More books donated by Japanese govt
By Zan Hosni

Director of the Language and Literature Bureau and Japanese Ambassador take a group photo with other officers and staff members during the ceremony

A total of 72 books have been donated to the Language and Literature Bureau of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports by the Government of Japan. Present to hand them over was Mr Hara Satoshi, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam.

Awg Hj Abd Hakim Hj Mohd Yassin, the Director of the Language and Literature Bureau welcomed the Japanese Ambassador at the Language and Literature Bureau in Jalan Berakas. The books were supplied by the Library Support Programme of the Japan Foundation.

It is a semi-government institution of the Japan that aims to raise awareness and increase understanding in aspects of Japanese lifestyle, culture, history, politics, education and economy.

Awg Hj Abd Hakim reiterated that this was the third time that the Language and Literature Bureau has received reading material from the government of Japan.

The Director proudly pointed out that Brunei and Japan have very good relations that are evident from the many activities conducted by both parties.

This includes the kite and spinning top exhibition, Japanese speech classes and contest.

During the book-giving ceremony, Mr Hara Satoshi underlined the importance of education in society.

"The role of education is not only carried out by the Ministry of Education but also has to be undertaken by various other ministries especially the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

"Education is the basis of development, culture and people," said the Japanese Ambassador during his speech.

"Books are important as they help develop suitable knowledge for people of all ages. Information from books can expand one's horizon and it is my hope that everyone will be able to get access to the books donated," he continued.

In total, the Language and Literature Bureau has received 152 books from the Japanese government through the programme.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin