Centre for Japan Studies (CJS)
Background
In 1982, Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad urged Malaysians to “Look East”. The Centre for Japan Studies, established in January 1991 at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, is intended to serve as an instrument of this policy, namely to promote the study of Japan thus leading to a greater understanding of the nation.
It has also sought to promote greater mutual understanding between Japanese and Malaysians as well as understanding of Japan in East Asia and other parts of the world.
Its inaugural public lecture entitled “Japan’s Strategies for and Future Commitment to The Changing World” was given by Former Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr. Saburo Okita. Over the years, the Centre has sought to draw lessons from Japan’s developmental experience for the benefit of Malaysia’s economic development and its on-going nation-building process. Despite Japan experiencing hardship in the last decade of the 20th century, Malaysia continued to have confidence in its revitalization and leadership role in the new century.
CJS,ISIS is grateful to the Japan Federation of Economic Organisations (KEIDANREN), with support from the Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry, Malaysia (JACTIM) for having been its sponsor for the period 1991-2002. The Centre also appreciates the kind encouragement from the Embassy of Japan in Kuala Lumpur for its programmes and activities.
Objectives
The objectives of the Centre are:
- Undertake research on, and involving, Japan.
- Provide opportunities for greater information exchange and discussion about Japan.
- Disseminate the knowledge gained of Japan to a wider audience.
