KUALA LUMPUR: Zoo Melaka faced widespread criticism from both netizens and zoo visitors after a video of its emaciated and listless tiger went viral.
The approximately two-minute video raised concerns about the animal's apparent malnourishment, suggesting potential neglect in its feeding and care by the zoo's management.
The video posted by user @cikyumie0 gained 131,000 views and counting since it was posted yesterday on TikTok.
In her caption, she expressed, "At Zoo Melaka today. I'm unsure why the animals seem extremely agitated, constantly pacing without rest.
"They appear to be hungry. The white tiger looks alarmingly skinny. I hope they are all well."
Meanwhile, other netizens who viewed the video echoed the user's concerns.
Criticisms also centered on the high ticket prices alongside the perceived lack of adequate care provided to the animals housed within the zoo.
@Azlynda recounted her experience at Zoo Melaka, expressing sorrow over encountering severely skinny tigers.
"I've been to Zoo Melaka before; it's sad to see the tigers extremely skinny. They were all lying down, breathing rapidly. I couldn't bear to stay longer and left immediately."
Similarly, @kinn highlighted the financial challenge of expensive tickets, preventing even locals from visiting the zoo
"Tickets are expensive, and even we, the people of Melaka, can't afford to go... But it's heartbreaking to see the tigers so skinny."
Meanwhile @kayuarang suggested an ongoing issue, stating concern over a white tiger's prolonged restlessness.
"I think this white tiger has been like this for a long time, pacing back and forth like this. It's been a problem for a long time."
The New Straits Times (NST) has reached out to Zoo Melaka and in response, the zoo authorities said they would issue a formal statement regarding the matter.