Giant Panda Loan to Expire in 2024, M’sia to Discuss Extension of Loan With China

We all know that one of the main attractions in Zoo Negara is the pandas!

Now, these pandas, Xing Xing, and Liang Liang, were loaned to the Malaysian government in 2014 for 10 years as a sign of the diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China that had been ongoing for 40 years.

As it is now the year 2024, the pandas will need to be returned soon. However, the prime minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, says Malaysia will contact China to discuss if the panda loan can be extended, reported BERNAMA.

”The giant pandas are due to be returned. I think I will take it up with the Chinese government, President Xi Jinping, to see some mechanism (for) whether we can extend the period of the panda stay in Malaysia.”

Adding on that, the PM says that with our strong diplomatic relations, he is optimistic that the proposal will be given consideration.

“Knowing our excellent relations, I am rather optimistic that they will give due consideration and support to our proposal.”

Up till now, the panda pair have given birth to 3 cubs on Malaysian soil: Nuan Nuan (2015), Yi Yi (2018), and Sheng Yi (2021). Nuan Nuan was sent back to China in 2017, while the other 2 cubs were sent back in August 2023.

If you have not seen the pandas yet, you should check them out just in case the extension doesn’t happen!

Also read: 10yo Aspiring M’sian Influencer Urges Public to Support Zoo Negara in Adorable Video