By Shikin Louis
KUCHINGA, Nov 6: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will have an audience with Emperor Naruhito in Tokyo this Monday (Nov 10) to receive Japan’s prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.
Speaking at a luncheon gathering with Kapit community broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) on YouTube today, Abang Johari said he was surprised to learn about the honour.
“I myself didn’t know that the Japanese have been observing me. That’s why they are conferring me the Rising Sun.
“InsyaAllah, this Monday I will have an audience with the Emperor of Japan to receive the medal,” he said.
With the award, Abang Johari said it shows that the world is taking notice of Sarawak’s progress and direction.
“In other words, the world is recognising us — our development path, especially in building a new economy based on renewable energy and sustainability,” he added.
Earlier, Works Minister and Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, congratulated Abang Johari and described the award as proof of his leadership beyond Sarawak’s borders.
“Now you are no longer a jaguh kampung (village champion); you are a world player. This recognition from Japan is not ordinary,” he asserted.
He also noted that the prestigious Japanese honour had in the past been bestowed upon former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad during the era of the Look East Policy.
The Order of the Rising Sun is one of Japan’s highest honours, awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to promoting bilateral relations and global development. – DayakDaily
