China woman uses AI-generated man to lecture on respecting science, rejecting superstition
Young people in China are contributing to a fake account generated by artificial intelligence (AI) to lecture their parents about healthy and scientific life values. A social media account called “Lao Zhao jiang dao li”, or “Mr Zhao talks sense”, went viral recently, amassing over 200,000 followers in just two months. The man surnamed Zhao, based in southwestern China’s Chongqing municipality, claimed in his profile that he is a retired professor who has specialised in parent-child relationships... [Continue Reading]
WHO releases $2 million to bolster healthcare amid Middle East strike escalation
The World Health Organization has allocated $2 million in emergency funding to support health services in Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria amid intensified military strikes targeting Iran and its regional proxies. These funds will help strengthen trauma care, emergency coordination, and disease monitoring while ensuring the delivery of essential medicines and supplies in war-torn areas. This funding injection comes as healthcare systems in the region face mounting pressure from rising casualties and a spike in attacks on medical facilities. Patients and medical workers in these countries are directly impacted, with health infrastructure under strain and access to care increasingly jeopardized. The... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 16 Mar 2026 05:54
UN Climate Chief Urges Shift to Renewables Amid Energy Price Surge from Conflicts
Global energy markets are facing severe disruption as recent conflicts, notably in the Middle East and Ukraine, drive up oil and gas prices. This surge is creating widespread economic and supply chain challenges worldwide. The volatility emphasizes the risks of relying on fossil fuels transported through politically unstable regions and vulnerable shipping routes. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, highlighted these challenges during the 2026 Green Growth Summit in Brussels. He underscored the strategic advantage of renewable energy sources, which are not dependent on geopolitically sensitive areas or costly military protection. Renewables like solar... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 16 Mar 2026 05:51
Trump urges nations to form coalition to secure Strait of Hormuz amid escalating Middle East tensions and oil market impacts
US President Donald Trump has called upon nations with vested interests in the Gulf region to form a coalition intended to secure the Strait of Hormuz. This demand arises as tensions escalate in the Middle East following the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, which has entered its third week and has already significantly impacted global oil markets. Trump emphasized that it is the responsibility of oil-importing nations to safeguard this vital waterway, which facilitates the passage of approximately 20% of the world's crude oil. In response to Trump's request, both Japan and Australia have indicated they will not be... [Continue Reading]
‘One Battle After Another Was Totally Meh’: 3 Opinion Writers Size Up the Oscars
What did the academy get right? Wrong? What was just weird? Three culture fans discuss Hollywood’s biggest night. [Continue Reading]
Couple to face child neglect charges after son swept into sea during Typhoon Ragasa
A Hong Kong couple whose five-year-old son was swept into the sea at a waterfront during Super Typhoon Ragasa last year have been charged with child neglect and are set to appear in court on Tuesday. Police revealed on Monday that the boy’s father, a 40-year-old man surnamed Yen, and mother, a 38-year-old woman surnamed Li, were arrested in Chai Wan on January 6 and were charged last Wednesday with ill-treatment or neglect by those in charge of a child or young person. The case will be heard at... [Continue Reading]
One in five NSW waterways has severe microplastic contamination, study finds
A NSW government study finds microplastics in all 120 estuaries sampled, with severe pollution in about 19 per cent of rivers and estuaries. [Continue Reading]
Oscars 2026: Winners in pictures
One Battle After Another was crowned Best Picture at the Oscars, where Jessie Buckley completed her clean sweep as Best Actress. [Continue Reading]
Watch: Germany demolishes sections of major highway bridge in controlled blast
Sections of the A7 motorway bridge over the Thalaubach valley near Fulda were demolished in a controlled blast as part of a major replacement project. The 1968 viaduct is being rebuilt to handle modern traffic, with the new structure expected to be completed in stages by 2027. [Continue Reading]
Asean ministers meet in Manila to discuss reducing economic dependence on the US and China amid rising trade tensions
Amid growing trade tensions, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) is intensifying efforts to reduce its economic dependence on both the United States and China. Economic ministers from Asean convened in Manila on Friday, highlighting the urgency of seeking new markets and bolstering regional cooperation to mitigate uncertainties in global supply chains exacerbated by recent U.S. tariff investigations. Asean's economic framework focuses on strengthening the confidence of business and investors within the bloc. In their latest statement, ministers underscored the commitment to collaborating with industry stakeholders, external partners, and development organizations. The goal is to reinforce regional supply chains... [Continue Reading]
Markets may be underestimating how the Iran war could hit the global economy
Beyond the battlefield, the Iran war is exposing fragile economic chokepoints from energy routes to fertilisers and industrial gases, raising concerns among economists that supply disruptions could shape global prices and trade long after the conflict ends. [Continue Reading]
Bangladesh implements new electricity conservation measures to support manufacturing sector amid global energy supply challenges
Bangladesh has initiated new measures to conserve electricity, vital for its manufacturing sector, particularly the garment industry which is crucial to the nation's economy. The measures come in the wake of an ongoing conflict impacting energy supplies globally, making it increasingly difficult for factories to maintain production levels. This initiative reflects Bangladesh's struggle to balance its economic needs with the realities of external circumstances affecting energy availability. According to reports, the energy crisis has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, which has disrupted supply chains and increased operational costs for manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. The factory sector is significantly reliant... [Continue Reading]
Trump claims he has ‘absolute right’ to impose new tariffs after supreme court blow
US supreme court has ‘ransacked’ the country, president argues, in wake of its ruling against his trade agendaDonald Trump has claimed he has “the absolute right” to impose new tariffs after the US supreme court ruled many of the import duties he imposed last year were illegal.The president attacked the court in a late night broadside on Sunday, accusing it of having “unnecessarily RANSACKED” the US – and failing to show him sufficient loyalty. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Malaysian government faces investigation over alleged conspiracy to disrupt national stability
The Malaysian government is currently under scrutiny following an investigation into claims of a conspiracy to “topple the government” and disrupt national stability. This inquiry is reportedly linked to a local influential figure and an international media agency. The investigation, which is being carried out by the Royal Malaysia Police, has also encompassed civil society members, academics, and political analysts. Critics argue that this move is aimed at silencing dissent and shrinking civic space, raising alarm among various civil society groups. In February, authorities announced the beginning of their probe, which is grounded in Section 124B of the Malaysian Penal... [Continue Reading]
Trump demands other nations help secure Strait of Hormuz
Japan and Australia have said they are not planning to send navy vessels to the Middle East to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz after US President Donald Trump called on allies to create a coalition to reopen the vital waterway. [Continue Reading]
Magpies make call on Pendlebury's ban, Swans star set for surgery
Collingwood decides on whether it will contest Scott Pendlebury's one-match suspension at the AFL tribunal, as the veteran midfielder faces a ban for the first time in his 427-match career. [Continue Reading]
Court trial scheduled for Harinder Singh charged in fatal accident near Shepparton, Victoria, resulting in four deaths
A recent ruling has set the stage for a court trial involving Harinder Singh, who has been charged in connection to a tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of four individuals near Shepparton, Victoria. The incident occurred when Singh's vehicle collided with a ute in Pine Lodge earlier this year. Despite the defence team's attempts to have the charges dismissed, justice has favored continuing the case to trial. Judge Justice has ruled against the request from Singh's legal counsel to drop the charges related to dangerously driving and causing death. Singh, 43, has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty... [Continue Reading]
Here are all the moments you didn't see on TV
Inside the winners room and other insights from behind the scenes. [Continue Reading]
Oscars fans demand formal apology after ‘painful’ moment winner’s speech is cut short
The moment has been called 'disgustingly disrespectful'. [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong watchdog warns 24-hour gym users of hidden costs, data privacy risks
Monthly fees at Hong Kong’s 24-hour fitness centres vary widely and can more than double depending on additional charges, the Consumer Council has found, as it warned residents to be cautious when providing sensitive personal data, including facial images for recognition systems. The consumer watchdog revealed on Monday the results of a survey of 11 round-the-clock gym operators, finding that although all offered monthly membership plans, nearly half imposed extra non-refundable charges that... [Continue Reading]
Three-quarters of nine-month-olds in England have ‘daily screen time’
Study shows average time on screens each day is 41 minutes, with some watching more than three hours a dayThree-quarters of nine-month-old babies in England are allowed daily screen time, while a small “heavy use” group watch more than three hours a day, according to a study.Just 2% of the infants included in the research reportedly watched more than three hours a day, while the average amount of time was 41 minutes, research by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) found. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
A Weakened Iran Won’t Transform the Middle East
A defeated Iran will not produce the transformation of the Middle East sought by many. [Continue Reading]
Four slow-cooker meals for cooler autumn evenings
We've pulled together four lovely recipes that make weeknight meals a little easier (and quite budget friendly, too). [Continue Reading]
Academy Awards Key Moments: Australians miss out in all key categories
Australians have missed out in every key category at the 98th Academy Awards. Michael B Jordan received a standing ovation when named Best Actor for Sinners. And Conan O'Brien also "wins". Here are your Oscars key moments. [Continue Reading]
Qatar and Saudi Arabia Condemn Iranian Attacks Amid Regional Military Escalation
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani spoke with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in a phone call focused on the escalating military conflict in the Gulf region. Both officials condemned recent Iranian attacks targeting Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and other allied countries, citing serious repercussions for regional security. The call reflects heightened tensions amid Iran’s increased military provocations. The leaders stressed the urgency of halting all aggressive actions to prevent further escalation and reiterated the importance of returning to diplomatic talks. This cooperation between Qatar and Saudi Arabia signals a united front among... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 16 Mar 2026 04:54
Malaysia’s government accused of using law to silence critics
Several Malaysian civil society groups on Monday accused Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s government of using a harsh criminal law provision to intimidate critics after police questioned activists, academics and political researchers over an alleged plot to topple the government. The backlash follows an announcement in late February that police were investigating allegations of a conspiracy to “topple the government and sabotage national stability” involving “a local influential figure” and an... [Continue Reading]
Iran taking steps to prevent anti-establishment protests, Tehran residents tell BBC
Residents describe new security checkpoints around the capital, where they say people are stopped and searched. [Continue Reading]
Man to face trial over crash that killed four people in northern Victoria
A judge refuses a request from defence lawyers to throw out charges regarding a fatal crash near Shepparton. [Continue Reading]
Firms to be paid to hire unemployed young people
Payments of £3,000 for each 18-24 year old given a job are among proposals to tackle youth unemployment being announced later. [Continue Reading]
Author Craig Silvey facing more charges after being accused of producing child exploitation material
Jasper Jones author also charged with additional count of possessing child exploitation materialFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAustralian author Craig Silvey has been charged with more child exploitation offences.The 43-year-old was previously charged with possessing and distributing child exploitation material in early January. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Jessie Buckley's family celebrate Oscar win in Kerry
Jessie Buckley's uncle and godfather has said seeing her win the Best Actress Oscar for Hamnet is "indescribable", calling her achievement "absolutely extraordinary". [Continue Reading]
Virgin Australia flight met by firefighters at Melbourne airport after smoke seen coming from vape
Passenger on Flight VA 328 alerted the crew who responded by ‘containing the device’ before plane landedGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastA Virgin Australia flight from Brisbane to Melbourne was met by firefighters after smoke was seen coming from a vape on board.Flight VA 328 landed safely and all passengers disembarked normally after a vape “activated” in the cabin shortly before landing at about 4pm on Sunday afternoon in Melbourne, Melbourne airport said. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Trump says he demanded 'about seven countries' to join coalition to police Iran's Strait of Hormuz
Trump says attacks on Iran could last several more weeks despite soaring energy costs. The US president says he is assembling a coalition to help police the Strait of Hormuz and escort stranded oil vessels out to address international energy supply crises caused by the war. [Continue Reading]
Kyle and Jackie O network slapped with new broadcasting rules after breaches
The media watchdog imposes fresh conditions on KIIS FM owner ARN Media, in response to repeated breaches by controversial radio show The Kyle & Jackie O Show. [Continue Reading]
Oscars 2026: Full list of winners
One Battle After Another wins six Oscars, while Sinners takes four awards. [Continue Reading]
SF Express to Implement Temporary Fuel Surcharges for Deliveries in Hong Kong and Macau
SF Express, China's largest courier service, has announced the introduction of temporary fuel surcharges for local document and parcel deliveries within Hong Kong and Macau. Starting Monday, the surcharge will be set at HK$1 (approximately 13 US cents) for deliveries in Hong Kong and MOP$1 for services in Macau. This decision comes in response to significant fluctuations in global oil prices, as the company aims to manage its logistics resources effectively in an unstable economic environment. The Shenzhen-based company issued a statement indicating that the surcharge measures are part of its broader strategy to maintain stable and efficient delivery services... [Continue Reading]
Sabalenka wins first Indian Wells title with victory against Rybakina
World number one's triumph against Elena Rybakina avenges her loss to the Kazakh in the 2026 Australian Open final. [Continue Reading]
China defence experts vanish online, Thai coconut cartel crisis: 5 weekend reads you missed
We have put together stories from our coverage last weekend to help you stay informed about news across Asia and beyond. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing. 1. Top Chinese nuclear, radar and missile experts vanish from engineering body site 2. The US is shifting THAAD to the Middle East. What does that mean for China? 3. Hong Kong OpenClaw users say tool is helpful ‘family member’ who must be watched 4. Inside the coconut cartel: how Chinese money... [Continue Reading]
New rock monitor lizard species reveal remarkable evolutionary story
The unexpected findings in the savanna country of north Queensland have changed scientists' understanding of rock monitors, but there are concerns the new species could be vulnerable to the pet trade. [Continue Reading]
Victorian government agrees to $125 million settlement for businesses affected by extended COVID-19 lockdowns
The Victorian government has agreed to a $125 million settlement related to one of the world’s most extended COVID-19 lockdowns, compensating businesses that faced significant financial losses. This decision follows a class action lawsuit brought forth by thousands of businesses, including the lead plaintiff 5 Boroughs NY Pty Ltd, which argued that the government was responsible for economic damages incurred due to lockdown measures enforced from July to October. The class action lawsuit was originally set to go to trial on March 10 but was postponed, leading to a directions hearing at the Supreme Court in Melbourne on March 16.... [Continue Reading]
U.S. forces conduct airstrikes on Kharg Island amid escalating tensions in the Middle East
The ongoing tensions in the Middle East have escalated as U.S. forces conducted airstrikes on Kharg Island, a strategic location integral to Iran's oil economy. According to the U.S. Central Command, over 90 military targets were destroyed in the operation. This includes various missile facilities, though the U.S. has refrained from targeting oil infrastructure, which remains intact. This move marks a significant intensification of military activities in a region already fraught with geopolitical friction. In recent statements, President Trump has emphasized the importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil passes.... [Continue Reading]
The US has a convicted felon in the White House. Could SA have one in parliament?
One-time Liberal opposition leader David Speirs is attempting a political comeback, but even he concedes it's a long shot after a very public downfall where he was convicted of supplying cocaine just over 10 months ago. [Continue Reading]
Large protest held in London against US-Israeli war on Iran
Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of London to oppose US-Israeli aggression against Iran, Lebanon and Gaza. [Continue Reading]
The War Is Making It Harder to Keep the Lights On, 2,000 Miles Away
Bangladesh is taking steps to conserve electricity, which its factories need to keep stitching together the world’s clothing. [Continue Reading]
Nine-year-old Australian boy allegedly caught driving car at 1.30am on major highway
NSW police allege child was sitting on lap of 45-year-old man who was experiencing ‘significant fatigue’ but was operating pedals while boy steeredFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastA nine-year-old boy has allegedly been caught steering a car after 1am on a major highway in New South Wales.NSW police alleged that a 45-year-old driver was experiencing “significant fatigue” and “operating the pedals” while the boy steered on his lap. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Free Palestine and ICE out: how this year’s Oscars got political
As One Battle After Another swept the Academy Awards, Paul Thomas Anderson, Javier Bardem and Conan O’Brien gave a welcome reality check to the glitzy ceremonyOscar winners 2026: the full listIn his opening monologue to the 98th Academy Awards, host Conan O’Brien issued a note of caution to easily offended viewers.“I warn you, tonight could get political,” O’Brien said. “If that makes you uncomfortable, there’s an alternative Oscars being hosted by Kid Rock at a Dave & Buster’s down the street.” Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Things ‘I do not like’ drove me to quit US for Hong Kong: top mathematician Ngo Bao Chau
World-leading Vietnamese mathematician Ngo Bao Chau has said his decision to leave the US was not just the result of the worsening academic environment there, but also a vision to transform Asia into the next global powerhouse for maths and science. Ngo, the first Vietnamese recipient of the prestigious Fields Medal, will join the University of Hong Kong in June. “I want Asia to be the next America or the next Europe [as] a place where science and mathematics strive,” he said in an interview on... [Continue Reading]
Philippines’ Jollibee stands out as Southeast Asia’s global restaurant exception
From Singapore’s hawker stalls to Thailand’s street markets and Vietnam’s noodle shops, Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s most celebrated food cultures. Yet the region has produced relatively few restaurant chains with global brand recognition, even as Chinese food and beverage groups climb international rankings. Analysts say structural factors – including smaller domestic markets, fragmented regional consumer tastes and fewer brands expanding aggressively overseas – have slowed the... [Continue Reading]
'A confronting case': Woman pleads guilty to 21 animal cruelty charges
A Tasmanian woman has pleaded guilty to 21 animal cruelty charges. More than 70 animals were found living in "squalid" conditions, with some requiring euthanasing. [Continue Reading]
ACM to brief staff after co-owner Antony Catalano charged with assault of a woman
Australian Community Media says employee ‘wellbeing’ top priority amid ‘shock and deep concern’ over 59-year-old’s chargesAustralian Community Media will hold a staff meeting on Monday afternoon to share the regional media group’s response to the arrest of its part-owner Antony Catalano who is facing charges of assault of a woman.On Sunday the board and executive leadership team of ACM distanced itself from the 59-year-old newspaper mogul, saying they were “shocked and deeply concerned” about the charges. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
