Cover image via Xinhua News
After more than a decade of delighting visitors at Zoo Negara, Malaysia has officially bid farewell to its beloved panda pair, Xing Xing and Liang Liang
Image via @ShanghaiEye (X)
Image via Xinhua News
The two gentle giants departed for China early yesterday morning, 18 May, marking the end of their 11-year stay in Malaysia.
According to The Star, around 40 dedicated panda lovers gathered at Zoo Negara as early as 5am to catch a final glimpse of the cuddly duo and send them off with love.
The event was attended by officials from the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, as well as the Wildlife Department. The pandas were later transported to KLIA's Animal Hotel before their flight home.
Image via Xinhua News
Originally named Fu Wa and Feng Yi, the pandas arrived in Malaysia back in May 2014 as part of China's panda loan programme, celebrating 40 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties
Upon arrival, they were renamed Xing Xing ("prosperity") and Liang Liang ("pretty"), and few expected them to become the national sweethearts they are today.
In their first year alone, Zoo Negara saw a 60% spike in visitors, with more than 1.2 million people turning up to see them munch on bamboo, nap adorably, or roll around in their indoor playground. Their charm even attracted tourists from China, India, Indonesia, and the Middle East.
Image via Xinhua News
Image via Zoo Negara/BFM (Facebook)
Over the years, the duo gave birth to three adorable cubs — Nuan Nuan (2015), Yi Yi (2018), and Sheng Yi (2021)
Zoo Negara shared a heartfelt message on their official TikTok account, stating:
"From the bottom of our hearts, we thank Fu Wa and Feng Yi for bringing so much joy, warmth, and love to Zoo Negara and the people of Malaysia. Whether it was their lively playtime, the playful moment with duck toys or their peaceful sleeping poses, every little moment left a big impact. They have planted a love for conservation in our hearts and reminded us of the precious beauty of wildlife.
"Our heartfelt thanks also go to the dedicated panda keepers for their exceptional care and devotion to Fu Wa and Feng Yi. We are deeply grateful for the love and support shown by both Malaysians and visitors from around the world. Let's all wish them a beautiful and joyful retirement, full of peace and happiness wherever they may be."
Image via @XHSwahili (X)
Image via Xinhua News
While we're sad to see them go, there's good news too!
Malaysia signed a new 10-year agreement with China in April, which means we'll be welcoming another panda pair in 2025 to continue conservation efforts.
So goodbye (for now), Xing Xing and Liang Liang. Thank you for all the joy, memories, and bamboo-filled moments. Enjoy your well-earned retirement in China!
Image via Zoo Negara/BFM (Facebook)
Paws what you're doing and check out Furever Friends for more stories, videos, and updates!
Image via SAYS
