JAL, which has bases throughout Japan, has been continuously implementing regional revitalization initiatives (currently the “JAL Furusato Project”), and in August 2020 launched the “JAL Furusato Ambassadors,” cabin crew members selected through an in-house recruitment process who move to the area to promote initiatives in their respective regions. In December of the same year, JAL appointed “JAL Hometown Cheering Troops” who are involved in regional revitalization while serving as flight attendants. The aim is to develop products and solve regional issues for hometowns and other regions with which they have connections, utilizing the knowledge they have accumulated as flight attendants.
We interviewed Ms. Kinuyo Mochiki, a JAL Furusato Ambassador who is involved in educational events for marine accident prevention at the Kagoshima Branch Amami Sales Office.
–What can you tell us about your initiatives?
The Amami Islands, with their crystal-clear waters, are attracting even more attention than ever since Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima were registered as World Natural Heritage sites in 2021, and many tourists from all over Japan come to enjoy marine sports and swimming in the beautiful sea.
Unfortunately, however, the number of marine accidents on the island has been increasing recently. Under such circumstances, the Amami Coast Guard asked us if we could work together to raise awareness of marine accident prevention. In order to ensure the safety of tourists visiting the island, we made announcements and distributed leaflets on board JAL Group flights and held a marine accident prevention event at Amami Airport.
–How are you involved in this effort?
Although only during the busy summer season, announcements are made by cabin attendants on JAL flights, Japan Air Commuter (JAC), and J-AIR flights arriving between Amami Oshima and the Amami Islands. On the day of the event, together with members of the Japan Coast Guard and staff of JAL’s Amami Office, we also handed out fliers to passengers arriving at Amami Airport, informing them about ocean safety so that they can safely enjoy their time in the Amami Sea and create happy memories.
–What are your future plans and prospects?
In fact, in response to the many marine accidents that have occurred in Amami, JAL’s Amami office has received inquiries from various sources such as, “Is there anything JAL can do to raise awareness of the prevention of marine accidents? In fact, in the wake of the many maritime accidents in Amami, JAL’s Amami office has received inquiries from various sources. All of them were voiced by people who were concerned about the island, and JAL was the first to be approached at such times, which made us realize anew our existence and role as an airline that operates on the island.
Especially living on the island, we feel the importance of working closely with the local people and doing various things for the community, rather than just flying the plane. In addition to this awareness-raising activity, I would like to share with my colleagues in the JAL Group the voices of the community and the characteristics of the community that I can see because I am an immigrant, and together we will think of new initiatives that will lead to a brighter future for the island.
–What is your message to travelers?
The Amami Islands are islands with pristine nature. There are many beaches where you can see sea turtles, beautiful coral reefs, and tropical fish just a short swim from the beach, and where you can spend a relaxing time as if you were on a private beach. Instead, there are few beaches where lifesavers are stationed.
Please observe the following rules: do not go into the ocean in bad weather, do not swim alone, do not be careless, be sure to wear life vests, and follow the advice of local people that it is better not to go into the ocean today.
© Source travel watch
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