Malaysia’s panda family is about to grow again—and it’s more than just an adorable update. It’s a symbol of international friendship and long-term conservation efforts between Malaysia and China.
Malaysia will soon welcome a fresh pair of giant pandas from China, thanks to a newly signed 10-year agreement under the International Collaborative Project on Giant Panda Conservation.
The Exchange Ceremony for the new agreement took place at the Sri Perdana Complex, Putrajaya, and was officiated by Malaysia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, together with China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing.
This collaboration project symbolises the strong friendship between Malaysia and China,” said Nik Nazmi, noting that it also aligns with the ‘Malaysia Madani’ vision, which places great emphasis on sustainability and global partnerships.
According to Harian Metro, this event was witnessed by both Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was in Malaysia for a State Visit.
A history of panda diplomacy
Malaysia isn’t new to panda hosting. Under a previous agreement inked back in June 2012, Malaysia received a pair of giant pandas who took up residence at Zoo Negara’s Giant Panda Conservation Centre.
Over the past decade, the country made notable progress in ex-situ conservation. In fact, three panda cubs were born right here in Malaysia—an achievement Nik Nazmi described as “remarkable”.
As part of the original agreement, all three cubs have since been returned to China.
Nik Nazmi expressed hope that this new pair of pandas will continue to act as adorable ambassadors, further deepening the ties between both nations.
He also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to working closely with China on panda conservation, particularly in expanding scientific research and efforts to protect this iconic species.
With this new chapter of panda diplomacy underway, Malaysians can look forward to 10 more years of black-and-white fluff, while also playing an important role in a much bigger conservation story.
READ ALSO:
