Dato’ Haji Adnan bin Hussain, Director General of Fisheries today officiated the Launch Ceremony of the New Face of Tunku Abdul Rahman Aquarium (AkuaTAR) at the Fisheries Research Institute (IPP) Batu Maung, Penang
The launch of the new face of AkuaTAR is an effort to increase public awareness on the conservation of the country’s aquatic ecosystem. The improvements implemented include improved aquarium infrastructure, wider exhibition spaces, as well as new technologies in the exhibition that allow visitors to have a deeper understanding of the uniqueness and diversity of Malaysian aquatic species.
AkuaTAR currently houses nearly 123 species of fish in 19 freshwater tanks, six fish tanks banned from imports, 26 marine fish tanks, eight aquatic plant tanks, as well as various preserved specimens and four touch ponds. In addition to the aquatic exhibits, the 40-foot-long Bryde whale skeleton is also one of the main attractions for visitors.
The Director General of Fisheries spent time visiting AkuaTAR to see the various aquatic species on display. The explanation was delivered by the Manager of AkuaTAR, Mr. Kaharudin bin Md Saleh,
The Department of Fisheries Malaysia would like to express its appreciation and gratitude for the allocation for the upgrade of AkuaTAR from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC).
Also present, YBrs. Dr. Annuar bin Mohamed, Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, State of Penang, Dr. Azhar Hamzah Senior Director of IPP Batu Maung, Dr. Kua Beng Chu Senior Deputy Director of IPP, Ms. Zarina Zainuddin, Director of Fisheries of Penang, directors of IPP, officers and staff of IPP.