Malaysia To Receive New Giant Pandas From China Under Fresh 10-Year Agreement
Even more silly bears!
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Good news, panda lovers! Malaysia will soon welcome a new pair of giant pandas from China, following the signing of a fresh agreement between the two countries — and they'll be here for the next 10 years.
The deal is part of an international conservation project that not only helps protect these adorable creatures but also strengthens the long-standing friendship between Malaysia and China.
According to Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, the move is a perfect example of "conservation diplomacy" in action — where protecting nature also helps strengthen international ties.
As reported by Bernama, the signing ceremony took place during Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Malaysia, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in attendance.
In total, both countries exchanged 31 agreements covering various areas of cooperation — and yes, the panda one definitely stole the show.
Representing Malaysia in the panda deal was the Director-General of PERHILITAN, Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim, while China was represented by the Secretary-General of the China Wildlife Conservation Association, Yan Jian.
This isn't Malaysia's first panda rodeo. We've been hosting a panda couple, Xing Xing and Liang Liang (originally named Fu Wa and Feng Yi), since 2014.
Three panda cubs were born at Zoo Negara during that time: Nuan Nuan (2015), Yi Yi (2018), and Sheng Yi (2021). All three have were eventually returned to China as part of the agreement, with the most recent farewell taking place in August 2023.
With this new agreement, Malaysians can look forward to another decade of panda cuteness, conservation efforts, and stronger ties with China.
Fingers crossed the new panda pair settles in nicely — and maybe even starts a new baby panda chapter soon!