Tourism Chiang Mai Zoo Prepares New Enclosure for Giant Panda Pair Arriving by Year-End

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Chiang Mai Zoo is accelerating preparations to welcome a new pair of giant pandas from China before the end of this year. The news follows a recent official visit by high-ranking members of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand, who inspected the proposed exhibit site and confirmed budgetary plans for the project.

 

On 1 June, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jessada Thonawanik, Chairman of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand, led a delegation including Mr. Patara Kamphithak, board member, Mrs. Chongkolnee Kaewsod, Deputy Director (Acting Director), and other senior officials, to inspect the designated area within Chiang Mai Zoo. The visit was in response to the Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent statement at the 50th anniversary celebration of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations on 28 May, confirming plans to bring in a new panda couple by year-end.

 

In an interview with the media, Dr. Jessada explained that Thailand had initially hosted two giant pandas, Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui, as symbols of goodwill between Thailand and China. Their offspring, Lin Ping, remains in China under the standard care provided to all giant pandas. Both original pandas have since passed away.

 

Discussions between Thailand and China about a new panda loan resumed under the administration of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and were further confirmed during talks between Prime Minister Paetongtarn and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Chinese government has agreed to send another pair of pandas to Thailand, renewing a cherished diplomatic and cultural partnership.

 

The Zoological Park Organization has already begun the design and planning process for the new panda enclosure. The proposed exhibit will focus on mimicking natural habitats, allowing the animals to engage in natural behaviours with improved space and welfare considerations. The project is expected to cost 110 million baht and will be funded as part of a government economic stimulus initiative.

 

Dr. Jessada emphasised that the new enclosure would reflect international standards of animal welfare. “This will be a more natural and expansive environment, aligning with our modern approach to zoo design,” he said. “Animals must have space to live, move, and engage in enriching activities that align with their natural behaviours.”

 

Chiang Mai Zoo Director Mr. Wutthichai Muangman confirmed the zoo’s full readiness to comply with directives from the government, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Zoological Park Organization. Meanwhile, Dr. Kannikar Chantrangsi, head of the zoo’s Animal Conservation, Research and Health Division, stressed that animal welfare would remain the top priority, ensuring conditions for the new pandas surpass those of the previous exhibit.

 

The initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Thai-Chinese relations and reviving public interest in Chiang Mai Zoo’s conservation and educational roles. The panda pair’s arrival will not only enhance the zoo’s international profile but also serve as a platform for continued environmental awareness and wildlife research.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-03.