JAPAN EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Enjoyed the breath-taking view of Eastern Garden of the Emperor Palace
Ohaio Gozaimaz! People regard Japan as a country with exemplary citizens - especially transforming its economy in the aftermath of the Second World War. Until today, Japan stands out as a country renowned for technological achievements, strong economic growth, philanthropic attitude to poorer countries, and culturally unique in its own standard. Not forgetting Japan's beautiful spring cherry landscape and the majestic Mount Fiji - all these only makes one want to visit Japan. So, when I was offered to attend a ten day exchange program by the Japan Embassy - I was excited and grabbed the offer. This program was organized for the first time by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Japan, with the aim to provide an opportunity to know more about Japan, as well as to discuss about Japan and the issues surrounding Japan with fellow participants from Indonesia, Singapore and Vietnam. I am a lecturer involved in teaching and researching International Relations, specifically on issues in Asia Pacific region. What better opportunity can one think of to meet professionals from different countries with similar interests during my first ever visit to Japan?
During the discussion talk.
This exchange program, planned for ten days (24th November 2014 - 2 December 2014), incorporated rigorous seminars with integrated study tour that provided a group of eight educators and professionals an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the foundations of Japan's foreign and security policy and current threats facing Japan. The exchange program focused on the formulation of Japan foreign and national security policy and the role of the federal government, think-tanks, and public opinion in shaping that policy. This program examined specific security issues such as territorial disputes, the role of national security, the role of Japan's coast guard, and Japan's integration with ASEAN. The program also focused on regional security concerns in Southeast Asia and East Asia.
For a person who had limited knowledge about Japan, this program was extremely valuable. Although we were briefed about one main topic i.e. territorial and sovereign integrity disputes on Senkaku Island (with China), Takeshima Island (with South Korea) and the Northern territories (with Russia), it was all very enriching and informative. Getting direct information from policy makers was very beneficial indeed.
The program started off nicely when we were flown to Okinawa prefecture to get some real experience of the US military base in the island. We were very unfortunate for not being able to enter inside the military base. However we were compensated with a dialogue session with the United States Consul General in Okinawa. It was an in-depth discussion on several issues in Okinawa such as the history of Okinawa, public resentment on US military base, the relation between the Onkinawa prefecture and the federal government and the general economic, political and cultural aspect of the island itself. As the discussion was taking place, we could also hear the sound of jets and aircraft flying from time to time. Spending a day in Okinawa and getting a comprehensive briefing from the Ambassador in Charge of Okinawan Affairs was a meaningful tour indeed.
On returning to Tokyo we had a fully-packed schedule. We had more briefing on disputes involving Senkaku Island, Takeshima Island and Northern territories. On the other hand, one could not resist listening to the views and opinions of high profile academics and policy makers. One of the fascinating talks was the one given by Prof. Narushige Michishita, who spoke about the rise of China and Japan's response to the rise, and the revival of the US-Japan guidelines. Another talk that also caught my attention was the talk given by Ambassador Yamagami. The Ambassador gave a comprehensive briefing on Japan's contribution to peace and security in Asia and also Japan's role with ASEAN countries. In summary, I realized that Japan has developed itself as a strong nation and it is ready to play a bigger role in the region for securing peace and stability. This short tour was designed to give a broader and a deeper picture of several aspects of regional security from Japanese perspective to up and coming professionals. That target was achieved more than adequately. What amazes me is our work in the 'classroom' was no less hectic than in other places! Also, by this time the members of the group became friendly and if any misapprehensions existed at the beginning, they disappeared. We were like school kids on a picnic with no fear for the 'teachers'!
Standing at the top of tallest tower
in the world - The Sky Tree Tower
Although eight days of the course was densely packed with lectures, discussions and presentations, it was not a matter of 'all work and no play'! We had several opportunities for site seeing-of course mostly done during the lunch and dinner time. The organizers organized a one day official guided tour. I can count myself very lucky as I visited the tallest tower in the world, The Sky Tree Tower. The 634m free-standing broadcasting tower symbolizes tradition and the future. The sound of the number "634" when read in old Japanese numbers is "mu-sa-shi" which reminds Japanese people of Musashi Province of the past. We were later taken to visit the eastern garden of the Imperial Palace. It was simply breathtaking and peaceful - just by looking at the wonderful and colourful trees.
At the front gate of Meiji Shrine
Apart from the beautiful and enormous garden, visiting Meiji Shrine was the highlight. I could not help myself from performing simple Japanese prayers in that serene place. Moreover, that particular day was an auspicious day for weddings and for children. I was fortunate to see so many couples with their traditional costumes - Kimono. I realized that Shintoism had so many similarities with Hinduism. On the other hand, I always believed that religions can be many, but God is one; races are many, Mankind is one. And finally the most favorite thing-SHOPPING! We were taken to Asakusa where we were greeted by two huge red lantern which lead us to the Sensoji temple. Along the 150 meters walk heading towards the temple was many stalls that sold many Japanese souvenirs. . An hour was definitely not enough to do shopping - at least for me. I personally felt that more time should have been given for us to do shopping. I am sure I could have contributed more towards the Japanese economy. On the whole, in a limited time we managed to cover few interesting sites. Of course many more remains to be seen.
Beautiful view of autumn in Tokyo Park
Finally the last day of the course arrived, for after all -- everything that is good and great has to come to an end! Eight days flew like seconds! It was like a dream that can never be forgotten. This was a Asian gathering organized to discuss international problems. That's what we did but in those eight days all the international datelines disappeared from our hearts and minds. The whole world had become one! If only one can make this a global and eternal certainty! On the 3rd of December, we left Tokyo for our respective home countries with heavy hearts and heavier baggage.
I would like to thank the organizers for giving me this unique opportunity, especially to MOFA, who hosted this wonderful program in Tokyo, Japan. A warm thanks to Ms. Akiko Kawato San and Masoko Otani who were our interpreters. Actually they did more than that, showing us around, making sure we had food to eat and overwhelmed us with their kindness. Last but not least thanks to the Japanese Embassy in Kuala Lumpur for making my visit possible. Arigato Gozaimasta... Thank you!