The pandas arrived at the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda (CCRCGP) in Ya’an, Sichuan province, on Sunday, May 18, 2025. Panda journey home was meticulously planned, with experts from both China and Malaysia ensuring their safe and comfortable transport from Zoo Negara in Kuala Lumpur.
A beloved pair of giant pandas, Fu Wa and Feng Yi, affectionately known as Xing Xing and Liang Liang in Malaysia, have officially concluded their 11-year stay and returned to China. Their departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in wildlife diplomacy between the two nations, which began in 2014 to commemorate 40 years of diplomatic ties and foster conservation efforts.
During their decade-plus stay in Malaysia, Fu Wa and Feng Yi became iconic figures, captivating millions of visitors with their playful antics and gentle demeanor. They not only boosted tourism but also significantly contributed to giant panda conservation efforts through a successful breeding program.
Their most significant contribution was the birth of three cubs on Malaysian soil: Nuan Nuan, Yi Yi, and Sheng Yi. These births were celebrated as triumphs in international conservation, showcasing the successful collaboration between Malaysian and Chinese wildlife experts in providing a conducive environment for panda breeding.
In line with the terms of the bilateral agreement, all three cubs were repatriated to China at different times, with Nuan Nuan returning in 2017 and Yi Yi and Sheng Yi departing together in August 2023. Their safe return ensures the genetic diversity and strength of China’s giant panda population.
Upon their arrival in Ya’an, Fu Wa and Feng Yi began a mandatory one-month quarantine period. This measure ensures their health and helps them acclimatize to their original habitat and new surroundings at the conservation center before they are reintroduced to the public.
While their departure leaves a void in Malaysia’s Zoo Negara, it also signals a new phase in the ongoing conservation partnership. China and Malaysia are expected to launch a new round of giant panda conservation cooperation this year, potentially involving a new pair of Panda Journey Home.