Foundation spreads word on Japanese culture

Foundation spreads word on Japanese culture

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

The proliferation of Japanese language centers, manga (comics),
hair and beauty salons, restaurants and supermarkets in Indonesia
speaks volumes in showing the penetration of Japanese culture
into the country.

A growing number of Indonesians are visiting Japanese
associations and clubs, such as the Japan Foundation, to feed
their interest in Japan's history, rich culture, music and even
video animations.

"We have around 30,000 people visiting here every year to
borrow films, books, do research, study the language or attend
our free events and classes," said Diana Nugroho, a program
officer in the foundation's cultural section.

The Japanese-speaking Indonesian woman added that there has
been a growing interest in Japanese culture, especially among the
city's younger generation.

"Teenagers usually ask us about manga and fashion. University
students love Japanese pop music. Older women enquire about the
geisha (women raised to serve as entertainers for male guests),
kimono (traditional clothing) and yukata (traditional summer
clothing). Not to mention children's questions about the
existence of ninja!" she said.

Japan Foundation assistant director Tsukamoto Norihisa said
that the organization, established in 1979 in Jakarta, was part
of the Japanese government's response to anti-Japanese sentiment
in Indonesia.

In 1974, the Malapetaka 15 Januari (January 15 Tragedy) riots
rocked the capital during a visit by then Japanese prime minister
Kakuei Tanaka, with demonstrators burning Japanese vehicles and
businesses. Many Indonesians at that time were increasingly angry
at the business community's close relationship to then president
Soeharto, and the domination of the country's economy by Japanese
companies.

"Some people thought that the domination of Japanese
businesses, such as Toyota and Suzuki, meant that Japan intended
to rule Indonesia again," said Tsukamoto.

"We want to bring Japanese culture to Indonesia so that
Indonesians will know what Japan is, and also to bring Indonesian
culture to Japanese expatriates here. That way, both sides gain
understanding and continue to benefit each other."

"It is what we call sociopolitical diplomacy," added Diana,
"it smooths the bilateral relationship and provides a sense of
security that can prevent tension."

Events held by the foundations include dance performances,
acapella music, movies, photo and traditional clothing
exhibitions.

The foundation also holds economical intermediate to advanced
level Japanese language courses for Rp 600,000 (US$63) per year,
including books.

However, the number of students is limited due to a lack of
space and manpower. Interested students are usually referred to
one of the 30 or so Japanese language centers in Greater Jakarta.

The most significant challenge that the foundation faces in
holding their events, according to Diana, is scheduling.

"Because we are located on Jl. Sudirman, people get held up by
the three-in-one traffic arrangement. Jakartans are also very
busy people, and to tackle the problem, we usually hold our
exhibitions at 8 p.m.," she said.

Tsukamoto added that the foundation would continue its mission
to present up-to-date developments in Japanese culture to
Indonesia as it evolves and changes. (005)