JAKARTA, October 22, 2026 – Rector of the Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), Prof. Dr. Jamhari Makruf, officially received Japan’s prestigious decoration, the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon. The decoration was presented by the Ambassador of Japan to Indonesia, H.E. Atsushi Ueno, during an official investiture ceremony held at the Ambassador’s Residence in Jakarta today, Thursday, October 22, 2026.

The ceremony was solemn yet warm. Ambassador Atsushi Ueno presented the award certificate to Prof. Dr. Jamhari Makruf. This historic occasion was witnessed by members of the UIII Rector’s family, friends, and colleagues, including Prof. Dr. Komarudin Hidayat, Chair of the Indonesian Press Council, and Prof. Dr. Asep Saepudin Jahat, Rector of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta.

Reflecting the close bilateral ties between the two countries, the venue was decorated with a traditional Japanese gold folding screen (byobu), flanked by Indonesia’s Red and White flag and Japan’s Hinomaru flag. The invited guests added to the warm and intimate atmosphere of the occasion.

The decoration represents the Government of Japan’s recognition of Prof. Jamhari’s dedication and significant contributions to strengthening academic ties, Islamic dialogue, and mutual understanding between the people of Indonesia and Japan.

One of the key initiatives underpinning the award is the “Visit of Islamic Boarding School Leaders to Japan” program, which he pioneered in 2004. The program has been regarded as a successful example of sustained people-to-people diplomacy. In addition, Prof. Jamhari’s participation as a speaker at various forums in Japan on the dynamics of Islam and Indonesia’s socio-political landscape has served as an important source of insight for Japan.

The announcement that Prof. Jamhari would receive the decoration had previously been warmly welcomed by Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi.

Receiving this decoration is a source of great pride for the UIII academic community. It is hoped that this achievement will further strengthen the bridges of cooperation in education, culture, and peace between Indonesia and Japan in the years ahead.