Opportunities in the Land of the Rising Sun

MORE Bruneians are keen to take Japanese language courses because of the long-term benefits one can reap from mastering the language, said Minako Keaney, a Japanese language lecturer at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), yesterday.

"More and more students are now showing interest in the language. From my observations, the interest among Brunei youths in the language sparked from Japanese pop culture influence such as Manga (Japanese comic books), Anime (Japanese animation) and video games," she told The Brunei Times.

Minako added that when the course started in UBD nine years ago, there were only as few as 20 students, but over the years the numbers have gradually increased. Today, about 100 students are studying Japanese language on campus.

"It is important for these students to learn Japanese for their careers, such as working in foreign affairs and for Japanese companies," Minako said, adding that there have never been more Japanese companies operating the Sultanate.

She explained that some of her previous students are now working with Brunei Methanol Company (BMC), and some are in Japan pursuing their master's degrees in the language.

Andree Asmara Hj Abidin, a student studying in Japan but back home in the Sultanate on a semester break, said there are about 20 Bruneians, including himself, currently studying in Japan. Although they are few, the number is gradually increasing, he added.

"There are many benefits of learning to communicate in Japanese. Many people, particularly in Brunei today, have a love of Japanese culture through drama, literature and technology, and so learning the language helps to understand the culture more deeply. In fact, Japanese language isn't really as difficult as one might think," said the 32-year-old.

Andree said it was essential for people who intended to conduct business with Japanese to learn the language.

"Culturally, the Japanese people are not very open to outsiders, but by being able to learn their language and culture, they are more willing to share their knowledge and ideas with you. This is beneficial for those looking for business opportunities in Japan," he said.

"Learning Japanese language and culture isn't just about being able to read Japanese books or understand Japanese films and dramas or to get around Tokyo. It benefits students in their career prospects, such as working for a Japanese firm in the Sultanate or abroad," said Mohd Afif Firdaus Hj Ghazali, a UBD undergraduate and member of the Japanese Culture Club.

"In fact, having a knowledge in Japanese language and culture may benefit Bruneian students in terms of career opportunities in Japan as the country is seeking to import more foreign workers in the areas of business management and accounting," he added.

The fourth Japanese Language and Culture Week, held at UBD's Chancellor Hall since March 10, ends today. The event is co-organised by the Embassy of Japan and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) in an effort to develop a better understanding of Japanese culture among the public.

The event, themed "Culture Fusion (Traditional and Modern)", showcases Japanese culture, both past and present, through its various booths and entertainment.

Among the highlights of this year's festival were the Japanese tea ceremony conducted by a member of the Brunei-Japanese Association, a Wadaiko (Japanese drum) performance, a Bonodori performance, a Japanese cooking demonstration, a Cultural Arts in Clothing Trends Competition and an origami class.

The Brunei Times