Businessman's passion for animals transforms into petting zoo in Hulu Terengganu
Zakaria's fascination with animals began modestly, with just a few species like ostriches kept for personal enjoyment and solace.
KUALA BERANG - Starting with a simple passion for caring for animals, the journey of businessman Datuk Seri Zakaria Abdul Razak took an extraordinary turn when he decided to share his love for wildlife with the public by opening a zoo in Kampung Dusun, nestled within the scenic Hulu Terengganu district.
Zakaria's fascination with animals began modestly, with just a few species like ostriches kept for personal enjoyment and solace.
However, as he nurtured his growing menagerie, he found himself increasingly drawn to the tranquility and joy that caring for animals brought into his life and with each new addition to his collection, the costs of feeding and maintaining them mounted, presenting him with both challenges and opportunities.
"It started as a therapeutic endeavor for me, but as I expanded my collection, I realised that I could turn my passion into something greater - a platform for the public to not only appreciate but also learn about these wonderful creatures, " he said when met at Rimba Razia Petting Zoo yesterday.
Spanning over one hectare, Zakaria said this sanctuary is home to more than 400 animals, among them, kangaroos, alpacas, camels, donkeys, capybaras, civets and raccoons sourced from Europe, Japan, Thailand and Australia.
In addition, his zoo also accommodates various types of reptiles and bird species that are easy to care for and appeal to visitors.
To facilitate the zoo's operations, he has appointed a team of 20 employees, including a veterinarian, to monitor the animals' health on-site.
Since opening its doors last July, the zoo has attracted locals and tourists alike, drawing crowds of 1,000 to 2,000 visitors daily.
Rather than focusing solely on increasing visitor numbers, Zakaria’s priority lies in ensuring the sustainability of the zoo's operations.
"Success isn't measured by hitting specific targets but by achieving a balance where ticket sales cover the costs of caring for the animals and maintaining the facility,” he said.
In addition to personal fulfillment, Zakaria aims for the zoo to enhance Terengganu's tourism industry and uplift the local economy, particularly in the nearby areas.
Apart from the visitor-friendly environment at the zoo, Zakaria has expanded its offerings with additional on-site facilities, where visitors can enjoy paintball games and ATV activities, adding excitement and entertainment to their zoo experience.
"The entrance fee for adults is RM20, while senior citizens and children pay RM15 each. Children under 90 centimetres tall and persons with disabilities (OKU) enter for free.
"The zoo operates six days a week, from 12.30pm to 2.30pm and it is closed every Tuesday to conduct thorough cleaning and maintenance activities,” he added. - BERNAMA
