The Gospel According to Ah Meng: Conservation, Celebrity, and the Singapore Story

Abstract This essay reflects on the story of probably world’s most famous captive orangutan, Ah Meng, who died in 2008 but has since been “replaced” by her granddaughter, Ishta, took over as “new face” Singapore Zoo 2016. Meng’s is interesting for what it conceals and reveals, including recent history wildlife trafficking Southeast Asia, which – despite its conservationist credentials acts an important hub. rescue rehabilitation also raises questions about Story, popular name given to heroic narrative historical survival economic development associated with Singapore’s ruling party, PAP (People’s Action Party), especially former leader, Lee Kuan Yew. considers extent Meng more than just a national ambassador animal or global conservation icon, multifaceted figure progress unevenly developed capitalist world order insists playing leading part.