THE OCCASION OF THE BIRTHDAY OF H.M. THE EMPEROR OF JAPAN
TOAST BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW,
CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
ON THE OCCASION OF THE BIRTHDAY OF
H.M. THE EMPEROR OF JAPAN
23 February 2024, Eastern & Oriental Hotel
H.E. KAWAGUCHI Yoshiyasu, Consul-General of Japan in Penang
Honourable Members of the Penang State Executive Council
H.E. Raschada Jiwalai, Consul-General of Thailand in Penang
H.E. Wanton Saragih Sidauruk, Consul-General of the Republic of Indonesia in Penang
Honourable Members of the State Assembly of Penang and Members of Parliament
Members of the Consular Corps in Penang
Distinguished guests, members of the media, ladies and gentlemen.
Konbanwa
Having missed the celebrations for years 2022 & 2023, it is my utmost pleasure to be here this evening with all of you to celebrate the 64th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. On behalf of the State Government and the people of Penang, I would like to express a Happy Birthday wish to His Majesty the Emperor. May His Majesty’s reign bring continuous peace, prosperity and unity for the Japanese people.
Seeing that year 2023 marked the 50th year anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, this year marks the first of the next 50 years of trusted partnership between our nations. Echoing last year’s summit declaration that ASEAN and Japan will strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that is meaningful, substantive and mutually beneficial as well as embracing ASEAN unity and centrality, I take this opportunity to reaffirm Penang’s commitment to strengthen the existing good relation and bilateral cooperation as well as welcome the continued progress in economy and cultural exchanges between Japan and Penang. On that note, I believe Penangites will look forward to the return of both Yosakoi and Bon Odori on a grander scale in 2024.
Ladies and gentlemen, 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, and the success and prosperity of the government and the people of Japan.
(Receive a glass from the waiter - National Anthem of Japan)
“To His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.”
(Toast at the rostrum) (A waiter collects the glass)
(Consul-General, Mr. Kawaguchi delivers speech)
(Receive a glass from the waiter - National Anthem of Malaysia)
(Daulat Tuanku)
(Move to center stage and toast with Consul-General)