After spending over a decade in Malaysia, the nation has officially waved goodbye to its cherished Giant Panda pair, Fu Wa and Feng Yi.
Today, the atmosphere at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport was filled with mixed emotions as Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, led a special farewell ceremony for the pandas before their journey home to China.
They had been in Malaysia since May 21, 2014, under the International Cooperation Project on Giant Panda Conservation.
Also present at the ceremony were Secretary-General of NRES, Datuk Dr Ching Thoo a/l Kim, and a representative from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
Malaysia’s time with Fu Wa and Feng Yi was more than just a display of adorable wildlife. Since arriving, the panda pair became a powerful symbol of friendship between Malaysia and China.
During their stay, they welcomed three cubs—Nuan Nuan, Yi Yi, and Sheng Yi—thanks to Malaysia’s success in ex-situ conservation efforts.
All three cubs have since been repatriated to China, with Nuan Nuan returning in 2017 and the other two in August 2023, in accordance with the terms of the conservation agreement.
A legacy that lives on
Malaysia first signed the agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) back in 2012.
As part of that global conservation effort, 20 countries have hosted Giant Pandas on loan from China—but Malaysia’s achievement in raising and caring for panda cubs is one of the standout successes.
Nik Nazmi expressed his appreciation to all the agencies involved in ensuring the smooth and safe return of Fu Wa and Feng Yi, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Department of Veterinary Services, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services, MASkargo and Malaysia Airports.
A new chapter begins
While it’s goodbye for now, it’s not the end of the story. In conjunction with the President of China’s state visit to Malaysia, a new agreement was signed on 16 April 2025, ensuring that a new pair of Giant Pandas will make Malaysia their home for the next 10 years, from 2025 to 2035.
This collaboration reflects the close ties between Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China, and supports the sustainability pillar of Malaysia MADANI,” the ministry stated.
As Malaysians say goodbye to Fu Wa and Feng Yi, it’s clear their pawprints have left a lasting mark—not just in conservation efforts, but in the hearts of many.
With a new panda pair arriving soon, the legacy of love, learning, and friendship will certainly continue.
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