Wealthy urged to help zoo

Governor Surjadi Soedirdja yesterday encouraged wealthy Jakartans to help the city administration fund Ragunan Zoo in South Jakarta.

"I think it is understandable that I urge Jakarta's wealthy people to participate in developing the zoo," the governor told reporters when he inaugurated a Rp 300 million (US$138,200) enclosure for riding tamed elephants which was donated by Mrs. P. Schmutzer Verteegh.

The governor said that he welcomed any parties who had interests in animals who were willing to donate money to the city zoo on the condition that they must not have a competing interest which might endanger the zoo's wellbeing.

"Just look at Mrs. Schmutzer, she does not have any other interest except her personal satisfaction," he said.

Mrs. Schmutzer has financed the construction of enclosures for tigers, lions and honey bears at the zoo.

The new 800-square-meter enclosure is built on 1,500 square meters of land. The enclosure will house elephants named Ratih and Mustika, both from Lampung.

Mrs. Schmutzer said that many of the zoo's animals still lack proper cages, and asked Jakartans to "open your hearts and purses." (03)