Harbin, Heilongjiang Province On a crisp Saturday morning, visitors at Sun Island's newly opened giant panda pavilion were in for a treat as twin pandas Zhi Shi and Zhi Ma made their public debut. The eight-year-old brothers, whose names charmingly translate to "cheese" and "sesame," emerged from behind glass windows to a chorus of awed gasps and camera shutters.
Experts say the arrival of Zhi Shi and Zhi Ma marks a significant step for wildlife conservation efforts in the region. Data from the pavilion's conservation program show that hundreds of pandas across global breeding centers have contributed to a gradual population rebound. Now, more than 1,800 giant pandas live under protection worldwidea number that has grown by over 20% in the past decade.
Beyond their cuddly charm, the twins are ambassadors for eco-tourism and sustainable travel in northeast China. Harbin's tourism board estimates a 15% bump in visitor numbers this season, driven partly by panda-watch tours and immersive VR experiences that bring the animals' day-to-day life to screens across the globe. Digital nomads and wildlife fans alike have flocked to Harbin, blending traditional pavilion visits with remote streaming sessions.
Business and tech enthusiasts are also taking note. A local startup has developed an AI-based platform that analyzes panda behavior in real time, offering insights to researchers and generating interactive content for international audiences. "We aim to bridge the gap between conservation data and public engagement," says the company's founder, a graduate of a top G20 university.
For young global citizens and thought leaders, the twins represent more than just a photo op: they embody successful cross-border collaboration in science, sustainability and culture. As Zhi Shi and Zhi Ma settle into their new home, their story promises to spark conversations about biodiversity, tech innovation in conservation, and the shared responsibility we all have to protect our planet's most treasured species.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
