“I first began reading The Saigon Times during my earlier posting at the Consulate-General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City, from 1994 to 1998. Those were exciting times, with Vietnam opening up under the Doi Moi reforms and many Japanese companies were establishing their presence in southern Vietnam. As an officer responsible for economic affairs at the Consulate-General in those days, I found the up-to-date information The Saigon Times provided on Vietnam’s economy truly invaluable — and I am sure the Japanese business community here shared that sentiment.

There was no machine translation in those days, and the English-language news that The Saigon Times provided was simply irreplaceable for those of us in the foreign community, covering everything from business to everyday life. I would also like to express my appreciation for the support The Saigon Times has shown to Japanese Consul-Generals over the years, including the kind interview with me shortly after my arrival in this current posting. So it is very regrettable that I have learned of the decision to cease publication of The Saigon Times. While this news is truly saddening, I understand it reflects the inevitable changes of our times and the evolving media landscape. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation to all those who have dedicated themselves to The Saigon Times throughout its history. I sincerely wish each and every one of you every success in your future endeavors." - ONO Masuo, Consul General Of Japan in HCMC