Zoo Negara is planning to add two new attractions – Komodo dragons and birds of paradise – to enrich its existing animal collection and draw more local and international visitors.
Deputy president Rosly Lana said the proposal is still in its early stages and will require formal negotiations between the Malaysian and Indonesian governments, as it involves cross-border arrangements.
“We have to apply through the Malaysian government, and approval must also come from Indonesia. The discussions are still ongoing,” he told FMT, commenting on the national zoo’s plans to expand its attractions after the return of the giant pandas to China two years ago.
Komodo dragons – Indonesia’s giant lizards – are the world’s largest living lizard species. They are found only on Komodo, Rinca, Flores, and several smaller islands in eastern Indonesia.
These apex predators can grow to more than 3m in length and weigh over 70kg. Their arrival is expected to add both educational and conservation value, giving visitors greater insight into the ecosystem of these ancient reptiles.
Birds of paradise, meanwhile, are famed for their brilliant plumage and spectacular courtship displays, earning them the nickname “birds of heaven”. The species is native to Papua and the Maluku Islands, and is widely regarded as a symbol of Indonesia’s natural beauty.
Zoo Negara currently houses more than 4,000 animals representing over 300 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish from Malaysia and abroad. Among its key attractions are the Malayan tiger, hippopotamus, giraffe, tapir, African lion, and a diverse collection of tropical birds.
The national zoo also served as a “second home” for two giant pandas from China – Fu Wa and Feng Yi – for 11 years beginning in May 2014, before they returned to China in May this year.
The pandas were loaned under the Giant Panda Conservation Programme, an agreement signed between Malaysia and China to mark the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
