Ocean Park chairman Paulo Pong on Tuesday said 10-minute limits placed on visits to the giant pandas An An and Ke Ke helped prevent overcrowding.

Thousands of people flocked to the park when the pandas made their public debut on Sunday.

"The crowd control measures were taken after considering the visitor experience and safety concerns. They're necessary because the exhibit can't hold too many people," Pong said on an RTHK radio programme.

"With regard to the 10-minute visiting time, we looked at other places and this isn't too short. Some places only allow visitors to stay for three or four minutes."

Pong also said the public were able to meet the pandas sooner than originally expected, as the animals were adopting very well to their new habitat and are very energetic.

He added that twin panda cubs at the park are in good shape, with the heavier male starting to develop its baby teeth.

The pair could be able to meet the public from around Lunar New Year, Pong said.