by Gabey Goh
DESPITE the hike in fuel prices, Zoo Negara has seen a 10 per cent increase in visitors to date as compared with last year.
"We're keeping a very close eye on the numbers. I believe the rise we have seen in numbers may be due to families having to think of alternatives (given the fuel price hike and other rising costs)," observed Zoo Negara director Dr Mohammed Ngah.
Taking advantage of the situation, Zoo Negara has launched a new promotional campaign which included hosting its first Car Boot sale yesterday at the Picnic Area and Bear Complex from 9am- 12pm.
"Suddenly, a quick weekend trip down to Penang doesn't sound as good as it did before. Also, destinations such as shopping complexes may not appeal to parents who are looking for a less commercialized experience with their children.
"When you go to shopping complexes, you inevitably end up at McDonald's or another fast food place and that is certainly not a healthy option," added Ngah.
Aimed at increasing visits to the zoo, the Car Boot sale will be held on the first Sunday of every month with different themes each time.
The inaugural sale sported the theme “A Day with Artistes" and local artistes such as veteran Zainal Abidin, Faizal (AF4), Ika Nabila (AF6) and Marli Yana (AF6) were there with clothes and accessories from their own collections.
Maestro Records was also present, selling CDs at discount prices.
The proceeds from the sale went to Zoo Negara for the upkeep and welfare of their animals and all the artistes involved were enthusiastic about the event.
"I'm excited to be part of this fundraising event, which will bring in much needed money for the zoo and further ducat the public on wildlife," said Faizal, while taking pictures with many of his young fans.
It was a new experience for Marli and she had so much fun meeting the fans that she plans to do it again.
"I love getting involved in such events. It's good fun and as a spokesperson for Zoo Negara, I'm always happy to lend my support to any venture of theirs," said Zainal Abidin.
Senior customer service executive Mary Tan said the response to the Car Boot Sale was fantastic. "Visitors not only got close to the animals but went away with unique souvenirs from the zoo," she added.
This and other forthcoming promotions are part of a drive by Zoo Negara to reach a target of one million visitors this year.
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