Giant pandas receive rousing welcome at Singapore Zoo

Singaporeans of all ages gathered at the Singapore Zoo to give a rousing welcome to the giant panda couple, Jia Jia and Kai Kai this morning. 

Armed with panda paws, about 500 students from pre- and primary schools waited eagerly for their arrival from the airport. 

At around 10.30am, the giant pandas made their grand entrance to roaring cheers. 

Even though the pandas were hidden from view in the trucks, fans were just as excited to be there as the gentle giants arrived. 

"I like them because they are very big and strong and cute!"

"They are big and cute and fluffy!"

"I'm joining my daughter with the school to come here. It's the first time to the zoo and also the first time seeing the panda. I was so surprised to see the grand receiving ceremony for the pandas."

"I'm very glad they are here. I think it's a great bridge between China and Singapore."

The public can only view the pandas at the end of this year. 

But their fans didn't leave empty-handed today - they got a slice of the fun with two panda mascots who entertained them the entire day.