Bear necessities: Zoo Negara promoting the new pandas as visitors are eagerly awaiting the date of their debut, and (below) one of the bears relaxing in its new habitat. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star and photo courtesy of China Embassy in Malaysia Facebook
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s newest celebrity residents – giant pandas Chen Xing and Xiao Yue – are expected to make their public debut early next year, after completing their mandatory quarantine at Zoo Negara.
The pair, which arrived on Nov 18, will complete their one-month quarantine on Dec 18.
While some sources said the pandas could be unveiled before the end of the year, indications are that any official unveiling ceremony is more likely to take place in January 2026.
Both pandas are reported to be in good health and adapting well to their new environment.
In a recent Facebook post, the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia said Chen Xing and Xiao Yue are eating well and beginning to show distinct personalities under the care of Zoo Negara’s panda-keeping team.
The embassy, which quoted the China Wildlife Conservation Association, said both pandas have responded positively to the care and management plan implemented by the Malaysian team following their third week of quarantine and inspection.
Both pandas were said to be eating normally, including supplementary food like specially-prepared panda bread, as well as apples and carrots, while maintaining a regular intake of bamboo shoots.
Chen Xing and Xiao Yue have shown a preference for locally- grown bamboo.
The pair’s health indicators remain within normal ranges and their overall condition is stable.
Five-year-old Chen Xing was described as highly active and curious, often exploring his enclosure and showing strong interest in enrichment toys.
After periods of activity, the inquisitive bear prefers to rest on the elevated platforms within the climbing structure.
Xiao Yue, also five, has adapted to being fed by her keepers and is generally calm during the day.
She has been spotted resting quietly on the climbing platform and becomes more active in the early morning hours.
Both pandas have developed positive interactions with their keepers and are able to cooperate during training sessions.
Experts from Malaysia and China will continue to work closely to ensure the pair’s well-being as the pandas settle into their new surroundings.
Chen Xing and Xiao Yue’s arrival marks a new chapter in panda diplomacy between Malaysia and China, following the return of Fu Wa and Feng Yi to China in May.
