IN honour of the 85th birthday of the Emperor of Japan which will be on Dec 23, Emperor Akihito whose reign era is known as ‘Heisei’ which means “Achieving Peace” in Japanese, a birthday celebration was held at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel today which had Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow as the Guest of Honour.
The chief minister, before joining the guests for the ‘Birthday Toast’ to the emperor, stated that the state government will continue in forging closer ties between Penang and Japan.
“As we celebrate His Majesty’s birthday and the upcoming 30th anniversary of His Majesty’s ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne, I take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment in further strengthening the existing warm relations and bilateral cooperation as well as continuous progress in economy and cultural exchanges between Japan and Penang.
“On behalf of the state government and the people of Penang, it is my great honour to wish His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, Happy Birthday.
“May I invite you all to join me in a toast to the good health and well-being of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, the Imperial Family and the success and prosperity of the government and the people of Japan,” said Chow before taking part in the toast of the evening in honour of the emperor.
Also present were Consul-General of Japan Shinichiro Kanoya, members of the state executive council, state assemblymen and members of the Consular Corps in Penang.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian