After a visit to the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures last Sunday, Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, today shared the exciting news that the two giant pandas An An and Ke Ke, gifted by the Central Government, will arrive on 26 September and move into their new home.
After preparations of over two months, the first phase of improvements at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures is complete, and the Park is now poised for the exciting arrival of the pandas.
Ocean Park also expresses its sincere gratitude for the generous donation from The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, which will facilitate the second phase of enhancement work for the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures, as well as the renovation of the Giant Panda Adventure.
Mr Paulo Pong, Chairman of Ocean Park Corporation, said, "We appreciate the Chief Executive's visit to Ocean Park to see the details of the giant panda facilities and the meticulous arrangements made by the park's animal care team in caring for the pandas, and to acknowledge the work of the team.”
Pong continued, "Special thanks go to The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its Charities Trust for their unwavering support of conservation and education. Their generous contributions have played a pivotal role in our mission and significantly enhanced Ocean Park's efforts since the first pair of giant pandas gifted to the HKSAR, the late An An and Jia Jia, arrived in 1999. The Jockey Club's commitment not only allows us to transform our facilities, but also greatly enriches our educational initiatives, engaging thousands of visitors and students in meaningful conservation experiences.”
The upgraded Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures has introduced many refreshing elements, including brand new climbing structures made from hard wood and glass-fibre reinforced concrete, designed to provide a comfortable activity space for the two new giant pandas and allow them to fully exhibit their vitality through a variety of installations.
Enhancements of the second phase include the addition of chill rocks, as well as modifications to back-of-house areas. Additionally, the Giant Panda Adventure will be permanently extended to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Ocean Park will also launch an educational programme funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust’s donation to engage students from underprivileged backgrounds, further promoting awareness of giant pandas and the importance of their conservation.
Ocean Park looks forward to welcoming the two new pandas on 26 September!