Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, visible symbols of China's panda diplomacy with Malaysia

It was a sombre day at Malaysia's National Zoo where Yi Yi and Sheng Yi were born to parents Fu Wa and Feng Yi, as they left for China leaving behind their caretakers who have grown fond of them.

Going back, 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.

Their presence in Malaysia is the symbolism of the longstanding 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 noted that the giant pandas stand as tangible representation of Malaysia-China 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 said when contacted by 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, geostrategist from the Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research (NASR) Prof Dr Azmi Hassan pointed out that 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 stated that even though the 10-year panda loan is high both countries benefitted 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.