MFA Press Release: Speech by Minister for Foreign Affairs K Shanmugam at the Great East Japan Earthquake Memorial Ceremony, 10 March 2012

Your Excellency Ambassador Suzuki

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We are gathered here today on this solemn occasion to remember the victims who perished in the Great East Japan Earthquake. Many survivors also lost their loved ones, homes and livelihoods in the disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are with them this evening.

2 The earthquake and tsunami one year ago caused untold damage and suffering in Japan. Many of us watched in shock and disbelief. The scale of the tragedy and the consequent devastation were heartbreaking.

3 We are gathered here not just to think about what has been lost. We also draw strength and comfort in the friendship and support from everyone present today.

4 The Japanese people were not alone, are not alone and will not be alone during this time of great trial and sorrow. The international community responded speedily in immediate disaster assistance as well as in the reconstruction efforts undertaken by the Japanese Government.

5 Singapore too, in our own small way, has played its part in this international effort. The people and Government of Singapore remember Japan's contributions to Singapore's rapid development post-independence. Japanese training and investments helped make Singapore what it is today.

6 Our gratitude to Japan and our sympathy for the Japanese people in their moment of adversity led to an overwhelming response to help the disaster victims. The Red Cross in Singapore collected over S$35 million in its disaster appeal for Japan. These funds have been used partly in relief efforts and partly for reconstruction projects in the affected areas. Others such as Mercy Relief also played a part in the relief efforts.

Ladies and Gentlemen

7 Japan has undergone a severe test in the past year. We were all moved to see how the Japanese people responded with extraordinary dignity and grace in the wake of the disaster. There is much that the rest of the world, including Singapore, can learn from Japan in this regard.

8 No less impressive is the swift recovery that has been made by Japan. Just two weeks after the disaster, the main expressway through Tohoku and quays at all nine major ports on Japan's Pacific coast were back in operation. Sendai Airport re-opened just one month after it was completely flooded. The Tohoku region is again welcoming tourists. Much of the affected areas are steadily being rebuilt.

9 Singapore's Prime Minister Mr Lee Hsien Loong has asked me to convey that he is heartened to see Japan making good progress in its recovery efforts. He sends his best wishes to the people of Japan, especially to those who have been affected by the disaster.

10 There is much to be done to restore and revitalise the Tohoku region. It will take time to bring normalcy back to the people of the region. We are fully confident that Japan will overcome the many challenges and will become even stronger and more resilient.

11 Thank you.

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