Celebrating Japanese Emperor’s Birthday
By Helena M. Mahathir & James Kon

Bandar Seri Begawan - A reception was hosted by the Japanese Embassy to celebrate the 72nd birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan on Friday evening. The auspicious event took place at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

Attending as the guest of honour was Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Hau Awg Abdul Rahman, the Minister of Education.

The ceremony began with the singing of the national anthems of both countries - Brunei and Japan.

This was followed with a speech by the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, Mr Yoshinobu Nisaka, who conveyed his "sincerest gratitude and thanks to the many people who have contributed in so many ways to, both-nations' bilateral, relationship"

Mr Yoshinobu Nisaka also said, "When I came here, two years and four months ago, I received-my credentials directly from the Emperor who also gave me this message, `if you Ambassador Nisaka; meet His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam, please convey my hope for the further enhancement of friendly, bilateral relations"'.

Mr Yoshinobu Nisaka then continued, "The good relations' between Brunei and Japan are the result of the hard work of both the governments of Brunei and Japan".

He then thanked the Government of Brunei, especially the Ministry-of Foreign Affairs;

Economically, Brunei and Japan continue to maintain good relations. For Brunei, Japan is the largest receiver of its exports, whereas for Japan, Brunei is one of the oldest suppliers of LNG', he also said.

The highlight of the ceremony was the cutting of the birthday cake, performed by Pehin Dato Haji Awg Abdul Rahman and Mr Yoshinobu Nisaka.

The night's events included performances by students from Maktab Sains and the Continuing Education Section at the Ministry of Education who sang some popular Japanese' songs.

Audiences were also entertained with the enchanting voice of a Japanese opera singer who was specially invited by the Brunei Japan Friendship Association for the occasion, MS. Amano, and her pianist, Ms Katsuda. Ms Amano sang some songs in Malay, Japanese and also Russian.  -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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