TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS

The Daily Star

Bengali film director Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home being demolished for new building

The century-old house, located on Harikishore Ray Chowdhury Road in Mymensingh, is tied to the legacy of the illustrious Ray...
Viet Nam News

Hanoi’s street food culture gains ground with Michelin nods

Popular dishes Hoan Kiem bun cha and pho take the spotlight.
The Korea Herald

‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ cast and directors break down Netflix hit’s worldbuilding

Behind-the-scenes clip reveals the creative process behind the chart-dominating animated phenomenon.
The Korea Herald

G-Dragon’s Bangkok concert canceled amid fan protest over agency’s tour mismanagement

Truck protest targets agency Galaxy over chaotic tour rollout, late ticketing, and artist protection concerns.
The Star

Singaporeans flocking to Malaysia’s Johor for durian feasts

The Musang King durian tour to Johor Baru, for instance, costs SG$110 (RM364) for a day tour including transport, an...
The Phnom Penh Post

Khmer wedding UNESCO application on schedule, despite Thai claims

Thailand has also declared that it is preparing to nominate its traditional attire for the same list and has accused...
The Japan News

Tokyo pastry shop from 1920s keeps customers coming back with classic flavours

Takase Ikebukuro Honten believes deeply in making its sweets by hand and serving up a classic taste with the greatest...
Dawn

Zayn Malik references racism he faced as One Direction member in new song

‘I worked hard in a White band, and they still laughed at the Asian,’ raps the British singer in a...
Entertainment
Bengali film director Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home being demolished for new building
The century-old house, located on Harikishore Ray Chowdhury Road in Mymensingh, is tied to the legacy of the illustrious Ray family, whose contributions to Bangla literature and arts are considered foundational.
Food
Hanoi’s street food culture gains ground with Michelin nods
Popular dishes Hoan Kiem bun cha and pho take the spotlight.
Entertainment
‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ cast and directors break down Netflix hit’s worldbuilding
Behind-the-scenes clip reveals the creative process behind the chart-dominating animated phenomenon.
Entertainment
G-Dragon’s Bangkok concert canceled amid fan protest over agency’s tour mismanagement
Truck protest targets agency Galaxy over chaotic tour rollout, late ticketing, and artist protection concerns.
Food
Singaporeans flocking to Malaysia’s Johor for durian feasts
The Musang King durian tour to Johor Baru, for instance, costs SG$110 (RM364) for a day tour including transport, an all-you-can-eat Musang King lunch, and an eight-course dinner.
Conflict/War
Khmer wedding UNESCO application on schedule, despite Thai claims
Thailand has also declared that it is preparing to nominate its traditional attire for the same list and has accused Cambodia of using images of Thai wedding attire.
Food
Tokyo pastry shop from 1920s keeps customers coming back with classic flavours
Takase Ikebukuro Honten believes deeply in making its sweets by hand and serving up a classic taste with the greatest care.
Entertainment
Zayn Malik references racism he faced as One Direction member in new song
‘I worked hard in a White band, and they still laughed at the Asian,’ raps the British singer in a teaser for his new track ‘Fuchsia Sea.'

MORE HEADLINES    

SPORTS & GAMES

Dawn

‘World’s oldest marathon runner’ Indian-born Fauja Singh dies aged 114 in road accident

The late Mr Singh, an Indian-born British national, nicknamed the “Turbaned Tornado”, died after being hit by a vehicle in...
The Daily Star

Bangladesh declares esports as official sport; national guidelines in works

The official notification states that esports now holds the status of "sport" as per sections 2(2) and 6 of the...
The Daily Star

Bangladesh Tigers thrashes Sri Lanka by record 83 runs to level series

The emphatic win saw the visitors level the series 1-1, with the decider scheduled for Wednesday in Colombo.
The Daily Star

How designer Tasmit Arny created a heritage‑rooted jersey for Bangladesh Women’s Football team

From studying the players' backgrounds to developing original motifs, every element had to be intentional. It demanded long hours, deep...
The Phnom Penh Post

Cambodia’s top billiards player, Sruong Pheavy, wins LPBA Championship 2025–2026 in South Korea

She was the sole female Cambodian athlete to compete at the tournament, which brought together top players from around the...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Two-time Olympian, world No.4 pole vaulter EJ Obiena fulfills ‘lifelong dream’ with world event in Philippines

The event dubbed Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge is sanctioned by the World Athletics and participating athletes will earn...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Philippine women’s national football team clinches third straight AFC Asian Cup berth

The Filipinas took down Hong Kong, 1-0, to complete a group stage sweep and book a ticket to the Asian...
The Kathmandu Post

Nepal to face Singapore in title clash

Nepal defeated Malaysia by nine wickets while Singapore beat Hong Kong by four wickets to reach the final.
People
‘World’s oldest marathon runner’ Indian-born Fauja Singh dies aged 114 in road accident
The late Mr Singh, an Indian-born British national, nicknamed the “Turbaned Tornado”, died after being hit by a vehicle in Punjab state’s Jalandhar district on Monday.
Policy Matters
Bangladesh declares esports as official sport; national guidelines in works
The official notification states that esports now holds the status of "sport" as per sections 2(2) and 6 of the act, paving the way for its inclusion in national sports planning, funding, and institutional frameworks.
Sports
Bangladesh Tigers thrashes Sri Lanka by record 83 runs to level series
The emphatic win saw the visitors level the series 1-1, with the decider scheduled for Wednesday in Colombo.
Lifestyle
How designer Tasmit Arny created a heritage‑rooted jersey for Bangladesh Women’s Football team
From studying the players' backgrounds to developing original motifs, every element had to be intentional. It demanded long hours, deep cultural research, and a clear creative direction.
Sports
Cambodia’s top billiards player, Sruong Pheavy, wins LPBA Championship 2025–2026 in South Korea
She was the sole female Cambodian athlete to compete at the tournament, which brought together top players from around the world.
Sports
Two-time Olympian, world No.4 pole vaulter EJ Obiena fulfills ‘lifelong dream’ with world event in Philippines
The event dubbed Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge is sanctioned by the World Athletics and participating athletes will earn ranking points.
Sports
Philippine women’s national football team clinches third straight AFC Asian Cup berth
The Filipinas took down Hong Kong, 1-0, to complete a group stage sweep and book a ticket to the Asian Cup Australia 2026 on Saturday in Phnom Penh in Cambodia.
Sports
Nepal to face Singapore in title clash
Nepal defeated Malaysia by nine wickets while Singapore beat Hong Kong by four wickets to reach the final.

WORK & LIFE

The Korea Herald

Meet Bobby, South Korea’s new ‘first dog’

On his Instagram post, Lee unveiled a photo of himself sitting on an armchair along with the dog. Lee said...
The Straits Times

Heirlooms in newsprint: Singapore couple safeguard copies of The Straits Times from 1950s

Time has yellowed the pages, but in the hands of this couple, newspapers come alive.
The Straits Times

The Straits Times: Telling your Singapore story

From front-page politics to everyday lives, The Straits Times has shaped the country's collective memory since 1845.
The Korea Herald

‘Teto’ or ‘egen’? Young Koreans turn to hormone-inspired identity tests

Though seen as a playful route for self-discovery, experts urge moderation to avoid stereotyping and self-limiting beliefs.
Viet Nam News

Vietnam’s intellectual footprint: how books shape national identity

Beyond his extensive entrepreneurial portfolio, Bình is also widely respected as a speaker, author and translator, especially in the areas...
The Korea Herald

75% of South Korean adults don’t exercise enough, data shows

Findings make the country one of the most physically inactive populations in the world.
The Korea Herald

Where did Korea’s city cars go? Find out in 2 minutes

The segment, which saw annual sales of over 200,000 units and left iconic models like the Tico and Matiz, has...
The Straits Times

Facing intrusive demands from your employer? Here’s what you can do

Intrusive policies can backfire, causing reputational damage and reduced staff engagement; employees should know their rights and push back.
Lifestyle
Meet Bobby, South Korea’s new ‘first dog’
On his Instagram post, Lee unveiled a photo of himself sitting on an armchair along with the dog. Lee said in the post that his family has been raising the dog.
Lifestyle
Heirlooms in newsprint: Singapore couple safeguard copies of The Straits Times from 1950s
Time has yellowed the pages, but in the hands of this couple, newspapers come alive.
Media
The Straits Times: Telling your Singapore story
From front-page politics to everyday lives, The Straits Times has shaped the country's collective memory since 1845.
Society
‘Teto’ or ‘egen’? Young Koreans turn to hormone-inspired identity tests
Though seen as a playful route for self-discovery, experts urge moderation to avoid stereotyping and self-limiting beliefs.
Lifestyle
Vietnam’s intellectual footprint: how books shape national identity
Beyond his extensive entrepreneurial portfolio, Bình is also widely respected as a speaker, author and translator, especially in the areas of management, education, policy and culture.
Society
75% of South Korean adults don’t exercise enough, data shows
Findings make the country one of the most physically inactive populations in the world.
Society
Where did Korea’s city cars go? Find out in 2 minutes
The segment, which saw annual sales of over 200,000 units and left iconic models like the Tico and Matiz, has continued to decline, dropping another 32 percent to just 36,989 units in the first half of 2025.
Society
Facing intrusive demands from your employer? Here’s what you can do
Intrusive policies can backfire, causing reputational damage and reduced staff engagement; employees should know their rights and push back.

SOCIAL MEDIA

The Straits Times

Goodbye fraudsters? Dating app Coffee Meets Bagel rolls out identity verification for Singapore users

Users first authenticate themselves through Singpass. The one-time verification process involves the CMB app retrieving users’ NRIC number or Foreign...
The Straits Times

Elderly duo travel across Malaysia for cable car ride seen in clip – only to find out it was all AI

The fake cable car is depicted in a nearly three-minute-long AI-generated video in which a journalist from “TV Rakyat” appears...
China Daily

AI-powered virtual idols raise ethical hazards

Fans aren't just shaping the content; they're being shaped in return.
The Korea Herald

No camera, just a prompt: South Korean AI video creators are taking over social media

Text-to-video AI video tools fuel artistic freedom, while also raising red flags over fake news and sexual content.
The Phnom Penh Post

AI creator blending Cambodian heritage with technology

Rath Chan Ponleu's videos, created by AI is a reflection of the young creator’s passion for preserving the rich customs,...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

AI is now acceptable, it just has to be cute

Appearances matter when it comes to getting others aboard the AI train, and eliciting human emotion through adorable animals has...
The Korea Herald

Who’s really making a living from fame in Korea?

In a world where it's easier than ever to get 15 seconds of fame, government data shows just how few...
The Korea Herald

How Seoul suburb Dongtan turned into an online punching bag

Caricatured for its stylish moms and chore-sharing dads, the new town has become target of both aspiration and mockery.
Society
Goodbye fraudsters? Dating app Coffee Meets Bagel rolls out identity verification for Singapore users
Users first authenticate themselves through Singpass. The one-time verification process involves the CMB app retrieving users’ NRIC number or Foreign Identification Number, date of birth, marital status and gender from government records.
Artificial Intelligence
Elderly duo travel across Malaysia for cable car ride seen in clip – only to find out it was all AI
The fake cable car is depicted in a nearly three-minute-long AI-generated video in which a journalist from “TV Rakyat” appears to introduce the attraction and interview visitors, including tourists from Thailand.
Entertainment
AI-powered virtual idols raise ethical hazards
Fans aren't just shaping the content; they're being shaped in return.
Society
No camera, just a prompt: South Korean AI video creators are taking over social media
Text-to-video AI video tools fuel artistic freedom, while also raising red flags over fake news and sexual content.
Entertainment
AI creator blending Cambodian heritage with technology
Rath Chan Ponleu's videos, created by AI is a reflection of the young creator’s passion for preserving the rich customs, traditions and language of Cambodia, while exploring the potential of modern technology.
Technology
AI is now acceptable, it just has to be cute
Appearances matter when it comes to getting others aboard the AI train, and eliciting human emotion through adorable animals has proven much more effective than mimicking realism and showing the wondrous technical capabilities of AI.
Economic Affairs
Who’s really making a living from fame in Korea?
In a world where it's easier than ever to get 15 seconds of fame, government data shows just how few make a full-time living from it in South Korea.
Society
How Seoul suburb Dongtan turned into an online punching bag
Caricatured for its stylish moms and chore-sharing dads, the new town has become target of both aspiration and mockery.

CULTURE

The Statesman

Traditional drum makers in Indian village struggle for survival

In the remote village of Andharjhor in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district, generations of artisans have sustained the legacy of making...
The Japan News

Artisans in Japan’s Saitama pass on traditions with Chichibu Meisen silks

These fabrics are made with a technique called “hogushi nassen,” in which warp threads are temporarily woven together and dyed...
The Korea Herald

Will North Korean’s Kumgangsan UNESCO listing open path for inter-Korean cooperation?

In 2021, North Korea submitted its application to have Kumgangsan recognized by UNESCO as a mixed heritage site, reflecting the...
The Kathmandu Post

Buddha’s childhood home in Nepal misses out on World Heritage Sites list

The proposal to list Tilaurakot (identified as the ancient Kapilvastu) was deferred by the committee based on a recommendation from...
The Straits Times

What’s in a name? Local author traces the evolution of Singaporean Chinese names

Singaporean Chinese naming conventions have evolved, influenced by policy shifts, global influences, and personal preferences, according to academics.
Viet Nam News

Natural dyes help elevate ancient Vietnam’s Ma Chau silk brand

The use of organic dyes and pure mulberry silk has helped the brand be the top choice for an eco-friendly...
Viet Nam News

Dong Giao: the Vietnamese village where wood comes to life

Despite the pressures of modern times, the village thrives through creativity, dedication and the sharing of knowledge across generations.
The Phnom Penh Post

Khmer wedding UNESCO application on schedule, despite Thai claims

Thailand has also declared that it is preparing to nominate its traditional attire for the same list and has accused...
Heritage
Traditional drum makers in Indian village struggle for survival
In the remote village of Andharjhor in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district, generations of artisans have sustained the legacy of making traditional Indian percussion instruments—tabla, mandar, dhol, and mridang.
Culture
Artisans in Japan’s Saitama pass on traditions with Chichibu Meisen silks
These fabrics are made with a technique called “hogushi nassen,” in which warp threads are temporarily woven together and dyed using stencils. The finished fabrics are colorful, with cute designs, and they have been praised for their iridescent look.
Culture
Will North Korean’s Kumgangsan UNESCO listing open path for inter-Korean cooperation?
In 2021, North Korea submitted its application to have Kumgangsan recognized by UNESCO as a mixed heritage site, reflecting the rich Buddhist mountain traditions and long-standing practice of mountain worship and pilgrimage spanning centuries.
Culture
Buddha’s childhood home in Nepal misses out on World Heritage Sites list
The proposal to list Tilaurakot (identified as the ancient Kapilvastu) was deferred by the committee based on a recommendation from the ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites), UNESCO’s primary advisory body for cultural heritage nominations.
Heritage
What’s in a name? Local author traces the evolution of Singaporean Chinese names
Singaporean Chinese naming conventions have evolved, influenced by policy shifts, global influences, and personal preferences, according to academics.
Environment
Natural dyes help elevate ancient Vietnam’s Ma Chau silk brand
The use of organic dyes and pure mulberry silk has helped the brand be the top choice for an eco-friendly fashion.
Culture
Dong Giao: the Vietnamese village where wood comes to life
Despite the pressures of modern times, the village thrives through creativity, dedication and the sharing of knowledge across generations.
Conflict/War
Khmer wedding UNESCO application on schedule, despite Thai claims
Thailand has also declared that it is preparing to nominate its traditional attire for the same list and has accused Cambodia of using images of Thai wedding attire.

ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS

The Daily Star

Bengali film director Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home being demolished for new building

The century-old house, located on Harikishore Ray Chowdhury Road in Mymensingh, is tied to the legacy of the illustrious Ray...
The Statesman

Who was Saroja Devi? The Indian actress who headlined 161 films without a break passes away

Bangalore Saroja Devi was a phenomenal actress. Over the course of seven decades, she starred in around 200 films across...
Viet Nam News

Vietnam’s Da Nang Museum opens an exhibition of rare ancient artifacts

Many rare ancient antiques are on display in an exhibition in Da Nang, the most livable city in Vietnam, until...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

After 12 years, F4 reunites at concert of Taiwanese band Mayday

Yan, Wu, Chu, and Chou made a special appearance at the Taiwanese band’s concert at the Taipei Dome on Saturday,...
The Daily Star

Bangladesh puppet theatre uses fun to teach kids real-life lessons

A kaktarua or scarecrow is erected to scare away birds from a farmland and to protect crops. Similarly, Kaktarua Puppet...
The Korea Herald

‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ cast and directors break down Netflix hit’s worldbuilding

Behind-the-scenes clip reveals the creative process behind the chart-dominating animated phenomenon.
The Korea Herald

G-Dragon’s Bangkok concert canceled amid fan protest over agency’s tour mismanagement

Truck protest targets agency Galaxy over chaotic tour rollout, late ticketing, and artist protection concerns.
Dawn

‘Check on your friends’: Actor, model Humaira Asghar Ali’s tragic death leaves celebrities soul searching

The ex-Tamasha Ghar contestant's passing has raised uncomfortable questions about neglect and isolation in showbiz.
Entertainment
Bengali film director Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home being demolished for new building
The century-old house, located on Harikishore Ray Chowdhury Road in Mymensingh, is tied to the legacy of the illustrious Ray family, whose contributions to Bangla literature and arts are considered foundational.
Entertainment
Who was Saroja Devi? The Indian actress who headlined 161 films without a break passes away
Bangalore Saroja Devi was a phenomenal actress. Over the course of seven decades, she starred in around 200 films across Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi cinema.
Arts
Vietnam’s Da Nang Museum opens an exhibition of rare ancient artifacts
Many rare ancient antiques are on display in an exhibition in Da Nang, the most livable city in Vietnam, until September.
Entertainment
After 12 years, F4 reunites at concert of Taiwanese band Mayday
Yan, Wu, Chu, and Chou made a special appearance at the Taiwanese band’s concert at the Taipei Dome on Saturday, July 12, where they performed “Meteor Rain.” The members looked dashing in their all-black suits and were met with cheers from the audience.
Arts
Bangladesh puppet theatre uses fun to teach kids real-life lessons
A kaktarua or scarecrow is erected to scare away birds from a farmland and to protect crops. Similarly, Kaktarua Puppet Theater aims to drive away all the negatives and superstitions from society, says the founder.
Entertainment
‘K-pop Demon Hunters’ cast and directors break down Netflix hit’s worldbuilding
Behind-the-scenes clip reveals the creative process behind the chart-dominating animated phenomenon.
Entertainment
G-Dragon’s Bangkok concert canceled amid fan protest over agency’s tour mismanagement
Truck protest targets agency Galaxy over chaotic tour rollout, late ticketing, and artist protection concerns.
Entertainment
‘Check on your friends’: Actor, model Humaira Asghar Ali’s tragic death leaves celebrities soul searching
The ex-Tamasha Ghar contestant's passing has raised uncomfortable questions about neglect and isolation in showbiz.

ASIAN FLAVOURS

The Star

Sweet sips and even sweeter prices at this lassi stand in Malaysia’s Ipoh

Despite rising costs, Murali firmly believes in keeping his drinks affordable for everyone. He said a takeaway packet of his...
Viet Nam News

Hanoi’s street food culture gains ground with Michelin nods

Popular dishes Hoan Kiem bun cha and pho take the spotlight.
Dawn

If you’re looking for something different in Karachi, K Pav’s new restaurant is the place for you

For the unversed, K Pav is a restaurant started by Arun Perwani. The food is a mix of Indian street...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

For Filipino chef Jam Melchor, to cook means cooking Filipino

A prominent voice in the “renaissance” of Filipino food is chef Jam Melchor. He is the founder of the Philippine...
The Phnom Penh Post

Cambodian culinary talent shines in international Michelin kitchens

Chef Mariya Un Noun's high-flying kitchen adventures not only highlight the rich flavours of Khmer cuisine but also raise the...
The Star

Singaporeans flocking to Malaysia’s Johor for durian feasts

The Musang King durian tour to Johor Baru, for instance, costs SG$110 (RM364) for a day tour including transport, an...
The Straits Times

Japanese food in Singapore under $20: 5 hawker stalls serving restaurant-quality sashimi and donburi

These hawkers aim to evolve Singapore's food scene by offering restaurant-quality Japanese cuisine, hoping to compete with established restaurants, and...
The Japan News

Array of Tokyo-made gins exude scents of local nature

As gin is growing in popularity as a spirit that can be used in various cocktails, gin makers also hope...
Food
Sweet sips and even sweeter prices at this lassi stand in Malaysia’s Ipoh
Despite rising costs, Murali firmly believes in keeping his drinks affordable for everyone. He said a takeaway packet of his mooru (traditional spiced yogurt-based drink) is priced at RM1.80.
Food
Hanoi’s street food culture gains ground with Michelin nods
Popular dishes Hoan Kiem bun cha and pho take the spotlight.
Food
If you’re looking for something different in Karachi, K Pav’s new restaurant is the place for you
For the unversed, K Pav is a restaurant started by Arun Perwani. The food is a mix of Indian street food and nostalgic food his late mother used to make and it’s something you couldn’t really get anywhere else in the city.
Culture
For Filipino chef Jam Melchor, to cook means cooking Filipino
A prominent voice in the “renaissance” of Filipino food is chef Jam Melchor. He is the founder of the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement, with the mission to preserve Philippine culinary heritage and gastronomy.
Food
Cambodian culinary talent shines in international Michelin kitchens
Chef Mariya Un Noun's high-flying kitchen adventures not only highlight the rich flavours of Khmer cuisine but also raise the profile of Cambodian cooking on the global stage.
Food
Singaporeans flocking to Malaysia’s Johor for durian feasts
The Musang King durian tour to Johor Baru, for instance, costs SG$110 (RM364) for a day tour including transport, an all-you-can-eat Musang King lunch, and an eight-course dinner.
Food
Japanese food in Singapore under $20: 5 hawker stalls serving restaurant-quality sashimi and donburi
These hawkers aim to evolve Singapore's food scene by offering restaurant-quality Japanese cuisine, hoping to compete with established restaurants, and satisfy cravings.
Food
Array of Tokyo-made gins exude scents of local nature
As gin is growing in popularity as a spirit that can be used in various cocktails, gin makers also hope to draw attention to Tokyo’s natural environment.

BOOKS

Viet Nam News

Vietnam’s intellectual footprint: how books shape national identity

Beyond his extensive entrepreneurial portfolio, Bình is also widely respected as a speaker, author and translator, especially in the areas...
The Japan News

Tokyo library with Ukrainian books for evacuees established by Ukraine woman

The library was established by Dariia Murakami, 41, of Kasukabe, Saitama Prefecture. In 2014, she fled the military conflict occurring...
Dawn

Pakistani writer Dur e Aziz’s ‘A Splintering’ is a rare novel that dares to ask, what if women wanted more?

The upcoming book is a sharp, unsentimental take on ambition, class and desire.
The Jakarta Post

‘The Jakarta Salon’: Remembering a home that nurtured Indonesian maestros

Authored by Hong Kong-based art specialist Rishika Assomull, the 293-page volume was launched at the very place where it all...
The Straits Times

Almost 8 in 10 adults in Singapore read at least one book in 2024: reading survey

Conducted every three years by the National Library Board, the 2024 study also found habitual reading levels have reverted to...
China Daily

New bookstore injects poetic vitality into rural Chinese area

Located in Huize county, Qujing in Yunnan province, the bookstore is a new branch of the Nanjing-based bookstore chain, Librairie...
The Korea Herald

South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook wants to film ‘Human Acts’ by Nobel laureate Han Kang if given the chance

Mr. Park said the idea remains a distant hope—“just one of those thoughts that simply make you happy to imagine.”
The Korea Herald

Seoul International Book Fair opens to record crowds, famous faces

By the time the doors officially opened at 10 a.m. Wednesday, a seemingly endless queue had formed, snaking around the...
Lifestyle
Vietnam’s intellectual footprint: how books shape national identity
Beyond his extensive entrepreneurial portfolio, Bình is also widely respected as a speaker, author and translator, especially in the areas of management, education, policy and culture.
Lifestyle
Tokyo library with Ukrainian books for evacuees established by Ukraine woman
The library was established by Dariia Murakami, 41, of Kasukabe, Saitama Prefecture. In 2014, she fled the military conflict occurring in her home country of Ukraine and moved to Japan.
Lifestyle
Pakistani writer Dur e Aziz’s ‘A Splintering’ is a rare novel that dares to ask, what if women wanted more?
The upcoming book is a sharp, unsentimental take on ambition, class and desire.
Indonesia
‘The Jakarta Salon’: Remembering a home that nurtured Indonesian maestros
Authored by Hong Kong-based art specialist Rishika Assomull, the 293-page volume was launched at the very place where it all began: the Papadimitrious residence.
Lifestyle
Almost 8 in 10 adults in Singapore read at least one book in 2024: reading survey
Conducted every three years by the National Library Board, the 2024 study also found habitual reading levels have reverted to pre-pandemic norms, with 81 percent of teens and 89 percent of adults reading multiple times a week.
Lifestyle
New bookstore injects poetic vitality into rural Chinese area
Located in Huize county, Qujing in Yunnan province, the bookstore is a new branch of the Nanjing-based bookstore chain, Librairie Avant-Garde, in Jiangsu province.
Entertainment
South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook wants to film ‘Human Acts’ by Nobel laureate Han Kang if given the chance
Mr. Park said the idea remains a distant hope—“just one of those thoughts that simply make you happy to imagine.”
Culture
Seoul International Book Fair opens to record crowds, famous faces
By the time the doors officially opened at 10 a.m. Wednesday, a seemingly endless queue had formed, snaking around the venue — a scene that spoke volumes about the fair’s popularity.

TRAVEL & TOURISM

The Straits Times

Which floor is this? Chongqing’s maze-like environment powers its rise as a megacity

From buildings stacked along hillsides to sprawling layered expressways, the Chinese municipality has turned geographical hurdles into engines of growth.
The Japan News

Participants in Japanese tradition of ‘waterfall meditation’ find sense of fulfillment, emotional release

In recent years, the number of annual visitors to Tenkoji temple has soared to about 20,000.
Viet Nam News

Vietnam’s Con Dao—an island escape!

Con Dao is a premier tourism destination in Vietnam, attracting nearly 400,000 visitors in the first half of 2025. Local...
The Japan News

Japan’s Karatsu Castle celebrates 7,777,777th visitor on July 7; milestone visitor receives seven gifts

From the highest of the castle's five floors, visitors can enjoy views of Karatsu Bay and Niji-no-Matsubara, a designated special...
The Japan News

Botanical garden hosts nighttime immersive event in Kyoto

The immersive event allows visitors to experience the fascination of plants at night.
The Nation

Tourism battle intensifies as ASEAN nations vie for Chinese visitors

Malaysia overtakes Thailand, while Vietnam boosts air links and campaigns. Thai tourism, meanwhile, struggles to regain the Chinese market.
The Star

Manga doomsday prediction spooks tourists to Japan

Arrivals from Hong Kong— the superstitious Chinese-controlled city where the rumours have circulated widely—went down 11% year-on-year, according to the...
The Star

Unrest, disease risk not a deterrent for Malaysian travellers to Thailand

Haadyai, a city close to the border with Kedah, for example, remains a favourite for a quick break.
Society
Which floor is this? Chongqing’s maze-like environment powers its rise as a megacity
From buildings stacked along hillsides to sprawling layered expressways, the Chinese municipality has turned geographical hurdles into engines of growth.
Society
Participants in Japanese tradition of ‘waterfall meditation’ find sense of fulfillment, emotional release
In recent years, the number of annual visitors to Tenkoji temple has soared to about 20,000.
Travel
Vietnam’s Con Dao—an island escape!
Con Dao is a premier tourism destination in Vietnam, attracting nearly 400,000 visitors in the first half of 2025. Local authorities emphasise preserving the island’s unique cultural identity and natural beauty, while continuing to develop sustainable ecotourism initiatives.
Heritage
Japan’s Karatsu Castle celebrates 7,777,777th visitor on July 7; milestone visitor receives seven gifts
From the highest of the castle's five floors, visitors can enjoy views of Karatsu Bay and Niji-no-Matsubara, a designated special national scenic beauty spot.
Travel
Botanical garden hosts nighttime immersive event in Kyoto
The immersive event allows visitors to experience the fascination of plants at night.
Region
Tourism battle intensifies as ASEAN nations vie for Chinese visitors
Malaysia overtakes Thailand, while Vietnam boosts air links and campaigns. Thai tourism, meanwhile, struggles to regain the Chinese market.
Society
Manga doomsday prediction spooks tourists to Japan
Arrivals from Hong Kong— the superstitious Chinese-controlled city where the rumours have circulated widely—went down 11% year-on-year, according to the latest data.
Travel
Unrest, disease risk not a deterrent for Malaysian travellers to Thailand
Haadyai, a city close to the border with Kedah, for example, remains a favourite for a quick break.

NATURE

The Straits Times

Ancient traditions grow new roots: Monks in Thailand bring faith to fight against deforestation

The ceremony in Chaiyaphum province, just over five hours’ drive from Bangkok, is part of a growing movement in Thailand...
China Daily

Nature park debuts immersive red panda experience in China’s Harbin

Visitors can interact closely with 10 rare red pandas from Sichuan province.
China Daily

Firefly season draws nocturnal nature lovers to China’s Fujian

When night falls, tourists can enter serene forests under the guidance of staff. They'll follow the glow of fireflies and...
The Statesman

India’s Vatsala, believed to be oldest elephant in captivity, dies aged over 100

Vatsala served actively in tiger tracking operations for nearly a decade. She retired in 2003, but continued to contribute to...
The Phnom Penh Post

‘Dolphins now have land titles,’ as habitat registered as state land in Cambodia

The total conservation area stretches for 85 kilometres, from Stung Treng provincial town to Kratie province.
The Star

Why it’s vital to save Malaysia’s diverse flora

600 species are facing extinction in Sabah alone.
The Japan News

Pandas arrive in China from Japan after crowds bid them farewell

The four female pandas — Rauhin, 24, the first female panda born at Adventure World, and her three children, Yuihin,...
The Nation

Thailand’s natural wonders take centre stage in new ‘Jurassic World’ film

The story picks up five years after the events of the sixth film, where it has become clear that Earth's...
Environment
Ancient traditions grow new roots: Monks in Thailand bring faith to fight against deforestation
The ceremony in Chaiyaphum province, just over five hours’ drive from Bangkok, is part of a growing movement in Thailand where “forest monks” are linking Buddhist practice with environmental activism.
Lifestyle
Nature park debuts immersive red panda experience in China’s Harbin
Visitors can interact closely with 10 rare red pandas from Sichuan province.
National affairs
Firefly season draws nocturnal nature lovers to China’s Fujian
When night falls, tourists can enter serene forests under the guidance of staff. They'll follow the glow of fireflies and listen to the murmur of nature.
Nature
India’s Vatsala, believed to be oldest elephant in captivity, dies aged over 100
Vatsala served actively in tiger tracking operations for nearly a decade. She retired in 2003, but continued to contribute to the elephant camp by caring for the young calves of other cows.
Environment
‘Dolphins now have land titles,’ as habitat registered as state land in Cambodia
The total conservation area stretches for 85 kilometres, from Stung Treng provincial town to Kratie province.
Environment
Why it’s vital to save Malaysia’s diverse flora
600 species are facing extinction in Sabah alone.
Lifestyle
Pandas arrive in China from Japan after crowds bid them farewell
The four female pandas — Rauhin, 24, the first female panda born at Adventure World, and her three children, Yuihin, 8, Saihin, 6, and Fuhin, 4 — drew large crowds of fans on June 27, the last day the public could see them at the park.
Entertainment
Thailand’s natural wonders take centre stage in new ‘Jurassic World’ film
The story picks up five years after the events of the sixth film, where it has become clear that Earth's current ecosystems are proving inhospitable for dinosaur survival.

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