by Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Aug 25: The Japanese Foreign Ministry through its embassy here in Malaysia presented an award to the Sarawak Judo Association here.
Japanese Embassy deputy chief of mission Hiroyuki Orikasa said they commended the association for its role in enhancing relations between Japan and Sarawak through arts and culture by way of the Japanese modern martial arts sport of Judo.
He noted that the association members here are very active in the sport and were the reason why the association is considered as one of the powerhouses of the sport in Malaysia.
“The Japanese appreciate the association for its tireless efforts in making the sport well known in Sarawak which further helped tremendously in enhancing the relations between Japan and Sarawak over the years since the sport was introduced here,” he said before presenting the award at Hilton Hotel Kuching here.
“For that reason, the embassy had recommended the association with the Foreign Ministry award,” he added.
Orikasa disclosed that the Japanese Foreign Ministry gave the award to the association this year in July.
He said this award was difficult to get and normally the recognition was given to high ranking government officials but in this case, an exception was made, and the award was presented to the judo association here.
The award ceremony was attended by members from the Sarawak Japan Friendship Club, members of Sarawak Judo Association and guests. — DayakDaily
