Hong Kong to hold naming contest for 2 new giant pandas in October, John Lee says

Hong Kong leader says the pair of giant pandas expected to arrive in city on Thursday will meet the public in December

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Published: 12:35pm, 24 Sep 2024Updated: 10:25pm, 24 Sep 2024

Hong Kong will hold a citywide contest next month to name two giant pandas gifted by Beijing before they meet the public in December, while the pair will move into a new home funded by a donation of HK$121 million.

City leader John Lee Ka-chiu said on Tuesday the pair would need 30 days of quarantine upon their arrival and another month to adapt to the new environment. Confirming reports by the Post, the pandas – known as An An and Ke Ke in Sichuan province – will arrive in Hong Kong on Thursday.

“The two pandas are highly anticipated by the entire city … To welcome them, we will hold a citywide naming contest in October, inviting the public to provide meaningful names that can illustrate their features,” Lee said before a meeting with advisers from the Executive Council.

Ocean Park has released new photos of Ke Ke and An An (below). Photos: Ocean Park

He added that the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau would also hold a drawing contest for residents to portray the “adorable” pandas with brushes.

A source said the government would set up a panel and appoint members to select names for the bears.

Beijing gifted the two pandas to Hong Kong on July 1 to mark the 27th anniversary of the city’s return to Chinese sovereignty.

Lee said the male panda, An An, weighed more than 130kg (287lbs) and had a strong body, agile movements and a clever mind, while the female, Ke Ke, weighed 100kg and was gentle and cute.