SINGAPORE: The first Singapore-born panda’s departure to China has been delayed to Jan 16, 2024, giving visitors to his exhibit more time to say their goodbyes.
Two-year-old Le Le will make his final public appearance at the Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest in the River Wonders park on Dec 13. He will then be quarantine from the next day until his departure date, said Mandai Wildlife Group on Friday (Nov 10).
The giant panda cub was originally set to leave for China in the second half of December, with a farewell event held on Nov 20.
Asked by CNA for the reasons behind Le Le’s deferred departure, a spokesperson said Mandai Wildlife Group and the China Wildlife Conservation Association were “in the midst” of working out arrangements for the panda’s trip.
Upon arriving in China, “Le Le will officially join the country’s conservation programme to safeguard his species”, said Mandai Wildlife Group.
“In the meantime, his care team is helping him prepare for a smooth travel.”