Nurul Ashikin says companies donate to the sanctuary as part of their CSR initiative.
Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG) is considering allowing companies from nearby industrial areas to adopt crocodiles at Pasir Gudang Estuarine Crocodile Sanctuary in Tanjung Langsat, Johor.
MBPG secretary Nurul Ashikin A. Jabar said this idea was similar to what was practised by zoos in other states, which subsidised the cost of taking care of the animals.
“Adoption is one idea we are considering.
“Currently, the cost of buying food for our crocodiles is covered by donations from companies located in nearby industrial areas.
“They are donating as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative and we hope more will come forward to help feed these crocodiles,” she said.
She added that the main food source for crocodiles was chicken, while hatchlings ate crickets.
When asked about plans to upgrade the sanctuary’s facilities, Nurul Ashikin said the city council had proposed building a new crocodile sanctuary in Kong Kong.
“We have submitted the proposal to Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and are waiting for approval.
“Once we get the green light, we expect development to start next year in phases.
“We will also work with the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) to move these crocodiles from Tanjung Langsat to their new home in Kong Kong,” she said.
She added that the new sanctuary would be located near a swamp and developed to closely resemble the crocodiles’ natural habitat.
“This project is part of our Visit Pasir Gudang Year 2025 agenda, which will be launched on July 25.
“MBPG, through Pasir Gudang Tourism Association, will also work with tourism associations from Singapore and Indonesia to attract more visitors to our city,” said Nurul Ashikin. — By REMAR NORDIN
