Pandan Safari Lagoon

Selangor, with its dynamic urban landscapes and thriving communities, holds many stories within its borders. While modern attractions often grab the spotlight, our state is also home to places that, while no longer operational, carry immense historical and nostalgic significance. One such place is the Pandan Safari Lagoon, located in Pandan Perdana, Ampang. Far from being a conventional historical monument of ancient times, Pandan Safari Lagoon stands as a unique kind of historical landmark – a tangible reminder of a bygone era of entertainment and urban development in Selangor.

Opened in 1998, Pandan Safari Lagoon was unlike any other theme park in Malaysia, or indeed, Southeast Asia, at the time. It was famously touted as the country's first and only rooftop water theme park, uniquely situated on the seventh floor of the Pandan Safari Shopping Complex. This ambitious project, costing an estimated RM28 million, was an architectural marvel and a bold vision for integrating leisure into urban spaces. For many locals growing up in Selangor, especially those in the Klang Valley, Safari Lagoon was a cherished destination, a place where countless childhood memories of splashing fun and thrilling rides were made. It was a true "forest in a city," with its safari theme, complete with animal sculptures and lush greenery, providing a refreshing oasis amidst the concrete jungle of Ampang.

However, the story of Pandan Safari Lagoon is also one of challenges and ultimately, closure. Despite its initial popularity, issues such as maintenance concerns and financial constraints began to emerge in the early 2000s. The park's operational status eventually came under scrutiny, and a tragic incident in 2007 involving an employee led to its permanent closure. It was later revealed that the park had been operating without a proper license for several years, a revelation that added a layer of complexity to its already somber end. The shopping complex below continued to function until 2015, but since then, the entire premise, including the water park, has largely been abandoned.

Today, Pandan Safari Lagoon serves as a poignant reminder of our past. It's a "historical landmark" not because of ancient battles or colonial decrees, but because it represents a significant chapter in Selangor's social and recreational history. It evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for those who remember its vibrant days, and for newer generations, it stands as a fascinating testament to ambitious urban planning and the transient nature of entertainment. For locals, understanding the story of Pandan Safari Lagoon offers insights into the evolution of leisure activities in Selangor and the challenges faced by large-scale projects. It’s a place that continues to spark conversations and memories, cementing its place in the collective memory of the state.

While the vibrant splashes and joyful screams have long since faded, the physical remnants of Pandan Safari Lagoon continue to silently tell its tale. Its abandoned structures, visible from parts of the MRR2, are a stark reminder of its former glory and its ultimate fate. For locals, it's a piece of our recent history that, despite its current state, holds a unique significance. This article will delve into the details of this iconic, albeit abandoned, historical landmark, offering a comprehensive look for those in Selangor keen to understand its legacy.

Location and Accessibility

Pandan Safari Lagoon is situated at Pandan Perdana, 55300 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia. This address places it strategically within the bustling district of Ampang, which is part of the broader Klang Valley metropolitan area. The location is easily identifiable by its prominent position along the Kuala Lumpur Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2), a major arterial highway that connects various parts of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. For many who frequently travel on the MRR2, the distinctive structure that once housed the water park, with its visible rooftop elements, remains a familiar sight, albeit in its abandoned state.

Given its location in a well-developed urban area, accessing the site of Pandan Safari Lagoon is relatively straightforward for locals. The area is well-served by an extensive road network. For those driving, it’s highly accessible via the MRR2, with numerous entry and exit points leading to Pandan Perdana. Public transportation options are also available. While there isn't a direct LRT or MRT station immediately adjacent to the former park, the nearest LRT stations on the Ampang Line, such as Pandan Indah or Cempaka, are just a short drive or ride-hailing journey away. RapidKL buses also operate routes through Pandan Perdana, making it reachable for those relying on public transport.

However, it is crucial to emphasize that while the physical location is accessible, Pandan Safari Lagoon is an abandoned property. The site is fenced off, and entry is prohibited for safety and legal reasons. The information provided about its current state, "90% Abandoned since 2015. Nothings much left here," clearly indicates that it is not a functional attraction open to the public. Therefore, accessibility in this context refers to reaching the perimeter of the former complex to observe the historical landmark from a safe and legal distance, rather than entering the premises.

Despite its current state, the location remains a point of interest for those curious about urban decay, historical architecture, and the legacy of ambitious projects. Its visibility from the MRR2 ensures that it continues to be a talked-about landmark for residents of Selangor, a silent monument to a different time in the state's recreational history. The ease of reaching its vicinity contributes to its recognition as a significant, albeit poignant, urban landmark.

Services Offered

It is imperative to state upfront that Pandan Safari Lagoon is an abandoned historical landmark and does not offer any services to the public. Based on the provided information and public knowledge, the theme park ceased operations in 2007 and the entire complex has been "90% Abandoned since 2015." Therefore, there are no active services available for visitors.

In its operational heyday (1998-2007), Pandan Safari Lagoon would have offered services typical of a water theme park, including:

• Water Slides and Attractions: Various water slides, wave pools, and water play areas.
• Ticketing and Admissions: Entry to the park through ticket purchases.
• Food and Beverage Outlets: Stalls or restaurants offering snacks and meals within the park premises.
• Changing Rooms and Lockers: Facilities for visitors to change and store their belongings.
• First Aid Services: On-site medical assistance for minor injuries.
• Lifeguard Services: Trained personnel overseeing safety at water attractions.
• Retail/Souvenir Shops: Selling merchandise related to the park.

However, these services are no longer available. The current state of the property, as described in reviews ("Nothings much left here," "abandoned theme park"), indicates a complete cessation of operations and maintenance. Attempts to enter the premises would be considered trespassing and are highly discouraged due to safety hazards associated with dilapidated structures and potential legal repercussions.

For those interested in the site, its "services" are now limited to serving as a subject for historical contemplation, urban photography (from outside the perimeter), and a topic of discussion among locals who recall its past. It stands as a testament to the cycles of urban development and change, offering a unique, albeit melancholic, educational experience by its very presence.

Features / Highlights

While Pandan Safari Lagoon is no longer operational, its past features and its current abandoned state contribute to its unique status as a historical landmark in Selangor. Its highlights are now a blend of nostalgic memories and its current, stark reality:

• Malaysia's First Rooftop Water Theme Park: This was its most distinctive feature. Located on the 7th floor of the Pandan Safari Shopping Complex, it was an innovative concept that captivated visitors and set it apart from other theme parks of its time (operated 1998-2007).
• Large Scale for Its Era: Reportedly covering 120,000 square feet and costing RM28 million, it was once hailed as the third largest theme park in Southeast Asia. This scale made it a significant recreational destination in the Klang Valley.
• Safari Theme and Landscaping: The park was themed to mimic a tropical oasis or safari, featuring animal sculptures (like the iconic giraffe visible from the MRR2) and lush greenery. This immersive environment provided a unique escape within the city.
• Variety of Water Attractions (Historically): In its operational years, it offered a range of water slides, wave pools (including a massive one that mimicked ocean tides), and play areas, catering to families and thrill-seekers alike.
• Prominent Urban Landmark: Even in its abandoned state, the structure housing the former water park remains a highly visible landmark along the MRR2, constantly reminding passersby of its past. Its distinctive rooftop elements are still recognizable.
• Subject of Urban Exploration and Photography: For enthusiasts of urban exploration and photography (strictly from outside the perimeter, as entry is prohibited), the abandoned park offers a compelling subject, showcasing the effects of time and neglect on a once-vibrant space.
• Symbol of Nostalgia: For many locals in Selangor who visited during its operating years, Pandan Safari Lagoon serves as a powerful symbol of childhood memories and a bygone era of entertainment in the state. It evokes a strong sense of nostalgia and is a frequent topic of discussion in local forums about abandoned places.
• A Lesson in Urban Development and Sustainability: Its history, from ambitious construction to unfortunate closure due to operational and licensing issues, provides a historical case study in urban planning, theme park management, and the complexities of large-scale commercial ventures.

These features highlight Pandan Safari Lagoon not as a place to visit for entertainment today, but as a significant historical artifact that tells a compelling story about Selangor's modern history.

Promotions or Special Offers

As an abandoned historical landmark that has ceased operations since 2007 and is "90% Abandoned since 2015," Pandan Safari Lagoon does not offer any promotions or special offers. There are no tickets to purchase, no services to acquire, and no events to attend. The concept of promotions is entirely irrelevant to its current status.

In its active years (1998-2007), like any theme park, it would have offered various promotions to attract visitors, such as:

• Seasonal Discounts: Lower prices during off-peak seasons or school holidays.
• Group Packages: Reduced rates for large groups, school trips, or corporate outings.
• Annual Passes: Unlimited entry for a fixed period at a special rate.
• Combo Tickets: Bundled entry with other attractions or mall discounts.
• Birthday Promotions: Special offers for visitors celebrating their birthdays.

However, these are historical facts of its operational period and hold no relevance today. The primary "offer" of Pandan Safari Lagoon now is its silent, contemplative presence as a historical reminder of a significant period in Selangor's development. For those interested in urban decay or the history of recreational spaces, its visual presence from the public roads is the only form of "access" and it comes at no cost.

It is crucial for locals to understand that attempting to access the abandoned premises would be illegal and dangerous, due to the dilapidated state of the structures and the risk of injury. Therefore, there are no safe or legitimate "offers" for engaging with the site beyond observing it from a distance.

Contact Information

As Pandan Safari Lagoon is an abandoned historical landmark and no longer operational, there is no active public contact information for the site itself, nor for any services it might have once offered. The previous management or operating company is no longer actively managing the site for public access or business purposes.

Address:

Pandan Perdana, 55300 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia

This address represents the physical location of the former theme park. It is important to note that this is a static address for a non-operational entity. Visitors should use this address for navigation to the general vicinity if they wish to observe the external structure from public areas.

Phone:

There is no public phone number for Pandan Safari Lagoon as an active business. Any historical phone numbers found online would be defunct. Inquiries about the property's future or its current ownership would need to be directed to:

• Local Authorities: The Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) might hold records regarding the property, its permits, and any ongoing plans for its redevelopment. Their general inquiry lines or property department would be the relevant contact point for official information.
• Property Owners/Developers: Public records from the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) or land office might provide information on the current owners of the complex. Recent reports indicate that the mall and water theme park were acquired by Ingenieur Gudang Bhd (IGB) in 2022 for RM9.07 million. Any future plans or formal contact would likely come through this entity.

For casual interest or historical research, online urban exploration communities or historical archives related to Selangor's development might also offer insights, but not direct contact with the site. Locals are strongly advised against attempting to contact old numbers or attempting to enter the abandoned premises, as it is unsafe and illegal.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Pandan Safari Lagoon, despite its abandoned state, holds a unique and significant place in the collective memory and urban landscape of Selangor, making it remarkably suitable for locals – not as a recreational venue, but as a compelling historical landmark and a subject of local heritage. For residents of Selangor, particularly those in the Klang Valley, this site offers a rich tapestry of nostalgia, a tangible connection to their past, and a unique perspective on urban development.

Firstly, for many older and middle-aged locals, Pandan Safari Lagoon evokes powerful feelings of nostalgia. It was a place of joy, excitement, and cherished childhood memories. Seeing its current state can be a poignant experience, serving as a reminder of how much Selangor has changed and developed. It sparks conversations about personal experiences, shared histories, and the evolution of entertainment in our state. This collective memory makes it a significant, albeit informal, heritage site for the community.

Secondly, the story of Pandan Safari Lagoon offers valuable lessons in urban development and the complexities of large-scale projects. Its ambitious concept, initial popularity, and eventual downfall due to licensing issues and a tragic accident, provide a real-world case study for locals interested in the history of infrastructure and planning within Selangor. It highlights the challenges involved in maintaining such large-scale facilities and the importance of regulatory oversight, offering a deeper understanding of the urban environment we inhabit.

Furthermore, for those interested in urban exploration, architecture, or photography, the exterior of the Pandan Safari Lagoon complex presents a unique subject. While access to the abandoned interior is strictly prohibited and dangerous, observing the external structure from public vantage points offers a fascinating glimpse into a deserted world. It serves as a stark visual representation of urban decay and the transient nature of human endeavors, prompting reflection on time and change.

Lastly, Pandan Safari Lagoon remains a significant landmark due to its prominent location along the MRR2. Its distinctive structure is a constant, albeit silent, presence in the daily lives of many Selangorians. This visibility ensures that its story and its legacy continue to be part of the local consciousness. It’s a point of reference, a topic of conversation, and a unique element of Selangor’s modern historical fabric.

In conclusion, while you cannot visit Pandan Safari Lagoon for a day of fun and thrills anymore, its value as a historical landmark for locals is undeniable. It stands as a powerful symbol of Selangor's past, a trigger for nostalgia, and a silent teacher about urban development. It invites locals to reflect on their own memories, understand the trajectory of their state's growth, and appreciate the hidden histories that lie within our familiar landscapes.

Pandan Safari Lagoon

Pandan Perdana, 55300 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia