried out various initiatives to help operators whose revenues have been affected by the movement control order.

This comes in the wake of reports that Zoo Negara is facing a financial crisis because of the loss of income caused by the third wave of Covid-19 infections, and only has emergency funds to last three months.

The zoo’s operational costs are about RM1 million a month.

Shamsul said his ministry, through the Wildlife and National Parks Department, channelled RM1.3 million to Zoo Negara in June to help with the animals’ food bills.

On top of that, several short-term measures have been put in place, including allocating RM10.2 million to affected zoos and permanent exhibits.

“A total of 21 zoos and permanent exhibits have applied for funds and the money has been channelled in stages since May,” he said.

He said his ministry has held consultations with industry players and the Malaysian Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria to review rules governing their operations under the Wildlife Conservation Act to ensure the sustainability and welfare of the animals.

“A strategy for improvement will be outlined in a new zoo and permanent display model and it will be implemented after they are finalised.

“This is important because their operations do not only require expertise but involve high operational and development costs,” he said.