I assume it's kind of an homage to Takei himself as a guy who put up with the less accepting (not that everyone is now obviously) society he grew up in maybe? Maybe just a little pat on the back to him, and his character, since it wasn't really ever touched on in the movies at all. Like a "hey, why not?" thing.
I got a newfound appreciation for Takei when he became a part of the Stern Show... He's beyond funny and naive in a weird way. He falls for every prank they play, and is up for anything. Just has a generally good personality. Met him once in Pittsburgh at a toy show, and he was among the nicest dudes I ever met at a convention. I always think that says a lot about who they are as people because that has to be some trying stuff on a person's patience.
Marina Sertis (butchered that spelling I'm sure) on the other hand... yikes, she seemed kinda angry.