Penang State Museum Board is organizing an exhibition titled “Rising Sun Over Penang” that had been scheduled to take place from February to June 2024. This exhibition aims to explore the historical Japanese influence on Malaysia, which dates back centuries to the arrival of Japanese merchants in the Malay Archipelago during the 17th century. Japan’s impact on Malaysia expanded notably during World War Il, introducing various societal, educational, and infrastructural advancements.
Malaysia has implemented Look East Policy and there are sizeable Japan foreign investments in Malaysia, with Japanese companies being the earliest investors in developing the country’s manufacturing industry. Japanese ‘Pop’ culture, including manga, anime, music, products, and lifestyle, gained popularity among the youth.
