This would align with the traditional form for names written in Japanese – a form that is also replicated in China and Korea.
But when Japanese names are translated into the Roman alphabet, they also take on the Western custom of moving the family name to the end.
For example, Japan’s prime minister is known as Shinzo Abe in English, but in Japanese he is Abe Shinzo.
Similarly for Yoko Ono, John Lennon’s wife, the name would be Ono Yoko in the traditional form.
The wife of the late John Lennon is known as Yoko Ono in English, but in would be Ono Yoko in line with tradition
Japanese education minister Masahiko Shibayama on Friday proposed the change, which has been championed as a win for conservatives who want to preserve the country’s traditional values.
“It is better to follow the Japanese tradition when Japanese names are written in the Roman alphabet,” Mr Shibayama was quoted as saying by Kyodo news agency.
He added: “It has become increasingly important for us to recognise the diversity of languages and cultures that humans possess as society becomes more globalised.”
Japan adopted the Western-style order for use in English about 150 years ago as a way to internationalise itself, according to the Agency for Cultural Affairs. That name order has since been used in English journals, school textbooks and magazines.
It has also become standard on credit cards and at many private companies.
A survey by Japan’s Yomiuri newspaper earlier this week polled its readers on their thoughts of the proposed change, and found 59% of respondents supported the idea, while 29% did not.
Foreign Minister Taro Kono first raised the idea in May, suggesting foreign media adopt the traditional naming when referring to the prime minister.
Following its formal proposition to Cabinet, the government is set to work out how to implement the idea, according to a top spokesperson.
