DENPASAR — Bali Governor Wayan Koster reaffirmed the strong relationship between Japan and Indonesia during the reception commemorating the 66th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito, held at The Meru, Sanur, Denpasar, on Wednesday (February 11) evening.
The occasion was marked by a ceremonial toast, or kampai, symbolizing the enduring friendship and unity between the two nations.
The reception, hosted by the Consulate-General of Japan in Denpasar, was conducted in a warm and dignified atmosphere, attended by government officials, business leaders, and prominent community figures. In his remarks, Japanese Consul-General in Denpasar, Miyakawa Katsutoshi, noted that the Emperor’s birthday is officially celebrated in Japan every February 23.
“Today coincides with the conferment of an imperial honor. I feel truly delighted. This is a symbol of the friendship and unity between Japan and Indonesia,” Miyakawa said.
He emphasized that despite political dynamics in both countries, Japan–Indonesia relations have continued to be maintained comprehensively. Meetings and ongoing communication between the Prime Minister of Japan and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, he added, reflect concrete steps toward stronger and more effective cooperation across various sectors.
In terms of people-to-people exchanges, Miyakawa highlighted the growing interest among Indonesian youth in working in Japan.
“Recently, around 2,000 young men and women from Bali were dispatched to work in Japan. I see them as cultural ambassadors who will gain valuable experience during their time in Japan, which will ultimately benefit Indonesia,” he said.
Currently, approximately 110,000 Indonesians are working in Japan, making Indonesia one of the largest contributors of foreign workers there. Miyakawa described Indonesian workers as well-regarded and diligent across various fields.
Cooperation between the two sides also extends to environmental initiatives, particularly coastal preservation and rehabilitation efforts in Bali. The Japanese government continues to provide support for projects targeted for completion by 2034, including coastal management efforts in the Tanah Lot area.
“We must preserve the environment for future generations,” he stressed.
Collaboration has also expanded to waste management and initiatives aimed at increasing farmers’ income, such as programs implemented in Tegalalang. Economic and tourism cooperation continue to be strengthened, grounded in mutual trust as a fundamental principle.
“This true friendship transcends previous boundaries. The principle of trust that we uphold will serve as the foundation for increasingly close and strong cooperation between Bali and Japan. I extend my gratitude to the Bali Provincial Government for its continued support of the Consulate-General of Japan,” Miyakawa stated.
Meanwhile, Governor Wayan Koster conveyed his congratulations to His Majesty Emperor Naruhito.
“Happy 66th Birthday to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. May Your Majesty always be blessed with happiness and continue to advance the friendship between Indonesia and Japan in the years ahead. Congratulations and best wishes,” he said.
The reception also underscored the importance of strengthening the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Indonesia and Japan are scheduled to celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2028. With this shared spirit, both countries are expected to continue building a bright future through mutually beneficial cooperation, including at the regional level between Bali and Japan.***
