Bandar Seri Begawan - The outgoing Japanese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Mr Niroke Hirose has said that he was overwhelmed by the support displayed by the Bruneian community in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Japan last year and expressed hope that major foreign direct investment (FDI) would be made by Japanese companies into the Sultanate, which would pave the way for quality job creation, in addition to invigorating economic growth, particularly in the field of energy conservation.

He added that bilateral relations between both countries have developed immensely as Japan continues to provide strong support for various Brunei policies.

Also during his speech - held at a farewell reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy to Brunei Darussalam at the Rizqun International Hotel yesterday - Mr Niroke Hirose, who will end his three-year term next week, said the sympathy and encouragement shown by Bruneians during the aftermath of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami was overwhelming and that he was moved by it.

"I am also very happy there are many leaders in the Brunei government who share the same view as mine that there is a need for job creation for the youth by introducing enterprises to invigorate the economy," he added.

In a separate interview with the outgoing ambassador, he said that he has enjoyed working in Brunei and praised the community at all levels for their generosity and kindness.

"There was even a kind offer from the Brunei government to send medics from its army to support those in need during the disaster, but we could not accept it because of the overwhelming support shown by the entire international community"

He noted the increasing interest of the Japanese culture among Bruneians.

"It is fascinating to learn that many Bruneians would like to learn our culture, especially the language. There is also an increasing number of Bruneians who want to pursue their studies in Japan," he added.

Mr Niroke Hirose said that he will be "taking some space to breathe" during a long holiday prior to embarking on his next mission.

The farewell reception was attended by the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohammad Yussof, with other senior government officials and foreign diplomats in the Sultanate.