Panda family in Macao strengthens emotional ties between SAR, mainland
The panda family in Macao symbolizes a profound emotional connection between the Special Administrative Region and the mainland.
This "happy family," as they are affectionately known, consists of four members: a male giant panda named Kai Kai, a female named Xin Xin, and their offspring. The couple's names come from the Chinese word "kaixin," which translates to happy. In June 2016, Xin Xin gave birth to twin panda cubs, who were officially named Jian Jian and Kang Kang after a selection process that included 1,718 names proposed by Macao residents. Their names stem from the Chinese word "jiankang," which means healthy.
Kai Kai and Xin Xin were brought to Macao as a gift from the central government in April 2015, arriving from Chengdu City in Sichuan Province.
"Kai Kai and Xin Xin have adapted well here," noted Mok Weng Han, a panda breeder. "We communicate with them in Cantonese, use a bit of English during training sessions, and even speak a little Chengdu dialect with them."
To promote the well-being of the panda family, a regular training and exchange program was established between the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
"Every moment of their growth is unforgettable – their first time opening their eyes, turning over, crawling and growing teeth. The experience is valuable in panda conservation. The whole process involves not only our efforts but also the support provided by our country and the training opportunities offered by the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding," Mok explained.
As the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to China approaches, more local residents are visiting the park to see the pandas, hoping they will thrive and continue bringing happiness to the community, just as their names suggest.
Students from a local primary school expressed their joy in visiting the park every Saturday, eager to see the charming pandas.
"Since Macao's return to the motherland 25 years ago, we have witnessed from the perspective of the residents that the society has become more prosperous and livable. I hope that just like our pandas' names, everyone in Macao will be happy and healthy," said Mok.
Anna Muller for TROIB News