The original of this article was written in Japanese and can be found here.

On the evening of Tuesday, February 18, the Japan Malaysia Association (JMA) held its annual New Year Gathering at the Seminar Hall of the International House of Japan. The event was an opportunity to share updates on the Association’s activities, express gratitude to those who have supported its work, and foster networking among members. Approximately 60 people attended, including JMA officers, members, and supporters.

The gathering opened with remarks from JMA President Keiji Furuya, followed by guest addresses from H.E. Dato’ Shahril Effendi Abd Ghany, Ambassador of Malaysia to Japan; Tsuyoshi Nagano, Chairman of the Japan-Malaysia Economic Association (JAMECA); and Shingo Miyamoto, Director-General for South Asian and Southeast Asian Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Following a report on the Association’s latest activities, the event included a Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon presentation ceremony. Haruko Arimura, JMA Vice President, presented the commendation certificate associated with the Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon to Chihiro Wadano, Director (Head of Corporate Communications) of Kinoshita Group Co., Ltd., on behalf of the Association, which had nominated the company for the honor.

After Vice President Arimura offered a toast, the gathering moved into a reception, where attendees mixed freely and enjoyed lively conversation.