Hong Kong’s Ocean Park has welcomed its first-ever locally born giant panda twins, officially naming them Jia Jia and De De.
The twin cubs were born last August to parents Ying Ying and Le Le, giant pandas gifted to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region by the central government. The names were announced on Tuesday, following a public naming contest that received over 35,700 submissions, showcasing the community’s overwhelming enthusiasm.
Jia Jia, the female cub, embodies the message of support and harmony. In both Cantonese and Mandarin, “Jia” sounds like “home” and “auspicious,” symbolizing prosperity and happiness. De De, the male cub, signifies success and virtue. The name conveys hopes that Hong Kong continues to thrive, while “De” resonates with the cherished virtues of kindness and integrity in Chinese culture.
Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of Hong Kong, expressed gratitude for the heartfelt contributions from the public. She noted that the names reflect the deep affection residents have for the panda twins and carry their warm blessings.
Currently weighing over 21 kilograms each, Jia Jia and De De are growing strong and healthy. Starting Tuesday, they have begun exploring the alpine area of the park’s Giant Panda Adventure, where they can interact with their mother, Ying Ying. This new environment offers them a more challenging and stimulating space to develop essential life skills.
The arrival and naming of Jia Jia and De De mark a significant milestone for Hong Kong’s conservation efforts, bringing hope and joy to visitors and panda enthusiasts alike.
