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The Star
12 hours ago
- General
- The Star
Not just cool pets: Why owning a reptile requires commitment and hard work
It was love at first sight for Ooi Kang Shen. While reptiles may seem like an unusual – even daunting – choice of pet for most Malaysian households, the Johor-based engineer was instantly captivated by their appearance and behaviour, particularly tortoises. 'They look special and unique to me, with different patterns on their shells. Plus, they require a different kind of care compared to common pets like cats and dogs,' says Ooi. Far from riding on the pet reptile bandwagon or making an impulse purchase – which is often the case with cute hatchlings like red-eared sliders or baby lizards –Ooi's involvement in reptile-keeping was intentional and well- researched. 'I did all my research and homework well in advance regarding their basic needs before committing to having them,' says the 30-year-old, who has cared for his pet tortoises – an Aldabra, a red-foot and a star tortoise – for over five years. Before bringing his tortoises home, Ooi made sure to thoroughly research their basic needs. — OOI KANG SHEN As tortoises are not a common choice for pets in Malaysia compared to cats or dogs, Ooi notes that reliable care information is considerably limited. 'I had to rely on information from other countries where there's a larger population of reptile pet owners,' he says, adding that he frequently watches YouTube channels such as Kamp Kenan and Garden State Tortoise for guidance. Based on what he has learned, Ooi lets his tortoises roam freely in his garden, grazing on grass and nibbling on cactus, mulberry and hibiscus plants, which he has purposefully planted for these animals with hard, rounded shell. Ooi says his tortoises are attached to him. Photo: OOI KANG SHEN Reality check Dr Nur Asyikin Haron, a veterinarian at Exopet Veterinary Clinic in Skudai, Johor, also understands the predicament of not having enough local information about caring for reptile pets. With a decade of experience under her belt – five years at the University Veterinary Hospital in Universiti Putra Malaysia and another five at her current clinic which she co-founded – she specialises in exotic animals, including reptiles. 'When I first started, there were very limited references – a few books and some articles or research papers on reptile medicine,' she recalls, adding that there were also very few vets treating reptiles, as they were not commonly kept as pets, compared to mammals. Fortunately, she notes, more resources are now available as the field continues to grow. Despite the common misconception that they're low- maintenance, Nur Asyikin says reptiles have highly specific needs – dietary, environmental and behavioural. 'Reptiles are not beginner- friendly pets. They have specific and often complex husbandry requirements,' she stresses. She adds, 'They are also masters at hiding signs of illness, so by the time owners seek veterinary care, the condition is often already advanced or critical.' Because of this, Ooi makes it a point to monitor his tortoises closely for any unusual behaviour – reduced appetite, excessive naps, decreased movement or droopy eyelids, among others. 'When these symptoms happen, I'll immediately get them treated,' he says, adding that it was initially challenging to find a vet who treats exotic animals like his tortoises. As he believes caring for a pet is a huge commitment, Ooi routinely takes his pets for check-ups. 'I want to make sure that my pets are healthy and I did not want to miss any sign of illness.' Nur Asyikin with a rescued bearded dragon. Photo: Dr NUR ASYIKIN HARON Misconceptions debunked One of the most common medical conditions Nur Asyikin encounters in pet reptiles is Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). This is a serious illness caused by poor nutrition and lack of ultraviolet-B (UVB) exposure. This condition, she says, is especially prevalent among tortoises and turtles kept indoors, without proper lighting. 'UVB light enables reptiles to synthesise vitamin D3, which helps in absorbing calcium. Without this, their bones will grow weak,' she explains. 'It's an entirely preventable condition, but sadly, it is very common. Proper education on their basic needs could help reduce many of the cases we see.' Nur Asyikin points out that part of the problem stems from how reptiles are perceived and sold. She cites red-eared sliders as a common example. The small turtle, recognisable by the distinctive red mark on each side of its head, is one of the most popular pet reptiles in Malaysia, particularly among children and first-time owners. Unfortunately, they're often marketed as cheap and low- maintenance. Ooi's tortoises roam freely in his home garden in Johor Bahru. Photo: OOI KANG SHEN 'They're cute when they're small, so many people buy them without realising they can grow up to 30cm, live for 20 to 30 years and require extensive care – like a filtered tank, basking area and UV lighting,' she says. Dr Nur Asyikin adds that treating reptiles involves a unique set of challenges, unlike cats and dogs. 'Even basic things like blood tests are not straightforward,' she says. 'Their blood has to be analysed manually, which takes time. And collecting a sample is tricky – their veins aren't visible, and sometimes we even need to sedate them just to get it.' Imaging also poses difficulties. 'For tortoises and turtles, their shells can block internal organs from view on X-rays. Computed tomography (CT) scans give better results, but they're costly and that is not always an option for pet owners.' Medication access is another ongoing issue. 'There are fewer drugs available for reptiles here and getting new ones to be approved takes time,' she notes. 'And then there's the insurance gap. Most pet insurance in Malaysia only covers cats and dogs. I really hope exotic pets will be included one day, so owners can access proper veterinary care without financial strain,' says the veterinarian, who also holds a Master's degree in Equine Medicine. Tips to care for a reptile. Photo: StarGraphics Beyond the scales and shells What about the perception that reptiles are emotionless and even scary? Ooi is quick to dispel the myth. 'My pet tortoises act like dogs. They come to me when I wave and follow me around the garden,' he says. 'Once you interact with them long enough, they develop an attachment to you and they show it. Like other animals, they have feelings too.' He treats them like any other cherished family pet. When he travels, he leaves them with trusted friends or checks them into a reptile-friendly pet hotel. 'They're part of the family now. Even my parents have grown fond of them. They were shocked at first, but now, they're inseparable.' Nur Asyikin shares this appreciation for reptiles, though from a professional perspective. Wearing two hats – as veterinarian and pet shop co-owner – she sees her role as one of both caregiver and educator. 'We work closely with pet owners right from the start – advising on feeding, habitat setup and long-term care. That early guidance often prevents many of the problems we later see in the clinic,' she says. Dr Nur Asyikin keeps four rescued cats and a bearded dragon named Zuko, a clinic rescue that now greets visitors from the waiting area. While reptiles may not be cuddly, she finds caring for them equally rewarding, though more high-maintenance. 'You really need to understand their biology and behaviour,' she says, noting that caring for reptiles involves daily food preparation and a carefully controlled environment. 'I love reptiles and furry pets. But I appreciate the calm and fascinating nature of reptiles: there's something therapeutic about watching them.' With reptile ownership steadily increasing in Malaysia, both Ooi and Nur Asyikin hope that prospective owners take the responsibility seriously. 'It's a long-term commitment,' Nur Asyikin stresses. 'You need to research thoroughly, understand the species' needs, and be fully prepared for the journey ahead.'
Barnama
29-07-2025
- Automotive
- Barnama
Sun Bus Tech Targets Completion Of 310 Rapid KL Buses By February 2026
BUSINESS By Hasnah Jusid JOHOR BAHRU, July 29 (Bernama) -- Johor-based bus body manufacturer, Sun Bus Tech Sdn Bhd aims to complete 310 Rapid KL buses under a local assembly (Completely Knocked Down-CKD) project with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd by February 2026. Sun Bus Tech chief executive officer Shyan Phang said the project marks a major strategic shift for the company, moving from an export-heavy operation to one with significant domestic focus, in line with government policies to strengthen local assembly and industrial capacity. 'This is our first large-scale domestic project and currently takes up almost 100 per cent of our production capacity, with a target of producing 50 units per month,' she told Bernama during a visit to the company's plant here. The first batch of 10 buses was delivered last month, followed by another 15 units this week. Starting next month, the company will ramp up its deliveries to 40 to 50 units per month, she said. She added that the project is also opening up employment opportunities for locals, as the company works to build a sustainable workforce with local talent. 'We're working closely with TVET institutions in Johor as well as the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) to recruit and train more Malaysians. Our target is to achieve a 90 per cent local workforce in the near future,' she said. Sun Bus Tech is one of the companies that have responded to the Johor state government's call to raise salary levels and develop a future-ready workforce. The company now offers a premium starting salary of RM4,000 for skilled workers.
Barnama
28-07-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Value Store Operator Eco-Shop Posts Higher Earnings, Revenue In FY2025
BUSINESS KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 (Bernama) -- Eco-Shop Marketing Bhd recorded a net profit of RM204.32 million for its financial year ended May 31, 2025 (FY2025), from RM177.28 million a year earlier. The Johor-based dollar-store chain stated that the improved net profit was achieved despite higher operating costs arising from its expanded store network and the implementation of minimum wage policies. Revenue for the year also strengthened to RM2.79 billion against RM2.40 billion, underpinned by the net addition of 74 new stores during the financial year. 'Same-store sales growth (SSSG) recorded a marginal decline of 0.4 per cent, reflecting normalisation in consumer spending at mature outlets, partly attributed to product availability challenges,' the group said in a Bursa Malaysia filing today. The number of sales transactions increased 21.6 per cent to 114.8 million in FY2025. For the fourth quarter, the retailer recorded a net profit of RM49.41 million against RM63.27 million year-on-year. Revenue for the quarter, however, rose to RM688.98 million against RM640.67 million a year earlier, primarily driven by the continued expansion of the group's store network, with the net addition of 22 new stores in the quarter versus 19 in the fourth quarter of 2024. The total store count increased to 371 stores in the fourth quarter of 2025 from 297 in the fourth quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, the company declared an interim single-tier dividend of 1.0 sen per ordinary share or approximately RM57.5 million in respect of FY2025, to be paid on Aug 26, 2025. The entitlement date for the dividend falls on Aug 12, 2025. According to the filing, the number of sales transactions increased 12.4 per cent to 28.9 million in the fourth quarter of FY2025.
New Straits Times
28-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Value store operator Eco-Shop posts higher earnings, revenue in FY25
KUALA LUMPUR: Eco-Shop Marketing Bhd recorded a net profit of RM204.32 million for its financial year ended May 31, 2025 (FY2025), from RM177.28 million a year earlier. The Johor-based dollar-store chain stated that the improved net profit was achieved despite higher operating costs arising from its expanded store network and the implementation of minimum wage policies. Revenue for the year also strengthened to RM2.79 billion against RM2.40 billion, underpinned by the net addition of 74 new stores during the financial year. "Same-store sales growth (SSSG) recorded a marginal decline of 0.4 per cent, reflecting normalisation in consumer spending at mature outlets, partly attributed to product availability challenges," the group said in a Bursa Malaysia filing today. The number of sales transactions increased 21.6 per cent to 114.8 million in FY2025. For the fourth quarter, the retailer recorded a net profit of RM49.41 million against RM63.27 million year-on-year. Revenue for the quarter, however, rose to RM688.98 million against RM640.67 million a year earlier, primarily driven by the continued expansion of the group's store network, with the net addition of 22 new stores in the quarter versus 19 in the fourth quarter of 2024. The total store count increased to 371 stores in the fourth quarter of 2025 from 297 in the fourth quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, the company declared an interim single-tier dividend of 1.0 sen per ordinary share or approximately RM57.5 million in respect of FY2025, to be paid on Aug 26, 2025. The entitlement date for the dividend falls on Aug 12, 2025. According to the filing, the number of sales transactions increased 12.4 per cent to 28.9 million in the fourth quarter of FY2025. "The price increase was effected on April 14, 2025, which raised the selling price of Eco-Shop products to RM2.60 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM2.80 in East Malaysia, contributing to the group's revenue uplift," Eco-Shop said. The group said, as consumer preferences continue to shift toward affordability and convenience, Eco-Shop is well-positioned to scale further and increase its relevance nationwide. "We remain vigilant in managing inflationary and structural cost pressures, including higher electricity tariffs, the expanded Sales and Services Tax, and the 2.0 per cent EPF contribution for foreign workers. "We are strengthening our resilience through supply chain efficiencies, strategic pricing, productivity improvements, and close collaboration with our suppliers," it added. The group said that despite a setback in SSSG, its margins and performance are expected to remain healthy or continue to improve going forward. "Our store network expansion continues to be a key long-term strategy for deeper market penetration. We remain focused on delivering strong, sustainable financial performance over the long term," said Eco-Shop.
The Star
23-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
A sweet hit in New Zealand
JOHOR BARU: Johor is looking to tap into New Zealand's growing interest in tropical fruits from Malaysia, especially the MD2 pineapple variety, as part of efforts to expand its agricultural exports. State agriculture, agro-based industry and rural development committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip said the opportunity arose during a recent working visit to the island nation with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He said he was part of the Malaysian delegation where they met with New Zealand's Agriculture, Forestry, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay at the New Zealand Parliament in Wellington. 'McClay expressed strong interest in Malaysia's halal industry and welcomed closer strategic ties not only in halal certification, but also to position Malaysia as a gateway to the Asean market, which has over 600 million people.' He said McClay was receptive about Malaysian agricultural produce, particularly tropical fruits like pineapples, and had opened the door for investment opportunities for Malaysian companies in New Zealand. Zahari said Ahmad Zahid had suggested that Johor take the lead in seizing the opportunity. 'I will hold discussions with entrepreneurs and relevant agencies to explore this potential further,' he said. Zahari said Johor has 10,558ha of pineapple plantations, producing 347,490 metric tonnes annually, with an estimated value of RM920mil. 'Despite this, our production is still unable to meet the increasing demand from Europe, the Middle East and other international markets,' he said. Zahari also said that during the trip there, he met with a Simpang Renggam-born entrepreneur who has been running a business in New Zealand for about 18 years. 'During the meeting, we discussed the potential for snack products from Johor to get into the New Zealand market.' He said a series of follow-up meetings would be held with government agencies under the Johor Agricultural Export Market Strengthening Committee to explore the opportunity in greater detail. Zahari also highlighted Johor's achievements in the agro-based industry (IAT) sector with the state recording 1,604 registered IAT entrepreneurs last year. 'Johor-based IAT entrepreneurs accounted for 27% of the national total under the Agriculture Department. 'That same year, our IAT sector recorded nearly RM348.2mil in sales, which contributed to 29% of Malaysia's total sales,' he said.
