TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS
The Nation
Songkran wakes up Thai economy as locals and tourists join in the fun
The Thai Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecast Centre predicts spending during Songkran 2024 to exceed 120 billion baht, while the...
Dawn
Eid glamour: Pakistan’s celebrities dazzle in head-to-toe white ensembles
Stars like Maya Ali and Sajal Aly embraced the timeless and sophisticated allure of white, showcasing their impeccable style.
The Straits Times
Taiwan’s sniffer dogs win hearts in search for quake victims
One of the rescue dogs lost his job for being too friendly and has emerged as the unlikely most valuable...
The Korea Herald
South Korea’s local festivals disappoint as cherry trees blossom late
This March had colder temperatures and less sunshine than average, which experts say caused the earlier forecasts about when the...
The Nation
Thais disappointed as Kaeng Tai Pla voted ‘worst food in the world’
Although the curry made with fermented fish entrails was disliked by global eaters, it is considered a delicacy and sometimes...
The Straits Times
Taiwan earthquake: Terrifying episode, but life goes on in Taipei
Although damage from the earthquake in the greater Taipei region was mild compared with Hualien, it was startling to spot...
The Japan News
Aosa seaweed ready for harvest in Fukushima Prefecture City
Many racks of the blueish-green seaweed, a specialty product of the city, were lost following the 2011 Great East Japan...
Dawn
‘Dead Nazi’ to ‘Sons of Amalek’: How Israel is weaponising music to dehumanise Palestinians
Music coming out of Israel over the past five months has surpassed propaganda and is in many cases outright hate...
Economic Affairs
Songkran wakes up Thai economy as locals and tourists join in the fun
Songkran wakes up Thai economy as locals and tourists join in the fun
The Thai Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecast Centre predicts spending during Songkran 2024 to exceed 120 billion baht, while the TTB Economic Analysis Centre estimates a staggering 42 billion baht splurge.
Entertainment
Eid glamour: Pakistan’s celebrities dazzle in head-to-toe white ensembles
Eid glamour: Pakistan’s celebrities dazzle in head-to-toe white ensembles
Stars like Maya Ali and Sajal Aly embraced the timeless and sophisticated allure of white, showcasing their impeccable style.
Natural Disaster
Taiwan’s sniffer dogs win hearts in search for quake victims
Taiwan’s sniffer dogs win hearts in search for quake victims
One of the rescue dogs lost his job for being too friendly and has emerged as the unlikely most valuable player of the Taiwan rescue teams searching for survivors.
Culture
South Korea’s local festivals disappoint as cherry trees blossom late
South Korea’s local festivals disappoint as cherry trees blossom late
This March had colder temperatures and less sunshine than average, which experts say caused the earlier forecasts about when the blooms would peak to be wrong.
Culture
Thais disappointed as Kaeng Tai Pla voted ‘worst food in the world’
Thais disappointed as Kaeng Tai Pla voted ‘worst food in the world’
Although the curry made with fermented fish entrails was disliked by global eaters, it is considered a delicacy and sometimes a must-try for visitors to the South, the country’s biggest fishing region.
Natural Disaster
Taiwan earthquake: Terrifying episode, but life goes on in Taipei
Taiwan earthquake: Terrifying episode, but life goes on in Taipei
Although damage from the earthquake in the greater Taipei region was mild compared with Hualien, it was startling to spot cracked walls and fallen tiles in and around the capital.
Agriculture
Aosa seaweed ready for harvest in Fukushima Prefecture City
Aosa seaweed ready for harvest in Fukushima Prefecture City
Many racks of the blueish-green seaweed, a specialty product of the city, were lost following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, and shipping was suspended until 2018 due to the accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
Entertainment
‘Dead Nazi’ to ‘Sons of Amalek’: How Israel is weaponising music to dehumanise Palestinians
‘Dead Nazi’ to ‘Sons of Amalek’: How Israel is weaponising music to dehumanise Palestinians
Music coming out of Israel over the past five months has surpassed propaganda and is in many cases outright hate speech.
SPORTS & GAMES
The Jakarta Post
Road to Paris 2024: Indonesian contingent starts revving up
With 98 days to go until the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics opens on July 26, Indonesia’s national sports associations are...
The Straits Times
S’pore’s Kai Minejima-Lee and Isabelle Koh strike gold at World Cup of Indoor Skydiving
Competing against older skydivers was also nerve-racking for Kai, especially as he was unsure whether to watch his rivals’ routines...
China Daily
Shanghai welcomes return of Formula 1
The Shanghai International Circuit was already crowded with fans and media representatives, many of them present early for Zhou Guanyu,...
China Daily
Chinese runner, 3 pacers in marathon disqualified
The committee launched an investigation after an online uproar was caused by videos showing the three African runners appearing to...
The Nation
Thailand’s rising star Patty Vuntanadit follows sister Pam’s path
At the 2024 CDI Sint-Truiden in Belgium on April 5, 2024, Patty and her horse ‘WallStreet JV’ competed in the...
The Kathmandu Post
Nepal take unbeaten run to Premier Cup semis
The win gave the Rhinos—who had already secured their spot in the semi-finals with a match in hand—a fourth victory...
China Daily
‘Championship handovers’ during the Beijing Half Marathon: A disgrace to the sport
During the race, three contenders, namely Kenya's Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat and Ethiopia's Dejene Hailu, appeared to pivot and...
China Daily
300-day countdown to Asian Winter Games marked in Harbin
Heilongjiang province and its capital, Harbin, will strive to host a high-level 9th Asian Winter Games, which will help the...
Sports
Road to Paris 2024: Indonesian contingent starts revving up
Road to Paris 2024: Indonesian contingent starts revving up
With 98 days to go until the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics opens on July 26, Indonesia’s national sports associations are intensifying their training sessions for athletes who are heading to the world’s most prestigious multisport event in Paris.
Sports
S’pore’s Kai Minejima-Lee and Isabelle Koh strike gold at World Cup of Indoor Skydiving
S’pore’s Kai Minejima-Lee and Isabelle Koh strike gold at World Cup of Indoor Skydiving
Competing against older skydivers was also nerve-racking for Kai, especially as he was unsure whether to watch his rivals’ routines while waiting for his turn during the final round.
Sports
Shanghai welcomes return of Formula 1
Shanghai welcomes return of Formula 1
The Shanghai International Circuit was already crowded with fans and media representatives, many of them present early for Zhou Guanyu, China's first F1 driver, who will compete at home for the first time.
Sports
Chinese runner, 3 pacers in marathon disqualified
Chinese runner, 3 pacers in marathon disqualified
The committee launched an investigation after an online uproar was caused by videos showing the three African runners appearing to slow down near the finish line to allow He to win by a second with a time of 1:03:44 during Sunday's 21-kilometer race.
Sports
Thailand’s rising star Patty Vuntanadit follows sister Pam’s path
Thailand’s rising star Patty Vuntanadit follows sister Pam’s path
At the 2024 CDI Sint-Truiden in Belgium on April 5, 2024, Patty and her horse ‘WallStreet JV’ competed in the CDI3* Grand Prix class for the first time, scoring a satisfactory score of 65.6%, ranking at 11th place.
Sports
Nepal take unbeaten run to Premier Cup semis
Nepal take unbeaten run to Premier Cup semis
The win gave the Rhinos—who had already secured their spot in the semi-finals with a match in hand—a fourth victory in as many matches in the tournament, and eight points in Group A.
Sports
‘Championship handovers’ during the Beijing Half Marathon: A disgrace to the sport
‘Championship handovers’ during the Beijing Half Marathon: A disgrace to the sport
During the race, three contenders, namely Kenya's Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat and Ethiopia's Dejene Hailu, appeared to pivot and offer encouragement to their fellow Chinese athlete, He Jie, with an air of reluctance to fully embrace their own victory.
Sports
300-day countdown to Asian Winter Games marked in Harbin
300-day countdown to Asian Winter Games marked in Harbin
Heilongjiang province and its capital, Harbin, will strive to host a high-level 9th Asian Winter Games, which will help the province create a new growth pole for the ice and snow economy and build a new highland for opening up to the north.
WORK & LIFE
The Jakarta Post
Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’
In recent years, urban walking has gained traction in Jakarta, with groups like Rame Rame Jakarta, Jalan Gembira and Gang.Gang.An...
China Daily
‘Elderly weds’ celebrate at long-awaited formal ceremony in Hong Kong
The event aimed to bestow the couples, who hail from humble backgrounds, the sort of marriage ceremony they had long...
The Straits Times
All employers in Singapore must fairly consider flexi-work requests from Dec 1 under new rules
The tripartite workgroup aims to sensitise employers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises with less advanced human resource processes, to consider...
China Daily
When it comes to popularity, cats get the upper paw
Liu Lang, deputy head of the Chinese Veterinary Medical Association, confirmed the trend, saying that people born in the 1980s...
The Straits Times
How extreme heat affects the body and what you can do about it
Among the ways one could beat the heat is by heeding advisories, drinking lots of water, observing outdoor work precautions,...
The Straits Times
Taiwan’s sniffer dogs win hearts in search for quake victims
One of the rescue dogs lost his job for being too friendly and has emerged as the unlikely most valuable...
The Straits Times
Taiwan earthquake: Terrifying episode, but life goes on in Taipei
Although damage from the earthquake in the greater Taipei region was mild compared with Hualien, it was startling to spot...
The Korea Herald
How Lockheed Martin, CNN and Yale became fashion brands in Korea
The infiltration of seemingly random global brands into the Korean fashion scene technically occurred from within, not outside, through licensing...
Lifestyle
Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’
Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’
In recent years, urban walking has gained traction in Jakarta, with groups like Rame Rame Jakarta, Jalan Gembira and Gang.Gang.An highlighting how some aspects of the city can only be fully appreciated on foot.
Lifestyle
‘Elderly weds’ celebrate at long-awaited formal ceremony in Hong Kong
‘Elderly weds’ celebrate at long-awaited formal ceremony in Hong Kong
The event aimed to bestow the couples, who hail from humble backgrounds, the sort of marriage ceremony they had long yearned for but were unable to enjoy in their youth due to financial or other reasons.
Economic Affairs
All employers in Singapore must fairly consider flexi-work requests from Dec 1 under new rules
All employers in Singapore must fairly consider flexi-work requests from Dec 1 under new rules
The tripartite workgroup aims to sensitise employers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises with less advanced human resource processes, to consider flexi-time and flexi-load arrangements too.
People
When it comes to popularity, cats get the upper paw
When it comes to popularity, cats get the upper paw
Liu Lang, deputy head of the Chinese Veterinary Medical Association, confirmed the trend, saying that people born in the 1980s and 1990s may prefer cats to dogs due to the former's lower maintenance.
Climate Watch
How extreme heat affects the body and what you can do about it
How extreme heat affects the body and what you can do about it
Among the ways one could beat the heat is by heeding advisories, drinking lots of water, observing outdoor work precautions, and adapting to heat.
Natural Disaster
Taiwan’s sniffer dogs win hearts in search for quake victims
Taiwan’s sniffer dogs win hearts in search for quake victims
One of the rescue dogs lost his job for being too friendly and has emerged as the unlikely most valuable player of the Taiwan rescue teams searching for survivors.
Natural Disaster
Taiwan earthquake: Terrifying episode, but life goes on in Taipei
Taiwan earthquake: Terrifying episode, but life goes on in Taipei
Although damage from the earthquake in the greater Taipei region was mild compared with Hualien, it was startling to spot cracked walls and fallen tiles in and around the capital.
Lifestyle
How Lockheed Martin, CNN and Yale became fashion brands in Korea
How Lockheed Martin, CNN and Yale became fashion brands in Korea
The infiltration of seemingly random global brands into the Korean fashion scene technically occurred from within, not outside, through licensing agreements with local firms.
SOCIAL MEDIA
The Japan News
Imperial Household Agency turns to Instagram amid renewed PR efforts
The agency is in the process of renewing the Imperial family’s official website, and public relations efforts are underway to...
The Korea Herald
Korean Muslim YouTuber’s plan to build mosque in Incheon goes viral
The property purchase contract he uploaded showed he had bought 284.4 square meters of land for 189.2 million won ($136,600)....
China Daily
Kids’ tour to Harbin becomes online hit
Among these fascinating sights are a group of 11 charismatic children from Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in South China,...
The Korea Herald
Koreans warm to Instagram webtoons
The new content format known locally as "instatoon" is growing in popularity as people increasingly seek freely serialized webtoons, autobiographical...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Michelle Dee ‘escorted from TV guesting’ due to sickness
The explanation came days after a video of Dee being allegedly led out of a stage went viral on social...
The Straits Times
Video showing Grab rider flying to S’pore to buy chicken rice for Thai customer is fictional: Grab
In the video that has since clocked more than three million views, a Thai Grab delivery rider is seen boarding...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
How Bryanboy Defined the Age of Influence(ing)
“I’m the first one to admit that it’s not fully authentic,” Bryanboy tells LIFESTYLE.INQ, alluding to his online persona.
China Daily
China’s old domestic brands make strong online resurgence
Old Chinese personal care and home care brands that had lost popularity due to a lack of smart marketing strategies,...
Culture
Imperial Household Agency turns to Instagram amid renewed PR efforts
Imperial Household Agency turns to Instagram amid renewed PR efforts
The agency is in the process of renewing the Imperial family’s official website, and public relations efforts are underway to protect the family, including measures against slander on social media platforms.
People
Korean Muslim YouTuber’s plan to build mosque in Incheon goes viral
Korean Muslim YouTuber’s plan to build mosque in Incheon goes viral
The property purchase contract he uploaded showed he had bought 284.4 square meters of land for 189.2 million won ($136,600). However, his plan is expected to face difficulties, according to local reports.
Entertainment
Kids’ tour to Harbin becomes online hit
Kids’ tour to Harbin becomes online hit
Among these fascinating sights are a group of 11 charismatic children from Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in South China, who fearlessly embarked on an educational trip to Harbin, instantly winning the hearts of online communities.
Lifestyle
Koreans warm to Instagram webtoons
Koreans warm to Instagram webtoons
The new content format known locally as "instatoon" is growing in popularity as people increasingly seek freely serialized webtoons, autobiographical content and easy access to webtoons.
Lifestyle
Michelle Dee ‘escorted from TV guesting’ due to sickness
Michelle Dee ‘escorted from TV guesting’ due to sickness
The explanation came days after a video of Dee being allegedly led out of a stage went viral on social media.
Entertainment
Video showing Grab rider flying to S’pore to buy chicken rice for Thai customer is fictional: Grab
Video showing Grab rider flying to S’pore to buy chicken rice for Thai customer is fictional: Grab
In the video that has since clocked more than three million views, a Thai Grab delivery rider is seen boarding an AirAsia plane in his company’s signature green uniform.
Entertainment
How Bryanboy Defined the Age of Influence(ing)
How Bryanboy Defined the Age of Influence(ing)
“I’m the first one to admit that it’s not fully authentic,” Bryanboy tells LIFESTYLE.INQ, alluding to his online persona.
Lifestyle
China’s old domestic brands make strong online resurgence
China’s old domestic brands make strong online resurgence
Old Chinese personal care and home care brands that had lost popularity due to a lack of smart marketing strategies, including online promotion campaigns, have made a strong comeback following a recent livestreaming row.
CULTURE
The Japan News
Shibuya Tsutaya opens Thursday at Shibuya’s scramble crossing after renovations
The store aims to become a base for disseminating Japanese contents such as animation to the world.
The Korea Herald
Online platform set up for easier access to old maps of East Asia
The maps date as far back as 1592 and users can see how various maps published later captured the same...
The Daily Star
Is UNESCO’s recognition truly benefiting local craftspeople?
According to the writer, the inclusion of Bangladesh's heritage crafts in UNESCO's list is truly a commendable step towards preserving...
The Straits Times
Local Singaporean designers give blueprints to turn old clothes into designer pieces
Called Recustom, the sustainability project seeks to support local tailors and encourage people to repurpose old clothes instead of throwing...
The Nation
Thai soft power manifests in the form of amulets in China
The amulet market in Thailand has an annual trading value of tens of billions of baht and continues to grow...
Vientiane Times
Lao New Year exuberantly celebrated countrywide
The town centre was awash in eye-catching events such as a bustling street market, an elephant parade, a Naga procession,...
The Nation
Culture Ministry holds events to mark Bangkok’s 242nd anniversary as capital
The events will take place from April 21 to 25 at the National Museum, Bangkok, and the National Theater.
The Japan News
Japanese Emperor sows rice at Imperial Palace in annual tradition
He sowed two rice cultivars, the non-glutinous Nihonmasari and Mangetsumochi glutinous rice, in seedbeds beside the Imperial Palace’s institute of...
Culture
Shibuya Tsutaya opens Thursday at Shibuya’s scramble crossing after renovations
Shibuya Tsutaya opens Thursday at Shibuya’s scramble crossing after renovations
The store aims to become a base for disseminating Japanese contents such as animation to the world.
Culture
Online platform set up for easier access to old maps of East Asia
Online platform set up for easier access to old maps of East Asia
The maps date as far back as 1592 and users can see how various maps published later captured the same regions, by entering the names of places on the East Asian Old Map Collection website.
Culture
Is UNESCO’s recognition truly benefiting local craftspeople?
Is UNESCO’s recognition truly benefiting local craftspeople?
According to the writer, the inclusion of Bangladesh's heritage crafts in UNESCO's list is truly a commendable step towards preserving these traditional art forms. However, the true measure of success lies in the tangible benefits that trickle down to the artisans themselves.
Arts
Local Singaporean designers give blueprints to turn old clothes into designer pieces
Local Singaporean designers give blueprints to turn old clothes into designer pieces
Called Recustom, the sustainability project seeks to support local tailors and encourage people to repurpose old clothes instead of throwing them away.
Culture
Thai soft power manifests in the form of amulets in China
Thai soft power manifests in the form of amulets in China
The amulet market in Thailand has an annual trading value of tens of billions of baht and continues to grow steadily, especially among Chinese tourists who have a deep respect for Buddhist virtues and a penchant for collecting amulets.
Culture
Lao New Year exuberantly celebrated countrywide
Lao New Year exuberantly celebrated countrywide
The town centre was awash in eye-catching events such as a bustling street market, an elephant parade, a Naga procession, an exhibition of handicrafts, performances by local ethnic groups, and dance among other stage shows.
Culture
Culture Ministry holds events to mark Bangkok’s 242nd anniversary as capital
Culture Ministry holds events to mark Bangkok’s 242nd anniversary as capital
The events will take place from April 21 to 25 at the National Museum, Bangkok, and the National Theater.
Culture
Japanese Emperor sows rice at Imperial Palace in annual tradition
Japanese Emperor sows rice at Imperial Palace in annual tradition
He sowed two rice cultivars, the non-glutinous Nihonmasari and Mangetsumochi glutinous rice, in seedbeds beside the Imperial Palace’s institute of biology.
ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS
China Daily
AI takes center stage at Beijing Film Fest
The festival's AI-generated Content (AIGC) Short Film Unit showcases the application of AI technology within the film industry while also...
The Korea Herald
Pianist Cho Seong-Jin named Berlin Philharmonic’s artist-in-residence
Cho made history in October 2015 by becoming the first Korean and the third Asian to win the International Chopin...
The Korea Herald
Why aren’t K-pop stars cashing in on cosmetics?
From potential fan backlashes and missing out on endorsement opportunities to navigating a saturated market, the path is risky for...
China Daily
Shanghai showcases Miyazaki’s magic
For die-hard fans eager to delve deeper, an ongoing exhibition leads into some of the most iconic scenes from Miyazaki's...
The Korea Herald
South Korea’s music festivals gear up for summer season
Music festivals are gearing up for the summer season with artists of various genres from around the world set to...
Viet Nam News
Vietnamese cinema faces tough challenges
A recent assessment by the US magazine Deadline highlights the industry's progress, however, the market remains unstable and lacks sustainability.
The Japan News
‘The Boy and the Heron’ surpasses US$95 million at Chinese box office
The movie has been receiving high praise from Chinese netizens, with one social media user writing, “The illustrations are beautiful.”
The Star
Kuala Lumpur readies for a Sakura-themed digital art exhibition
The festival is powered by Naked, Inc, a Tokyo-based outfit that will be marking its first-ever digital art and projection...
Artificial Intelligence
AI takes center stage at Beijing Film Fest
AI takes center stage at Beijing Film Fest
The festival's AI-generated Content (AIGC) Short Film Unit showcases the application of AI technology within the film industry while also exploring how AI challenges and reshapes traditional cinematic storytelling.
Arts
Pianist Cho Seong-Jin named Berlin Philharmonic’s artist-in-residence
Pianist Cho Seong-Jin named Berlin Philharmonic’s artist-in-residence
Cho made history in October 2015 by becoming the first Korean and the third Asian to win the International Chopin Piano Competition.
Entertainment
Why aren’t K-pop stars cashing in on cosmetics?
Why aren’t K-pop stars cashing in on cosmetics?
From potential fan backlashes and missing out on endorsement opportunities to navigating a saturated market, the path is risky for K-pop stars.
Entertainment
Shanghai showcases Miyazaki’s magic
Shanghai showcases Miyazaki’s magic
For die-hard fans eager to delve deeper, an ongoing exhibition leads into some of the most iconic scenes from Miyazaki's movies, from the mysterious woodlands in Princess Mononoke to the bathhouse in Spirited Away.
Entertainment
South Korea’s music festivals gear up for summer season
South Korea’s music festivals gear up for summer season
Music festivals are gearing up for the summer season with artists of various genres from around the world set to ignite the summer in Korea, transcending borders and bringing diverse musical experiences.
Arts
Vietnamese cinema faces tough challenges
Vietnamese cinema faces tough challenges
A recent assessment by the US magazine Deadline highlights the industry's progress, however, the market remains unstable and lacks sustainability.
Arts
‘The Boy and the Heron’ surpasses US$95 million at Chinese box office
‘The Boy and the Heron’ surpasses US$95 million at Chinese box office
The movie has been receiving high praise from Chinese netizens, with one social media user writing, “The illustrations are beautiful.”
Arts
Kuala Lumpur readies for a Sakura-themed digital art exhibition
Kuala Lumpur readies for a Sakura-themed digital art exhibition
The festival is powered by Naked, Inc, a Tokyo-based outfit that will be marking its first-ever digital art and projection mapping display in Malaysia, after presenting shows in Japan, Paris, and Shanghai.
ASIAN FLAVOURS
The Nation
A special treat for the tummy during the Thai summer
With temperatures in Thailand nudging 40 degrees Celsius during the summer months, have you ever wondered how our ancestors cooled...
China Daily
Ancient tea embraces new flavour
Tea is more than just an addition to a meal. It has become a part of the country's daily routine...
Viet Nam News
Vietnamese bread tops TasteAtlas world’s 100 tastiest sandwiches rankings
Vietnamese banh my (bread) was first made popular in Vietnam by the French since 1859, but a source from the...
The Nation
Thais disappointed as Kaeng Tai Pla voted ‘worst food in the world’
Although the curry made with fermented fish entrails was disliked by global eaters, it is considered a delicacy and sometimes...
China Daily
Seven foods for Qingming Festival
From green rice balls and omelets to fried dough twists and pancakes, here are seven traditional foods people eat on...
The Korea Herald
Asia’s top chefs share their recipes, techniques in Seoul
Created in 2002, the world’s prestigious international gastronomic event kicked off this year’s edition in Seoul on March 23.
China Daily
China sets national standard for hotpot cooks
At the entry level, hotpot cooks should know the proper way to clean ingredients, while those at the highest level...
China Daily
Burst of flavor puts city in Gansu under spotlight
Thousands of diners have been making their way to the little-known northwestern city to try malatang, overwhelming local restaurant owners...
Culture
A special treat for the tummy during the Thai summer
A special treat for the tummy during the Thai summer
With temperatures in Thailand nudging 40 degrees Celsius during the summer months, have you ever wondered how our ancestors cooled themselves before refrigeration existed?
Lifestyle
Ancient tea embraces new flavour
Ancient tea embraces new flavour
Tea is more than just an addition to a meal. It has become a part of the country's daily routine and of special occasions — and is truly embedded as an overall part of Chinese culture.
Culture
Vietnamese bread tops TasteAtlas world’s 100 tastiest sandwiches rankings
Vietnamese bread tops TasteAtlas world’s 100 tastiest sandwiches rankings
Vietnamese banh my (bread) was first made popular in Vietnam by the French since 1859, but a source from the HCM City’s Tourism Department said it could have been present in the country earlier than that.
Culture
Thais disappointed as Kaeng Tai Pla voted ‘worst food in the world’
Thais disappointed as Kaeng Tai Pla voted ‘worst food in the world’
Although the curry made with fermented fish entrails was disliked by global eaters, it is considered a delicacy and sometimes a must-try for visitors to the South, the country’s biggest fishing region.
Culture
Seven foods for Qingming Festival
Seven foods for Qingming Festival
From green rice balls and omelets to fried dough twists and pancakes, here are seven traditional foods people eat on the special day.
Culture
Asia’s top chefs share their recipes, techniques in Seoul
Asia’s top chefs share their recipes, techniques in Seoul
Created in 2002, the world’s prestigious international gastronomic event kicked off this year’s edition in Seoul on March 23.
Culture
China sets national standard for hotpot cooks
China sets national standard for hotpot cooks
At the entry level, hotpot cooks should know the proper way to clean ingredients, while those at the highest level should be able to develop hotpot soup recipes and arrange and manage a hotpot banquet.
Lifestyle
Burst of flavor puts city in Gansu under spotlight
Burst of flavor puts city in Gansu under spotlight
Thousands of diners have been making their way to the little-known northwestern city to try malatang, overwhelming local restaurant owners and contributing to local wealth.
BOOKS
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Mang Nanie’s house of books
Hernando "Nanie" Guanlao turned his two-story home located on the outskirts of the Philippines’ main financial district into a public...
The Japan News
‘Comfort Women of the Empire’ author found not guilty of defamation in retrial
Park Yu-ha, professor emeritus at Sejong University in South Korea, was accused of damaging the reputation of former so-called comfort...
The Nation
Ten famous Thais and their favourite books
Books are important sources of information, providing both entertainment and the opportunity to relax and enjoy some personal time.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Fil-Ams helped free Philippines during World War II, says new book
Marie Silva Vallejo, the author, brought to the fore the contributions of the 1st and 2nd Filipino Infantry Regiments of...
The Korea Herald
Hwang Bo-reum welcomes readers to ‘Hyunam-dong Bookshop’ with healing dose of books
Surrounded by books, she finds new meaning in life as the bookshop morphs into an inviting space for hurt and...
The Nation
Philippine home-turned-library hopes to inspire reading
What started more than two decades ago as a 50-book display on the sidewalk, Guanlao's collection has grown exponentially over...
China Daily
Firming up folklore’s foundations
A book series containing rare documents related to Chinese folklore held in collections outside the country was finally introduced to...
The Straits Times
Unexplained exclusion of sci-fi works for top award raises issue of Chinese censorship
The international literary community has been up in arms over the unexplained disqualifications, which include works involving Chinese history by...
People
Mang Nanie’s house of books
Mang Nanie’s house of books
Hernando "Nanie" Guanlao turned his two-story home located on the outskirts of the Philippines’ main financial district into a public library where anyone can borrow books for free.
People
‘Comfort Women of the Empire’ author found not guilty of defamation in retrial
‘Comfort Women of the Empire’ author found not guilty of defamation in retrial
Park Yu-ha, professor emeritus at Sejong University in South Korea, was accused of damaging the reputation of former so-called comfort women with her academic book.
Lifestyle
Ten famous Thais and their favourite books
Ten famous Thais and their favourite books
Books are important sources of information, providing both entertainment and the opportunity to relax and enjoy some personal time.
Culture
Fil-Ams helped free Philippines during World War II, says new book
Fil-Ams helped free Philippines during World War II, says new book
Marie Silva Vallejo, the author, brought to the fore the contributions of the 1st and 2nd Filipino Infantry Regiments of the US Army in helping free the homeland they left but still cared about.
Lifestyle
Hwang Bo-reum welcomes readers to ‘Hyunam-dong Bookshop’ with healing dose of books
Hwang Bo-reum welcomes readers to ‘Hyunam-dong Bookshop’ with healing dose of books
Surrounded by books, she finds new meaning in life as the bookshop morphs into an inviting space for hurt and lost souls to rest, heal and learn about what is truly important in life.
Culture
Philippine home-turned-library hopes to inspire reading
Philippine home-turned-library hopes to inspire reading
What started more than two decades ago as a 50-book display on the sidewalk, Guanlao's collection has grown exponentially over the years thanks to a steady supply of books from donors.
Culture
Firming up folklore’s foundations
Firming up folklore’s foundations
A book series containing rare documents related to Chinese folklore held in collections outside the country was finally introduced to the public after seven years of work by experts.
Lifestyle
Unexplained exclusion of sci-fi works for top award raises issue of Chinese censorship
Unexplained exclusion of sci-fi works for top award raises issue of Chinese censorship
The international literary community has been up in arms over the unexplained disqualifications, which include works involving Chinese history by two authors who were born in China and now reside overseas.
TRAVEL & TOURISM
The Jakarta Post
Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’
In recent years, urban walking has gained traction in Jakarta, with groups like Rame Rame Jakarta, Jalan Gembira and Gang.Gang.An...
The Japan News
Shibuya Tsutaya opens Thursday at Shibuya’s scramble crossing after renovations
The store aims to become a base for disseminating Japanese contents such as animation to the world.
The Japan News
Shibazakura oasis blooms in central Tokyo
Located at Sumitomo Realty & Development Co.’s Mita Twin Building West, approximately 60,000 shibazaura plants fill the garden’s 1,500 square...
The Korea Herald
Culture Ministry, Korea Tourism Organisation unveil Hallyu-themed tours
A total of seven Korean content-themed tours will be offered to tourists from these locations, including four day-trip programs in...
The Nation
Explore Thailand on special tourist train with 14 special trips on nine routes
The price includes train tickets, tickets for air-conditioned buses in case of further travel needs, and entrance fees for various...
The Nation
Thai soft power manifests in the form of amulets in China
The amulet market in Thailand has an annual trading value of tens of billions of baht and continues to grow...
The Straits Times
Chinese tourist falls off cliff while posing for photo on Indonesian volcano
Local police said on April 21 the victim plummeted from a height of 75m and died from the impact of...
The Straits Times
Singapore gunning for spot as world’s best Mice events destination: STB
It is also the first of six global campaigns that will be rolled out by the Singapore Tourism Board which...
Lifestyle
Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’
Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’
In recent years, urban walking has gained traction in Jakarta, with groups like Rame Rame Jakarta, Jalan Gembira and Gang.Gang.An highlighting how some aspects of the city can only be fully appreciated on foot.
Culture
Shibuya Tsutaya opens Thursday at Shibuya’s scramble crossing after renovations
Shibuya Tsutaya opens Thursday at Shibuya’s scramble crossing after renovations
The store aims to become a base for disseminating Japanese contents such as animation to the world.
Lifestyle
Shibazakura oasis blooms in central Tokyo
Shibazakura oasis blooms in central Tokyo
Located at Sumitomo Realty & Development Co.’s Mita Twin Building West, approximately 60,000 shibazaura plants fill the garden’s 1,500 square meters, drawing in nearby workers and residents.
Culture
Culture Ministry, Korea Tourism Organisation unveil Hallyu-themed tours
Culture Ministry, Korea Tourism Organisation unveil Hallyu-themed tours
A total of seven Korean content-themed tours will be offered to tourists from these locations, including four day-trip programs in Seoul and its suburbs, two one-night trips to Busan or Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, and a three-day trip to Gangwon Province.
Lifestyle
Explore Thailand on special tourist train with 14 special trips on nine routes
Explore Thailand on special tourist train with 14 special trips on nine routes
The price includes train tickets, tickets for air-conditioned buses in case of further travel needs, and entrance fees for various places of each trip, food and drinks as well as accident insurance.
Culture
Thai soft power manifests in the form of amulets in China
Thai soft power manifests in the form of amulets in China
The amulet market in Thailand has an annual trading value of tens of billions of baht and continues to grow steadily, especially among Chinese tourists who have a deep respect for Buddhist virtues and a penchant for collecting amulets.
Accident
Chinese tourist falls off cliff while posing for photo on Indonesian volcano
Chinese tourist falls off cliff while posing for photo on Indonesian volcano
Local police said on April 21 the victim plummeted from a height of 75m and died from the impact of her fall. They have classified her death as an accident.
Business
Singapore gunning for spot as world’s best Mice events destination: STB
Singapore gunning for spot as world’s best Mice events destination: STB
It is also the first of six global campaigns that will be rolled out by the Singapore Tourism Board which include those positioning Singapore as a family playground and culinary capital.
NATURE
The Phnom Penh Post
Joy as seventh critically endangered Mekong Dolphin calf of the year reported
The new birth indicates a large jump in the number of dolphin births over last year’s eight calves, which was...
The Daily Star
Protecting Ganges river dolphins crucial for preserving ecosystem
Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury said the inability of dolphins to thrive in river waters signals...
The Japan News
Penguins evacuated during the Noto Peninsula quake doing well at Tokyo Aquarium
To help the penguins get used to the facility, the aquarium staff started taking them on walks, now they even...
The Straits Times
S’pore oceans ambassador makes Time magazine’s list of 100 most influential people of 2024
Mrs Lee had helped broker the high seas treaty, a historic agreement that lays the groundwork for international collaboration to...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Philippine agritech startup named one of ‘climate and nature impact innovators’
Mayani, a five-year-old Filipino company on a mission to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk by harnessing technology,...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Philippine ocean systems deteriorating, says study
Overfishing, pollution, and climate change are increasingly threatening the country's vibrant marine habitats, jeopardising not only local livelihood sources but...
The Kathmandu Post
As Nepal’s peak forest fire season nears, number of human fatalities rises
Nepal’s valuable forests, which took more than six decades to restore, face a worsening wildfire reality with scarce resources and...
The Star
Long-term plan for Malaysia’s wild elephants
Located at the border of the Panti Forest here, the Johor Elephant Sanctuary is home to three rescued elephants.
Nature
Joy as seventh critically endangered Mekong Dolphin calf of the year reported
Joy as seventh critically endangered Mekong Dolphin calf of the year reported
The new birth indicates a large jump in the number of dolphin births over last year’s eight calves, which was already regarded as a significant increase in the Cambodian population of the rare mammals.
Climate Watch
Protecting Ganges river dolphins crucial for preserving ecosystem
Protecting Ganges river dolphins crucial for preserving ecosystem
Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury said the inability of dolphins to thrive in river waters signals dangerous levels of water pollution.
Nature
Penguins evacuated during the Noto Peninsula quake doing well at Tokyo Aquarium
Penguins evacuated during the Noto Peninsula quake doing well at Tokyo Aquarium
To help the penguins get used to the facility, the aquarium staff started taking them on walks, now they even run up the stairs which they seemed scared of initially.
Environment
S’pore oceans ambassador makes Time magazine’s list of 100 most influential people of 2024
S’pore oceans ambassador makes Time magazine’s list of 100 most influential people of 2024
Mrs Lee had helped broker the high seas treaty, a historic agreement that lays the groundwork for international collaboration to protect the areas outside of national jurisdictions.
Agriculture
Philippine agritech startup named one of ‘climate and nature impact innovators’
Philippine agritech startup named one of ‘climate and nature impact innovators’
Mayani, a five-year-old Filipino company on a mission to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk by harnessing technology, will take part in the Amplifier mentorship program launched in Singapore at the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2024.
Climate Watch
Philippine ocean systems deteriorating, says study
Philippine ocean systems deteriorating, says study
Overfishing, pollution, and climate change are increasingly threatening the country's vibrant marine habitats, jeopardising not only local livelihood sources but also global environmental health.
Climate Watch
As Nepal’s peak forest fire season nears, number of human fatalities rises
As Nepal’s peak forest fire season nears, number of human fatalities rises
Nepal’s valuable forests, which took more than six decades to restore, face a worsening wildfire reality with scarce resources and nearly zero strategies to prevent or fight it.
Lifestyle
Long-term plan for Malaysia’s wild elephants
Long-term plan for Malaysia’s wild elephants
Located at the border of the Panti Forest here, the Johor Elephant Sanctuary is home to three rescued elephants.