Opening remarks by Ambassador Higuchi （Left: Dr. Aung Kyaw, Right: U Myint Wai）	Photo session after the ceremony	Reception

On 9 December, 2014, Ambassador Higuchi held a ceremony and reception at Ambassador’s Residence in Yangon celebrating the conferral of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette upon Dr. Aung Kyaw and U Myint Wai. After having studied in Japan, the two recipients have long contributed to the enhancement of mutual understanding between Myanmar and Japan through their professions as well as their leading roles played as the President of Myanmar Association of Japan Alumni (MAJA). The event was attended by around 100 participants including the executive committee members and supporters of MAJA, families and friends of recipients, Japanese citizens in Yangon, local media and other distinguished guests.

At the beginning of the ceremony, Ambassador Higuchi delivered opening remarks. In his speech, Ambassador Higuchi praised the achievements made by the recipients. Ambassador Higuchi also mentioned that this year marked the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Myanmar and Japan, and highlighted the significance of awarding decorations from Japan to Myanmar nationals for the first time in 43 years. Next, the following guests delivered congratulatory remarks:
- H.E. Dr. Pwint Hsan, Deputy Minister for Commerce and a friend of Dr. Aung Kyaw
- H.E. Dr. Khin Shwe, Amyotha Hluttaw (Upper House) Representative, Patron of MAJA
- Mr. Masafumi Sato, Advisor to Japan-Thailand Economic Cooperation Society (JTECS) (also friend of the recipients and supporter of MAJA)
Then, Ambassador Higuchi conferred the decoration upon Dr. Aung Kyaw and U Myint Wai. The two recipients made some remarks after that.

Ambassador Higuchi hosted a reception after the ceremony. Participants celebrated the conferral of decorations in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.