Malaysia is set to welcome a new pair of giant pandas, Chen Xing and Xiao Yue, who are arriving today for a 10-year stay at Zoo Negara, reinforcing the long-standing “panda diplomacy” between Malaysia and China.
The specially arranged flight is scheduled to depart from Sichuan’s Shuangliu Airport at 3:45 pm, according to The Star. The China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda has confirmed the transfer of the two young pandas.
Chen Xing, a male born in August 2020, is described as lively and energetic, with a love for climbing, while Xiao Yue, a female born in September 2020, is known for her gentler, more composed personality and her fondness for food.
After undergoing health checks and clearance, the pandas are expected to arrive at Zoo Negara after 9:30 pm. They will enter a mandatory quarantine period before being introduced to the public early next year.
Their arrival marks the start of a new 10-year panda conservation agreement, renewed during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit in April. The agreement continues both nations’ commitment to wildlife conservation and diplomatic ties.
Chen Xing and Xiao Yue follow the successful 11-year stay of Fu Wa and Feng Yi (locally known as Xing Xing and Liang Liang), who won the hearts of Malaysians and produced three cubs — Nuan Nuan, Yi Yi, and Sheng Yi — before returning to China in May.
