KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia on Tuesday (Aug 29) bade farewell to Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, the two giant panda cubs born in the country, and the visible symbol of China’s panda diplomacy with Malaysia.
Their presence in Malaysia is the symbolism of the long-standing bilateral relations, with China known for sending giant pandas to other countries under "panda diplomacy” to strengthen bilateral relations, enhance cultural exchanges and raise awareness about the conservation of the endangered species.
Principal adviser at the Pacific Research Centre of Malaysia Dr Oh Ei Sun said the giant pandas stand as tangible representation of Malaysia-China’s long close bilateral relations, especially in trade and investment.
"The pandas serve as visible symbols and embodiments of the close friendships between the two countries,” he told Bernama.
The senior fellow with the Singapore Institute of International Affairs said apart from bilateral relations, the income generated by such overseas panda "rentals” goes towards the domestic panda conservation efforts in China.
"The presence of pandas in other countries also help raise interest and awareness of Chinese culture in general,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prof Dr Azmi Hassan, a geostrategist from the Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research (NASR) said not all countries with diplomatic relations with China were presented with its native giant panda.
The pandas were loaned to Malaysia as China viewed the country as one of its important partners.
"In carrying out their diplomatic strategy, it's similar to us with Eastern customs and culture. In this case, when Malaysia is given a panda, it is a token of appreciation from Beijing to Kuala Lumpur in terms of bilateral relations, economy, people-to-people ties, tourism, and so on.
"This is China's strategy, and both countries benefit from this panda diplomacy," he said.
Regarding the cost borne by Malaysia, Azmi said even though the 10-year panda loan is high, both countries benefited whether it's explicitly stated or implied.
Meanwhile, Oh said it would be nice if developing countries could enjoy reduced or free panda rentals as goodwill gestures from China.
Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, who were born to parents Fu Wa and Feng Yi, left Zoo Negara for China, leaving behind their caretakers who have grown fond of them.
Fu Wa and Feng Yi, renamed Xing Xing and Liang Liang (female), were loaned to the Malaysian government in 2014 for 10 years in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.
The pair successfully gave birth to three cubs, Nuan Nuan on Aug 18, 2015; Yi Yi on Jan 14, 2018; and Sheng Yi on May 30, 2021. Nuan Nuan was sent back to China in 2017.
