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Free Malaysia Today
18-05-2025
- General
- Free Malaysia Today
Malaysia bids farewell to giant pandas Fu Wa, Feng Yi
The van carrying giant pandas Fu Wa and Feng Yi leaving Zoo Negara where a large crowd gathered this morning to bid farewell after their 11-year stay here. SEPANG : Giant pandas Fu Wa and Feng Yi were officially sent home to China today, concluding their stay in Malaysia after 11 years. The pandas arrived here on May 21, 2014, under the terms of the International Giant Panda Conservation Cooperation Project. The momentous send-off held at the Animal Hotel, KLIA was attended by natural resources and environmental sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, ministry secretary-general Ching Too Kim and representatives from the Chinese embassy. In a statement, the ministry said the collaboration stands as a symbol of the close friendship between Malaysia and China, and reflects their shared commitment to sustainability. 'Therefore, Malaysia will continue to be committed to working with China in the conservation of the giant panda species and this collaboration is hoped to further strengthen the relationship between Malaysia and China, both diplomatically and economically,' the ministry said. It added that Malaysia has recorded extraordinary success in its ex-situ conservation efforts, including the birth of three panda cubs from the pair during their time here. All three panda cubs – Nuan Nuan, Yi Yi, and Sheng Yi – have since been returned to China in accordance with the agreement. Nuan Nuan was repatriated on Nov 14, 2017, while Yi Yi and Sheng Yi followed on Aug 29, 2023. According to the ministry, the conservation partnership is set to continue through a new agreement signed on April 16, during Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent official visit to Malaysia. 'This renewed agreement allows Malaysia to receive another pair of giant pandas for a period of 10 years, from 2025 to 2035. Their arrival is expected later this year,' the ministry said.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
From Olympic pandas to world record holders: Fu Wa and Feng Yi's legacy in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 — As giant pandas Fu Wa and Feng Yi prepare to return to China this month after residing at Zoo Negara since May 2014, the beloved pair leaves behind a lasting impact and will be missed by many. Having spent more than a decade away from their homeland at Zoo Negara, the pair have been on loan to Malaysia as part of the International Cooperation Project on Giant Panda Conservation. Trivia: Both Feng Yi and Fu Wa also hold the current world record for the fastest natural conception of panda cubs outside of China at two years (reproduction usually takes eight to nine years in captivity and often requires artificial insemination). A bear species endemic to China, giant pandas are employed as instruments of 'panda diplomacy,' a practice by China in which it sends the creatures to partner countries worldwide as potent symbols of friendship, soft power, and goodwill. As Malaysia prepares to bid this pair adieu, Malay Mail looks back at how Fu Wa and Feng Yi shaped their legacy as the first giant pandas in Malaysia. Humble beginnings Both Fu Wa, a male, and Feng Yi, a female, were born on August 23, 2006, at the world-famous Wolong Panda Reserve in Sichuan province, China. As two-year-olds (about six human years), both also lived through the devastating 2008 Sichuan earthquake when the earthquake struck their conservation centre — just 30km from the epicentre. Planned long before the quake, the two were also selected as part of eight prestigious 'Olympic pandas' on display at the Beijing Zoo as part of a special display during the Beijing Olympics the same year. At six years old (about 19 human years), both Fu Wa and Feng Yi were then loaned by China for 10 years in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of bilateral ties between the two countries. Fu Wa was renamed Xing Xing while Feng Yi was renamed Liang Liang during their stay in Malaysia. Under quarantine, giant pandas Feng Yi (left) and Fu Wa (right) in deep slumber inside their enclosure at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre, National Zoo in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Proud parents During their stay at Zoo Negara's Giant Panda Conservation Centre, the pair gave birth to three giant panda cubs — a significant feat for a species known for reproductive challenges. Their eldest offspring, Nuan Nuan — a female — was born on August 18, 2015. Her name means "warmth" in Chinese — chosen to reflect the warm relations between China and Malaysia. Two other cubs, Yi Yi and Sheng Yi — both females as well — were born on January 14, 2018, and May 31, 2021, respectively. Their names mean "friendship" and "peace and friendship" respectively in Chinese. Under the terms of Chinese panda loan agreements, all cubs born on foreign soil are returned to China when they turn two. Nuan Nuan was sent back to China in November 2017, while Yi Yi and Sheng Yi left Malaysia on August 29, 2023. Altogether, the quintet are also fondly referred to as "the living symbol of China-Malaysia friendship" amongst panda fans. A zookeeper watches over a sleeping Fu Wa at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre in Zoo Negara. — Picture by Raymond Manuel Fulfilling life At 19 years old (about 57 human years), both Fu Wa and Feng Yi are now approaching the later stages of their adulthood and are therefore set for 'retirement' in an environment more suited to their natural habitat. Generally, a panda's average lifespan in the wild is 14 to 20 years, but they can live up to 30 years in captivity. As native to the mountainous region of China, both pandas maintained a diet that consisted almost entirely of bamboo leaves, stems, and shoots during their stay here. With the exact date of their return still unannounced, they have been placed under quarantine with limited public interaction since April 18. This is to ensure optimal health, meet permit requirements under international law, and undergo training to acclimatise for the flight from Malaysia to China. Visitors observe Fu Wa and Feng Yi in their enclosure from the viewing deck at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre, Zoo Negara in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture by Raymond Manuel
Malay Mail
13-05-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
From Olympic pandas to world record holders: Fu Wa and Feng Yi's legacy in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 — As giant pandas Fu Wa and Feng Yi prepare to return to China this month after residing at Zoo Negara since May 2014, the beloved pair leaves behind a lasting impact and will be missed by many. Having spent more than a decade away from their homeland at Zoo Negara, the pair have been on loan to Malaysia as part of the International Cooperation Project on Giant Panda Conservation. Trivia: Both Feng Yi and Fu Wa also hold the current world record for the fastest natural conception of panda cubs outside of China at two years (reproduction usually takes eight to nine years in captivity and often requires artificial insemination). A bear species endemic to China, giant pandas are employed as instruments of 'panda diplomacy,' a practice by China in which it sends the creatures to partner countries worldwide as potent symbols of friendship, soft power, and goodwill. As Malaysia prepares to bid this pair adieu, Malay Mail looks back at how Fu Wa and Feng Yi shaped their legacy as the first giant pandas in Malaysia. Humble beginnings Both Fu Wa, a male, and Feng Yi, a female, were born on August 23, 2006, at the world-famous Wolong Panda Reserve in Sichuan province, China. As two-year-olds (about six human years), both also lived through the devastating 2008 Sichuan earthquake when the earthquake struck their conservation centre — just 30km from the epicentre. Planned long before the quake, the two were also selected as part of eight prestigious 'Olympic pandas' on display at the Beijing Zoo as part of a special display during the Beijing Olympics the same year. At six years old (about 19 human years), both Fu Wa and Feng Yi were then loaned by China for 10 years in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of bilateral ties between the two countries. Fu Wa was renamed Xing Xing while Feng Yi was renamed Liang Liang during their stay in Malaysia. Under quarantine, giant pandas Feng Yi (left) and Fu Wa (right) in deep slumber inside their enclosure at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre, National Zoo in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Proud parents During their stay at Zoo Negara's Giant Panda Conservation Centre, the pair gave birth to three giant panda cubs — a significant feat for a species known for reproductive challenges. Their eldest offspring, Nuan Nuan — a female — was born on August 18, 2015. Her name means "warmth" in Chinese — chosen to reflect the warm relations between China and Malaysia. Two other cubs, Yi Yi and Sheng Yi — both females as well — were born on January 14, 2018, and May 31, 2021, respectively. Their names mean "friendship" and "peace and friendship" respectively in Chinese. Under the terms of Chinese panda loan agreements, all cubs born on foreign soil are returned to China when they turn two. Nuan Nuan was sent back to China in November 2017, while Yi Yi and Sheng Yi left Malaysia on August 29, 2023. Altogether, the quintet are also fondly referred to as "the living symbol of China-Malaysia friendship" amongst panda fans. A zookeeper watches over a sleeping Fu Wa at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre in Zoo Negara. — Picture by Raymond Manuel Fulfilling life At 19 years old (about 57 human years), both Fu Wa and Feng Yi are now approaching the later stages of their adulthood and are therefore set for 'retirement' in an environment more suited to their natural habitat. Generally, a panda's average lifespan in the wild is 14 to 20 years, but they can live up to 30 years in captivity. As native to the mountainous region of China, both pandas maintained a diet that consisted almost entirely of bamboo leaves, stems, and shoots during their stay here. With the exact date of their return still unannounced, they have been placed under quarantine with limited public interaction since April 18. This is to ensure optimal health, meet permit requirements under international law, and undergo training to acclimatise for the flight from Malaysia to China. Visitors observe Fu Wa and Feng Yi in their enclosure from the viewing deck at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre, Zoo Negara in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture by Raymond Manuel
Express Tribune
28-02-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
8 Remarkable Animals That Came Back From the Brink of Extinction
The battle to save endangered species is one that continues to capture the hearts of conservationists and animal lovers worldwide. Over the decades, humanity has made significant strides in preserving some of the world's most iconic and critically endangered animals. Through the tireless work of environmentalists, researchers, and local communities, these animals have rebounded from the brink of extinction. Here take a closer look at eight incredible species that have made remarkable comebacks, showcasing the power of conservation efforts and the resilience of nature. 1. Humpback Whales 1960: 1,400 2025: 135,000 Humpback whales, once hunted nearly to the point of extinction, have made an extraordinary recovery over the past six decades. Originally found in oceans worldwide, their population plummeted due to commercial whaling. Following the global ban on whaling in 1986, the whales began to return, and today, their numbers are estimated to exceed 135,000. They are now seen migrating through coastal areas in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Southern Oceans, a hopeful symbol of conservation success. Their return to healthy numbers is a testament to how effective protection policies can help restore marine life. 2. Mountain Gorillas 1980: 250 2025: 1,100 Native to the mountainous regions of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, mountain gorillas have faced immense pressure due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. In the 1980s, only around 250 individuals were left in the wild. However, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts like anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community involvement, their population has steadily increased to about 1,100. The mountain gorillas' recovery stands as a powerful example of how human intervention can make a significant difference in saving critically endangered species. 3. Giant Pandas 1979: 1,114 2025: 1,864 The iconic giant panda of China has long been a symbol of wildlife conservation. In 1979, there were only about 1,000 giant pandas remaining in the wild due to habitat destruction and low birth rates. Through extensive conservation initiatives—such as habitat preservation, bamboo reforestation, and captive breeding programs—the panda population has rebounded to approximately 1,864. The efforts to protect this beloved bear have also helped to conserve the ecosystems that support other species in China's mountainous forests. 4. Bengal Tigers 2006: 1,000 2025: 3,500 Found primarily in India, Bengal tigers are a symbol of strength and beauty. By 2006, their numbers had dropped to around 1,000 due to habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans. However, through strict protection laws, dedicated tiger reserves, and anti-poaching measures, their population has increased to an estimated 3,500 today. This increase is a significant achievement, though Bengal tigers still face threats that require ongoing conservation efforts. 5. Bald Eagles 1963: 410 2025: 316,700 The bald eagle, America's national bird, was once on the brink of extinction, with only about 410 left in 1963 due to hunting, habitat destruction, and the widespread use of pesticides like DDT. However, after the banning of DDT in the 1970s and intense conservation efforts such as nest protection and reintroduction programs, the bald eagle population soared. By 2025, the population is estimated at over 316,000, and the bald eagle is no longer considered endangered. Their comeback is a victory for American wildlife conservation. 6. White Rhinos 1949: 100 2025: 18,000 White rhinos, native to southern Africa, have long been targeted by poachers for their horns. In 1949, only about 100 individuals remained, confined to a small area in South Africa. Today, thanks to dedicated efforts by wildlife authorities and local communities, their numbers have grown to over 18,000. While still facing threats, especially from poaching, their population recovery is an inspiring success story in wildlife management and protection. 7. Sea Otters 1930: 50 2025: 125,000 Once abundant along the coasts of the Pacific Ocean, sea otters were driven to near extinction in the early 1900s due to fur trade hunting. By 1930, fewer than 50 otters were left in the wild. Over the years, strict protections, habitat restoration, and conservation efforts have helped the sea otter population rebound to an estimated 125,000 today. These playful marine mammals are now a crucial part of coastal ecosystems, helping to maintain kelp forests and the health of marine life. 8. Sumatran Orangutans 1990: 11,000 2025: 14,000 Native to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, Sumatran orangutans have been heavily impacted by deforestation and illegal poaching. With a population of only about 11,000 in 1990, the species faced the threat of extinction. Thanks to significant conservation programs focusing on habitat restoration, sustainable palm oil production, and anti-poaching efforts, their numbers have grown to around 14,000 today. While still critically endangered, the recovery of Sumatran orangutans is a hopeful sign that endangered species can rebound when given the right support. These eight animals demonstrate the incredible power of concerted conservation efforts. While challenges remain, their recovery serves as a beacon of hope, showing that with dedication and global collaboration, endangered species can thrive again.
