KUALA LUMPUR - Nearly 60 per cent of foreign residents in Saitama Prefecture wish to live in the area permanently, although around 40 per cent expressed concerns about discrimination.

The survey, conducted by the prefectural government, also found that foreign residents want more multilingual information and improved Japanese language education, as reported by The Asahi Shimbun.

“We will be taking full advantage of these findings in designing and developing dedicated programs for citizens from abroad, especially Japanese language training,” a representative of the prefecture’s international affairs division said.

The studies have been carried out since 2013 to better understand foreign residents’ views and their needs from local authorities.

The latest survey was conducted between November and December last year via mail and the internet, targeting 4,000 respondents selected from municipal resident registers.

A total of 1,064 valid responses were received.

The 20-question survey examined respondents’ backgrounds, daily challenges and long-term plans in the region.

In response to whether they hoped to continue living in Saitama, 59.9 per cent said they would like to reside there permanently.

When combined with those intending to stay for two to five years or six to 10 years, the proportion of residents planning to remain rose to 84 per cent.

More than 90 per cent of respondents said they were either fully or somewhat satisfied with life in the prefecture.

Among the reasons cited, 69.5 per cent pointed to a stable and liveable environment.

A further 52.5 per cent said the area was suitable for understanding Japanese culture and customs.

However, fewer than 20 per cent identified sufficient multilingual support or extensive social welfare services as sources of satisfaction.

The survey found that 39.3 per cent of respondents were particularly concerned about discrimination against non-Japanese, making it the leading cause of dissatisfaction.

Infographic of nationality, visa type and purpose of foreign residents who seek long-term stay in Saitama. Infographic made my Migrant Times

When asked about desired services, 34.1 per cent called for expanded multilingual information and consultation programmes.

Japanese language learning assistance was requested by 31.4 per cent of respondents.

Meanwhile, 31.2 per cent sought more comprehensive welfare support, while 30.9 per cent called for stronger efforts to eliminate discriminatory attitudes.

In open-ended responses, many residents emphasised the need for broader Japanese language training and measures to address discrimination.

Some also urged stricter enforcement against individuals who fail to comply with local laws and regulations.

By nationality, Chinese residents formed the largest group of respondents at 333, followed by Vietnamese at 203, Filipinos at 139 and Indonesians at 61.

Permanent residents made up the largest visa category at 335.

A total of 167 respondents were employed in technology, humanities or international affairs, while 118 held specified skills visas and 98 were technical trainees.