Consul-General's Visit to Terengganu (1) :The Opening Ceremony of the Japan Foundation's Traveling Exhibition “I LOVE SUSHI”

On January 15th, Mr. Shinya Machida, Consul-General of Japan in Penang, attended the opening ceremony of the Japan Foundation's traveling exhibition “I LOVE SUSHI” held at the State Museum. The “Celebrating Sushi” exhibition was a truly splendid display, showcasing what can only be described as “professional work.” As Terengganu is a state with a thriving fishing industry and familiarity with fish, the sushi display proved very popular, including among the school students invited to the opening ceremony. In his opening remarks, the Consul-General noted that Japanese sushi, which evolved from “narezushi” (Japan’s oldest form of sushi: a salt‑and‑rice fermented fish preserved for months to years, producing a sour, umami‑rich, pungent product distinct from modern vinegared sushi), suggests cultural commonalities with Southeast Asia, which has similar fermented fish dishes. The Consulate-General commits to further cultural and academic exchanges with Terengganu State going forward.