BY NURI AFIE LIAN
BINTULU: Taman Tumbina here is a unique place to visit as it has both a botanical garden and a zoo.
According to Taman Tumbina assistant curator Alissee Sherrylin Bagol, the park has a variety of plants and animals that are synonymous with Sarawak.
“Taman Tumbina covers an area of about 57 hectares, including hilly terrain.
“Apart from animals indigenous to Sarawak, Taman Tumbina is also the only park in Sarawak that keeps flamingos.
“The word ‘tumbina’ is the result of a combination of the abbreviations for ‘tumbuhan’ (plants) and ‘binatang’ (animals).”
Alissee added that for the time being, no entrance fee would be charged until further notice.
She said response from the local communities was extremely positive, especially during weekends and school holidays.
“In fact, Taman Tumbina is also a place for people to exercise, jog and jungle trek.
“During the school holidays in November and December last year, Taman Tumbina received around 10,000 visitors.
“I personally met some of them and they were delighted with the improvements we have made like the addition of a koi fish pond and music playing along the park trail.”
Alissee hoped that when the country’s borders reopen, Taman Tumbina would be able to welcome tourists.
Among the animals found here are the various species of hornbills, a collection of parrots, monkeys and crocodiles.
The plants, among others, comprised various species of orchid, bougainvillea and cactus.
Taman Tumbina also has some new attractions such as a plant sales centre, flamingo lake and also kelulut honey for sale, obtained from its kelulut orchards.
