Latest news with #JapanExpoMalaysia
The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Vibrant show of M'sia-Japan ties
FOR three days, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre transformed into a vibrant reflection of Japan. In its sixth edition, Japan Expo Malaysia (JEPY) 2025 once again acted as a platform for Malaysia-Japan economic and cultural exchange. Hosting over 50 exhibitors, the expo enabled visitors to experience a lively line-up of Japanese artistes and shows under one roof. The attractions ranged from sushi chefs and J-pop stars to traditional dancers and origami demonstrations. The event targeted over 70,000 visitors and RM8mil in transactions. One of this year's highlights was an origami workshop organised by the Japanese Embassy in collaboration with Malaysia Origami Academy (MOA). At the workshop, guests participated in the art of Japanese paper folding. Ch'ng with some of the Malaysian-inspired origami on display. MOA founder Kenneth Ch'ng described origami as a cultural bridge between Malaysia and Japan. 'Origami is one of the most approachable forms of art, whether for preschoolers or senior citizens, regardless of religion or gender. 'Greater cultural exchange between both countries can be achieved through origami. 'Now, we even have origami versions of ketupat and kebaya using Malaysian batik paper,' said Ch'ng. The expo hall featured two main zones: exhibition and entertainment. The exhibition zone had interactive booths, workshops and cultural showcases. At the Japan National Tourism Organisation booth, visitors explored travel ideas and joined in Japan-themed activities like the traditional Garapon spin-and-win game. Live shows such as the traditional Awa Odori dance and Kendo martial arts drew enthusiastic crowds. The entertainment zone brought together a wide mix of Japanese and Malaysian talents. Comedy trio Wannabees delighting the audience with their antics. These included J-pop soloist Manaka Inaba, Japanese Enka singer Leon Niihama as well as Japanese comedy trio Wannabees and Enishi's captivating traditional face-changing acts. On the Malaysian side, idol group KLP48, alt-rock band Kyoto Protocol and DJ Blink added excitement to the lineup. Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata, who launched the event, said the expo was a reflection of bilateral ties. 'Since its inception, Japan Expo Malaysia has become a prominent platform to showcase Japan's diverse culture, from anime and J-pop to food, technology, tourism and education. 'These exchanges foster meaningful two-way engagement, allowing both Japanese and Malaysians to discover new perspectives,' he said.
Hype Malaysia
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Interview: Japanese Artists Manaka Inaba & Leon Niihama On Performing For Japan Expo & Trying M'sian Dishes
The 6th edition of Japan Expo Malaysia was recently held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The three-day event, which ran from 18th to 20th July and was officiated by His Excellency Shikata Noriyuki, Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, brought together over 50 exhibitors along with a line-up of Japanese artists and performances under one roof. Speaking of artists, we had the opportunity to interview some of them on the launch day. In our first session, we sat down with singers Manaka Inaba and Leon Niihama, who spoke about their first experience in Malaysia and their excitement at performing for the festival. 1. Is this your first time in Malaysia? What has the experience been like so far? Manaka Inaba: It's my first time here, and although it was a long flight, I was very happy to meet all my fans and be part of this year's Japan Expo. I've already tried a few things, but I'm looking forward to exploring more once I have the time. Leon Niihama: This is my first time since my debut, but I've been to Malaysia once for an exchange student program during my high school years. A lot has changed. I was very surprised about the aerotrain, which was not there before when I last came here. 2. Have you received food or tourist attraction recommendations from Malaysian fans? Manaka Inaba: Satay! My team and I had satay when we arrived, and it was so good! The ones we had were sweeter than I thought, but I loved them. I've also tried a lot of the local fruits here, but I've yet to try durian, so we'll see how that goes. Leon Niihama: The last time I was here, I had Nasi Lemak, but I couldn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to, so I didn't remember the taste much. This time, I get to savour the dish as much as I like! I had it for breakfast, and I plan to have 5 more later. 3. For Inaba, how does it feel to be part of Japan Expo Malaysia this year? I was absolutely thrilled when I found out I'd be part of the event. It's my first performance overseas, and I was a little worried that not many fans would turn up—but I'm so happy that so many came to see me earlier. 4. You first debut as a member of Hello! Project before going solo. What was the transition like? Basically, everything is different. In a group, you have to think about your members, so it's all about finding balance. As a solo artist, it's just me, and I had to learn the importance of expressing my opinions as myself and for myself. There's also a different kind of pressure in terms of performances cause I don't have my members to rely on, but I do my best. 5. Leon, could you tell us more about your musical style and what inspired you to pursue this direction? Yes, I am an Enka singer, which is basically equivalent to the traditional or soulful genre of music. My father was a professional enka singer, so I grew up with it. He has inspired me a lot musically. I'm also very grateful to have received opportunities such as creating songs for 'Detective Conan', which allows me to introduce this style of music to a younger audience. I could've chosen a pop route, yes, but I wanted to share this part of Japanese culture with the rest of the world. 6. Speaking of 'Detective Conan', could you share more about the new ending theme for the latest film? Collaborating with 'Detective Conan' has been a fantastic opportunity. The song is called 'Fun Fun Fun', and we also did a dance for the music video called the Waki Waki Dance. You can see both children and adults dancing together, and the feedback has been really positive. The dance challenge has also taken off on TikTok, with lots of people joining in. 7. What do you hope Malaysian fans take away from your performance here at Japan Expo Malaysia 2025? Manaka Inaba: I want people to feel the beauty of Japan with not just my own music, but also Hello! Project's songs as well. I hope the audience will feel inspired by the message I'm trying to convey. Leon Niihama: I believe there are still many people who aren't familiar with enka music, so I want to keep sharing the beauty of this genre to help more people learn to appreciate it.
Hype Malaysia
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Japanese Pop Star Manaka Inaba Set To Light The Stage At Japan Expo Malaysia 2025
The highly anticipated Japan Expo Malaysia 2025, bringing Malaysians a taste of Japan, is set to headline one of Japan's most beloved pop stars – Manaka Inaba (稲場愛香)! Loved for her dancing skills and elegant charm, her performance is not one to miss out on. Celebrated former member of Juice=Juice and Country Girls, Manaka Inaba has been announced as a headliner, set to perform at Japan Expo Malaysia 2025 at the KL Convention Centre, from 18th to 20th July 2025. Here's what we know so far: The pop star is best known for her role in Hello! Project, a popular idol collective consisting of female recording artists and groups. Inaba's first stint on the project was in 2014 to 2016, with the group Country Girls but had to graduate from the group in 2016. After a break, she returned to Hello! Project in 2017 as a solo performer based in Sapporo and took on the role of leader for Hello Pro Kenshuusei Hokkaido. In 2018, it was announced that she would join the group Juice=Juice. After her time on Hello! Project and Juice=Juice, Inaba continued her career as a solo artist, releasing her first single, 'Attouteki LØVE / Pink Temperature', in 2024. Her appearance at Japan Expo Malaysia 2025 will be her first time performing in Malaysia. In addition to her concert, the idol is also holding an exclusive fan meeting. Here's what we know about her appearance: Manaka Inaba First Live Concert & Fan Meeting at Japan Expo Malaysia 2025 Date: 18th – 20th July 2025 (Friday – Sunday) 18th – 20th July 2025 (Friday – Sunday) Venue: KL Convention Centre KL Convention Centre Organiser: Japan Expo Malaysia Japan Expo Malaysia Ticketing: TBA Stay tuned to Japan Expo Malaysia's Twitter, Facebook and Instagram platforms for the latest updates on more artists and booth announcements. Are you excited to see Manaka Inaba live in KL this July? Source: Twitter Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article
