Two giant pandas gifted to Hong Kong have officially been introduced to the public, keeping their original names An An and Ke Ke after a naming competition that drew over 22,600 suggestions, local officials announced Saturday.
The five-year-old pandas were celebrated at a greeting ceremony in Ocean Park, where Chief Executive John Lee emphasized their potential as cultural and tourism ambassadors for both Hong Kong and mainland China.
“This initiative aims to create a panda craze across the city,” Lee said, highlighting plans to integrate the pandas into local tourism and retail experiences.
The pandas’ names were deliberately maintained, as their Chinese pronunciation resembles the word “encore,” symbolizing ongoing good fortune for the Special Administrative Region.
Local resident Ms. To praised the decision, noting the meaningful connection to the animals’ identities. However, some citizens expressed mild concern about potential confusion with a previous panda named An An, who passed away in 2022.
Beyond their entertainment value, Lee stressed the pandas’ role in conservation efforts. Hong Kong now hosts six giant pandas, the largest population outside mainland China, including the new pair and a set of twins.
The pandas’ arrival coincides with the “Panda Go! Fest HK” exhibition, which features 2,500 panda sculptures across the city, drawing significant public interest and celebrating these beloved national treasures.
The government plans extensive educational programs to promote biodiversity and conservation awareness through these charismatic animals.
Meanwhile, related to the panda-craze gripping the city, Tsim Sha Tsui drew massive crowds as visitors snapped photos with 2,500 panda sculptures in the first showcase of the ‘Panda Go! Fest HK’ exhibition.
