Traditional Martial Arts and Cultural Exchange Performance by the Nippon Sport Science University (Nittaidai)

The Nippon Sport Science University (NITTAIDAI) in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia is organizing a series of “Traditional Martial Arts and Cultural Exchange Program” and “Practicum for International Assistance through Sports” Program from 10th to 16th February 2023 in Kuala Lumpur.

The Exchange Program featured the Japanese Martial Arts and Cultural disciplines such as Aikido, Judo, Karate, Kendo, Naginata, Shorinki Kempo, Sumo and other performance arts such as Japanese Archery and Japanese Dance.

The Opening Ceremony of the Exchange Program, which was held on Saturday, 11th February 2023, at the Stadium Juara, Komplesk Sukan Bukit Kiara, was graced by the Chairperson of Nittaidai Dr. Kenshiro Matsunami, the Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia H.E. Katsihiko Takahashi, the Political Secretary of Minister of Tourim, Arts and Culture Malaysia Mr. Lee Seang Hock and the President of the OCM Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohamad Norza Zakaria.

Tan Sri Dr. Norza in his speech mentioned that he believes the Exchange Program initiated by the NITTAIDAI will not only promotes the understanding between the people in Malaysia and Japan but also the OLYMPIC MOVEMENT in both countries.

“The traditional Martial Arts have developed its ideology of devoting to universal socio-political harmony for self-cultivation and improvement. Indeed, these elements are in line with the OLYMPIC VALUES, which is to place sport at the service of harmonious development of humankind”,

“The traditional Martial Arts show case spiritual, moral, cultural and physical growth which encompass the Olympic Values of EXCELLENCE, RESPECT and FRIENDSHIP”,

“We hope these values remain at the core of the bilateral ties between Malaysia and Japan and we look forward to promote them for the enhancement of the OLYMPIC MOVEMENT in both of our countries” stated Tan Sri Dr. Norza in his speech.