Though not native to Malaysia, the pandas have become cherished members of the zoo family. And on Friday, they marked a milestone: turning 18.
This comes a year after Malaysia bade farewell to their cubs, Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, who were born in Zoo Negara as part of the giant-panda conservation agreement between Malaysia and China.
But even as they hit this significant age, there was a bittersweet undertone to the celebrations. Fu Wa and Feng Yi were loaned from China to Malaysia in 2014, and their 10-year stay is set to expire soon.
While there’s no confirmation yet, the question of whether they will remain or be returned to China loomed over their birthday festivities. Nevertheless, the zoo made sure their 18th birthday bash was a grand affair!
Recognised by the Chinese government as one of the world’s best caretakers of giant pandas, Zoo Negara pulled out all the stops.
The zookeepers prepared adorable fruit baskets brimming with grapes, oranges, pears, and even a watermelon basket. Flower petals spelt out the pandas’ initials, and a giant toy ducky filled with ice carried fruit skewers, creating a whimsical feast fit for furry royalty.
Each panda had their own celebration, one after the other. Feng Yi, who celebrated first, leisurely explored the treats, took a few nibbles, then climbed a wooden structure to stretch out on her belly, embracing her inner zen. Now that’s what we call a “pand-astic” way to celebrate!
Fu Wa, on the other hand, was full of energy, pawing at the ice before finally settling down with a bamboo shoot, basking in the attention of her adoring fans.
The Giant Panda Conservation Centre was buzzing with excitement, with a huge crowd of both locals and tourists eager to catch a glimpse of the birthday bears. Some were even tip-toeing to get a better view.
Chin, who travelled from Puchong, shared her deep affection for the bears, saying: “I fell in love with them last June when I first came to Zoo Negara and met them. Since then, I visit once or twice every month just to see them.”
Her love even led her to Chengdu, China, to visit the cubs after they were returned from Malaysia. Today’s celebration was extra special for Chin, as it might be the last birthday the pandas celebrate here at the zoo.
Asked what makes pandas so special, Chin replied: “Sometimes when I feel down and tired, seeing them eat or sleep calms me down and makes me smile. For me, pandas are healing.”
Another visitor, Su Fei, a Chinese national, travelled to Malaysia just to witness the pandas’ birthday celebration.
“The first time I saw Sheng Yi in China, she was playing with the snow. I loved her immediately and wanted to see her family, which is why I’m here today,” she shared.
Anisah Zaini, a 27-year-old visitor, added: “I’m happy they’re healthy. The zookeepers take very good care of them, but I do feel sad that they might be leaving this year.”
As the celebrations wound down, it was clear Fu Wa and Feng Yi have left a lasting impact on everyone who has come to know them. So here’s to the panda pair: may their panda-monium continue, wherever they may roam!