Japan has viewed Southeast Asia from a Western perspective and people have thought they understood the region only by visiting major cities, but he presented a different viewpoint.

Mr. Tsurumi focused on those who lead their lives independently without being caught up in the frameworks of the state. And he presented the structure of Southeast Asia through things like shrimp and sea cucumbers.

The launch of Tsurumi Yoshiyuki Library is in accordance with the policy of the center to collect ‘people’s records’ and make them public.

Mr. Tsurumi never acted like a teacher, but only asked us, ‘Isn’t it interesting?’ when he found something unique.