Arab News Japan

TOKYO: The Embassy of Myanmar in Tokyo honored the 102-year-old IMAZUMI Seijii with the First-Class Social Field Medal for his extraordinary contributions during the 1944 Imphal operation.

A ceremony took place on May 1 at Imazumi’s residence in Saitama Prefecture to award him the 2024 Honorary Title of Excellent Performance in the Social Field (First Class Medal). This prestigious award was presented by the State Administration Council of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, which is responsible for governing and overseeing the country’s administrative functions.

Myanmar’s Ambassador to Japan, U Soe Han, presented the medal during a ceremony attended by the Ambassador’s spouse, staff of the Myanmar Embassy, and family members of Imaizumi.

Ambassador U Soe Han made congratulatory remarks praising Imaizumi Seijii for his support of Myanmar and its people. “Mr. Imaizumi’s enduring efforts forged a strong bond of friendship between Myanmar and Japan, epitomized by the Imaizumi Myanmar Scholarship Program, which empowered young Myanmar students in Japan through scholarships from its establishment in April 1989 until 2008,” the Ambassador said.

As Imaizumi approached his 102nd birthday, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honorary title he received. He fondly recalled the kindness of the Myanmar people during his tour of duty in their country during World War II. This personal connection has been a significant motivation for his continued support of Myanmar and its people, he said.

The Imaizumi Scholarship was granted to 178 scholars from Myanmar, including 20 pursuing doctorates. It also offered relief and rehabilitation support to schools and monasteries affected by recent earthquake in Myanmar.