PUTRAJAYA, April 19 — The giant panda pair, Fu Wa and Feng Yi, currently housed at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre (GPCC) in Zoo Negara, will be sent back to China next month.
The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Ministry said the repatriation follows a new agreement between Malaysia and China, allowing Malaysia to host a new pair of giant pandas for a period of ten years, starting this year until 2035.
The agreement was signed during the three-day state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Malaysia from April 16.
"As part of the preparations, Fu Wa and Feng Yi began their quarantine on April 18 at the GPCC to ensure they are in optimal health, comply with international permit requirements, and undergo crate training to familiarise themselves with the journey from Malaysia to China," it said in a statement today.
During the quarantine period, visitors will no longer be able to view Fu Wa and Feng Yi up close, but they will still be able to view them from the GPCC’s learning centre at designated times.
Previously, three offspring born to Fu Wa and Feng Yi — Nuan Nuan, Yi Yi, and Sheng Yi — were repatriated to China on November 14, 2017 and August 29, 2023, respectively.
To commemorate Fu Wa and Feng Yi’s presence in Malaysia since their arrival on May 21, 2014, Zoo Negara has planned various programmes throughout the quarantine period.
These include a Farewell Message Board, sessions with panda keepers, documentary screenings, and writing and drawing competitions.
Visitors may obtain further information on these programmes through Zoo Negara’s official website and social media platforms.
Zoo Negara will also take the opportunity to upgrade facilities and exhibits at the GPCC in preparation for the arrival of the new panda pair, expected in August.
“The Giant Panda cooperation is a symbol of the strong friendship between Malaysia and China in promoting conservation diplomacy.
“It also reflects the values of Malaysia Madani — sustainability, compassion and cooperation – in striving for a more prosperous and environmentally responsible future,” said NRES.
The Malaysian public is encouraged to visit Zoo Negara to show appreciation for Fu Wa and Feng Yi and participate in the planned farewell activities.
— Bernama
