KUALA LUMPUR - The Japanese government has begun funding municipal initiatives to help foreign residents better understand local community rules.

The move forms part of a broader effort to promote what officials describe as “well-ordered” coexistence with foreign nationals.

From fiscal 2026 starting in April, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications will cover part of the costs of integration programmes, as reported by Japan Today.

These initiatives include teaching garbage separation practices, Japanese language skills and encouraging participation in neighbourhood associations.

Previously, government support focused on informing foreign residents about national systems such as taxes and social insurance.

The new policy expands assistance to include rules specific to local communities.

The development comes as Japan sees a steady rise in its foreign resident population.

The government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is seeking to strengthen support while addressing concerns over rule compliance.

Authorities will also fund programmes to train personnel who act as intermediaries between municipalities and foreign residents.

These personnel will help convey administrative information and handle consultations on daily life matters.

Data from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan showed that the number of foreign residents reached about 4.12 million at the end of last year.

This marks a record high for the fourth consecutive year.

Officials said the growing population has made daily life issues more visible in local communities.

Municipalities have increasingly called for expanded support to manage these challenges.

In her policy speech in February, Takaichi said she aims to build a society of “well-ordered and harmonious coexistence” with foreign nationals.

She added that authorities would “resolutely respond” to problematic behaviour by some individuals.

Local governments have also stepped up efforts to promote integration.

A survey by Kyodo News found that 35 of Japan’s 47 prefectures included new or expanded coexistence programmes in their fiscal 2026 budget proposals.

Officials said the expanded funding is expected to strengthen local-level engagement and improve community integration outcomes.