Penang: A pair of alpacas – Benny and Jenny – have become the Mini Zoo Utara’s main attraction at the ongoing Pesta Pulau Pinang 2024/2025, held at Tapak Pesta Sungai Nibong, near here. Donning sunglasses, the duo from Australia captivated visitors of all ages, drawing crowds eager to take photos and feed them, making the alpacas a hit among both children and adults.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, their owner, Alim Jefferi Abdullah Aziz, 40, stated that this is the first time the mini zoo has participated in the festival, marking the largest event his team has been involved in, under the theme ‘Alpaca and Friends’. In addition to the alpacas, the event features nearly 70 species of animals, including raccoons, parrots, iguanas, snakes, and the world’s smallest goats, all of which have been brought in from overseas.
Alim Jefferi explained that the theme ‘Alpaca and Friends’ was chosen because alpacas are a rare sight in Penang. The aim is to give visitors, especially locals, the opportunity to get up close and personal with these animals. Typically, seeing an alpaca would require a trip to Cameron Highlands or a zoo, but for Pesta Pulau Pinang, alpacas have been brought here. Visitors not only get to see and touch them but can also take pictures with them and other animals.
He mentioned that the entrance fee is RM10 for adults and RM8 for children, with free admission for children under two years old and individuals with disabilities. Visitors can enjoy the mini zoo without any time restrictions. Apart from showcasing the animals, his team provides educational information about the various species, supported by six dedicated staff members to enhance the visitor experience.
Since its opening on Dec 21, the mini zoo has enjoyed an overwhelming response, attracting a steady stream of visitors from its 5.30 pm opening until late at night. The mini zoo will be present until Feb 2, warmly welcoming anyone interested in exploring exotic animals.
Meanwhile, a visitor, M. Keethanjali, 29, expressed intrigue by the animals at the mini zoo, as many of them are rarely seen. Visiting with a friend who is an animal lover, Keethanjali shared feelings of excitement and enjoyment from seeing the different animals, having traveled from Sungai Petani, Kedah.