GEORGE TOWN: Operators of parks and outdoor attractions in Penang have expressed hopes that the government will allow them to reopen as their facilities do not pose a threat to visitors’ health and safety in managing Covid-19.

       Penang Bird Park director Dr Gino Ooi said they were keen to reopen to the public as the park’s environment is considered safe.

       “Our workers adhere to the standard operating procedure and they will also keep an eye on the number of visitors.

       “Given that it is not an enclosed area, visitors to the park will not come into close contact with each other or with the staff.

       “Technically, it is safer than visiting a public park as there is no one walking around,” he said.

       Ooi said since the park in Seberang Jaya closed in May due to the lockdown, the park has had zero income.

       “We have 3,000 birds of 300 species which need to be cared for and fed.

       “It takes 18 workers to do that and we are still operating at full force right now to ensure the birds are cared for,” he said.

       Escape theme park chief executive officer Sim Choo Kheng said he has always maintained that his park was not a threat as the risk was less outdoors.

       He pointed out that the park was not a confined space and has no issues with air circulation.

       “We have 11.7 hectares of space; even if we get 1,000 people, it is still a vast amount of space.

       “Half of our park is waterplay and with the use of disinfected water, there are no viruses.

       “Supermarkets are much smaller than us in terms of space and they are allowed to operate.

       “I understand the need for essential services but what about mental health? People need balance in their lives,” he said.

       Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm chief executive officer Joseph Goh has been keeping tabs on the situation in the country to see if the farm should reopen.

       “Our plan is to observe and only if it is feasible, to reopen.

       “We have been through a cycle of opening and closing multiple times since last year and it has been taxing.

       “We need two weeks to a month to build up the population before we reopen and then if it is shut again, it will be difficult to maintain,” he said.

       For now, he said, they intended to stick to their earlier announcement of being temporarily closed until Dec 31 this year.