KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 -- A pair of giant pandas from China will soon arrive in Malaysia to enhance the friendship between China and Malaysia.

This was said by Huang Huikang, Chinese ambassador to Malaysia, on Friday at the Kuala Lumpur National Zoo.

Huang said, China and Malaysia share the time-honored friendship and close ties.

The Chinese government loaned the two pandas to mark the 40th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

He added, the giant pandas are envoys of goodwill and will play a significant role in furthering the friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, he said. He also expressed the appreciation for the preparation the Malaysian side has made to welcome the arrival of the guests.