#Japan #GTN #Imabari #Imabari City #i.i.imabari

Imabari City Partners with GTN for Revolutionary App

Imabari City, in collaboration with Global Trust Networks (GTN), has initiated a groundbreaking pilot experiment with the innovative mobile application "i.i.imabari! from abroad." This initiative aims to bridge the communication gap between foreign residents and local authorities by delivering vital information, including disaster alerts, healthcare resources, and everyday living guidance, in multiple languages.

Ensuring Seamless Communication for Foreign Residents

As Japan sees an increasing number of foreign residents contributing to its workforce, the necessity for effective communication is paramount. Imabari City reported that there are approximately 4,604 foreign residents living within its boundaries. Ensuring these individuals receive critical information—irrespective of any language barriers—has become a significant challenge.

The application, set to be tested from early February to late July 2026, is part of Imabari’s multicultural co-existence plan. This pilot project seeks to verify new methods of delivering information to foreign residents, enhancing the overall living experience while promoting a more inclusive society.

Features and Functionalities of the 'i.i.imabari! from abroad' App

The application offers various features centralized around enhancing user experience for foreign residents:

• - AI Consultation Chat: A feature allowing users to obtain instant assistance and answers to their queries.
• - Disaster Notification and Safety Tips: Alerts regarding emergencies will be dispatched through push notifications.
• - Medical Interpreting and Hospital Search: Leveraging the services of mediPhone, users can access necessary healthcare information and services.
• - City Announcements: Keep users informed with the latest updates and alerts from the city administration.
• - FAQ and Information Guides: Users can explore a variety of resources, from waste disposal instructions to cultural integration tips.

The app supports multiple platforms and works on both iOS and Android systems. Supported languages include Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Tagalog, and Nepali.

Benefits and Objectives

The key objective of the app is to establish a robust communication framework between foreign residents and local government, encouraging inclusivity and ensuring that essential information reaches residents effectively. By utilizing push notifications and AI chat functionalities, the app aims to become a reliable source of information for everyday needs and during emergencies.

City Mayor Shigeki Tokunaga stated, “The growing population of foreign residents in Imabari has highlighted the need for a system that delivers essential information across language barriers. This partnership with GTN aims to streamline access to public services and ensure that all residents feel connected and supported.”

President Hiroyuki Goto of GTN expressed satisfaction regarding the collaboration, emphasizing GTN's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by foreigners living in Japan. “We are dedicated to creating a more effective means of communication where accurate information can be shared regardless of linguistic or cultural differences,” Goto affirmed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the partnership between Imabari City and GTN is a pioneering step toward integrating foreign residents into the fabric of Japanese society. The 'i.i.imabari! from abroad' app is geared to be a transformative tool that provides necessary support and guidance, ultimately aiming for a harmonious community where diversity is embraced, and everyone feels at home.

For More Information

For further details about the app and its features, please visit the official GTN website at GTN Official Website.

As Imabari City embarks on this ambitious project, it sets a precedent for other municipalities in Japan to consider how they can better support their diverse populations.