The Malaysian Insider :: Features

World’s oldest person celebrates 116th birthday in Japan

Posted: 19 Apr 2013 08:02 PM PDT

April 20, 2013

Japanese government data shows a picture of longevity. — Graphic courtesy of wisdom.unu.eduKYOTO, April 20 — The world's oldest living person, Japan's Jiroemon Kimura, celebrated his 116th birthday yesterday with congratulations from around the world and from Japan's prime minister.

Kimura was crowned the world's oldest person by Guinness World Records last December after the death of 115-year-old Dina Manfredini of Iowa in the United States.

"I truly congratulate you on your 116th birthday," Prime Minister Shenzo Abe said in a video message.

"I'm 58 years old, still a young man at only half your age. Thanks to your generation's efforts, Japan could overcome several difficult times and achieve the prosperity we enjoy today. Your healthy existence becomes our confidence and pride."

Yasushi Nakayama, Mayor of Kyotango City, visited Kimura at his home in Kyotango, western Japan, to present him with messages from around the world.

Kimura lives with his 60-year-old granddaughter-in-law and has a three-meal-a-day diet of rice, pumpkins and sweet potatoes, according to local media.

Japan has more than 50,000 people aged 100 or more, 2011 government data showed, reinforcing its reputation for longevity.

The country also boasts the world's longest living woman, 115-year-old Misao Okawa. — Reuters

Kredit: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com

Sabtu, 20 April 2013

The Malaysian Insider :: Features

The Malaysian Insider :: Features

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