June 2010 Archives
(Oita Godo Newspaper, June 11th 2010, Evening Paper, Page 1)
Revitalization of Region: Making use of
international exchange
The
attraction of international students contributes to internationalization,
getting excellent human resource as a goal, the nation policy to proceed with
the circumstances. In actual fact, the regions that accept international students,
a floating economic policy is advised, showing the waves and effects of it.
In order
to deal with the worry of the aging society, it is necessary to get young
people from overseas, Japan as a leader, should make full use of them. However,
socialist party vision of using international students to come around is not a
new one. Inclusive of job support, the arranged progress of one's own strategy
is sought after.
Changing of the future plans
Changing
of regime, the country politics during the first regime, it was common knowledge
that the government had already planned to use increasing of international
student as a way to combat the graying society.
Giving
tremendous support to international students is Shizoka Prefecture.
In the
government plan, the democratic liberal party had already decided on receiving
300,000 international students, but it was stop at the planning. MEXT, is
reviewing the plan, is deciding to implement the plan to a certain extent, but
nothing have been done so far. The opposition said "What will happen, we will
not know until the government carry out the plan."
The plan
which will be carried out, will have a budget of 355 billion yen over the span
of 10 years, which is 37 billion yen lower than the previous years. The
students who are going to receive the MEXT scholarship was reduced for the
first time in 5 years, the job support that was implemented was not effective
at all.
According
to MEXT, they would try in all their means, and do what they can, but the
impression that they did not leave any deep impressions.
A big gap
JASSO, a
independent organization, made a survey in 2007 about international students
path after studying in Japan, and 61% of the students want to get a job in
Japan. But in 2008, only 25% of the students who completed graduate school or
university got a job. The person in charged said that it is because many of the
students are of social sciences back ground and the company would like to hire
more engineering back ground students. In order to close this gap, Hiroshima
prefecture setup a support center for international students. From the
acceptance to job hunting, the center will take a centralize approach, and even
have Japanese language support for international students. The person in
charged said that the international students have high aspirations, but because
of the feeling of a crisis, led to the reduction of energy among the
international students. Apart from that, Japan should also try to retain the
Japanese students who have gone overseas to study. Effort must be taken to
interact with the society.
On the
other hand, according to the survey done by Fukushima prefecture, the international
students who want to interact with Japanese students is 89% and that the people
who have actual experience is capped at 65%. In addition to the language
barrier, Japanese students always keep a distance from the international
students.
We need
to step forward and need to have courage.
Comments
Japan is
the world's second largest economy, but after the lehman shocks, and the financial
shock that America have experienced, it is turning the economy upside down. The
once consumer based economy that America has built is shrinking, and the
developing countries are taking over. China has emerge to be a good new market,
with over 1 billion potential customers, Japan must break into new markets to
save itself from the aging population. To do this, people with intercultural
knowledge, multi lingual people are needed.
International
students make up this pool of people, but adapting to the Japanese culture is
not any easy task, you must learn Japanese culture and language, which might be
a hard task for university students who have limited time to study.
I too
gone through the system, my university have a dual language system, meaning
that you can study in either Japanese or English. I felt that it is a paradox
as you need Japanese to find a job, but on the other hand, if you take classes
in Japanese, your grades are bound to suffer. Hence I felt that the job hunting
system benefits mainly the Japanese major people, who can ease through the Japanese
classes and would have no problems in the job interview. It is unfair, but the
world is unfair, in order to survive, international students have to work extra
hard if they would like to have any competitive edge.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper, June 5th 2010, Evening Paper, Page 1)
Even if going to class, students talk privately;
use mobile phones, not studying in class
Even when
students go to class earnestly, students who use mobile phones in class or talk
among themselves are prevalent. Even at home, they do not study. Because of the
graying society, and the expansion of universities, the era of "anyone who
applied to a Japanese university will gain admission". According to a research
that Tokyo research group, Professors complain about the low motivation of
students to study.
The
education council, in recent years, had become stricter on the grades evaluation
and the criteria for graduation, but the motivation to study is still low.
According
to research, in February, universities, not matter private or public, about
17,000 professors are asked to answer this questionnaire. 31% of the
professors, which constitutes to about 5300 people, answered the questionnaire.
The
professors said that the average attendance rate is 86%, which is considered
high.
53% of
the professors who answered the questionnaire said that students who have "job
hunting", "part time job", had became a nuisance to the class. 64% of the
professors said that even more serious than not attending class, is that the
students attend class but do not behave satisfactorily.
Moreover,
the students who used extra time to revise for class is at 44% for 1 hour, 27%
for 2 hours, and 58% of students are not enough, 14% of students are extremely
not enough. This shows that students seldom study outside class.
Comments
Japan university
system is one of a kind, in the past, when high school students are subjected
to examination hell; they had to study extremely hard to get into their ideal universities.
But when they gain admission, they often immerse themselves in circle
activities or part time job. The education fees in Japan are high compared to
the other countries, and it is not rare to see students working.
I, myself
too is guilty of talking in class, using mobile phones or sleeping in class
even though I go to class. Sometimes, the teacher is not able to retain the
interest and the topic began to seem boring, hence sometimes we talked to our
friends or use mobile phones. Some teacher mind, but many others don't.
Those
students who normally would not engage in studying would seat at the back while
those students who are studious would sit in front, near the screen.
I guess
it happens all over the world, and I think that this is not only restricted to
Japan.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper, June 3th 2010, Morning Paper, Page 4)
A drag on the economic revival
After the announcement of step down by Prime minister Hatoyama, in the business community, there is "High hopes that led to an unfortunate result", adding to the disappointment, there are concerns that the economic policies have resulted in a state mate.
On the other hand, President of Japanese economy group, Mr. Yonekura said that in order to improve the lives of citizens, he hope the polices can be implanted for a long time, hoping that the next administration can implement it in the next phase.
Mr. Yonekura emphasized "In order to see economical revival and overcoming deflation, policies and finance needs to be strengthened."
In the future, regarding handling of the government, it is impossible to put "tax and fiscal" and "social insurance" together, a bipartisan party is needed to overcome.
Mr. Nakata, president of Mitsui chemicals, points out "it is a very startling fact but we need to elect a leader as soon as possible, so as not to have a political blank."
The president of the electronic industry group appealed "the government should regroup, and gain popularity and trust from the citizens as fast as possible so that bad influence will not affect the citizen's lifestyle and the economy."
The postal service president, Mr. Miyahara criticizes "Hatoyama administration in august, nothing was seen in its policies that would revitalize the economy and tried to fortify the foundation. The next administration would use global perspectives to fortify the competitiveness strength of the Japanese economy. Seven and I holdings president, Mr. Suzuki said that he hope to see everything be lustrous, economy be bright and the positive side of people.
International
competiveness declining steadily
Every year, the Prime Minister changes, what will happen to the reliance that Japanese government convey, returning the expectation this is what happens. Japanese economy group president, Mr. Yonekura, exclaimed about the changing of presidents after President Koizumi's era during the last 2 days.
President Hatoyama administration made the eco points system available but its effect is only temporary. As the population decrease, the domestic market in Japan will also decrease, and it cannot be stopped. Health care and nursing are polices that growth is expected, but policies were done halfway and not implemented.
In order to survive, companies need effective policies that will have effect, with the coming up of both China and India. Having a good strategy in Asia, the food producer giant, Ajinomoto's president, Mr. Ito criticized "After the lehman shock, the other economies are recovering, but only Japan is slow to recover, this is because of the lack of policies implemented.
Once wining Japanese economy is not seen to export many companies overseas. The world's Ultra thin television share is being taken over by Korea's Samsung, giving immerse pressure to Japanese electronics industry. Once wining mobile media player, walkman, which was developed by Sony, has been overtaken by a new generation of multimedia device, like apple's I pad. Japan electronic industry (JEMA)'s president, Mr. Kitazawa(president of fujitsu electronic holdings) said that while fighting against Korea and the world, there is a need for a favorable treatment for taxes is needed. Real tax reforms are needed, so as to persuade the citizens and companies, assurance is needed.
Comments
Japan is
still the world's second largest economy, even after the slum, the ten lost
years, Japan still manages to retain its place in the world's economy. But in
the next ten years, many things will change, Japan, facing a graying population
will face less demand from the domestic market, and needs to expand overseas.
But Japan is still a very much monolingual society, that's why they need their
workers to be bilingual. I would say that more emphasis is being place on English,
but Japanese companies need to reform to compete with the world and Korea.
Japan was
once a leader in technology; it took over America as the world's best car
maker, innovating the cars, building it to consume less gas, emitting less
pollution. And now Korea has taken over the role of Japan, even though it did
not invent the LCD screen, but Samsung manage to innovate the screen to the extent
that it even better selling than Japan.
But I
think that Japan still stand a chance to come back, but to do so, it needs to
find a niche market. Take for example, Apple Company, even though apple was one
of the first company to build the computer, it was taken over by Microsoft and
other companies. But today, Apple has one of the biggest shares in multimedia
devices, a industry which sony's walkman once reign. I believe that if Japan
could find its niche, with the help from the new government to find new
talents, Japan will be able to recover quickly.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper, June 1th 2010, Evening paper, Page 10)
Glass High heel
Standing at 150 cm, having straight hairs till shoulder length, Ayasa is a cabaret club girl, and this winter she will turn 18. "I wanted to try working in a cabaret club, let's try it out!"
She was enticed by her classmate, high school students have to hide that they work in the cabaret club. At closing time, middle age guys will nominate her, saying " I am so happy! I too can do it!"
3 years ago, Ayasa's parents experienced an economic situation, which caused her to drop out from University, her congenial friends in the shop comforted her, and it is the closeness that makes her want to continue working in the cabaret club.
Working 3 to 4 times a week, working at night allows her to have a income of 100,000 per month. Going to Karaoke with friends, traveling, these expenditures would add up to a majority of her income. But working as a cabaret club girl is a job that requires you to cheat, she said.
"I could not compliment the man, even if they say I like you, but I could not say I like to them, but I could not show that it is a pseudo-relationship. The customers would then demand <interesting talk but it's a pub>."
Recently, a customer whom she had not met for a long time called on her. Saying that things had change, the aura and brightness was not present anymore.
During her university, she aimed to go overseas for an exchange program, she said that that was what she wanted after she did self analysis. This story pierces my chest.
Sometimes I do not have the courage to go to work.
During mid march, in the prefecture organized graduation party, wearing a green one piece dress which wrap around her, revealing her figure. Her classmates, who will become salary man in spring, even though she cannot receive the graduation certificate, she would like to graduate, having this thought, she attended the party.
Comments
I feel that Ayasa lead a life full of hardship, and in Japan it is not uncommon that some of the people are not better off than other people. I can fully understand the hardship that Ayasa is going through.
But I felt that the money that Ayasa made should not be spent on Karaoke or trips with friends, she should spend more time to study or improve herself.
I am a poor student for now, and I don't mind to study every day, I don't even take trips or go to karaoke, just because I do not have the spending power to do so, and I am fully aware about the high expenses that my parents are paying, for me to be in Japan studying.
I felt that Ayasa could be a better person, I am not saying that working in a cabaret club is a shameful or dirty job, I am just saying that she could use her knowledge that she learnt in school to better use. Maybe it's a bit extreme but I guess it is one view point.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper,May 30th 2010, Morning paper, Page 6)
The commencement of selling I Pads competitor
In china's electronic book industry leader, Kanokajitsu launched a bigger version of the new multimedia pinnacle; I pad, on the 29 of May, featuring the touchpad.
About 10 years ago, Chinese factories have registered trademark with Apple, and Apple has ongoing negotiation with the Chinese companies. Today, there is a conflict of product in the market, I pad has already entered the market, making it hard to differentiate the products.
Kanjio is a company that is successful in having hand writing recognition for Chinese kanjis. The touch pad is uses Microsoft windows, windows 7, and the processor is from America's transistor manufacture leader, Intel, a powerful combination.
The cheapest model size is about 18 cm by 24 cm, weights about 600 to 800g, as compared to I pad, which is 19cm by 24 cm, 680g. The main difference is in price, I pad which comes from America cost 499 US dollars.
Kanjio have organized a uncovering for the product in mid May, having the shape of a apple, showing rivalry against Apple. Kaijio President said that their product with be used for business but on the other hand, Apple's I pad will be used as a toy.
According to the Chinese Authorities, I pad's patent is registered in Guangdong province, and it is only effective to 2011. The Chinese news paper, the company's business is bad, and that the banks have been asking questions about its patent rights.
Comments
I felt that apple is a great company, it developed I pod, I phone and now the I pad. I am a vivid fan of apple products, but I think that there will always be counterfeit products for any good products, as seen as software, like windows and computer games. I felt that this is wrong and it does not give the credits to the companies who invented the product, or spend much money to research and develop the product.
I felt that if the company could improve on the product, then it would be ok, but should not copy them and even giving their product a similar name of the actual product. I will only buy the real apple and would not support the counterfeit company.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper,May 29th 2010, Morning paper, Page 3)
Stepping
down of Prime Minister Hatoyama causes sparks
The traditional Japanese and American treaty has problems which are related to Okinawa's Nago city, relocation of military base, Futenma runway's problem. " Even at least, it should be relocated to outside of the prefecture", was the expectation towards the Hatoyama cabinet, on the 28 of May, which caused many debates between alliance of Hatoyama and party from the democratic party. The leader of the socialist party who refused to sign, Fukushima, said that the government should change its direction in the cabinet meeting. Within the Democratic Party, there are signs of a power struggle to see who could get hold of the administrative powers.
The breakdown
of the meeting
Mr. Fukushima said that during the time when the opposition party was in power, Nago was not under treaty, and the Japanese and American treaty was not comprehended well".
Prime minister said he truly understand what Mr. Fukushima was coming to but he said that he do not agree with what he said.
When the cabinet was first established, prime minister said that the meeting on the 28th day will be the basis for the policies. The finance minister, and Mr. Okada foreign ministers are in attendance, as forecast by Mr. Fukushima, the decision made by the cabinet can be thought as a propaganda technique.
Prime minister said after the meeting that he wanted to speak to him in private, this was seen as a last effort persuasion, but Mr Fukushima is keen on his idea, and the one to one meeting only lasted for 28 minutes before it broke down. Finally, the final decision was to quit being the Prime minister.
Socialist party had a usual day on the 27, before the talks about relocating the military base in Nago. The withdrawal of the coalition had lead to the resolution that there is not many members.
To sustain the coalition, Yasumasa chief secretary aimed for to be flexible, the localization of government policy, and the opposition criteria of the relocation treaty. But on the other hand, he said that he would try to persuade Mr Fukushima to have a change of heart.
Democratic Party's outreach to avoid the collapse of coalition, Mr. Kan's side advocates for other than Mr. Fukushima, terms must be met, even with compromise.
Consideration for America
Mr Fukushima's strong stance regarding the dissatisfaction of the Socialist party, us reflected in the opposition's cabinet replacement. In the Okinawa's election too, they established a new party which liaison with Okinawa officials, hoping that Mr. Fukushima could stay in the cabinet. Even though efforts were put into persuading to stay, it is fruitless.
On the other hand, Prime Minister Hatoyama, held a 1 hr 6 minutes news conference, showing the problems regarding the relocation of the military base, and that it is impossible to relocate the base out of the prefecture. He apologized and said sorry. At peripheral, the America is placing huge pressure on the Japanese government was his explanation.
These are the problems that caused Prime Minister Hatoyama to step down.
Comments
Japan has been a democratic nation after the influence of America on Japan after the World War 2. But for the past years, the party in power was the Democratic Party. I felt that Hatoyama has been trying his best to make Japan into a better country but fulfilling the promises that he has given. To give money to support children in Japan, to make the highways free of charge, but his policies take a long time to implement and it might bring Japan to further deficit.
The stepping down of Hatoyama has brought a shock to both foreigners and Japanese, one would wonder how would Japan progress from here, Japan there is a lot of things, a lot of policies waiting to be implemented in Japan. Hopefully the new Prime Minister, will be able to bring Japan to greater heights and that Japan would prosper in the future.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper,May 28th 2010, Evening paper, Page 1)
Increase
of 5.1% of unemployment rate in April
According to the ministry report on the 28 of May, the unemployment rate for April is 5.1%, 0.1 points higher than the previous month, this deterioration has continued for the past 2 months.
According to the ministry of man power, for every job seeker, the jobs available are 0.48 percent, as compared to the previous months; it's a decrease of 0.01 points, deterioration after 8 months.
The government introduced stimulus policies, packages, to the extent of giving money to every citizen to increase consumption, investment in facilities, but due to the market confusion caused by Greece economic crisis, as the future is uncertain, but the companies are still recruiting people.
Recruitment for the new graduates is rigorous, many students who graduated from high school and universities could not find a job, this also contributes to the unemployment rate. Housewives, people who have not thought of going into the job market, also contribute to the unemployment rate as they try to find a job once again.
The unemployment ratio between man and women are as follows, man has an improvement of 0.1 points, resulting in a percentage of 5.5%. Women have a deterioration of 0.4 points, resulting in 4.7 %. The total unemployment numbers, has increased by 100,000 people to 3 560 000, as compared to April last year. Students who graduated from schools and could not find a job increased by 10 000 people, to 210 000 people.
Among all the prefectures, Fukui prefecture experienced the highest increase of job demand of 0.69 times, and the lowest is Okinawa, which is 0.31 times. In Oita, there has been an increase of 0.2 points to 0.53 times.
Comments
Unemployment is always a social problem any countries. Japan is experiencing a graying population and most of the companies know that to sustain their business, they have to venture overseas, as the domestic market is shrinking drastically. Many Japanese companies plan to venture overseas, especially in Asia. They are desperately trying to find Japanese with high English skills or even other foreign language skills.
As Japan has always been a monolingual society, not many Japanese students venture overseas to study and that till the past decade, degree in English is practically unheard of in Japan. Therefore, the international students who came to Japan to study, normally majored in Japanese, making it very inaccessible to other international students.
However, in this decade, the Japanese government has been trying hard to attract international students and they implemented the "Global 30" program, letting students study in English. But this is a paradox, as with Japanese proficiency, one can only be a English teacher or could not find a job in a Japanese company.
Hopefully this will change in the time to come and that the unemployment rate in Japan will decrease in future.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper,May 26th 2010, Evening paper, Page 11)
Frequent
occurrence of accident resulting to death of Elderly
Accidents resulting in death of elderly who are above the age of 65 are on the increase in Oita Prefecture from April. This year, from January to March, of the 17 decease, 7 people are elderly (41.2%), but after April till the 25 of this month, there were 9 accidents and 7 of them are elderly (77.8%).This year, the total number of elderly who died in traffic accident adds up to 14 people, this number is twice as many as last year.
This year traffic accident, out of the 10 people who died in January, 6 was elderly. In February, 5 people died out of which 0 elderly. In March, 2 people died out of which 1 people is elderly. In April, 5 people died out of which 3 people are elderly. In May till the 25, 4 people died out of which 4 people are elderly.
Regarding the reason towards the increase in deaths of elderly, the police transportation planning division said that because the weather is getting better, there is an increase in elderly people going out. They should wear white reflective shirts, so that the drivers could recognize them immediately. Out of the 14 deaths of elderly, 6 are pedestrians, 3 are riding the bicycle and 5 people are drivers driving the car.
The pedestrians did not see the car coming from the right, as it was in their blind spot. 4 out of 5 elderly driving the car did not put their sit belt, out of which if 2 of them put on sit belt, there is a high possibility that they might be saved.
The planning division head said that there are some points that could decrease the number of deaths among elderly. They are 1. Always look in front, 2. When turing left, always reconfirm of safety, 3. Always lower your speed, as it will prevent half of the accidents.
Comments
Japan is a graying society, having many people above the age of 65, young drivers should be conscious towards the old people. Many of the old people above the age of 65 do not work anymore and they would do the things that they like, some of them might be taking a stroll in the park or even shopping.
I felt that having a safe environment is essential not only for elderly people, but also young people.
As a driver myself, I always try my best to drive within the speed limit, if everyone could obey the rules, it would be better for elderly and the traffic. We should not speed and should always check for safety. This is because if you kill someone in an accident, you would feel guilty for the rest of your life.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper,May 26th 2010, morning paper, Page 4)
Giving
Food to schools in Africa
This is a menu made from healthy tofu. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the children's food fund in Africa.
In a busy business street in Taiwan,Tapei, at the top level of a high class departmental store, in a Japanese restaurant, Washoku no en, the staff explained to the locals. In the same shop, Japanese NPO, deburu off tsu, or TFT, as part of the donation program that is going to be held out in June. At the cashier, there is a explanation written in Chinese.
1 meal is about 20 yen
People without any special skill or knowledge are still able to contribute to developing countries with their own act of imagination, helping with the day to day overseas assistance. Originated from Japan, TFT program expanded at fast pace, and this program also shows part of the expansion.
The company cafeteria and restaurant shows the calories and nutritional balanced are considered when the customers are ordering the food. Moreover, eating a meal in the restaurant contributes 20 yen to the Africa children's food fund. The starvation in developing countries is not reflected in the richness and lifestyle of the developed countries. Apart from contributing to food, Japan would also like to appeal itself more to Africa, that's one of the reasons for joining this program.
Even eating healthily has merits
The program received good comments from the customers. A male staff, Kyosho zou said that Japanese cuisine is very popular in Taiwan, and the combination of charity and food is new.
TFT spokesman, a staff from Meiotei consulting, Kogure Masahisa(age 37) said that the reason why many organization agree to this program is that using ones individual strength, the joy that one receive from the donation, it is not only a one sided donation, but you also receive healthy merits from it.
In India, there is already 2 companies providing food for the starving, in America, from June, there will be a high class restaurant joining the program. The school that President Obama was from, Columbia university cafeteria is also joining the program.
The funds that TFT had gathered, will be able to feed 3,330, 000 people. The united nations have carried out measures to combat poverty in Africa, the millennium vision project. The countries involved are Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi, school in these countries will receive aid.
The importance of making new challenges
According to the local coordinator, Roance Senkufuge, people living near the primary schools engage in growing bananas. Some of the students work in the plantation and as a result, are absence for class and they survive on eating bananas.
Senkufuge also said that after the donation started, there have been an increase of 45% of students going to school and that the nutrition of the students has also improved. Before, in order to have lunch, many students have to commute between the schools and their house, but after the donation, the students are able to study together in a longer time span.
Comments
After reading this article, I felt that Japan is doing a great job helping the less fortunate. I studied about Africa and knew that most of the students go to school so that they could have a meal. The schools should be the place that the students study, not some banana plantation. I felt very ashamed that I was giving a chance to study, but I did not put in my best effort to study, on the other hand, the children in Africa want to study but could not study because they are too poor or if they study, they will miss out an opportunity to work.
I felt that we should try to work hard, do our best in studies, as we have the comfort of a shelter, food and basic necessities. We should try our best and should be a useful person in future.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Oita Godo Newspaper,May 23th 2010, morning paper, Page 5)
The
sudden increase of Foreign tourist
Departmental store customers: 80% of them are Chinese
The main departmental stores around Japan, has experienced a sudden increase of foreign customers, especially tourist from China, according to the Japanese departmental association, there is a total increase of 22%. According to individual companies, the total sales this year is 2.2 times for February, which is the Chinese New year, compared to the previous year. In April, there is also an increase of 37.3%, which accumulates to a total of 24 billion yen.
High class brands are in hot demand among the customers, with an average expenditure of 70,000 yen per person. The customers, 80% of them are from China, this is thought to be link with the rapid economic growth that China had experience, and that the criteria for getting a tourist visa has been relaxed.
All departmental stores sales have been higher every month for the past 26 months, each company eagerly hopes to receive exuberant foreign tourist. From 2008, the association, set up tax free counters in about 40 departmental stores around Kojima, Omaru etc, to calculate the total spending by foreign tourist.
During autumn 2008, after the laymen shocks, there has been a decrease in expenditure by foreign tourist, but due to the relaxation of criteria of tourist visa for Chinese nationals, there has been an increase. The customers who patronized during April increase 37.6%, about 35,000 people, Taiwanese, Malaysian, Koreans, Thai tourist has been increasing.
The departmental association calculated that including non tax free goods like makeup, the sales by foreign tourist reached to 400 billion yen, they formularized a plan to increase sales to 1000 billion yen in the next fifteen years. Even though there is an increase in sales, the sector with the most profit is high class goods. To attract more customers, Daimaru came up with discount coupons that could be only used by foreigners, employed Chinese speaking staff. Other departmental stores, too allows Chinese debit card, Ginren to be used for purchases.
Comments
I think that the services and tourism industry has benefited from the influx of Chinese tourist. China is rising rapidly economically, and people from China are more welling to spend money on high class goods, like Louis Vuitton, Gucci etc. I asked my Chinese friend on why this phenomenal is happening. Why don't Chinese people get branded bags in China? My Chinese friend replied me; saying that most of the branded goods in china are fake and that the Chinese nationals could not be sure if the goods are genuine or not, hence buying them overseas is safer and you are guaranteed that the goods are authentic.
Moreover, China is close to Japan, and that by relaxing the criteria for a tourist Visa, Japan could increase its sales by leap and bounds. The next step for Japan is to try to make it friendlier for foreigners, by having more English speaking staff.
Tay Zhong Jie Edwin
Singapore
Ritsumeikan Asia
Pacific University, APM 4
(Sapporo) The meeting attended by the trade ministers of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member countries came to an end on June 6th, after the declaration to promote regional economic integration and the overall growth strategy within the region.
While recognizing that Asia Pacific will have a growing leading role in order to achieve the sustainable growth of world economy, APEC Growth Strategy, which includes a concrete action plan, will be fixed during the summit which will be held in Yokohama this coming November. They also aimed to newly establish "The Yokohama Goal" which will incorporate the future vision of regional economic integration.
In the assessment of achievement corresponding to "The Bogor Goal", which aims at the liberalization of trade and investment, it was agreed that "progress in liberalization has been made" in mainly developed countries. The discussions to move forward the dormant multilateral trade negotiations about global liberalization (Doha Round) will be documented another time.
The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Katsuya Okada, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and Mr. Masayuki Naoshima, the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry.
Comment:
In a discussion involving parties with many different interests, is it indeed challenging to reach an agreement, especially when the interests are not individuals', but countries'. The global liberalization talks have lasted for about a decade without any concrete conclusions. Let us join our hands and pray for our leaders, so that they will be granted wisdom and understanding during the summit in Yokohama, so that they can reach an agreement that will be beneficial to all countries in Asia Pacific region who will have a leading role in the world economy. And eventually, the world economy as a whole will be improved.
NUGROHO Katarina Marsha Utama
Indonesia
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APM, 4)
Two Indonesian women who are currently working in Beppu National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Severe Disabilities (Headed by: NAKAMURA Kinzo) are putting strenuous effort in studying, as they aim to obtain certification as care workers in Japan. "Even the patients with disabilities are trying their best, so we also have to do our best". While worrying about the language barrier, they still manage to smile and perservere to watch over the patients and other staff members attentively.
Both of them, Imas Nurhayati (24) and Nurafriani (24), had studied previously in nursing schools in Indonesia. Initially working in a factory to assemble electronic products and having no practical experience in nursing field, they eventually decided to take up the challenge, as Japan is accepting potential candidates for care workers. "It's the chance to be able to work in Japan. I want to be dutiful to my parents" were the reasons why they decided to apply for this program, which was based on Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Japan and Indonesia. After completing a half-year Japanese language training, they started working in the rehabilitation center from January this year.
The patients who are admitted into the rehabilitation center are the people with severe disabilities who need 24-hour care. As care workers, they need to pay extra careful attention, because even the wrinkles of bedsheets had become the cause of physical sores. Both of them have the duty to work on weekdays from eight to five o'clock. They are attached to the senior workers, and together with them provide assistance for the patients, when they have to move from bed to wheelchair and when they have to bathe or go to the toilet.
"Are you alright?" "Where should I put this?". In nursing work, communication is absolutely essential and indispensable. The language barrier has been a stumbling block for them. Imas had studied Japanese by herself in the past, but Nurafriani has just studied Japanese for ten months. She sighed, "The technical terms and Kanji are so difficult". She is doing a review the Japanese words repeatedly every time she receives guidance from external lectures, and after she goes back home.
The Chief of General Affairs Department ONIZUKA Takehiro, who take them out for sightseeing during holiday, hoped that they will be able to adjust to the life here quickly, and to be an asset for the center. There is only one chance to pass the state examination. Three years later, if they do not pass the examination, they must go back to Indonesia straight away. "I like Japanese culture. I want to live here". Both of them took up the challenge to fulfill their dreams.
Explanation
The Intake of Candidates for Certified Care Workers Based on Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
Initially, Japan had not acknowledged the residence of foreign workers within the country, other than for the workers with expertise in advanced technology and cooking expertise. However, due to the scarcity of workers resulting from the current social problems like aging population and declining birthrate, Japan signed an agreement with Indonesia and the Philippines, to accept candidates for nurses and care workers from the two countries, starting from 2008. Until now, there are approximately 850 people who had come to Japan and started working in institutions for senior citizens as well as hospitals. Within Oita Prefecture, there are four care workers and two nurses from both countries.
Comment:
The story about their struggles in a foreign land somehow reminded me about my own struggle when I first studied abroad in Singapore. Being in a foreign country in which the language people speak sounds Greek, being not able to express oneself properly and communicate with people around at ease was tough. Moreover, there is also a requirement of high performance exceeding others. With their positive attitude and perseverance, hopefully they can overcome the language barrier and finally pass the examination three years later. Their struggle now will be an unforgettable experience, and at the end when they eventually succeed, it is worth-struggling. As an Indonesian, I am proud of both of you ^^ Ganbatte!
NUGROHO Katarina Marsha Utama
Indonesia
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APM, 4)
Students of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU, Beppu City) learned about the actual practice of fair trade in a workshop held on June 3rd at Fair Trade Shop "Daichi" in Nakatsu City (Suga Rumiko is the representative of the shop).
Fair trade aims to support help the producers in developing countries obtain better trading conditions and promote sustainability, by promoting the fair trade transactions of the products made in the developing countries at fair prices. Through the link by "Sustainable Development Seminar Class" in APU (by Professor MANOPIMOKE Supachit), a workshop to learn from the local, actual fair trade shop was decided, and was attended by thirteen students consisting of six different nationalities.
The students raised many questions, including "How did you become interested in fair trade?" and "How did you choose the products and suppliers?". Ms. Suga told them the story about when she first open the business twenty-three years ago. Also, she explained about how the taste and preference of Japanese consumers were well-understood by the suppliers, mainly from South Asia.
Regarding future outlook, Ms. Suga expressed, "It seems that especially the food segment will make a progress. Now, NPO is doing a lot of activities, but there has not been any proper network being established within Japan".
"In order for the developing countries to be independent, instead of giving money as assistance, it is important to provide a practical framework, like business, to ensure the sustainability" said Professor MANOPIMOKE. SHOJI Mao (22) who is currently 4th year student Asia Pacific Studies said, "I feel that fair trade is playing an important role in achieving sustainable economic development". A student from Vietnam who is in her third year studying Asia Pacific Studies, DU Le Thuy Tien (21) commented, "I gained a detailed understanding about this activity that supports developing countries".
Comment:
It seems that "there are a lot of ways to reach Rome". Indeed, there are a lot of ways to support the economic development of developing countries. It can be through direct financial aid, and also through business. However, I personally think that helping through creating business opportunities, in this article it was mentioned as "a practical framework", for the poor will be more effective in alleviating poverty. Just as the saying, ""Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime"--Author unknown. Charity and financial aid are indeed effective to help immediately after natural disasters or to cover urgent needs. However, in order to support the economic growth in a sustainable way, it is more efficient to provide the chance or to teach the ways to get the poor to work themselves in order to improve the standard of living. There are many ways, such as making education available, providing job opportunities, loaning money (through microfinance), fair trade, and so on. Hopefully, more and more people will be inspired to participate in these activities.
NUGROHO Katarina Marsha Utama
Indonesia
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APM, 4)
