Malaysian honoured for boosting Japan ties

Malaysian educator Gary Tang has been honored by the Japanese Foreign Minister with the Commendation for his efforts in strengthening relations between Malaysia and Japan. Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Shikata Noriyuki announced that Tang was one of two Malaysians chosen this year out of 159 individuals and 67 groups honored around the globe.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony at the Japanese ambassador's residence, Shikata highlighted Tang's remarkable vision and leadership in advancing cooperation across various fields such as education, culture, and business. Tang has played a crucial role in promoting opportunities for Malaysian youth to study in Japan since becoming president of the Japan Graduates Association of Malaysia (Jagam) in 2018.

Additionally, as the governor of the Asean Council of Japan Alumni, Tang spearheaded the launch of its Business Advisory Board last month to enhance ties between Japanese companies and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) market. In the cultural exchange sphere, Jagam has co-organized the Pavilion x Jagam Matsuri at Pavilion Bukit Jalil since last year, showcasing traditional Japanese performances and cultural activities.

In his acceptance speech, Tang expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation from his family, mentors, colleagues, and partner institutions. Tang initially traveled to Japan in 1983, joining Kokusai Gakuyukai, now part of the Japan Student Services Organisation, and later served as the president of the Malaysia Students Association in Japan in 1986.

Tang emphasized two Japanese values, sonkei (respect) and kansha (gratitude), as his guiding principles in education, culture, and personal relationships.