In a statement today, the Japanese embassy said Abang Johari was among the recipients of the 2025 Autumn Imperial Decorations announced by its government.

“The decoration honours his distinguished efforts in promoting regional exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and Malaysia,” the statement said.

According to the embassy, Abang Johari has been a driving force in advancing economic and energy cooperation between Japan and Sarawak, particularly in the renewable energy sectors such as hydrogen and ammonia.

“Under his leadership, Sarawak has deepened collaboration with leading Japanese companies, contributing to Japan’s energy transition and long-term energy security through the stable supply of LNG,” it said.

The statement added that Abang Johari also played a key role in promoting environmental partnerships involving Japanese universities and organisations, focusing on reforestation and biodiversity conservation projects.

Beyond economic and environmental cooperation, he has actively supported academic and youth exchanges that have strengthened mutual understanding between Japan and Sarawak.

“His dedication and leadership have had a lasting impact on the friendship and cooperation between Japan and Malaysia,” the embassy said.