OSAKA, Japan – On July 31st, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) proudly celebrated its National Day at the Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, with a cultural showcase that introduced KAMORALE to the world, a national expression of greetings and unity formally adopted through Executive Order by President Simina last year.
His Excellency Wesley W. Simina led the delegation and delivered remarks that emphasized the spirit of KAMORALE, the national initiative that brings together the traditional greetings from each of the FSM’s four states: Kaselehlie (Pohnpei), Mogethin (Yap), Ran annim (Chuuk), and Len wo (Kosrae). “KAMORALE embodies our collective identity and values of connection, community, and cooperation,” President Simina said, describing the initiative as both a symbol and a practice of national unity.
The FSM’s National Day was kicked off by a beautiful performance of the national anthem performed by the FSM’s very own Ms. Amanda Abello.
Central to the FSM’s National Day performance was the sakau ceremony from Pohnpei, a sacred practice that is central to traditional gatherings. As part of the ceremonial sequence, the fourth cup, known traditionally as ‘Sapw’ or ‘Sapwe’, was offered by President Simina to Hon. Yoshitaka Ito, Minister for the World Expo 2025, Japan. The gesture conveyed deep cultural respect and honored the strong friendship between Micronesia and Japan.
The FSM’s cultural presentation also featured the ‘Unong’ (or Ulong) performance from Chuuk State, which depicts the enduring relationship between a Traditional Chief and the people he serves. Through chant and careful movement, the performance conveyed themes of love, loyalty, and unity. At the center of the performance was the symbolic Unong wooden bowl, representing the Chief, flanked by two wooden slabs representing the community. Together, they illustrated the harmony and interdependence that underpin traditional Chuukese leadership structures.
President Simina’s address reaffirmed FSM’s commitment to the Expo’s overarching vision, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” by emphasizing Micronesia’s focus on sustainability, cultural resilience, and youth innovation. He invited Expo visitors to explore the FSM Pavilion and witness firsthand how traditional knowledge and community-driven solutions are helping the nation advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“As we share our heritage with the world,” President Simina stated, “we carry forward the voices of our ancestors and the hopes of our youth—woven together through culture, unity, and the spirit of KAMORALE.”
The FSM’s participation at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was spearheaded by the Department of Resources and Development’s Tourism Division. The Simina-Palik administration extends its sincere congratulations and appreciation to the entire Department of R&D team for their dedication and hard work in ensuring a successful and meaningful representation of the nation on the global stage.
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