Happy New Year from Ambassador KIKUTA Yutaka

To all the people of Japan and Brunei, Happy New Year 2026!

I assumed my post at the end of December last year, so everything I experienced here last year was new to me. The Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Ikuina visited in the summer, and the handshake scene between Prime Minister Takaichi and His Majesty Sultan Bolkiah of Brunei shortly after her taking office at the Japan-ASEAN Summit in Malaysia at the end of October is still fresh in my mind. I have fond memories of events such as the awards ceremony, university exchanges, and the Japan Festival. On the economic front, I came across news of a decision of large-scale investment project and the resumption of code-sharing on direct flights with a Japanese airline company. Even outside of my official duties, I have learned a great deal through my interactions with the people here. Perhaps the most of my encounters this year will be my second, but I look forward to many new discoveries and encounters as well.

While the people of Brunei cherish a great deal of interest and affection for Japan, there is an asymmetry in the image that Japanese people have of Brunei. However, actually living here, traveling to various places, reading books, and talking with various people, I feel that this country is full of diverse charms and is practicing a way of being a country worthy of respect. Learning about the history leading up to independence (including the occupation by Japan), and the subsequent efforts for prosperity and nation-building (including economic exchange with Japan) is truly fascinating. The well-developed infrastructure coexists with abundant nature, the profound culture derived from Islam, and the smiling faces of the people with full of hospitality. To be honest, I wonder if there really is a place like this in the world.
 
Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) is Brunei's identity, and is not merely a slogan. It is deeply rooted in the nation's governance, the lives of its people, its culture, and its education as the most important concept that defines Brunei. However, Brunei quietly admits those who do not belong to it to follow their own practice as long as it does not disturb public order. This approach of accepting and striving for coexistence with those who hold different sense of values ​​also applies to Brunei's foreign policy. Located in ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific region, which encompasses both large and small nations, Brunei seeks to ensure its survival and prosperity through harmony with other nations. While the values ​​hoisted to maintain national unity vary from country to country, I think this approach offers a valuable lesson in today's international community, where there is often a tendency to exclude those who differ. Darussalam = Abode of Peace. Every time I embrace the country's name, I feel the wishes and spirit of this country, whose official name includes the word "peace."

Economically, a stereotypical image of Brunei might be an oil and natural gas producing country, but since 2019 it has also begun importing crude oil, and now is seeking to diversify its economic structure. In my view, this is not a "transformation" but a "diversification." While promoting the efficiency of traditional key industries and environmental considerations, the country is also working to develop other industries such as downstream oil and gas industries, agriculture, forestry and fisheries, ICT, and the service industry. I believe that the idea of harmony, ​​the best mix, is ​​important here as well.
 
Japan has a deep connection to Brunei's past prosperity and future development. I understand that Japanese companies operating in Brunei face various challenges and difficulties in an environment somewhat different from the so-called capitalist free market economy. However, it is also true that Brunei is a country with outstanding political stability. Not only economic ties among industries, but the long-standing close ties between royal and imperial families are also distinctive. Furthermore, since taking up my post, I have noticed growing interest in Brunei from Japan, particularly as a destination for educational tours.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of His Majesty’s birth, and next year will mark the 60th anniversary of His reign. The long-term national vision goal is "Wawasan 35." I am watching with great interest the path the country will take and how its relationship with Japan will develop.
 
This year marks the Year of Hinoeuma, Fire Horse (the 43^rd term of the Sexagenary).
It is generally said to be a year filled with drive and energy. You may be facing various difficulties and challenges in your daily lives, but I hope that you will be able to overcome them with passion and energy, and that this year bring you a lot of happiness and success.