Premier: ‘Japan monitored S’wak’s industrial growth long before Order of the Rising Sun award’

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Nov 17: Japan had been monitoring Sarawak’s industrial development long before Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star from Emperor Naruhito.

Speaking at the Premier’s Special Awards Ceremony 2025 today, Abang Johari said he later learned that Japanese authorities had documented his efforts to attract major Japanese manufacturers during his tenure as Minister of Industrial Development.

“From the time I brought in Toko Electronics to Taiyo Yuden, everything was recorded. I did not realise I had been observed since then,” he said.

He also recalled an unexpected exchange with Emperor Naruhito during the conferment ceremony, saying that although recipients had been briefed that protocol did not allow conversation due to Shinto traditions, the Emperor initiated an interaction after delivering his remarks.

“Before the ceremony, we were briefed that we could not speak to the Emperor because of Shinto protocol. Yet, after he ended his speech, he stepped down from the dais, approached me and spoke. He even mentioned that he knows a little about Sarawak,” he recalled.

Abang Johari said the recognition reflects how Sarawak’s industrial progress and economic direction have attracted international attention, particularly as the State transitions towards a knowledge and technology-driven economy. — DayakDaily

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