TOKYO – Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg has become the first Sarawakian from Borneo to receive the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star from the Japanese Government.
The award, conferred by Emperor Naruhito at the Tokyo Imperial Palace on Tuesday, is among Japan’s highest honours and recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to strengthening international relations and diplomacy.
Abang Johari was acknowledged for his leadership in advancing renewable energy, green hydrogen initiatives and investment cooperation between Sarawak and Japan.
Speaking after the ceremony, the Sarawak Premier described the recognition as a collective honour for Sarawak and its people. “I am grateful for the award. I had the opportunity to meet and talk with the Emperor of Japan and he said he was proud to see the good relations between Malaysia and Japan,” he said in an interview with UKAS and TVS.
He added that the award reflected global confidence in Sarawak’s development policies, particularly its focus on environmental sustainability, innovation and the well-being of its citizens.
“Most importantly, they recognise that Sarawak is moving towards a new economy in this new era. We are with countries that are embracing policies that benefit environmental sustainability and increase the income of the people,” he explained.
The Premier emphasised that the recognition should inspire Sarawakians to pursue success on the international stage.
“I am grateful because I am the only one from Borneo to receive this award and not many people get this award. This means that if Sarawakians look at new fields and create success, the world will recognise us,” he said.
Abang Johari also revealed that Sarawak is exploring new avenues of cooperation with Japan in the field of fusion power, following Japan’s successful power test earlier this year.
He noted that discussions had already taken place with the President of the Japan Malaysia Association, who intends to raise the matter with Japan’s Prime Minister.
The Premier added that he would consult Malaysia’s Prime Minister on the potential for joint collaboration in fusion energy, aligning with Sarawak’s green economy agenda.
The initiative is consistent with Sarawak’s long-term objective of building a new economy driven by technology, innovation and sustainable energy sources.
The Premier stressed that such partnerships would not only strengthen bilateral ties but also position Sarawak as a leader in renewable energy and advanced technology.
Following the ceremony, Abang Johari departed for Seoul, South Korea, to chair the 36th Executive Committee Meeting of the Regional Islamic Propaganda Council for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP) as part of his official visit programme.
