SIBURAN: The ecotourism sectors in Sarawak are among those hit hardest by the Covid-19 pandemic.
As such, locals alone could play an important role in supporting this industry.
Before the state was hit with the nationwide movement control order (MCO) enforced on March 18, Jong’s Crocodile Farm and Zoo recorded between 6,000 and 9,000 visitors monthly.
However, after months of closure and its reopening on June 11 during the recovery MCO (RMCO), the farm only recorded 800 visitors that month; 2000 in July; and 90 as of August 8.
Speaking to New Sarawak Tribune on Saturday, the farm’s manager Teoh Yia Qing said the pandemic has significantly affected the farm’s business since March, and she hopes it could recover soon.
“When we just started to reopen during the RMCO, there was one time where we had only two visitors — unlike before, during weekends we can receive up to 500 visitors and between 50 and 100 visitors in a day on weekdays,” she said.
She said as now only Sarawakians and those from Malaya could visit the farm, she hoped it could help boost business.
“When locals and tourists come to visit, not only does it boost the ecotourism industry, at the same time it also helps to pay staff salaries and cover other expenses.
“There are more than 1,000 crocodiles and more than 30 other animals in this farm. Thus, when there are visitors and income is generated, it will also be used to buy food for the animals,” she said.
She added a tonne of chicken meat was required to feed all the crocodiles in the farm.
“To ensure the safety of its staff and visitors, all standard operating procedures (SOPs) have been set, and the whole area is disinfected before and after operation daily, while the sitting area is disinfected in every two hours,” she said.
Due to public safety and the SOPs set, Teoh said the farm is only limited to 100 visitors a day.
“It is understandable that people are still scared to come out to public places. But the farm is big and allows social distancing, so the public don’t need to worry when coming here.
“Of course, they must make sure they are healthy and use face masks at all times to keep themselves and those around them safe,” she said.
Jong’s Crocodile Farm and Zoo is offering a special entrance rate of only RM14 per adult and free entry for children below the age of 12.
Operating hours are from 9am to 5pm daily and crocodile feeding demonstrations are at 11am and 3pm daily.
