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As their "mother,"
I'll rush over immediately if anything happens.
2025.02.06
Directors
Michiko Shoji氏
Ms. Shoji is in charge of looking after the Indonesian workers. Since her home is close to the dormitory, she is able to rush over immediately if anything happens. She also interacts with Specified Skilled Worker and Technical Intern Trainee on a personal level, and has become such a supportive presence that they call her "Mom."
From knowing absolutely nothing, before I knew it, I was a "mother."
What were your feelings when you first started accepting them?
When I first heard about accepting them, I honestly thought, "Wow!" I didn't know how to interact with them, and of course, I didn't understand their language. I was really worried about whether it would be okay to accept them in that state. But when I actually started interacting with them, I couldn't help but find them adorable (laughs). They started calling me "Mom," and now I treat them like my own children.
How was the verbal communication?
During my first year, I had thoroughly studied Japanese locally, so it went better than I expected. Their language skills were at a level where we could understand each other if we spoke slowly, so communication wasn't much of a problem.
There were times when I received a call during a difficult time and continued to listen to what they had to say.
What specific support did you provide when you first accepted them?
First and foremost, shopping is essential for daily life. So, at first, I took them to several stores where they could buy the things they wanted at reasonable prices. I also frequently visited their rooms to check on things like cleanliness. Once, I brought my dog along, and they exclaimed, "How cute!" and "Bring it again!", so I ended up bringing my dog to the dormitory several times.
She truly embodies the image of "Japan's mother."
Two of Technical Intern Trainee play futsal, and I've even gone to watch them play. It just so happened that I was nearby, so I went to cheer them on. We also go out to eat together and drink alcohol together. We always end up talking about our love lives, asking things like, "How are things going with your girlfriend?" and "Where do you live?"
What are some of the most memorable things you've experienced from interacting with them?
I was so happy when one of Technical Intern Trainee sent me lots of photos after getting married. Also, there was one trainee whose father had passed away, and during that difficult time, he called me and called me "Mom." There wasn't much I could do, but I just listened to him. Later, he asked for time off to visit his father's grave, so I spoke to the company and got permission.
Focusing on the fact that you are a "foreigner" will lead to failure.
Have you ever noticed any differences between Japanese and Indonesian people?
I have the impression that many Japanese people don't express their true feelings very often, but they are honest and will tell you anything. They often come to me with problems to discuss, and sometimes I find myself worrying about them and losing sleep. But I always make sure to be a good listener, regardless of whether I give them the right answer or not.
Are there any tips for getting along well with foreigners?
You have to take the initiative and reach out to them. They won't open up to you if you just wait. Also, when Japanese people communicate, they tend to be overly conscious of the fact that the other person is a foreigner, and if they become too cautious or guarded, it doesn't go well. The key might be to gradually close the distance by starting with questions like, "Is there anything you're worried about?" or "Is there anything bothering you?"
(Interviewed on October 3, 2024)
