Arab News Japan

DUBAI: The 17th Japan International MANGA Award Ceremony, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, took place on March 5 at Japan’s Iikura Guest House.

Japanese Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko Minister presided over the event, alongside distinguished guests from across the manga community.

Established in 2007, the Japan International MANGA Award celebrates the global impact of manga and promotes cultural exchange through the medium. This year’s competition received 587 entries from 82 countries and regions, marking the highest participation to date.

Amongst the submissions, 15 exceptional works were honored, including a Gold Award recipient from Taiwan and three Silver Award winners from Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Spain respectively.

During the ceremony, Minister Kamikawa presented certificates of commendation to the esteemed creators, highlighting the vital role of manga in fostering understanding and connection across diverse cultures. Chairperson of the selection committee, Machiko Satonaka, echoed these sentiments, expressing hope that the winning works would continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

In an address to the guests, Gold Award winner Jason Chien of Taiwan emphasized the universal language of emotion portrayed in manga, reaffirming his commitment to creating compelling stories that transcend linguistic and cultural barriers.

The Silver Award winners, Bonnie Pang, Nachi, and Ana Oncina, conveyed their gratitude and excitement at being recognized for their contributions to the art form.

The ceremony also saw tributes paid to the victims of the recent Noto Peninsula Earthquake, underscoring the resilience and solidarity of the manga community in times of adversity.

Attended by members of the Japan International MANGA Award Executive Committee, the event served as a testament to the enduring global appeal of manga and its capacity to unite individuals from all walks of life.