Bunka Festival 2026
2026/8/29
On August 29, Mr. Shinya Machida, Consul-General of Japan in Penang, attended the “Bunka Festival 2026” at Gurney Walk, co-organized by Gurney Walk, Bunka Sai, and JAGAM (Japan Graduates’ Association of Malaysia) Northern Branch. Mr. Machida, together with YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, delivered remarks at the festival’s official opening ceremony.
Mr. Machida introduced Japan’s school cultural festivals, known as “bunka-sai,” and expressed his appreciation that Japanese culture is warmly embraced in Penang’s diverse cultural environment. YB Wong highlighted Penang’s multicultural character and expressed his hope for the further expansion of tourism exchanges with Japan. He also stated that possibilities for air connectivity between Japan and Penang, including charter flights, were being explored.
The event featured a wide range of programs, including an Aikido demonstration, a choral performance by students, a live performance by Mr. Kenichi Yamasaki, an exhibition of itasha (anime-decorated cars), an ikebana display, a matcha tea experience, and cosplay activities.
The venue also featured a Japanese food corner and booths offering Japan-related goods, attracting large crowds well into the evening. The Consulate-General also set up a cultural exchange booth, where visitors could participate in origami and kirigami workshops and view various Japanese cultural items.
Looking ahead to the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Malaysia and the 50th anniversary of the decision to establish the Consulate-General in Penang in 2027, the Consulate-General will continue to deepen cooperation with JAGAM and other local partners and further promote exchanges through Japanese culture.
Mr. Machida introduced Japan’s school cultural festivals, known as “bunka-sai,” and expressed his appreciation that Japanese culture is warmly embraced in Penang’s diverse cultural environment. YB Wong highlighted Penang’s multicultural character and expressed his hope for the further expansion of tourism exchanges with Japan. He also stated that possibilities for air connectivity between Japan and Penang, including charter flights, were being explored.
The event featured a wide range of programs, including an Aikido demonstration, a choral performance by students, a live performance by Mr. Kenichi Yamasaki, an exhibition of itasha (anime-decorated cars), an ikebana display, a matcha tea experience, and cosplay activities.
The venue also featured a Japanese food corner and booths offering Japan-related goods, attracting large crowds well into the evening. The Consulate-General also set up a cultural exchange booth, where visitors could participate in origami and kirigami workshops and view various Japanese cultural items.
Looking ahead to the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Malaysia and the 50th anniversary of the decision to establish the Consulate-General in Penang in 2027, the Consulate-General will continue to deepen cooperation with JAGAM and other local partners and further promote exchanges through Japanese culture.
