J.E.D.I Luncheon at Zanmai Sushi

March 21^st marked the Japan Exchange of Diverse Individuals (J.E.D.I.) first gathering at Zanmai Sushi restaurant here in Sunway Pyramid. The response was above expectation as more than 10 returnees showed up including a fresh returnee from Gifu prefecture, Japan. I think his name was Jeffrey. Do correct me if I’m wrong. 御免なさい。

It’s was a loud and merry luncheon and it was a great opportunity to finally introduce J.E.D.I. to the other fellow Japan returnees. Plus, members of the AGM were introduced and open discussion for future plans of J.E.D.I.

In the month of April or maybe late May, JEDI plans to have an event with joint arms of the Japanese Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. AFS Malaysia will be handing out contacts and it was up to JEDI members to come up with preparations for the event to be held. In addition, JEDI looks forward to further build partnership with the Japanese Embassy and perhaps successfully organize a day trip to the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur for a one day schooling experience for chosen Japan Year Programe participants.

Coherently, JEDI also plans to have short term Japanese classes for future YP participants as a preparation, though complications such as cost factors may hold the project back. A suggestion of fund raisers such as involvement in the yearly Bon Odori festival, or partnerships with Japan-related clubs and organization seemed plausible. In addition, discussion on a performance for the World Conference/ Gala Dinner 2009 is on its way and opinions and participants are highly welcomed.

The next activity for JEDI would be a trip to the Bon Odori festival and hopefully it’ll be successful and will have more participants and joining members to the event. JEDI deems not only to carry out orientations but also to be able to organize fun and exciting activities to build a powerful bond between the Japan Exchange students alike.

お楽しみに！！！

Post contributed by Izzat, returnee 07/08

( also our temporary Secretary, see that's why his post is so report-like! :D )