Date: August 8, 2018
Place: Port Louis, Mauritius
Organizer: Embassy of Japan in Mauritius
*Photos provided by Embassy of Japan in Mauritius and Mauritius Branch
August 8th marked a memorable event for WKO Mauritius as its Branch Chief, Shihan Aslum Jeewa, received the award of the “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” from the Government of Japan, on behalf of the Emperor of Japan.
This order, which is considered as the most prestigious decoration in the Japanese decoration system, was awarded to Shihan Aslum Jeewa for his contribution in promoting the Japanese Culture in Mauritius through his passion for Kyokushin Karate that he has been practicing for more than 30 years now.
The conferment handing over ceremony took place at the Residence of the Ambassador of Japan, His Excellency Mr. Yoshiharu Kato, in the presence of the Vice Prime Minister & Minister of Local Government & Outer Islands, Mrs. Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, the Lord Mayor of Port- Louis, Mr. Daniel Laurent, the Deputy Lord Mayor, Mr. Ehsan Mamode, members of the KMAF Mauritius and relatives.
In his speech, H. E. Mr. Yoshikaru Kato congratulated Shihan Jeewa for this achievement and applauded him for his journey and his long years of dedication in developing the art of Kyokushinkai in Mauritius.
By promoting martial arts, Mr. Aslum Jeewa has played an instrumental role in teaching key life lessons such as the value of team spirit, respect and disciplined behaviour, stated the Vice Prime Minister Mrs. Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo after thanking Shihan Jeewa for his engagement towards the Mauritian youth.
Shihan Aslum Jeewa on the other hand thanked the Government of Japan as well as the Government of Mauritius for having honoured him with such a prestigious award in recognition of his contribution. Alongside, he thanked each and every person who made this possible since as he always says, it is always the teamwork which brings success. He specially expressed his gratitude towards his wife for always supporting him throughout every stage of his life and stated that she is his source of strength.
The KMAF members stated that it was a moment of great pride to see Shihan Aslum Jeewa being honoured with such a prestigious award and that they were really impressed with how the conferment ceremony was organized.
A lavish Japanese dinner was served to mark the end of the conferment handing over ceremony.
