KUALA LUMPUR, April 19- Malaysia continues the International Cooperation Project on Giant Panda Conservation with the People's Republic of China through the signing of a new agreement signed on April 16th, in conjunction with the state visit of the Chinese President to Malaysia.

The agreement allows Malaysia to receive a new pair of Giant Pandas for a period of 10 years, starting this year until 2035.

Accordingly, the existing panda pair Fu Wa and Feng Yi will be sent back to China in May after undergoing a quarantine period starting April 18th at the Giant Panda Conservation Centre (GPCC), Zoo Negara.

During the quarantine period, visitors will only be allowed to see the panda pair from a special learning centre. Zoo Negara is also planning several farewell programmes including sessions with panda keepers, documentary screenings and panda-themed creative competitions.

In preparation for the expected arrival of the new pair in August, the facilities and exhibits at GPCC will undergo a process of upgrading and improvement.

The conservation collaboration remains a symbol of the close friendship between Malaysia and China, particularly in the field of endangered animal conservation diplomacy.