For his efforts of promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Malaysia and Japan, a local university professor has been conferred the Order of The Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon award by the Japanese Emperor.

Wow!

Dzulkifli and his award.
News agency Bernama reported that International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)’s Rector Tan Sri Prof Emeritus Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, who received the prestigious award from Japan’s Ambassador to Malaysia Dr Makio Miyagawa, dedicated the award to his late father Abdul Razak Abdul Hamid.

His father Abdul Razak was the only Malaysian survivor in the atomic bombing in Hiroshima in 1945, and Dzulkifli credited him for imparting Japanese values and ethics to him.

“I am very honoured and very humbled to receive this decoration. Most of the things that I do is in the memory of my father. This award is dedicated to him in many ways,” the 66-year-old was quoted as saying.

Look at it! It's so pretty!
During his career, Dzulkifli - who is a scientist by training - has created numerous initiatives to promote cultural ties between the two countries.

Among his contribution to bring both countries closer is to set up the Pusat Bahasa Teikyo in 2015, which now offers Japanese language classes for young Malaysians who want to further their studies in Japan.

Congratulations, Dzulkifli! We are happy for you.