Japanese Ambassador delivers Keynote Talk on Japan–Malaysia Relations at
UTAR Kampar Campus

UTAR hosted His Excellency Shikata Noriyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Malaysia, for a keynote talk titled “When Sashimi Meets Nasi Lemak: Japan–Malaysia Relations” at the UTAR Kampar Campus. Held on 26 November 2025, the talk was jointly organised by UTAR’s Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance (THP FBF) and the Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS).

His Excellency began the talk by highlighting how the iconic dishes Sashimi and Nasi Lemak reflect the national identities of Japan and Malaysia, both loved and welcomed in each other’s country. He used this lively lens— ‘From Sashimi to Nasi Lemak’—to explore how the two nations connect, collaborate, and influence each other. He also drew attention to the distinctive cultural attributes of both countries: Japan as a maritime nation known for precision craftsmanship and harmony with nature, and Malaysia as a tropical, multicultural nation rich in culinary diversity with Malay, Indian, and Chinese influences.

The keynote was structured around two central themes: enduring friendship between Japan and Malaysia, and Japan’s forward-looking foreign policy initiatives.

Revisiting the deep-rooted friendship between Japan and Malaysia, His Excellency reflected on the longstanding impact of the Look East Policy (LEP), launched in 1982, which has been a cornerstone of human resource development and economic cooperation between the two nations. The LEP has evolved into Look East Policy 2.0, broadening its scope to include trade, investment, education, and technology transfer. The relationship was further elevated to a “Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership” in December 2023, signalling a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. He also referenced the recent visit of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to Malaysia for the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits emphasised the shared commitment to deepening ties.

“Japan and Malaysia share a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and shared aspirations. As we navigate a rapidly changing world, our two nations stand ready to deepen cooperation in education, technology, and sustainable development,” His Excellency said.

The Ambassador further the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision, a central pillar of Japan’s engagement with Malaysia and the region which aligns closely with ASEAN’s own outlook. This strategic framework prioritises a rules-based order, regional stability, and enhanced connectivity. A key component within FOIP, as elaborated by His Excellency, is the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC), a collaborative platform where Japan and Malaysia are pioneering ground-breaking decarbonisation projects. These include world-first initiatives in cross-border carbon capture and storage (CCS) and 100% ammonia-fired gas turbines, demonstrating a shared commitment to balancing economic growth with practical energy transitions.

He also said, “Universities are at the heart of our future collaboration. By connecting students, researchers, and industry leaders, we create pathways for long-term friendship and shared growth.”

He highlighted that beyond economics and security, the bond between the two nations is vividly expressed through vibrant cultural and educational exchanges. From the popularity of Japanese anime and cuisine to academic collaborations, these connections enrich the relationship at a grassroots level. Ultimately, the keynote symbolically captured by the phrase “When Sashimi meets Nasi Lemak”, provided a dynamic and forward-looking platform, committed to jointly fostering regional prosperity, security, and a sustainable future.

The event was also attended by delegates from the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, including Mr Kitaoka Tatsuya (Counsellor and Director of Japan Information Service), and Mr Ogata Jun (Special Researcher). UTAR delegates included President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Registrar Ms Loh Siaw Yien, Assoc Prof Dr Au Yong Hui Nee (Dean of THP FBF), Dr Lee Lai Meng (Dean of FAS), Prof Ts Dr Liew Soung Yue (Dean of Faculty of Information and Communication Technology), Ts Tan Lee Siew (Director of Centre for Foundation Studies of Kampar Campus), and Prof Dr Akihiko Nakayama (Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology).

The talk attracted around 300 UTAR students and staff, who engaged actively with the Ambassador through Q&A sessions and expressed appreciation for the insights into Japan–Malaysia relations, international collaboration, and career opportunities in global affairs.