#Japan #Okinawa #Ryuyaku #Arijyu #Urasoe, Okinawa

Partnership for Health and Employment in Okinawa

In a notable development in the healthcare sector, Ryuyaku Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the Alfresa Group based in Uruma City, Okinawa, has formed a partnership with Arijyu Co., Ltd. This innovative collaboration aims to support employees managing health conditions, helping them balance treatment with work commitments. This move comes in response to recent changes in labor policies requiring employers to promote both treatment and employment continuity for their staff.

Background and Aim of the Partnership

The impetus behind this partnership lies within the revised law on comprehensive promotion of labor policies. Starting April 1, 2026, businesses will be required to take necessary steps to promote measures that allow employees to maintain both their treatments and work life. The prevalence of individuals consulting medical facilities while continuing to work has steadily increased, highlighting the urgent need for better understanding and support systems within workplaces.

The Alfresa Group, under the guiding principle of "Creating a vibrant life for everyone," embraces social values centered around extending healthy life spans, contributing to regional healthcare, and fostering healthcare innovations. Ryuyaku has significantly committed to these principles since its establishment in 1951, aiming to support the health of the people in Okinawa through steady supply and health promotion initiatives in collaboration with medical institutions.

Arijyu, a subsidiary of Daito Pharmaceutical Co., has spent over 50 years tackling societal challenges related to cancer care and mental health support. Their suite of services includes the "Arijyu LEARNING" educational portal and the "Arijyu SUPPORT" cloud service, designed to assist employees dealing with cancer or mental health issues, ensuring pathways back to work while maintaining their health.

Through this partnership, Ryuyaku plans to enhance local sales activities for Arijyu's services in Okinawa, actively contributing towards a sustainable future for the region while supporting the crucial balance of treatment and work.

Details of the Collaboration

The partnership entails two primary aspects:
1. Ryuyaku will actively promote Arijyu's services to companies in Okinawa.
2. Ryuyaku will facilitate the registration process for Arijyu's "SUPPORT" service at local medical institutions.
Additionally, both companies will set up a joint promotional committee to streamline efforts and ensure effective collaboration.

Timeline

The formal agreement for this partnership was signed on May 27, 2026, thereby establishing a commitment to tackling health-related employment challenges head-on.

Comments from Company Leaders

Ryuyaku’s president, Katsuya Higa, expressed that this collaboration is a practical embodiment of their commitment to serving the health needs of Okinawa's residents and contributing to community prosperity. As Japan faces issues like population decline due to aging, creating an environment where individuals can continue working despite health challenges is crucial.

On the other hand, Arijyu’s President, Masayuki Morishita, shared his enthusiasm for partnering with Ryuyaku, recognizing the necessity of building a support system at the community level. Both are dedicated to establishing an ecosystem in Okinawa that addresses the challenges faced by cancer patients and their families, ensuring that vital moments are cherished forever.

This partnership not only signifies a step forward for corporate social responsibility but also aims to create an inclusive work environment for all individuals, regardless of their health circumstances. As Ryuyaku and Arijyu work together, they bring hope for a future where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, transforming the landscape of health within the workplace in Okinawa.