Malaysian Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, visited the Giant Panda Conservation Centre (GPCC) at Zoo Negara on January 8, 2026. The Minister's visit, in fact, confirms that the new giant pandas Chen Xing (male) and Xiao Yue (female) They have completed their quarantine and are ready to be presented to the general public. The five-year-old pandas, who arrived from China on November 18, 2025, are showing excellent adaptation and active behavior. The visit verified the upgrades funded by the ministry, including the main exhibits, interior design, and new chillers. The new giant panda couple makes their public debut. will take place on January 17, 2026.
Zoo Negara: Minister visits pandas Chen Xing and Xiao Yue, highlighting Malaysia-China cooperation
The panda pair symbolizes diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China, with a 10-year (2025-2035) CWCA-Perhilitan agreement. The contract was signed during President Xi Jinping's visit in April 2025. China collaborates with 20 countries to conserve the giant panda, a symbol of friendship between states. Kurup expressed his satisfaction:
“These upgrades include improvements to the main exhibit, interior design, landscaping, and the replacement of refrigerators, all of which were completed using funding provided by the ministry.”.
Panda status and updated facilities
Chen Xing and Xiao Yue have adapted well after the mandatory month-long quarantine, as per health protocol. At the GPCC, the panda's well-being and visitor comfort are improving. During his visit on Thursday, January 8, 2026, the Malaysian Minister emphasized that:
“"The giant panda pair has completed their quarantine. Therefore, the Chinese authorities have agreed to allow the GPCC to open to the public. I will announce the opening date soon.".
Upcoming Zoo Openings in Malaysia
The Giant Panda Conservation Centre (GPCC) at Zoo Negara It will soon reopen to the public and to all enthusiasts to enjoy the unique experience of being able to admire the new pandas arriving in 2025.