Awa Odori performers on stage with VIP guests including Shikata (third from left) during the launch of Japan Expo Malaysia 2025 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN and ADANI ZAIDI/The Star
FOR three days, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre transformed into a vibrant reflection of Japan.
In its sixth edition, Japan Expo Malaysia (JEPY) 2025 once again acted as a platform for Malaysia-Japan economic and cultural exchange.
Hosting over 50 exhibitors, the expo enabled visitors to experience a lively line-up of Japanese artistes and shows under one roof.
The attractions ranged from sushi chefs and J-pop stars to traditional dancers and origami demonstrations.
The event targeted over 70,000 visitors and RM8mil in transactions.
One of this year’s highlights was an origami workshop organised by the Japanese Embassy in collaboration with Malaysia Origami Academy (MOA).
At the workshop, guests participated in the art of Japanese paper folding.
Ch’ng with some of the Malaysian-inspired origami on display.
MOA founder Kenneth Ch’ng described origami as a cultural bridge between Malaysia and Japan.
“Origami is one of the most approachable forms of art, whether for preschoolers or senior citizens, regardless of religion or gender.
“Greater cultural exchange between both countries can be achieved through origami.
“Now, we even have origami versions of ketupat and kebaya using Malaysian batik paper,” said Ch’ng.
The expo hall featured two main zones: exhibition and entertainment.
The exhibition zone had interactive booths, workshops and cultural showcases.
At the Japan National Tourism Organisation booth, visitors explored travel ideas and joined in Japan-themed activities like the traditional Garapon spin-and-win game.
Live shows such as the traditional Awa Odori dance and Kendo martial arts drew enthusiastic crowds.
The entertainment zone brought together a wide mix of Japanese and Malaysian talents.
Comedy trio Wannabees delighting the audience with their antics.
These included J-pop soloist Manaka Inaba, Japanese Enka singer Leon Niihama as well as Japanese comedy trio Wannabees and Enishi’s captivating traditional face-changing acts.
On the Malaysian side, idol group KLP48, alt-rock band Kyoto Protocol and DJ Blink added excitement to the lineup.
Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata, who launched the event, said the expo was a reflection of bilateral ties.
“Since its inception, Japan Expo Malaysia has become a prominent platform to showcase Japan’s diverse culture, from anime and J-pop to food, technology, tourism and education.
“These exchanges foster meaningful two-way engagement, allowing both Japanese and Malaysians to discover new perspectives,” he said.
