​​​​​​​Myanmar's oldest zoo marks 120 years of wildlife conservation, education

Yangon: Celebrations marking the 120th anniversary of the Yangon Zoological Gardens, the oldest zoo in Myanmar, began on Saturday. The event drew gene...

Yangon: Celebrations marking the 120th anniversary of the Yangon Zoological Gardens, the oldest zoo in Myanmar, began on Saturday. The event drew generations of visitors, with families and school groups exploring the grounds and reminiscing about cherished childhood memories.

"The zoo is an excellent place for children to observe animals. I visited frequently when I was young, and being here brings back many childhood memories," said Saw Wai Phyo, 30, who came with four family members. "Now my son is seeing the animals, and I want him to learn about them as well."

Hnin Hnin Yi, 61, visited with about 20 relatives to celebrate her grandchild's birthday. She has been coming to the zoo since she was 12 years old.

"The zoo is a pleasant place where we can see a wide variety of animals. I am very happy to celebrate its 120th anniversary and hope it will continue for many more years," she said.

Aung Khant Kyaw, a 25-year-old teacher who visited with about 50 students, highlighted the zoo's educational value.