Made in Bangladesh

This is my pass case which I bought in Tokyo today. This was made in Bangladesh. The price is around 20 dollars.

This product was sold by Motherhouse, a Japanese company. The president is a young lady who wants to build up a certain level of brand from developing country like Bangladesh. When you buy the products, it means your money can support Bangladesh's economy.

I met her a couple of years ago, and sometimes receive email information on this company's activity. Some media have introduced Motherhouse and it is getting to be famous.

I went to its shop with my friends finally today. I keep thinking to buy something and want to contribute in some way so far, and the shop was very nice design and good atmosphere.

This case was made of leather in Bangladesh. The company has its own factory there, and hires many local people. Providing the place to work will lead self-dependence style in economy.

I am not sure in detail, but I have sometimes heard a story that giving money to governments tends to lead to corruption. This business style shows another way to assist developing countries' economy.

Today I bought one, and I will start thinking of Bangladesh much more when I use this case.

Do you want to experience earthquake?

Recently, I read one article which introduced a story on foreign travellers' expectation in Japan. As you may know, the Japanese government set one campaign, "Visit Japan" to the world. Many people have come to Japan, and according to this article, many travellers say they want to experience earthquake. It tells their impression toward Japan.

People want to see some different points when they come to Japan. It is natural, I think. But of course, earthquake causes sad things, and it is not fun at all. I talked this topic with friends today, and one of my friends who works for a media company told me that some foreign media still request to deliver unique stories... they do not care the Japanese politics or policies, but some "different" things compared with the US or UK culture.

Samurai, geisha, sushi... I say, these are actually some aspects of Japanese culture. I wish it would be so nice if people want to experience Japanese unique hospitality and kindness.

Public Diplomacy

The market went turbulence on last Friday. The reason was the US congress situation which could not pass the automakers bailout plan. The people in the market said they were afraid of the future of the US economy.

The White House announced the statement to consider the options to bailout the automakers with using the TARP program. I can reach this information through media, and of course, the website. The White House provides much information including this statement and dialog with Press and Press Secretary. It is the transparent process for us to understand what kind of discussion was held there, and I think it is good. But at the same time, I am thinking we should not satisfied with much information it provides... not enough to understand why it is so slow to avoid the confusion.

Year End and New Year Plan

According to JTB survey, the number of people who plan to go abroad at the end of this year, 4.6% decreased compared with the last year data. The yen has become stronger than the US dollar or the Euro, so it is good to go abroad... but I need to work until the end of December this year. And the data shows how people suffer from this economic recession.

Thinking of the world will lead me something new discovery, and that is the most attractive point. I can learn I am not the one who can be satisfied with the current self through travelling.