Night safari plan in RM7 million zoo revamp ahead of Visit Johor 2026
The phase 2 redevelopment is aimed at making the zoo a top-tier urban wildlife attraction for Visit Johor Year 2026, with works slated for completion by Dec 15, this year.
State Local Government and Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Jafni Md Shukor said works that began in early May were progressing well. It will elevate the country's oldest zoo into a modern, family-friendly destination with interactive, educational and immersive experiences.
Among the upgrades under Phase 2 are improved animal enclosures, disabled- and stroller-friendly pathways, and the much-anticipated night safari dubbed "Zoo Malam".
Jafni said the night-time zoo experience will allow visitors to observe nocturnal animals in a safe and engaging setting.
"This is more than a facelift. We are reimagining Johor Zoo as a competitive, internationally benchmarked city zoo that celebrates heritage while embracing the future," he told the New Straits Times.
The redevelopment comes on the back of the zoo's impressive performance since its reopening on Aug 31, last year. There have been over 500,000 visitors since its reopening following a four-year closure for major refurbishment.
Spanning 12 hectares, the 96-year-old facility reopened with the support of RM9 million in the first phase redevelopment, with funding from the Johor Baru, Iskandar Puteri and Pasir Gudang city councils.
Jafni said, buoyed by the strong turnout, visitor projections were estimated to surpass 1 million within a year, which is a 150 per cent surge.
It has also driven a sharp revenue increase from RM1.5 million to RM7 million, a milestone that would place the zoo on a self-sustaining path.
"The revitalised city zoo is fast regaining its place as a key tourism draw, setting the stage for further growth ahead of Visit Johor Year 2026.
"The remarkable turnaround was achieved through a people-first approach and upgraded facilities that keep guests coming back," Jafni added.
The zoo's central location in Johor Baru, combined with enhanced accessibility such as e-ticketing systems, shuttle bus services and newly themed zones, has attracted not only local visitors but also tourists from Singapore and beyond.
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