A visiting lecturer at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University has won an award in recognition of nearly three decades of work promoting the relationship between Scotland and Japan.
Jim Millar, who wrote the Aberdeen Japan Engagement Strategy, has been announced as the winner of the 2017 Scottish Samurai Great Shogun Award – the highest honour given by the Scottish Samurai Awards.
Mr Millar, 49, from Arbroath, will receive the award at a ceremony in Aberdeen, along with fellow recipient, Scottish yachtsman and rower Sir Chay Blyth.
Previous award winners include well-known scientist Dame Anne Glover and Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow.
Ronnie Watt OBE, chairman of the award committee and international karate master, said: “Mr Millar has been a tireless advocate of bilateral relations between Scotland and Japan, from grass roots martial arts, to engaging with government and industry at the highest levels.”
“His most recent initiative saw him co-found the firm which introduced the hugely successful world’s first fusion of Scottish and Japanese whiskies, named after Thomas Blake Glover.
“The committee felt that Mr Millar’s continuing work, which has involved promoting trade, cultural, educational and sporting links between the two countries over many years, has been exceptional and deserves further recognition.”
Mr Millar’s previous awards include the Consul General of Japan’s Certificate of Commendation in 2015, Shogun Award in 2013 and the Samurai Award in 2006.
He has also been awarded two honorary black belts in karate.