The National Zoo will achieve world standards in 2017 once the RM70 million upgrading process is completed.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said that among the agencies involved in the upgrading project are the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID), Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) and National Hydraulics Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM).

"If you look at the changes before as compared to now, there is a clear periodic change. However, there are a number of actions needed to be undertaken by the authoritative bodies," said Wan Junaidi.

He was speaking to the members of the media during a working visit to the National Zoo on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Wan Junaidi also called for a more progressive promotional campaign for the activities as well as interesting exhibits at the zoo especially at the world stage.

"We also have to work closely with the Tourism and Cultural Ministry to ensure the placement of National Zoo brochures at tourism centres around the globe," he added.

On the birth of the baby panda on August 18, Wan Junaidi said the personnel here has successfully created an ideal environment for the pandas to mate.

"There will also be a competition to name the baby panda organised by the ministry together with the National Zoo," said Wan Junaidi.