VP Ma’ruf Amin Encourages Indonesian Diaspora in Japan to Provide Positive Contributions

Vice President Ma’ruf Amin in a dialogue with Indonesian citizens at Japan, at Indonesian Embassy, Tokyo, Japan, Monday (09/26). (Photo by: BPMI of Vice Presidential Secretariat)

Vice President Ma’ruf Amin Monday (09/26) expressed hope that Indonesian diaspora in Japan will continue to provide positive contributions and become the country’s representatives in maintaining good relations between the two countries.

“The presence of the Indonesian diaspora in Japan can contribute positively, become Indonesian representatives, provide the best work, comply with local laws and regulations, keep in touch with each other, and help one another,” the Vice President stated in a dialogue with Indonesian citizens in Japan which was held in a hybrid manner, at Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo, Japan.

In addition, the Vice President advised the diaspora to continue to maintain their identity as the Indonesian citizens by continuing to uphold and practice state ideology Pancasila and respect diversity.

Furthermore, the Vice President expressed hope the partnership between the two countries will become even closer and beneficial for both parties regarding that Indonesia and Japan will celebrate 65 years of bilateral relations next year.

During his visit, the Vice President will also make a courtesy call to Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to follow-up on the results of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s visit to Japan at the end of July 2022 and discuss several agendas, especially in strengthening economic cooperation, employment, health, and human capital development.

“I intend to encourage potential cooperation between Indonesia and Japan, especially in the sharia economy and halal industry development in leading sectors, namely food, cosmetics, fashion, and tourism,” he said, adding that Indonesia is ready to become Japan’s main partner in halal industry development by utilizing the MSMEs capabilities which focused on the welfare of the people.

For the record, as of December 2021, the total number of Indonesian citizens in Japan reached 59,820 people, consisting of permanent residents, temporary residents, interns, students, spouse of Japanese citizens, visa holders for certain activities, and others. Of the total number, interns are ranked first (around 25,000 people), followed by permanent residents (around 7,0000 people), and specifically skilled workers (around 6,000 people). (BPMI of Vice Presidential Secretariat/UN) (GWH/HD/LW)