Two Bruneians were conferred Japanese decorations in recognition of their contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and promotion of friendship between Japan and Brunei Darussalam.
They are former ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Seri Paduka Lim Jock Hoi and former staff of the Japanese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Yap Bee Hoon.
Dato Seri Paduka Lim was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.
During his five-year tenure as the secretary-general of ASEAN, Dato Seri Paduka Lim made significant contributions to fostering strong relations between Japan and ASEAN.
He also played a pivotal role in advocating ASEAN-Japan cooperation in the economic sector and in the judicial field.
In addition to his contributions to Japan-ASEAN relations, Dato Seri Paduka Lim strengthened economic ties between Japan and Brunei. During his 11 years of service as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, he supported Japan-Brunei cooperation through various frameworks and his advocacy led to the conclusion of the Brunei Japan Economic Partnership Agreement in June 2007. Dato Seri Paduka Lim also supported Japan’s participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement.
Yap was conferred the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays. She dedicated 34 years of service as the secretary to the Japanese ambassador to Brunei Darussalam with business acumen and commitment to her duties.
Yap played a role in fostering bilateral relations between Japan and Brunei. Her networking efforts extended beyond official duties, forging connections with influential figures in Brunei’s Chinese and Malay communities.
Yap’s contributions to Japanese diplomacy were recognised with a long service award in 2010.
