Pandas coming home | Rolling, running & climbing! Giant panda baby Sheng Yi embraces her new home at Wolong

On August 29 last year, panda sisters Yi Yi and Sheng Yi, who had been living in Malaysia, returned to their hometown in China. Before their arrival, their sister Nuan Nuan had already made the journey back.

Notably, Sheng Yi was born on the 47th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. The names Yi Yi (which means "friendship" in Chinese) and Sheng Yi (meaning "enhancing friendship") were chosen through a public selection process by the National Zoo of Malaysia, symbolizing the strong and enduring ties between the two countries.

In comparison to other returning giant pandas, Sheng Yi adapted remarkably quickly to her new environment.

Qu, one of Sheng Yi’s keepers, noted that when Sheng Yi first arrived at the base, she was a bit nervous and curious about the bird calls outside. At the outset, Sheng Yi was hesitant to venture down to the lower area, even though enclosures at the Shenshuping Base were spacious. Qu would playfully entice her with bamboo to encourage her to step forward.

Nowadays, Sheng Yi has already unleashed his nature, and she loves to run around in the outdoor arena. “Like a kid, when she is happy, she will move his ears first and then run straight towards you,” Qu said.

When Malaysian tourists visit Sheng Yi, Qu tries to guide the panda closer to the viewing area, ensuring everyone gets a good look at her despite the language barrier. "They've traveled a long way, which isn't easy, so I want to reassure them that Sheng Yi is thriving in her hometown, and we will take great care of her."

Panda Profile

Name: Sheng Yi

Gender: Female

Date of Birth: May 31, 2021

Return Date to China: August 29, 2023

Place of Birth: National Zoo of Malaysia

Current Residence: Shenshuping Base, China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda

Family Members:

• Mother: Jing Jing
• Father: Xing Xing
• Brother: Gong Gong
• Sister: Nuan Nuan and Yi Yi

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