IT was definitely a night to remember at the Emperor of Japan’s birthday celebration held at the E&O Hotel in Penang tonight.
A total of 350 dignitaries, including government officials and special guests, attended a luxurious and delicious buffet dinner held in honour of Emperor Naruhito, who ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1, 2019 following the abdication of his father, Emperor Akihito.
Emperor Naruhito turns 60 on Feb 23. He is the 126th emperor of Japan.
The birthday reception was also attended by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Consul-General of Japan in Penang Shinichiro Kanoya and Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Hiroshi Oka.
In his speech, Chow reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthen the bilateral relationship with Japan.
“As we celebrate His Majesty’s birthday, I take this opportunity to reiterate our commitment to further strengthen the existing good relations and bilateral cooperation as well as welcome the continued progress in economy and cultural exchange between Japan and Penang.
“Lastly, on behalf of the state government and the people of Penang, I would like to express a Happy Birthday wish to His Majesty.
“May the Japanese people achieve their aspirations of peace and unity in the new Reiwa (beauty and harmony) era,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kanoya also reiterated the Japanese government’s commitment to further strengthen the existing warm relations and bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
“I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the Penang government for its continued support in our Japanese cultural events,” Kanoya said.
Later, Chow proposed a toast to Emperor Naruhito while Oka and Kanoya proposed a toast to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
Among those present at the celebration were Thai Consul-General in Penang Raschada Jiwalai, Consul-General of Indonesia in Penang Iwanshah Wibisono and Chow’s wife, Tan Lean Kee.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Alissala Thian