Beloved giant panda Le Le bid a heartfelt farewell to Singapore on December 13, as preparations begin for his return to China. The farewell ceremony at Mandai Wildlife Reserve was attended by thousands of residents eager to send off the nation’s first giant panda born on its soil. Le Le, born on August 14, 2021, is the offspring of Kai Kai and Jia Jia, two giant pandas from southwest China’s Sichuan Province who have resided in Singapore since 2012. Over the past two years, Le Le has become a symbol of Singapore’s successful wildlife conservation efforts and a beloved figure among visitors and locals alike. The farewell event was both a celebration and a poignant moment for many. Families, children, and panda enthusiasts gathered to share their fond memories of Le Le. “We’ve watched him grow since he was a cub,” remarked a visitor. “His playful antics have brought joy to so many of us.” In accordance with the agreement between China and Singapore, Le Le is scheduled to depart for China on January 16, 2024. His return is part of the collaborative efforts between the two countries to enhance the breeding and conservation of giant pandas. This partnership not only strengthens bilateral relations but also contributes significantly to global conservation initiatives. Mandai Wildlife Reserve expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play a role in the conservation of these majestic creatures. “Le Le has been an ambassador for wildlife education and conservation,” said a representative. “While we will miss him dearly, we are proud to have been part of his journey and look forward to his contributions to the giant panda population in China.” The departure of Le Le underscores the importance of international cooperation in wildlife conservation. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life in China, the shared efforts of Singapore and China continue to highlight the dynamic role Asia plays in global environmental stewardship.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
