Honouring a Legacy of Friendship: Mr Callum Farquhar Receives Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays
On Thursday 31st July 2025, a special ceremony was held at the official residence of the Consulate General of Japan in Edinburgh to honour a remarkable Scottish leader and friend of Japan. Mr Callum Farquhar, Region Lead Volunteer for the East of Scotland, was presented with the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, one of Japan’s most prestigious national honours.
The award, conferred by the Government of Japan and presented by Consul General Katsutoshi Takeda, recognises Mr Farquhar’s outstanding contributions over more than three decades to youth exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and the United Kingdom, particularly between Japan and Scotland.
A Lifelong Commitment to International Friendship
As Region Lead Volunteer, Mr Farquhar has long believed in the power of Scouting to build bridges across cultures. For over 30 years, he has dedicated himself to fostering meaningful connections between young people in Scotland and Japan. Through carefully planned exchange programmes and homestays, he enabled hundreds of Scouts from both countries to experience each other’s culture firsthand—sparking friendships, understanding, and lifelong memories.
A significant milestone in these efforts came during the 23rd World Scout Jamboree held in Yamaguchi Prefecture in 2015, where Mr Farquhar helped coordinate homestays for over 3,000 British Scouts. These visits not only brought cultures together but also extended into the wider communities, creating bonds between families and volunteers across continents.
Solidarity in Times of Need
Following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, Mr Farquhar’s leadership took on an even more profound meaning. Deeply moved by the devastation along the coast of Iwate Prefecture, he spearheaded fundraising efforts in Scotland that raised £10,000. This generous donation directly supported Scout groups in the disaster-stricken areas, demonstrating not only solidarity but true friendship in times of hardship.
Thanks to Mr Farquhar’s continued commitment, over 500 Scouts from Japan, primarily from Iwate Prefecture, have since been welcomed to Scotland, while more than 200 Scottish Scouts have travelled to Japan. These exchanges have gone beyond cultural immersion—they have offered healing, hope, and the building of lasting relationships that transcend borders.
A Moment of Reflection and Gratitude
During the ceremony, Consul General Takeda highlighted Mr Farquhar’s exceptional record of service and the deep respect with which he is held by both the Government and people of Japan.
He stated:
“The positive impact of these exchanges, therefore is not just confined to Scouts members and extends into the wider community. It is, therefore, my pleasure and honour to confer the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays on Mr Callum Farquhar on behalf of the Government of Japan. I sincerely hope that the bonds of friendship which you have fostered between Japan, the UK and Scotland will continue to grow.”
For those interested in reading the full text of Consul General Takeda’s address on the day, you can find it here: Order of the Rising Sun Speech – Consul general Takeda
In his own heartfelt remarks, Mr Farquhar expressed his deep appreciation for the honour, acknowledging the many friends and colleagues who supported him throughout his journey. He paid special tribute to a long-time friend and fellow Scouting leader from Iwate, Makoto Uchimiya, who was also awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays in the Spring 2025 conferment.
In closing, Mr Farquhar reaffirmed his desire to continue his work to strengthen the bonds of friendship and collaboration between Japan and Scotland through youth exchange, cultural dialogue, and international Scouting.
A Timeless Honour
The Order of the Rising Sun, established by Emperor Meiji in 1875, is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious national decorations. The Silver Rays class is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptionally distinguished service in the promotion of international relations, culture, and youth development. Its iconic design features rays of sunlight radiating from the rising sun, symbolising energy, hope, and renewal—values which are clearly reflected in Mr Farquhar’s lifelong dedication.
Looking Ahead
The Consulate General of Japan in Edinburgh extended their warm congratulations to Mr Farquhar and expressed their admiration for his exceptional contributions. They also shared their hope that the enduring friendships and connections he has cultivated will continue to inspire future generations of young people across Japan, Scotland, and beyond.
Congratulations, Mr Callum Farquhar, on this well-deserved honour, and thank you for your unwavering commitment to peace, friendship, and global understanding through the spirit of Scouting.
