PENANG has a strong presence of Japanese community coupled with its multinational corporations in the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said there are over 3,000 Japanese people residing here besides quite a number of corporations from Japan investing in the state.
“This shows that Penang has a lot to offer to them as the state remains an ideal choice for the Japanese.
“In terms of culture, the famous Japanese Bon Odori is also held yearly here to enable the locals to enjoy different sets of culture,” said
Chow when receiving Japan’s ambassador to Malaysia Hiroshi Oka during the latter’s courtesy visit in Komtar today.
During the half-an-hour conversation, Chow briefed Oka on the state’s initiatives for the betterment of the people.
Both of them exchanged views on investments and their respective cultures.
Oka agreed with Chow that Penang is the favourite place for Japanese.
“This shows both the Japanese community and the locals could blend together.
“There are also many students exchange programme being held over the years,” he said.
Also present were Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang and
MBPP Engineering Department director A. Rajendran.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan