Da Nang, South Korean province? Why this coastal city is a hit with East Asian tourists
At the bustling Han Market in central Da Nang, two Vietnamese vendors tease a middle-aged South Korean tourist by calling him harabeoji, or “grandfather” in Korean. “I’m offended!” he jokes. The women grab his arms and laugh. “It’s OK, it’s OK.” The man had returned to their stall after buying 200,000 dong (US$7.60) worth of macadamia nuts the day before. It is a small moment of banter, repeated dozens of times a day in a city that many people from South Korea jokingly call their own unofficial... [Continue Reading]
Pakistan imperils its IMF rescue as Afghanistan border violence rages
Pakistan can ill afford to go to war. Neither can Afghanistan. Yet here they are, trading blows across one of South Asia’s most combustible borders – just as a team of International Monetary Fund inspectors arrived in Islamabad to decide on the country’s next financial lifeline. The inspectors had come for a third-round review of Pakistan’s economic recovery programme: the kind of visit that, if it went well, would unlock the next tranche of rescue funding and steady the nerves of skittish... [Continue Reading]
Prime ministers of Singapore, South Korea to attend this month’s Boao Forum for Asia
The prime ministers of South Korea and Singapore will be among the world leaders attending this month’s Boao Forum for Asia, three sources said, adding to a growing string of leaders from developed economies who have visited China this year. The annual conference is scheduled to be held in Boao, Hainan province, from March 24 to 27, its organiser announced earlier. Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong Shyun Tsai’s most recent trip to China was in June, when he met President Xi Jinping and... [Continue Reading]
Singaporean Developers Adjust Investment Strategies Amid China's Real Estate Downturn
Singaporean developers are currently navigating mounting challenges associated with their investments in China's property market. As the second-largest economy in the world endures a significant downturn in its real estate sector, these firms are feeling the impact, prompting a shift in their investment strategies. Analysts suggest that while the potential for growth in China remains enticing, Singaporean investors are now likely to adopt a more selective approach moving forward. Recent reports indicate that Singaporean property developers are experiencing increasing distress in their China-related portfolios. This comes despite continuing optimism about a possible turnaround in the country’s prolonged property downturn. In... [Continue Reading]
US, Israel, and Iran Conflict Escalates as Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Amid Attacks on Energy Facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia
The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has escalated, marking a significant transition in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. As fighting continues, Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil shipments. Attacks on energy facilities in neighboring Qatar and Saudi Arabia have compounded the crisis, crippling vital energy supplies and threatening global economic stability. As this conflict unfolds, the implications for energy prices are immediate and severe. Oil prices have surged past $90, with those increases reflected at gas pumps across the United States, where prices have reached their highest in... [Continue Reading]
Impressive Raducanu into Indian Wells third round
Emma Raducanu makes an impressive start at Indian Wells as the British number one records a straight-set victory over Russian Anastasia Zakharova. [Continue Reading]
The unorthodox coaching gambit that helped Matildas to greatest triumph
Former coach Tom Sermanni says "it wasn't his greatest look". But for its part in helping the Matildas to 2010 Asian Cup glory, it may well be the most consequential makeover in Australian football history. [Continue Reading]
Asia holds its breath as Iran war drags on
The fallout of the US-Israeli war on Iran is reverberating across Asia. China has condemned the attack and the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei, but is staying well clear of the conflict itself. Developing Asian economies that rely on remittances face uncertainty as millions of migrant workers are caught in the crossfire. The war is also unsettling Pakistan, which shares a restive border region with Iran. We get expert insights in this edition of Access Asia. [Continue Reading]
Indonesia to ban social media for children under 16
Platforms include YouTube, TikTok and Instagram as communication minister says ‘our children face real threats’Indonesia will ban social media for children under 16, its communication and digital affairs minister said on Friday.Meutya Hafid said in a statement to media said that she signed a government regulation that will mean children under the age of 16 can no longer have accounts on high-risk digital platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox and Bigo Live, a popular livestreaming site. With a population of about 285 million, the fourth-highest in the world, the south-east Asian nation represents a significant market for... [Continue Reading]
Indonesia to ban social media for children under 16
Indonesia will be the first country in Southeast Asia to restrict the access of children to social media. [Continue Reading]
2 tankers carrying India’s Reliance fuel ditch Europe, divert to Singapore, Southeast Asia
Two tankers loaded with fuel from Reliance Industries in India that were headed to Europe made U-turns and are now bound for Asia, according to two trade sources and ship-tracking data, as the refiner capitalises on firm Asian margins with the Iran war squeezing supply. The Advantage Life, which loaded around 100,000 metric tons (745,000 barrels) of diesel at Reliance’s Jamnagar refinery on February 28, is currently bound for Singapore, according to Kpler, LSEG data and two trade... [Continue Reading]
Qatar’s LNG halt exposes Asia’s energy vulnerability
Asia is bracing itself for another energy shock after a disruption to Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) output sent regional gas prices to their highest level in about three years, exposing what observers say is a dangerous reliance on Middle Eastern fuel supplies. The increase follows Iran’s drone strikes on Qatar in retaliation for Israeli and US attacks in a widening conflict, alongside a blockade of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz – a key artery for global oil and gas trade. Spot LNG... [Continue Reading]
Philippines orders energy cuts in response to Middle East war
South-east Asian country limits air conditioning and travel for public officials amid soaring fuel pricesMiddle East crisis – live updatesThe Philippines is searching for ways to conserve energy in response to surging fuel costs, with public officials ordered to cut back on air conditioning usage and reduce travel.All national government agencies, state universities and colleges, and local government branches have been told to reduce fuel consumption by at least 10% in response to the crisis in the Middle East. Government offices have been told to adopt flexible work arrangements, and to set air conditioning units no lower than 24 degrees.... [Continue Reading]
Malaysian FA disappointed with CAS ruling to partially uphold player sanctions
Malaysia’s football association said on Friday it was disappointed by a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling to partially uphold sanctions on seven footballers who played for the national team using falsified naturalisation documents. Deportivo Alaves’ Facundo Garces was among seven players banned for a year by Fifa in September after it found that doctored documentation had been used so that they could play in an Asian Cup qualifier for Malaysia against Vietnam last year. The other... [Continue Reading]
Plucky Bangladesh teases much-needed Asian Cup jeopardy against North Korea
For 45 minutes, minnows Bangladesh pushed North Korea all the way. It was a breath of fresh air for a tournament desperately lacking close matches. [Continue Reading]
Philippines battles US-Iran war fuel crisis with air con limits, flexible work plan
The Philippines is looking at ways to save on energy as tensions in the Middle East push global fuel costs higher, with the government suggesting people use their air conditioners less and shy away from non-essential travel. The Southeast Asian nation imports nearly all of its oil requirements and the war in Iran could spur inflation that already hit a 13-month high in February. President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr’s administration this week ordered government offices to set their air conditioners to... [Continue Reading]
China’s US$24 billion seaport push; war on Iran as ‘wake-up call’: SCMP’s 7 highlights
We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing. 1. ‘We couldn’t reach them’: Chinese firms’ Iran business in limbo after strikes Rising tensions in the Middle East following attacks on Iran are having an impact on the trade corridors and investment plans of Chinese exporters and... [Continue Reading]
China Reduces Economic Growth Forecast Amid Ongoing Trade Tensions with the U.S.
As the annual political sessions commence in Beijing, China has announced a reduction in its economic growth forecast, attributing the decision to external pressures including tariffs imposed by the United States. The Chinese Communist Party's National People's Congress is a critical meeting for determining policy directions, and this year’s gathering underscores the country's intent to bolster its military capacities amidst what is described as a “grave” international environment. The new economic growth target has been set at a modest range, reflecting the ongoing challenges posed by the trade tensions with the U.S., particularly under the Trump administration's tariffs. Officials are... [Continue Reading]
Let the achievements of Eileen Gu and Alysa Liu speak for themselves
Athletes of Asian heritage have come to the fore at this month’s Winter Olympics. They broke records, reshaped perceptions and inspired millions worldwide. Yet in the United States, the conversation around two of the most successful athletes, Eileen Gu, the freestyle skier representing China, and Team USA figure skater Alysa Liu, has too often drifted from their incredible achievements to questions of identity, loyalty and partisan point-scoring. This speaks volumes about the anxieties of a... [Continue Reading]
US grants waiver to allow India to buy Russian oil amid Iran war
‘Stopgap measure’ designed to keep oil flowing into global market as Middle East crisis disrupts crude shipmentsBusiness live – latest updatesThe US has temporarily allowed India to buy Russian oil currently stuck at sea in an effort to keep global supplies flowing and temper further price increases.On Thursday the US treasury issued a 30-day waiver allowing India to buy Russian oil, having previously imposed heavy sanctions related to the war in Ukraine. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
US and Middle East countries seek Ukraine's support in drone protection
The United States asked Ukraine for help to fend off Iranian drone attacks in the Middle East, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Thursday, adding that he had ordered expert support to be given. FRANCE 24's Mark Owen speaks with Peter Zalmayev, Director of the Eurasia Democracy Initiative. [Continue Reading]
Nepal holds general election following youth-led protests that led to government resignation
Voters in Nepal have cast their ballots in a pivotal general election, marking the first such poll since the nation's youth-led protests resulted in the government’s resignation last September. The polls closed Thursday evening amid a climate of cautious optimism, with voters eager to make their voices heard. Preliminary results are expected as early as Friday, though full results may take several days to finalize. This election comes on the heels of significant political upheaval, which saw widespread demonstrations against the ruling government last year. These protests were fueled by public dissatisfaction regarding governmental performance and economic conditions. In a... [Continue Reading]
The Matildas embody Aussie pub rock spirit against Iran, and they're playing to win
The Joe Montemurro incarnation of the Matildas feels like a throwback to classic Australian rock. And in their Asian Cup win over Iran, they showed their mantra of playing free, but always going for the win, is starting to pay off. [Continue Reading]
How the internet reacted to the Matildas' 4-0 win over Iran
The Matildas sealed a spot in the knockout stages of the AFC Women's Asian Cup with a 4-0 win over Iran, and the internet went wild. [Continue Reading]
Stock market falls resume as US-Israel war with Iran drives up oil and gas prices
FTSE 100 and France’s CAC down 1.5%; Germany’s DAX and Italy’s FTSE MIB down 1.6%; the Dow Jones was down 2%Middle East crisis – live updatesA market sell-off resumed on both sides of the Atlantic on Thursday as fears mounted that there would be no quick resolution to the conflict in the Middle East.Early gains in European markets, which had followed a rebound in Asia, were wiped out in later trading and Wall Street was also trading sharply lower by early afternoon in New York. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Court of Arbitration for Sport cuts sanctions on Malaysia players to official-match bans
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Thursday eased sanctions on seven footballers who played for Malaysia using falsified naturalisation documents, ruling they will serve a 12-month suspension from official matches only. Deportivo Alaves’ Facundo Garces was among seven players banned for a year by Fifa in September, after football’s governing body found that doctored documentation had been used so that they could play in an Asian Cup qualifier for Malaysia against Vietnam. The other... [Continue Reading]
Iran women’s football team salute, sing national anthem in Asian Cup match
Players chose to sing the anthem before their game against Australia, in contrast to their silence during the previous tie. [Continue Reading]
Quick hits: Raso feels double the pain as Matildas score an accidental stunner
Hayley Raso cops an unfortunate double hit as Mary Fowler and Amy Sayer sparkle from the start on the Gold Coast. Here are the quick hits from the Matildas vs Iran at the Women's Asian Cup. [Continue Reading]
Italy to send aid to Gulf states and Cyprus after Iranian strikes
European powers said on Thursday they would work together to safeguard shipping in the Red Sea and send naval and other assets to protect Cyprus as the expanding US-Iran war entered its sixth day. The conflict – which has widened beyond Gulf states to the Mediterranean, where a drone strike hit a British airbase on Cyprus on Monday, and as far afield as Asia – has convulsed global markets and sent oil and gas prices soaring. Italy, Spain, France and the Netherlands will send naval assets to... [Continue Reading]
Oil price continues to rise amid Middle East crisis but stock markets rebound across Asia
Reports of attack on US registered tanker in Gulf lifts crude by 3% to $84 a barrel as gas price also starts to climbBusiness live – latest updatesMiddle East crisis – live updatesStock markets have rebounded in Asia after days of heavy losses driven by the war in the Middle East, but oil and gas prices have continued to climb amid disruption to supplies.South Korea’s KOSPI, which posted its biggest ever fall on Tuesday of 12%, rose by almost 10% on Thursday, while Japan’s Nikkei climbed by 1.9%. MSCI’s Asia-Pacific index excluding Japan jumped by 2.7%. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
US sinking of Iranian warship near Sri Lanka sparks regional anxiety, pressure on India
The sinking of an Iranian warship by a US submarine off Sri Lanka’s coast has raised concerns across South and Southeast Asia that the Middle East conflict may be expanding into the Indian Ocean, while also intensifying political pressure in India for a stronger response. Analysts said the strike’s location near key sea lanes linking Asia with the Gulf had heightened fears the conflict could spill into waters vital to regional trade while also raising doubts in New Delhi over its cautious... [Continue Reading]
Sky-high jump in airfares from Hong Kong to Europe, Americas – even Asian cities
Airfares from Hong Kong to European, South American and even some Asian destinations have surged amid the latest geopolitical tensions, according to industry insiders, especially on routes that typically transit through Middle Eastern aviation hubs. A check by the South China Morning Post found that airfares to such destinations had roughly tripled from Tuesday, days after the United States and Israel launched joint military strikes against Iran, triggering retaliatory action from the... [Continue Reading]
Iranian footballers salute, sing national anthem after silence before opening game
Iran's female footballers stayed silent during the national anthem in their opening Women's Asian Cup game, but it was a different picture ahead of their game against Australia. [Continue Reading]
What the Extraordinary Market Volatility in Asia Says About Energy and A.I.
Stocks in South Korea and Taiwan, the center of global chip making, plunged on fears about energy prices. Their recovery shows the bullishness over artificial intelligence. [Continue Reading]
Live: Matildas seek spot in Asian Cup quarterfinals against Iran
The Matildas beat Iran at Robina to qualify for the knockout stages of the Women's Asian Cup , but four goals are not enough to take them top of their group. [Continue Reading]
China sets annual economic growth target at 4.5%-5%, the lowest since 1991, amid various domestic and international challenges
China has officially set its annual economic growth target at a range of 4.5%-5%, marking the lowest projection since 1991. This significant adjustment was announced during the country's largest political event known as the "two sessions". The decision reflects ongoing challenges faced by the nation both domestically and internationally, including weakened consumption, a declining population, an enduring property crisis, and rising global trade tensions, notably exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Iran. This adjustment in growth expectations follows a previous target reduction to "around 5%" in 2023, and it is the first time in recent years that the target has... [Continue Reading]
China announces 7 percent increase in military budget as part of five-year plan for self-sufficiency in military and industrial sectors
China has announced a significant escalation in its military budget, revealing a 7 percent increase in military spending. This announcement marks a critical strategy in response to ongoing pressures from the United States and highlights China's intention to bolster its military capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign technology. The increase comes in conjunction with a five-year plan aimed at enhancing the country's self-sufficiency in both military and industrial sectors. The reasons behind this latest military spending increase stem from a broader geopolitical context where tensions between China and the United States continue to grow. The ongoing technological rivalry, particularly in... [Continue Reading]
Asian airlines emerge on top as travellers fight for flights out of Middle East
Asian carriers like Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines (SIA) are among the best positioned airlines to weather the war in the Middle East as travellers scramble for flights – and pay huge premiums – to escape the conflict. Asian airlines have emerged as one of the go-to choices for people leaving the Middle East in the wake of US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Extensive airspace closures mean carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways have essentially ground to a halt, creating opportunities for... [Continue Reading]
Why #SEAblings became Southeast Asia’s symbol of digital solidarity
#SEAblings – short for “Southeast Asian siblings” – has increasingly been used by young Southeast Asians to signal regional solidarity, be it over a controversial concert or a political event. Whether such moments are fleeting or have the potential to morph into a sustainable movement is a subject of debate. The hashtag’s latest surge in use followed a dispute over camera rules at a K-pop concert in Kuala Lumpur, which escalated into a much wider online clash. For some sociologists, the point is... [Continue Reading]
Trader Joe’s Expands Recall of Frozen Asian Foods Over Glass Risk
No injuries had been confirmed, but consumers reported finding glass in their products. The announcement was part of a larger recall of nearly 37 million pounds of food products. [Continue Reading]
Philippine government arrests several nationals on espionage charges linked to Chinese intelligence
The Philippine government has confirmed the arrest of several Filipino nationals on allegations of espionage linked to Chinese intelligence, marking a significant development in national security efforts against foreign interference. This incident has triggered discussions about the need for stronger anti-espionage laws within the nation and reflects growing concerns over external influences in the region. Official statements from the National Security Council indicate that the individuals apprehended have confessed to their involvement in spying activities for China. These actions have reportedly been "addressed and terminated," underscoring the government's swift response to what is described as a "serious national security matter."... [Continue Reading]
US and Israeli airstrikes in Iran cause significant destruction and evacuations from a hospital in Bushehr due to damaged facilities
In a rapidly deteriorating situation, US and Israeli airstrikes have recently targeted various locations in Iran, leading to significant destruction and casualties. Among the most distressing images from these strikes is the evacuation of infants from a hospital in Bushehr, where critical care facilities were reportedly damaged. Footage captured by local media shows staff and workers from the Iranian Red Crescent wheeling vulnerable babies from the neonatal unit to ambulances, underscoring the dire conditions amidst escalating military actions. The violence has resulted in an alarming human toll. An official report indicates that at least 787 individuals have been confirmed dead... [Continue Reading]
China and France discuss de-escalation of US-Israeli tensions during meeting between foreign ministers
In a recent diplomatic exchange, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of de-escalating tensions arising from the US-Israeli conflict related to Iran. Wang’s comments came during a meeting with French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot, where the two nations sought to unite in their approach to promote international peace and security. This latest development comes as China prepares for its "two sessions," where it will outline strategic priorities amidst ongoing global unrest. During the talks, which occurred on a Monday, Wang asserted that major powers must not depend solely on military superiority to justify attacks against other nations. He underscored... [Continue Reading]
US and Israel launch military strike on Iran, resulting in significant casualties and regional missile retaliation
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, a coordinated military strike by the United States and Israel on Iran on the final day of February has resulted in significant casualties and geopolitical ramifications. This operation reportedly killed hundreds, including Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following the strike, Iran retaliated by launching missiles against multiple nations in the region, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, marking the onset of a potential wider conflict. According to reports, the military strike employed advanced technology, including AI-assisted systems for intelligence assessments and target identification, underscoring the growing role of artificial... [Continue Reading]
Safety concerns rise for 60,000 Thai workers in Israel amid escalating Middle East conflict and missile strikes
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has intensified concerns for approximately 60,000 Thai workers currently employed in Israel, whose safety has come under renewed threat following a series of Iranian missile strikes across regional hotspots. The situation has escalated as countries react with enhanced military strategies, leading to the death of several migrant workers and the cancellation of numerous international flights. Among the casualties is a Filipino caregiver named Mary Ann V. De Vera, who was reported killed in Israel amid the current hostilities. Additionally, four South Asian migrant workers have lost their lives, one in Bahrain and three... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong government announces HK$30 billion funding for Northern Metropolis urban development projects in New Territories
Hong Kong's government announced significant plans for urban development as it seeks to secure HK$30 billion (approximately US$3.8 billion) for the initial phase of the Northern Metropolis project. This budget allocation is aimed at supporting the establishment of three key developments: the Hetao Hong Kong Park, San Tin Technopole, and Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park, which together are expected to cover an expansive area of 30,000 hectares in the New Territories. The announcement was made by Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, the Secretary for Development, who outlined the proposed legal framework for these projects at a recent press briefing. The official stated... [Continue Reading]
Taiwan to acquire advanced military systems from the US amid rising tensions with Beijing
Taiwan’s recent decision to purchase an arsenal of advanced military systems from the United States has sparked significant debate among local analysts and lawmakers. Central to this discussion are three US-approved systems: the Patriot PAC-3 missile defence system, the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (Nasams), and the M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzer. Critics argue that these purchases may not address the actual threats faced by Taiwan as tensions with Beijing continue to escalate. Reports indicate that Taiwan's Defence Ministry has confirmed the arrival of the first batch of PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles, with a second delivery expected later in... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong issues travel warning for Iran amid US-Israel air strikes, affecting flights to the Middle East
In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the Hong Kong government has issued an urgent travel warning for residents planning to visit Iran, following a series of joint air strikes conducted by the United States and Israel targeting various sites within the country. This alert comes on the heels of the air strikes, which were described as some of the most extensive attacks on Iran in recent years. As a consequence of the military actions, at least nine flights from Hong Kong to the Middle East have been either canceled or delayed. The decision by Hong Kong's... [Continue Reading]
