Kota Kinabalu: Cooperation between the Sabah Government and Japan in environmental protection efforts continues to be strengthened through various strategic initiatives, including technical and financial support for wildlife and forest conservation.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the close relationship has expanded beyond tourism and culture to include long-term environmental sustainability.
“Japan, through its agencies and foundations, consistently contributes annually to support conservation efforts in Sabah, particularly through the Sabah Wildlife Department.
“This cooperation is vital in ensuring the sustainability of our forests and biodiversity for future generations,” said Jafry after officiating the ‘I Love Sushi’ Cultural Journey Exhibition at the Sabah Islamic Civilisation Museum on Friday.
Commenting on the exhibition, Jafry said the programme organised by the Japan Foundation serves as an effective platform to strengthen cultural ties between Malaysia and Japan through the universal medium of food.
He said the exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to explore the history and artistry behind sushi-making through visual displays and interactive simulations of a sushi shop experience.
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Shikata Noriyuki said sushi represents Japanese culture and creativity, while also serving as a bridge that connects communities across nations through cultural exchange.
“Sushi symbolises tradition and creativity, and acts as a bridge linking people from different countries,” he said.
The inaugural exhibition is open to the public from March 7 to June 7, 2026, with an admission fee of RM2 for locals and RM15 for foreign visitors.
Also present were Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Josie Lai Mei Sing, Sabah Museum Department Director, Arif Abdul Hamid and Director of The Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur, Tsukamoto Norihisa.
