From Asia One.
S'pore favourite Orang Utan, Ah Meng dies
Ah Meng will be reposed at the Zoo's Garden with
a View from 9-11am on Feb 10 where the public can visit her for the
last time. -ST
Fri, Feb 08, 2008
The Straits Times
THE Singapore Zoo's most famous and well-loved
Orang Utan, Ah Meng has passed away on Friday due to old age. She
was approximately 50 years old.
She was born in Sumatra, Indonesia around 1960 and came to the
Zoo when she was about seven years old.
In 1982, Ah Meng's big break came when she became the star
attraction of the Zoo's 'Breakfast with an Orang Utan'
programme.
The loveable Orang Utan rose to fame quickly, and has been
featured in numerous travel films and print articles.
In 1992, Ah Meng became the first and only non-human recipient
of the Singapore Toursim Promotion Board's (STB) Special Ambassador
award for her contributions.
In her lifetime, Ah Meng has also rubbed shoulders with foreign
dignitaries and famous celebrities including Prince Philip and
Michael Jackson.
The Zoo's curator, Mr Alagappasamy or Sam has taken care of Ah
Meng since she first came to the Zoo is extremely saddened by her
departure and though it may 'take a long time' for him to adjust
not having her around, he is 'very happy to have had the
opportunity to take care of Ah Meng and her family all these
years'.
Group CEO of Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Ms Fanny Lai said: 'We
mourn the passing of Ah Meng. She has touched the hearts of
everyone who has met her and contributed immensely in helping
promote awareness of how each and every one of us can play a role
in anti-poaching, anti-deforestation and conservation matters'.
Ah Meng leaves behind two sons Hsing Hsing, Satria, and two
daughers, Medan and Sayang and six grandchildren.
She will be reposed at the Zoo's Garden with a View from 9-11am
on Feb 10 where the public can visit her for the last time. Her
memorial service will take place shortly after at 11am.
