TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS
The Korea Herald
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ lands two Oscar nods; Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ shut out
The Netflix animation earns nominations for best animated feature and best original song.
The Jakarta Post
World’s ‘oldest’ rock art discovered in Indonesia
The latest rock art found on Muna Island in Southeast Sulawesi, a faded hand stencil made out of ocher that...
The Daily Star
Flying traditions: Sakrain and the shared life of old Dhaka
Celebrated for centuries, it has brought joy to generations while embodying the social bonds, cultural identity, and trans-religious spirit that...
The Jakarta Post
When refugee kids couldn’t enroll, young Indonesians built them classrooms
Locked out of Indonesia’s education system and with their futures in limbo, refugee youth are finding hope in grassroots classrooms...
The Korea Herald
Game over? Why Koreans are logging off
From Netflix to idle RPGs, low-friction entertainment reshapes leisure in South Korea.
The Korea Herald
What does BTS’ upcoming album name, ‘Arirang,’ mean?
In choosing "Arirang,” BTS appears to frame their long-awaited return as a continuation of a path once crossed — one...
Vientiane Times
Travel industry insiders name Laos among top destinations to watch in 2026
Experts said 2026 is expected to mark a turning point for Laos, which has long been regarded as one of...
The Daily Star
Aloka, the stray dog in India who walked 100 days for peace
Before Aloka became known as the “peace dog,” he was a stray navigating the streets of India. What set him...
Entertainment
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ lands two Oscar nods; Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ shut out
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ lands two Oscar nods; Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ shut out
The Netflix animation earns nominations for best animated feature and best original song.
Culture
World’s ‘oldest’ rock art discovered in Indonesia
World’s ‘oldest’ rock art discovered in Indonesia
The latest rock art found on Muna Island in Southeast Sulawesi, a faded hand stencil made out of ocher that may be made at least 67,800 years ago, might provide more clues for archaeologists about how ancient human migrated through Sulawesi to Australia.
Culture
Flying traditions: Sakrain and the shared life of old Dhaka
Flying traditions: Sakrain and the shared life of old Dhaka
Celebrated for centuries, it has brought joy to generations while embodying the social bonds, cultural identity, and trans-religious spirit that define the historic neighbourhood life of Old Dhaka.
Education
When refugee kids couldn’t enroll, young Indonesians built them classrooms
When refugee kids couldn’t enroll, young Indonesians built them classrooms
Locked out of Indonesia’s education system and with their futures in limbo, refugee youth are finding hope in grassroots classrooms powered by Indonesians who chose to show up.
Society
Game over? Why Koreans are logging off
Game over? Why Koreans are logging off
From Netflix to idle RPGs, low-friction entertainment reshapes leisure in South Korea.
Entertainment
What does BTS’ upcoming album name, ‘Arirang,’ mean?
What does BTS’ upcoming album name, ‘Arirang,’ mean?
In choosing "Arirang,” BTS appears to frame their long-awaited return as a continuation of a path once crossed — one marked by waiting, endurance, and reunion.
Lifestyle
Travel industry insiders name Laos among top destinations to watch in 2026
Travel industry insiders name Laos among top destinations to watch in 2026
Experts said 2026 is expected to mark a turning point for Laos, which has long been regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s best kept secrets.
Nature
Aloka, the stray dog in India who walked 100 days for peace
Aloka, the stray dog in India who walked 100 days for peace
Before Aloka became known as the “peace dog,” he was a stray navigating the streets of India. What set him apart from others like him was not strength or speed, but an unexpected decision to follow a group of barefoot Buddhist monks who were beginning a long ‘Walk for Peace.’
SPORTS & GAMES
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Tennis star Alex Eala’s rise highlights learning curve for Filipino fans
At the Australian Open, Filipinos were called out by the umpire several times for making noise during rallies, with Eala's...
Go Go Mongolia
Mongolian athletes from Netflix’s Physical Asia awarded Golden Star
The Golden Star is awarded to individuals and teams who have made outstanding contributions to sport development, won Olympic medals,...
The Jakarta Post
Indosalto: Urban acrobatics leaping into Jakarta’s narrow spaces
In a dense North Jakarta neighborhood where room to move is scarce, a small acrobatics community is carving out space...
China Daily
More than 70,000 runners join annual Hong Kong marathon
According to the event organiser, a quarter of the runners were nonlocal entrants from 110 countries and regions, which underscores...
The Straits Times
Bill to formally recognise chess, e-sports and others as sports passed in Singapore Parliament
This recognition acknowledges their global popularity and inclusion in multi-sport events like SEA Games and Asian Games.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Filipino tennis star Alex Eala reaches new high at World No.49 ahead of Australian Open
The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate was coming off a semifinal stint in the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand. She...
The Straits Times
‘Silent pickleball’: Residents in Singaporean neighbourhood trial playing with foam balls to reduce noise
Foam balls reduce noise to conversation levels, and residents said they support their use for quieter gameplay and less neighbourhood...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
The steady climb of Philippine football
Historic SEA Games runs, uncomfortable questions about access, and a growing sense that the Philippines no longer needs permission to...
Sports
Tennis star Alex Eala’s rise highlights learning curve for Filipino fans
Tennis star Alex Eala’s rise highlights learning curve for Filipino fans
At the Australian Open, Filipinos were called out by the umpire several times for making noise during rallies, with Eala's opponent Alycia Parks even complaining about the crowd.
Entertainment
Mongolian athletes from Netflix’s Physical Asia awarded Golden Star
Mongolian athletes from Netflix’s Physical Asia awarded Golden Star
The Golden Star is awarded to individuals and teams who have made outstanding contributions to sport development, won Olympic medals, or otherwise promoted Mongolia internationally.
Lifestyle
Indosalto: Urban acrobatics leaping into Jakarta’s narrow spaces
Indosalto: Urban acrobatics leaping into Jakarta’s narrow spaces
In a dense North Jakarta neighborhood where room to move is scarce, a small acrobatics community is carving out space for children to leap, flip, and imagine bigger futures.
Society
More than 70,000 runners join annual Hong Kong marathon
More than 70,000 runners join annual Hong Kong marathon
According to the event organiser, a quarter of the runners were nonlocal entrants from 110 countries and regions, which underscores the race’s status as a major event with great global appeal.
Policy Matters
Bill to formally recognise chess, e-sports and others as sports passed in Singapore Parliament
Bill to formally recognise chess, e-sports and others as sports passed in Singapore Parliament
This recognition acknowledges their global popularity and inclusion in multi-sport events like SEA Games and Asian Games.
Sports
Filipino tennis star Alex Eala reaches new high at World No.49 ahead of Australian Open
Filipino tennis star Alex Eala reaches new high at World No.49 ahead of Australian Open
The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate was coming off a semifinal stint in the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand. She lost to China’s Wang Xinyu in three tight sets, narrowly missing the final round of the WTA 250 event.
Sports
‘Silent pickleball’: Residents in Singaporean neighbourhood trial playing with foam balls to reduce noise
‘Silent pickleball’: Residents in Singaporean neighbourhood trial playing with foam balls to reduce noise
Foam balls reduce noise to conversation levels, and residents said they support their use for quieter gameplay and less neighbourhood disturbance.
Sports
The steady climb of Philippine football
The steady climb of Philippine football
Historic SEA Games runs, uncomfortable questions about access, and a growing sense that the Philippines no longer needs permission to belong on Asia’s football stage.
WORK & LIFE
The Jakarta Post
Indonesia’s volunteering paths: Where small acts lead to big change
Want to volunteer but not sure where to begin? These communities offer meaningful ways to turn good intentions into everyday...
The Straits Times
Caught littering in Malaysia? This is what community service punishment will look like
SWCorp simulated the Community Service Order on Jan 20, showing offenders wearing vests and cleaning public areas under supervision, emphasising...
The Korea Herald
Even in bitter cold, these Korean runners keep going, thanks to one clear innovation
Roofed with thin plastic, greenhouse-style outdoor tracks make winter running more accessible, but safety concerns linger.
The Jakarta Post
When refugee kids couldn’t enroll, young Indonesians built them classrooms
Locked out of Indonesia’s education system and with their futures in limbo, refugee youth are finding hope in grassroots classrooms...
The Jakarta Post
Beyond cleanup: A Sunday with Trash Hero Jakarta
Trash Hero Jakarta is part of a global network that started in Switzerland in 2013 and now operates in 15...
The Star
Not easy feeding Malaysian kids nowadays
For many, the biggest challenge in feeding children well is getting fussy eaters to accept balanced meals without wasting food...
The Korea Herald
Game over? Why Koreans are logging off
From Netflix to idle RPGs, low-friction entertainment reshapes leisure in South Korea.
Dawn
Why do so many people in Pakistan suddenly have a button phone? (It’s not for the vibes)
Of the 12.05 million mobile phone units assembled during the first five months of 2025, 54pc or 6.53 million were...
Society
Indonesia’s volunteering paths: Where small acts lead to big change
Indonesia’s volunteering paths: Where small acts lead to big change
Want to volunteer but not sure where to begin? These communities offer meaningful ways to turn good intentions into everyday action.
Environment
Caught littering in Malaysia? This is what community service punishment will look like
Caught littering in Malaysia? This is what community service punishment will look like
SWCorp simulated the Community Service Order on Jan 20, showing offenders wearing vests and cleaning public areas under supervision, emphasising offender safety and health.
Climate Watch
Even in bitter cold, these Korean runners keep going, thanks to one clear innovation
Even in bitter cold, these Korean runners keep going, thanks to one clear innovation
Roofed with thin plastic, greenhouse-style outdoor tracks make winter running more accessible, but safety concerns linger.
Education
When refugee kids couldn’t enroll, young Indonesians built them classrooms
When refugee kids couldn’t enroll, young Indonesians built them classrooms
Locked out of Indonesia’s education system and with their futures in limbo, refugee youth are finding hope in grassroots classrooms powered by Indonesians who chose to show up.
Climate Watch
Beyond cleanup: A Sunday with Trash Hero Jakarta
Beyond cleanup: A Sunday with Trash Hero Jakarta
Trash Hero Jakarta is part of a global network that started in Switzerland in 2013 and now operates in 15 countries.
Health
Not easy feeding Malaysian kids nowadays
Not easy feeding Malaysian kids nowadays
For many, the biggest challenge in feeding children well is getting fussy eaters to accept balanced meals without wasting food or blowing the budget.
Society
Game over? Why Koreans are logging off
Game over? Why Koreans are logging off
From Netflix to idle RPGs, low-friction entertainment reshapes leisure in South Korea.
Lifestyle
Why do so many people in Pakistan suddenly have a button phone? (It’s not for the vibes)
Why do so many people in Pakistan suddenly have a button phone? (It’s not for the vibes)
Of the 12.05 million mobile phone units assembled during the first five months of 2025, 54pc or 6.53 million were 2G feature phones, PTA data reveals.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Philippine celebrities dig up their archives in ‘2026 is the new 2016’ social media trend
The social media trend started as a nostalgic trip on TikTok, where many netizens posted photos of themselves during that...
The Korea Herald
Dubai chewy cookie frenzy in South Korea sends pistachio prices soaring threefold
A 1kg bag of unshelled pistachios has jumped from 20,000 won ($13.61) in early December to roughly 80,000 won ($54.32)...
The Straits Times
‘Are You Dead?’: Viral safety app reflects quiet anxiety of living alone in China
In fast-paced Chinese cities that prize speed, productivity, and self-reliance, the app’s sudden popularity seems less about being alone and...
China Daily
‘Factory flaw’ spurs toy horse to instant popularity in China
Created for the upcoming Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, it was originally meant to wear an upturned...
The Korea Herald
How Dubai Chewy Cookies took over South Korea
The viral dessert has sparked long lines, copycat products, and unexpected ripple effects across food, retail, and delivery platforms.
China Daily
Viral app in China bares ‘safety anxiety’ among solo dwellers
According to the 2025 China Statistical Yearbook, single-person households now account for approximately 20 percent of the country's sampled population.
The Yomiuri Shimbun
New AI service in Japan will keep ads away from inappropriate posts
With this latest effort, the safety of ad distribution on social networking sites will be strengthened.
The Straits Times
Viral ‘Chinese Trump’ wins laughs on both sides of Pacific
In his videos, which are in English with Chinese subtitles, impersonator Ryan Chen lightheartedly presents Chinese cuisine, customs, and cultural...
Entertainment
Philippine celebrities dig up their archives in ‘2026 is the new 2016’ social media trend
Philippine celebrities dig up their archives in ‘2026 is the new 2016’ social media trend
The social media trend started as a nostalgic trip on TikTok, where many netizens posted photos of themselves during that particular year, reminisced about how “simpler” life was, and looked back at some of the most popular trends at the time.
Economic Affairs
Dubai chewy cookie frenzy in South Korea sends pistachio prices soaring threefold
Dubai chewy cookie frenzy in South Korea sends pistachio prices soaring threefold
A 1kg bag of unshelled pistachios has jumped from 20,000 won ($13.61) in early December to roughly 80,000 won ($54.32) as of Thursday.
Society
‘Are You Dead?’: Viral safety app reflects quiet anxiety of living alone in China
‘Are You Dead?’: Viral safety app reflects quiet anxiety of living alone in China
In fast-paced Chinese cities that prize speed, productivity, and self-reliance, the app’s sudden popularity seems less about being alone and more about the anxiety of being unseen or unnoticed if something goes wrong.
Lifestyle
‘Factory flaw’ spurs toy horse to instant popularity in China
‘Factory flaw’ spurs toy horse to instant popularity in China
Created for the upcoming Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, it was originally meant to wear an upturned smile. Instead, due to a production error, the toy left the assembly line with its mouth stitched into a distinct, down-turned pout.
Food
How Dubai Chewy Cookies took over South Korea
How Dubai Chewy Cookies took over South Korea
The viral dessert has sparked long lines, copycat products, and unexpected ripple effects across food, retail, and delivery platforms.
Society
Viral app in China bares ‘safety anxiety’ among solo dwellers
Viral app in China bares ‘safety anxiety’ among solo dwellers
According to the 2025 China Statistical Yearbook, single-person households now account for approximately 20 percent of the country's sampled population.
Artificial Intelligence
New AI service in Japan will keep ads away from inappropriate posts
New AI service in Japan will keep ads away from inappropriate posts
With this latest effort, the safety of ad distribution on social networking sites will be strengthened.
Entertainment
Viral ‘Chinese Trump’ wins laughs on both sides of Pacific
Viral ‘Chinese Trump’ wins laughs on both sides of Pacific
In his videos, which are in English with Chinese subtitles, impersonator Ryan Chen lightheartedly presents Chinese cuisine, customs, and cultural differences, jokes with foreigners, and dances to Village People’s YMCA, one of US President Donald Trump’s trademark stage songs.
CULTURE
The Nation
Thailand’s Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother’s lifelong mission to keep Thai performing arts alive
Her Majesty dedicated herself to ensuring that the traditional dance form “Khon" remained a cultural legacy for the nation.
The Jakarta Post
World’s ‘oldest’ rock art discovered in Indonesia
The latest rock art found on Muna Island in Southeast Sulawesi, a faded hand stencil made out of ocher that...
The Daily Star
Flying traditions: Sakrain and the shared life of old Dhaka
Celebrated for centuries, it has brought joy to generations while embodying the social bonds, cultural identity, and trans-religious spirit that...
Kuensel
Bhutanese diaspora gifts sacred ornamental needlework
More than 3,000 Bhutanese living in Australia came together to collectively offer four sacred "Thongdrols" to the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum...
The Star
Great-granny deftly keeps alive Malaysian mat-weaving heritage
Despite her advanced age of 88, Zainab Abu Bakar’s fingers never tire as she diligently weaves the leaves with remarkable...
Viet Nam News
Vibrant events to take place in Hanoi’s heritage space to welcome Vietnamese Lunar New Year
The Hanoi Old Quarter Heritage Information Centre at 28 Hang Buom Street will host a space for traditional Tet, featuring...
China Daily
Ancient Chinese script gets upgrade for digital age
Designers said their task was not simply to digitise old characters, but to preserve the movement and balance of brushwork...
Viet Nam News
Water puppetry art in Vietnam’s Ninh Binh thrives
Despite many historical ups and downs, local residents still make efforts to preserve the water puppetry art and craft amidst...
Culture
Thailand’s Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother’s lifelong mission to keep Thai performing arts alive
Thailand’s Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother’s lifelong mission to keep Thai performing arts alive
Her Majesty dedicated herself to ensuring that the traditional dance form “Khon" remained a cultural legacy for the nation.
Culture
World’s ‘oldest’ rock art discovered in Indonesia
World’s ‘oldest’ rock art discovered in Indonesia
The latest rock art found on Muna Island in Southeast Sulawesi, a faded hand stencil made out of ocher that may be made at least 67,800 years ago, might provide more clues for archaeologists about how ancient human migrated through Sulawesi to Australia.
Culture
Flying traditions: Sakrain and the shared life of old Dhaka
Flying traditions: Sakrain and the shared life of old Dhaka
Celebrated for centuries, it has brought joy to generations while embodying the social bonds, cultural identity, and trans-religious spirit that define the historic neighbourhood life of Old Dhaka.
Arts
Bhutanese diaspora gifts sacred ornamental needlework
Bhutanese diaspora gifts sacred ornamental needlework
More than 3,000 Bhutanese living in Australia came together to collectively offer four sacred "Thongdrols" to the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre during the 118th National Day celebrations.
Culture
Great-granny deftly keeps alive Malaysian mat-weaving heritage
Great-granny deftly keeps alive Malaysian mat-weaving heritage
Despite her advanced age of 88, Zainab Abu Bakar’s fingers never tire as she diligently weaves the leaves with remarkable creativity to fulfil customer orders.
Culture
Vibrant events to take place in Hanoi’s heritage space to welcome Vietnamese Lunar New Year
Vibrant events to take place in Hanoi’s heritage space to welcome Vietnamese Lunar New Year
The Hanoi Old Quarter Heritage Information Centre at 28 Hang Buom Street will host a space for traditional Tet, featuring a series of cultural experiences from January 19 to March 17.
Culture
Ancient Chinese script gets upgrade for digital age
Ancient Chinese script gets upgrade for digital age
Designers said their task was not simply to digitise old characters, but to preserve the movement and balance of brushwork in a format suited to modern reading habits.
Arts
Water puppetry art in Vietnam’s Ninh Binh thrives
Water puppetry art in Vietnam’s Ninh Binh thrives
Despite many historical ups and downs, local residents still make efforts to preserve the water puppetry art and craft amidst their modern and rapid-paced life, transferring their cultural heritages to younger generations.
ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS
The Korea Herald
Korea, Japan, Indonesia top K-pop markets in 2025: data
While the top three markets remained unchanged from the previous year, notable movement occurred outside the Top 3. The US...
Go Go Mongolia
Mongolian athletes from Netflix’s Physical Asia awarded Golden Star
The Golden Star is awarded to individuals and teams who have made outstanding contributions to sport development, won Olympic medals,...
The Korea Herald
South Korea’s ‘chaebol,’ the quiet fashion influencers
The phenomenon known as “ditto consumption” — buying items favoured by well-known figures — has intensified amid economic uncertainty, with...
The Korea Herald
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ lands two Oscar nods; Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ shut out
The Netflix animation earns nominations for best animated feature and best original song.
The Korea Herald
South Korean actress Han So-hee is done playing pretty
One of Korea's hottest stars is ready to disappear into her roles, even taking on a psychopath.
The Korea Herald
Kpop star Rain apologises to fan with hearing loss after calling her out for not dancing at his concert
The female fan, known only as Chichi on social media platform Threads, recounted on Jan 19 what happened at the...
The Phnom Penh Post
Art exhibition explores identity, pain and resilience amid Cambodia’s cultural scars
The "Ekarieach All Stars” art exhibition, now open at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, is where Cambodian and international artists confront...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
P-pop group SB19 exceeds 1 billion streams on Spotify: ‘Just getting started’
The five songs listed on the group’s Popular list on Spotify are “DAM,” “DUNGKA!”, “Time,” “8TonBall” and “Quit,” with “DAM”...
Entertainment
Korea, Japan, Indonesia top K-pop markets in 2025: data
Korea, Japan, Indonesia top K-pop markets in 2025: data
While the top three markets remained unchanged from the previous year, notable movement occurred outside the Top 3. The US climbed one spot to fourth place, accounting for 6.25 percent of global K-pop consumption, while India slipped to fifth.
Entertainment
Mongolian athletes from Netflix’s Physical Asia awarded Golden Star
Mongolian athletes from Netflix’s Physical Asia awarded Golden Star
The Golden Star is awarded to individuals and teams who have made outstanding contributions to sport development, won Olympic medals, or otherwise promoted Mongolia internationally.
Lifestyle
South Korea’s ‘chaebol,’ the quiet fashion influencers
South Korea’s ‘chaebol,’ the quiet fashion influencers
The phenomenon known as “ditto consumption” — buying items favoured by well-known figures — has intensified amid economic uncertainty, with both affordable and luxury products gaining attention once worn by public figures.
Entertainment
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ lands two Oscar nods; Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ shut out
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ lands two Oscar nods; Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ shut out
The Netflix animation earns nominations for best animated feature and best original song.
Entertainment
South Korean actress Han So-hee is done playing pretty
South Korean actress Han So-hee is done playing pretty
One of Korea's hottest stars is ready to disappear into her roles, even taking on a psychopath.
Entertainment
Kpop star Rain apologises to fan with hearing loss after calling her out for not dancing at his concert
Kpop star Rain apologises to fan with hearing loss after calling her out for not dancing at his concert
The female fan, known only as Chichi on social media platform Threads, recounted on Jan 19 what happened at the gig.
Arts
Art exhibition explores identity, pain and resilience amid Cambodia’s cultural scars
Art exhibition explores identity, pain and resilience amid Cambodia’s cultural scars
The "Ekarieach All Stars” art exhibition, now open at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, is where Cambodian and international artists confront questions of belonging, loss, and resilience — including reflections on Cambodian temples damaged during past Thai-Cambodian conflicts.
Entertainment
P-pop group SB19 exceeds 1 billion streams on Spotify: ‘Just getting started’
P-pop group SB19 exceeds 1 billion streams on Spotify: ‘Just getting started’
The five songs listed on the group’s Popular list on Spotify are “DAM,” “DUNGKA!”, “Time,” “8TonBall” and “Quit,” with “DAM” having 59,780,606 streams as of this writing.
ASIAN FLAVOURS
The Star
Food festivals in Malaysia you can look forward to this year
Kickstarting things off is Terengganu’s Oh My Chey Chey Kopi & Pastri 3.0, which is happening from Jan 29 to...
Vientiane Times
Laos launches Asia’s first hydrogen-powered coffee roasting plant in Champasak
The introduction of hydrogen-powered roasting is set to add significant value while opening doors to premium international markets.
Borneo Bulletin
Bruneian flavours, traditions take centre stage
The Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Oman showcased Bruneian traditional food and products, including kueh cincin, sapit, keropok udang, nasi...
China Daily
Shanghai festival showcases a culinary coming-of-age
Yearlong event celebrates international cuisine as the metropolis focuses on becoming the center of cultural intersections for diners.
The Straits Times
Singapore diners unfazed if budget meal options shrink, many prefer regular coffee shop fare
Diners are generally unconcerned, finding heartland meals affordable and often preferring regular portions with more variety.
The Star
US dietary guide may not suit Malaysians: experts
Experts said that although Malaysians can take a cue from this approach, the previous food pyramid and “suku-suku separuh” (quarter...
Viet Nam News
First-ever pho museum opens in Ho Chi Minh
The museum features three floors offering visitors a journey through pho's 100-year history via a souvenir area, show kitchen, cinema...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
A lasting gift to Filipino food culture
Award-winning author Felice Prudente Sta. Maria proves that Filipino food is alive—always changing, always evolving.
Food
Food festivals in Malaysia you can look forward to this year
Food festivals in Malaysia you can look forward to this year
Kickstarting things off is Terengganu’s Oh My Chey Chey Kopi & Pastri 3.0, which is happening from Jan 29 to 31. This is where you can gather to enjoy some coffee and kuih.
Agriculture
Laos launches Asia’s first hydrogen-powered coffee roasting plant in Champasak
Laos launches Asia’s first hydrogen-powered coffee roasting plant in Champasak
The introduction of hydrogen-powered roasting is set to add significant value while opening doors to premium international markets.
Food
Bruneian flavours, traditions take centre stage
Bruneian flavours, traditions take centre stage
The Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Oman showcased Bruneian traditional food and products, including kueh cincin, sapit, keropok udang, nasi katok, and soto Brunei, during the Muscat Night festival 2026 on January 14.
Food
Shanghai festival showcases a culinary coming-of-age
Shanghai festival showcases a culinary coming-of-age
Yearlong event celebrates international cuisine as the metropolis focuses on becoming the center of cultural intersections for diners.
Economic Affairs
Singapore diners unfazed if budget meal options shrink, many prefer regular coffee shop fare
Singapore diners unfazed if budget meal options shrink, many prefer regular coffee shop fare
Diners are generally unconcerned, finding heartland meals affordable and often preferring regular portions with more variety.
Health
US dietary guide may not suit Malaysians: experts
US dietary guide may not suit Malaysians: experts
Experts said that although Malaysians can take a cue from this approach, the previous food pyramid and “suku-suku separuh” (quarter and half) portion control method still worked best for Malaysians.
Culture
First-ever pho museum opens in Ho Chi Minh
First-ever pho museum opens in Ho Chi Minh
The museum features three floors offering visitors a journey through pho's 100-year history via a souvenir area, show kitchen, cinema room, and cultural exhibition space.
Food
A lasting gift to Filipino food culture
A lasting gift to Filipino food culture
Award-winning author Felice Prudente Sta. Maria proves that Filipino food is alive—always changing, always evolving.
BOOKS
Viet Nam News
New book highlights Vietnam’s UNESCO heritages
From the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay to the ancient houses of Hoi An, the country’s heritage shines on...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
A lasting gift to Filipino food culture
Award-winning author Felice Prudente Sta. Maria proves that Filipino food is alive—always changing, always evolving.
Dawn
From reading rooms to commercial centres: The lost libraries of Pakistan’s Lyari
There is a paradox at the heart of Lyari — a neighbourhood long known for its intellectual traditions and political...
Viet Nam News
New books get readers excited about Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year
The most important Vietnamese traditional celebration takes centre stage in charming books about Tết.
The Star
Leading international literary magazine spotlights Malaysian reading culture
As strong a start to the year as any, Malaysia features in the magazine, offering the world a window into...
Dawn
How Pakistani writer Ibne Safi taught an entire generation to read
As reading shifts from shared print cultures to fragmented digital feeds, what happens to the common habits that once anchored...
Viet Nam News
In search of forgotten books in Vietnam
To rediscover those forgotten volumes, readers must step away from glossy bestseller tables and wander into the hushed, dust-scented corners...
The Korea Herald
Year-end look at K-literature: Steady notice abroad, modest gains at home
The Korean publishing industry in 2025 can be summed up simply, industry insiders say: the rise of Korean fiction. The...
Culture
New book highlights Vietnam’s UNESCO heritages
New book highlights Vietnam’s UNESCO heritages
From the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay to the ancient houses of Hoi An, the country’s heritage shines on the world stage, and now a new book captures that journey.
Food
A lasting gift to Filipino food culture
A lasting gift to Filipino food culture
Award-winning author Felice Prudente Sta. Maria proves that Filipino food is alive—always changing, always evolving.
Heritage
From reading rooms to commercial centres: The lost libraries of Pakistan’s Lyari
From reading rooms to commercial centres: The lost libraries of Pakistan’s Lyari
There is a paradox at the heart of Lyari — a neighbourhood long known for its intellectual traditions and political consciousness, yet one that today has almost no functioning public library. The hunger for learning persists, but the spaces meant to sustain it have quietly disappeared.
Arts
New books get readers excited about Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year
New books get readers excited about Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year
The most important Vietnamese traditional celebration takes centre stage in charming books about Tết.
Lifestyle
Leading international literary magazine spotlights Malaysian reading culture
Leading international literary magazine spotlights Malaysian reading culture
As strong a start to the year as any, Malaysia features in the magazine, offering the world a window into its rich and diverse literary scene.
Culture
How Pakistani writer Ibne Safi taught an entire generation to read
How Pakistani writer Ibne Safi taught an entire generation to read
As reading shifts from shared print cultures to fragmented digital feeds, what happens to the common habits that once anchored public life?
Lifestyle
In search of forgotten books in Vietnam
In search of forgotten books in Vietnam
To rediscover those forgotten volumes, readers must step away from glossy bestseller tables and wander into the hushed, dust-scented corners of second-hand bookshops, where time moves more slowly and stories wait to be found again.
Lifestyle
Year-end look at K-literature: Steady notice abroad, modest gains at home
Year-end look at K-literature: Steady notice abroad, modest gains at home
The Korean publishing industry in 2025 can be summed up simply, industry insiders say: the rise of Korean fiction. The publishing market as a whole has struggled, but fiction proved a notable exception.
TRAVEL & TOURISM
The Nation
Social media floods with ‘Lisa’ Red Lotus Sea memes; TAT says image is real, not AI
On 22 January 2026, after TAT announced that Lisa had been appointed Amazing Thailand Ambassador to promote Thai tourism, the...
China Daily
Folk-themed train takes international tourists to China’s far north
During the trip, travelers took part in a range of cultural activities.
The Star
Malaysia’s tourism surge sparks higher goal
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the original target for 2026 was set at 43...
Vientiane Times
The joys of cycling in Laos’ Xayabouly
The writer observes that to cycle through Xayabouly was exactly like moving around at the town’s preferred pace—"unhurried, observant, and...
The Yomiuri Shimbun
Record-high 42.7mil visitors travelled to Japan in 2025
The weak yen has made accommodations and shopping in Japan more affordable, contributing to increased visits from China and other...
Viet Nam News
Vibrant events to take place in Hanoi’s heritage space to welcome Vietnamese Lunar New Year
The Hanoi Old Quarter Heritage Information Centre at 28 Hang Buom Street will host a space for traditional Tet, featuring...
The Straits Times
Japan’s 2026 sakura season set to be most affordable in years
The lower prices are widely expected to persist into March and April, which coincide with peak cherry blossom season.
The Daily Star
Journey to the roof of the world: A Bangladeshi’s Tibet travelogue
This is the story of a seven-day spiritual odyssey, following ancient Buddhist links to the highest land on earth, from...
Travel
Social media floods with ‘Lisa’ Red Lotus Sea memes; TAT says image is real, not AI
Social media floods with ‘Lisa’ Red Lotus Sea memes; TAT says image is real, not AI
On 22 January 2026, after TAT announced that Lisa had been appointed Amazing Thailand Ambassador to promote Thai tourism, the agency released still images under its “Feel All the Feelings” campaign.
Culture
Folk-themed train takes international tourists to China’s far north
Folk-themed train takes international tourists to China’s far north
During the trip, travelers took part in a range of cultural activities.
Economic Affairs
Malaysia’s tourism surge sparks higher goal
Malaysia’s tourism surge sparks higher goal
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the original target for 2026 was set at 43 million visitors, but the strong performance last year may lead to an upward revision to capitalise on the momentum.
Lifestyle
The joys of cycling in Laos’ Xayabouly
The joys of cycling in Laos’ Xayabouly
The writer observes that to cycle through Xayabouly was exactly like moving around at the town’s preferred pace—"unhurried, observant, and quietly gratifying."
Economic Affairs
Record-high 42.7mil visitors travelled to Japan in 2025
Record-high 42.7mil visitors travelled to Japan in 2025
The weak yen has made accommodations and shopping in Japan more affordable, contributing to increased visits from China and other countries and regions.
Culture
Vibrant events to take place in Hanoi’s heritage space to welcome Vietnamese Lunar New Year
Vibrant events to take place in Hanoi’s heritage space to welcome Vietnamese Lunar New Year
The Hanoi Old Quarter Heritage Information Centre at 28 Hang Buom Street will host a space for traditional Tet, featuring a series of cultural experiences from January 19 to March 17.
Travel
Japan’s 2026 sakura season set to be most affordable in years
Japan’s 2026 sakura season set to be most affordable in years
The lower prices are widely expected to persist into March and April, which coincide with peak cherry blossom season.
Lifestyle
Journey to the roof of the world: A Bangladeshi’s Tibet travelogue
Journey to the roof of the world: A Bangladeshi’s Tibet travelogue
This is the story of a seven-day spiritual odyssey, following ancient Buddhist links to the highest land on earth, from Dhaka to the shadow of Mount Everest.
NATURE
The Nation
Majestic Bryde’s whales thrill tourists in Thailand’s Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park
Officials view the whales' presence as a significant ecological milestone, indicating a healthy and abundant marine ecosystem resulting from successful...
The Jakarta Post
Forest conversion threatens Indonesia’s endemic Javan langur population
Monitoring conducted by Profauna Indonesia throughout 2025 recorded only nine groups with a total of 54 individuals.
The Straits Times
Saving gentle giants: 7 species of marine mammals spotted in Singapore
Spanning records from 1820 to 2024, a new study has revealed the clearest history yet of Singapore’s marine mammals.
The Straits Times
‘Tiger Tiger, burning bright’: The scourge of AI-generated wildlife videos in India
Experts warn that these fake videos distort animal behaviour understanding, increasing human-animal conflict and risking retaliatory killings.
The Daily Star
Aloka, the stray dog in India who walked 100 days for peace
Before Aloka became known as the “peace dog,” he was a stray navigating the streets of India. What set him...
Viet Nam News
Eight rare animals released into the wild in Vietnam’s Dong Nai
The species include three Macaca fascicularis (long-tailed macaques), three Nycticebus pygmaeus (pygmy slow lorises), one Python reticulatus (reticulated python) and...
The Straits Times
Two baby capybaras born in Singapore’s Mandai, the first in 10 years
The pups, weighing about 1.6kg each, are suckling and have started nibbling on solid food like hay, said an animal...
The Jakarta Post
Indonesia’s national bird Javan hawk-eagle under pressure as forests disappear
Scientists warn that shrinking habitat is pushing Indonesia’s iconic raptor closer to extinction.
Nature
Majestic Bryde’s whales thrill tourists in Thailand’s Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park
Majestic Bryde’s whales thrill tourists in Thailand’s Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park
Officials view the whales' presence as a significant ecological milestone, indicating a healthy and abundant marine ecosystem resulting from successful conservation efforts.
Environment
Forest conversion threatens Indonesia’s endemic Javan langur population
Forest conversion threatens Indonesia’s endemic Javan langur population
Monitoring conducted by Profauna Indonesia throughout 2025 recorded only nine groups with a total of 54 individuals.
Environment
Saving gentle giants: 7 species of marine mammals spotted in Singapore
Saving gentle giants: 7 species of marine mammals spotted in Singapore
Spanning records from 1820 to 2024, a new study has revealed the clearest history yet of Singapore’s marine mammals.
Artificial Intelligence
‘Tiger Tiger, burning bright’: The scourge of AI-generated wildlife videos in India
‘Tiger Tiger, burning bright’: The scourge of AI-generated wildlife videos in India
Experts warn that these fake videos distort animal behaviour understanding, increasing human-animal conflict and risking retaliatory killings.
Nature
Aloka, the stray dog in India who walked 100 days for peace
Aloka, the stray dog in India who walked 100 days for peace
Before Aloka became known as the “peace dog,” he was a stray navigating the streets of India. What set him apart from others like him was not strength or speed, but an unexpected decision to follow a group of barefoot Buddhist monks who were beginning a long ‘Walk for Peace.’
Environment
Eight rare animals released into the wild in Vietnam’s Dong Nai
Eight rare animals released into the wild in Vietnam’s Dong Nai
The species include three Macaca fascicularis (long-tailed macaques), three Nycticebus pygmaeus (pygmy slow lorises), one Python reticulatus (reticulated python) and one Manis javanica (Javan pangolin).
Lifestyle
Two baby capybaras born in Singapore’s Mandai, the first in 10 years
Two baby capybaras born in Singapore’s Mandai, the first in 10 years
The pups, weighing about 1.6kg each, are suckling and have started nibbling on solid food like hay, said an animal care officer at the reserve.
Environment
Indonesia’s national bird Javan hawk-eagle under pressure as forests disappear
Indonesia’s national bird Javan hawk-eagle under pressure as forests disappear
Scientists warn that shrinking habitat is pushing Indonesia’s iconic raptor closer to extinction.
