As such, Japan is keen to work with Malaysia to strengthen its capacity-building under the Look East Policy (LEP) framework, said Japan’s Ambassador to Malaysia Takahashi Katsuhiko.

He said after 40 years of success, it is time both sides explore a new strategy to expand the LEP and its benefits further.

“Malaysia has now become so developed compared to 40 years ago when the LEP started. So, one thing we want to work together is to use the vocational training institutions here to provide training not only for Malaysians but also people of other countries.

“I believe we are able to enhance on this aspect so that Japan and Malaysia can work together to do good things,” he told Bernama recently.

Introduced in 1982 by then prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the LEP has been the cornerstone of Malaysia-Japan relations ever since.

The policy, aimed at emulating exemplary Japanese work culture and technological expertise in developing the country, had benefitted at least 26,000 Malaysians. Upon their return from further studies in Japan, they contributed in various fields and played an important role as a bridge to connect the two countries.

Under the LEP, Malaysia and Japan established the Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training in Shah Alam, Selangor and the Japan Malaysia Technical Institute in Penang, in 1983 and 1998 respectively, to equip locals with vocational, technical and industry expertise.

The partnership expanded to include development of infrastructure and human resources, which contributed significantly to Malaysia’s economic growth and prosperity.

“We have no reason to slow down, rather, there is more that we can do for the sake of the two countries,” Takahashi said.