TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS
Dawn
‘Killing of innocent people is never right’: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan on supporting Palestine
The Irish actor spoke at Canneseries after being awarded the Commitment Prize for 'actively making a change well beyond television.'
The Kathmandu Post
Moulding calmness: Growing number of young Nepalis turning to pottery as new form of self-expression
A growing number of young people are turning to pottery to ease stress, express emotions, and reconnect with themselves.
The Kathmandu Post
Nepal draws new line in snow: Everest to no longer be anybody’s climb
When open-to-all regime ends, a mountaineer must have summited a 7,000-metre peak before attempting the world's highest peak.
The Jakarta Post
For hit animated film ‘Jumbo’, Indonesian children are the true heroes
Jumbo, an animated feature produced by Visinema Studios, was released in theaters in Indonesia on March 31, and has amassed...
The Straits Times
Viewpoint: Do the Chinese TikToks ‘exposing’ designer brands spell the end of luxury?
The enthusiastic comments in the videos expose something deeper: a growing preference for buying fake and, consequently, a declining appreciation...
The Korea Herald
Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s latest work brings meditative reflections on life while tending small garden
The 172-page collection titled 'Light and Thread' is her first publication since winning the Nobel Prize.
The Straits Times
Singapore’s elderly cheerleaders show off their moves
Age is no barrier for Singapore’s first elderly cheerleading team, which stole the show at the World Ageing Festival here...
The Japan News
Atomic bomb survivors vow to carry on Pope’s legacy; remember message during Hiroshima, Nagasaki visits
Pope Francis delivered a speech at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima on Nov. 24, 2019 and at Nagasaki's Hypocentre...
Conflict/War
‘Killing of innocent people is never right’: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan on supporting Palestine
‘Killing of innocent people is never right’: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan on supporting Palestine
The Irish actor spoke at Canneseries after being awarded the Commitment Prize for 'actively making a change well beyond television.'
Arts
Moulding calmness: Growing number of young Nepalis turning to pottery as new form of self-expression
Moulding calmness: Growing number of young Nepalis turning to pottery as new form of self-expression
A growing number of young people are turning to pottery to ease stress, express emotions, and reconnect with themselves.
Nature
Nepal draws new line in snow: Everest to no longer be anybody’s climb
Nepal draws new line in snow: Everest to no longer be anybody’s climb
When open-to-all regime ends, a mountaineer must have summited a 7,000-metre peak before attempting the world's highest peak.
Entertainment
For hit animated film ‘Jumbo’, Indonesian children are the true heroes
For hit animated film ‘Jumbo’, Indonesian children are the true heroes
Jumbo, an animated feature produced by Visinema Studios, was released in theaters in Indonesia on March 31, and has amassed more than 6.4 million ticket sales as of the end of April.
Society
Viewpoint: Do the Chinese TikToks ‘exposing’ designer brands spell the end of luxury?
Viewpoint: Do the Chinese TikToks ‘exposing’ designer brands spell the end of luxury?
The enthusiastic comments in the videos expose something deeper: a growing preference for buying fake and, consequently, a declining appreciation for luxury brands.
Lifestyle
Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s latest work brings meditative reflections on life while tending small garden
Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s latest work brings meditative reflections on life while tending small garden
The 172-page collection titled 'Light and Thread' is her first publication since winning the Nobel Prize.
Lifestyle
Singapore’s elderly cheerleaders show off their moves
Singapore’s elderly cheerleaders show off their moves
Age is no barrier for Singapore’s first elderly cheerleading team, which stole the show at the World Ageing Festival here on April 8.
People
Atomic bomb survivors vow to carry on Pope’s legacy; remember message during Hiroshima, Nagasaki visits
Atomic bomb survivors vow to carry on Pope’s legacy; remember message during Hiroshima, Nagasaki visits
Pope Francis delivered a speech at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima on Nov. 24, 2019 and at Nagasaki's Hypocentre Park.
SPORTS & GAMES
The Straits Times
Team Singapore’s indoor skydivers steal the show at world meet despite break-in
On April 25, the athletes were shocked to find their place ransacked, forcing them to relocate to a hotel midway...
Viet Nam News
Smashing success: Historic title for Vietnamese badminton duo
Tran Dinh Manh and his partner Nguyen Dinh Hoang have made history as the first Vietnamese men’s doubles pair to...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
How much does Philippine tennis star Alex Eala have to earn to keep playing as a pro?
With hundreds of players in its ranks, the WTA barely pays lower-ranking pro athletes enough, and Alex Eala’s breakthrough at...
Kuensel
Bhutan-Thailand celebrate friendship through football
The majority of the spectators were students, symbolising the strong friendship between the two countries and its promising future.
China Daily
Beijing’s robot half-marathon puts innovations to the test
The marathon, despite some imperfect performances like an occasional stumble, proved that China's humanoid robots are moving from flashy laboratory...
The Phnom Penh Post
Cambodia’s football community deeply saddened by death of star defender Tes Sambath
Mr. Sambath, a former national player who was currently signed for Visakha FC, tragically lost his life on the night...
The Daily Star
Bangladesh outclassed by Nepal in series opener
The women in red and green were unable to contain Nepal, who collected several bonus points and dominated raids, scoring...
The Kathmandu Post
Nepal thrashes Hong Kong by 9 wickets to set up decider against Afghanistan in U-19 Qualifiers
Yuvraj Khatri stars again with the ball as Nepal make light work of 116-run target in Mulpani.
Sports
Team Singapore’s indoor skydivers steal the show at world meet despite break-in
Team Singapore’s indoor skydivers steal the show at world meet despite break-in
On April 25, the athletes were shocked to find their place ransacked, forcing them to relocate to a hotel midway through the April 24-27 competition.
Sports
Smashing success: Historic title for Vietnamese badminton duo
Smashing success: Historic title for Vietnamese badminton duo
Tran Dinh Manh and his partner Nguyen Dinh Hoang have made history as the first Vietnamese men’s doubles pair to win an International Challenge title.
People
How much does Philippine tennis star Alex Eala have to earn to keep playing as a pro?
How much does Philippine tennis star Alex Eala have to earn to keep playing as a pro?
With hundreds of players in its ranks, the WTA barely pays lower-ranking pro athletes enough, and Alex Eala’s breakthrough at the Miami Open means that she’s moved far up the pay scale. However, she will need to remain consistent at that level to keep earning that kind of money.
Lifestyle
Bhutan-Thailand celebrate friendship through football
Bhutan-Thailand celebrate friendship through football
The majority of the spectators were students, symbolising the strong friendship between the two countries and its promising future.
Technology
Beijing’s robot half-marathon puts innovations to the test
Beijing’s robot half-marathon puts innovations to the test
The marathon, despite some imperfect performances like an occasional stumble, proved that China's humanoid robots are moving from flashy laboratory demos to real-world scenarios.
Accident
Cambodia’s football community deeply saddened by death of star defender Tes Sambath
Cambodia’s football community deeply saddened by death of star defender Tes Sambath
Mr. Sambath, a former national player who was currently signed for Visakha FC, tragically lost his life on the night of April 20. He lost control of his motorcycle and fell into a stream and drowned.
Sports
Bangladesh outclassed by Nepal in series opener
Bangladesh outclassed by Nepal in series opener
The women in red and green were unable to contain Nepal, who collected several bonus points and dominated raids, scoring an additional 23 points in the second-half.
Sports
Nepal thrashes Hong Kong by 9 wickets to set up decider against Afghanistan in U-19 Qualifiers
Nepal thrashes Hong Kong by 9 wickets to set up decider against Afghanistan in U-19 Qualifiers
Yuvraj Khatri stars again with the ball as Nepal make light work of 116-run target in Mulpani.
WORK & LIFE
The Korea Herald
Acclaimed South Korean poet Kim Hye-soon elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
The 69-year-old poet is the first Korean writer to be elected to the Academy's literature section. Kim joins a cohort...
The Korea Herald
Reinventing life after K-pop trainee days
Dropped from a cutthroat race at a young age, former idol wannabes redefine failure in their own ways.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Filipino street kid now in college recalls encounter with Pope Francis
Jun Chura was among the four youths who gave their messages to Pope Francis during the “Encounter with the Youth”...
The Star
Delicious end to a Malaysian night
For many Malaysians, having late supper has become a habit that is difficult to kick.
The Japan News
Where Japanese women stand 40 years after Equal Employment Opportunity Law
The way women are perceived — from powerful to sweet — has been reflected in economic and social developments up...
The Korea Herald
South Korea has least remote work hours, recent study finds
A study by Stanford University, which surveyed 16,000 college graduates worldwide, found that South Koreans work from home an average...
The Straits Times
Singapore’s elderly cheerleaders show off their moves
Age is no barrier for Singapore’s first elderly cheerleading team, which stole the show at the World Ageing Festival here...
Viet Nam News
Local university debuts Vietnamese culture education for foreigners
The Da Nang University of Science and Education is offering a unique one-year academic course for foreigners to explore in...
Lifestyle
Acclaimed South Korean poet Kim Hye-soon elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
Acclaimed South Korean poet Kim Hye-soon elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
The 69-year-old poet is the first Korean writer to be elected to the Academy's literature section. Kim joins a cohort of American writers selected this year, including the poet Kwame Dawes; playwright Katori Hall; novelists Claire Messud, Caryl Phillips, Amy Tan and Jacqueline Woodson; and human rights activist and author Rebecca Solnit.
Lifestyle
Reinventing life after K-pop trainee days
Reinventing life after K-pop trainee days
Dropped from a cutthroat race at a young age, former idol wannabes redefine failure in their own ways.
People
Filipino street kid now in college recalls encounter with Pope Francis
Filipino street kid now in college recalls encounter with Pope Francis
Jun Chura was among the four youths who gave their messages to Pope Francis during the “Encounter with the Youth” on Jan. 18, 2015, the fourth of the Pontiff’s five-day visit to the Philippines.
Food
Delicious end to a Malaysian night
Delicious end to a Malaysian night
For many Malaysians, having late supper has become a habit that is difficult to kick.
Policy Matters
Where Japanese women stand 40 years after Equal Employment Opportunity Law
Where Japanese women stand 40 years after Equal Employment Opportunity Law
The way women are perceived — from powerful to sweet — has been reflected in economic and social developments up to the present day.
Society
South Korea has least remote work hours, recent study finds
South Korea has least remote work hours, recent study finds
A study by Stanford University, which surveyed 16,000 college graduates worldwide, found that South Koreans work from home an average of just 0.5 days per week, the lowest figure among all nations surveyed.
Lifestyle
Singapore’s elderly cheerleaders show off their moves
Singapore’s elderly cheerleaders show off their moves
Age is no barrier for Singapore’s first elderly cheerleading team, which stole the show at the World Ageing Festival here on April 8.
Education
Local university debuts Vietnamese culture education for foreigners
Local university debuts Vietnamese culture education for foreigners
The Da Nang University of Science and Education is offering a unique one-year academic course for foreigners to explore in depth the country’s culture, history, geography and heritage.
SOCIAL MEDIA
The Nation
In Thailand, Ayutthaya Police’s loft-style room Facebook post goes viral
It was an innovative idea to warn against law-breaking, where police at the Wang Noi Police Station offer a 31-square-metre...
The Straits Times
Viewpoint: Do the Chinese TikToks ‘exposing’ designer brands spell the end of luxury?
The enthusiastic comments in the videos expose something deeper: a growing preference for buying fake and, consequently, a declining appreciation...
The Straits Times
Virtual romance, real money: Why some Singaporeans spend 4 figures for love in ‘Deepspace’
In the game, players adopt the female lead’s perspective in its sci-fi fantasy story, and can battle monsters and go...
The Korea Herald
ChatGPT hits 1.2m daily users in Korea amid Ghibli-style AI-generated image trend
The AI chatbot recorded a record 1,252,925 daily active users in South Korea on Thursday, a sharp increase from 799,571...
The Statesman
Ghibli style cricket? Cricketers and fans jump on the AI bandwagon
Cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Rinku Kumar are joining the AI-generated Ghibli art trend, with fans creating animated versions of...
Dawn
The AI Studio Ghibli trend is an insult to art and artists
Artists spend years refining their artistic expression and skill, only for all that work to be appropriated by a single...
The Korea Herald
Ajeo-chic? How middle-age became cool in the eyes of South Korean youth
Typically used for middle-aged men, often married with children, the Korean term carries a connotation of being outdated and uncool...
The Star
Malaysian comedian ‘Uncle Roger’ shares his engagement photos on social media
His fiancee, Sabrina, in her post said that the photoshoot took place while "running around" the markets in Taipei, Taiwan.
Society
In Thailand, Ayutthaya Police’s loft-style room Facebook post goes viral
In Thailand, Ayutthaya Police’s loft-style room Facebook post goes viral
It was an innovative idea to warn against law-breaking, where police at the Wang Noi Police Station offer a 31-square-metre one-bedroom unit with free breakfast — all at no charge.
Society
Viewpoint: Do the Chinese TikToks ‘exposing’ designer brands spell the end of luxury?
Viewpoint: Do the Chinese TikToks ‘exposing’ designer brands spell the end of luxury?
The enthusiastic comments in the videos expose something deeper: a growing preference for buying fake and, consequently, a declining appreciation for luxury brands.
Artificial Intelligence
Virtual romance, real money: Why some Singaporeans spend 4 figures for love in ‘Deepspace’
Virtual romance, real money: Why some Singaporeans spend 4 figures for love in ‘Deepspace’
In the game, players adopt the female lead’s perspective in its sci-fi fantasy story, and can battle monsters and go on dates with any of the five virtual eligible bachelors who are designed with 3D character modelling.
Society
ChatGPT hits 1.2m daily users in Korea amid Ghibli-style AI-generated image trend
ChatGPT hits 1.2m daily users in Korea amid Ghibli-style AI-generated image trend
The AI chatbot recorded a record 1,252,925 daily active users in South Korea on Thursday, a sharp increase from 799,571 on March 1.
Artificial Intelligence
Ghibli style cricket? Cricketers and fans jump on the AI bandwagon
Ghibli style cricket? Cricketers and fans jump on the AI bandwagon
Cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Rinku Kumar are joining the AI-generated Ghibli art trend, with fans creating animated versions of their favorite players in the iconic style.
Artificial Intelligence
The AI Studio Ghibli trend is an insult to art and artists
The AI Studio Ghibli trend is an insult to art and artists
Artists spend years refining their artistic expression and skill, only for all that work to be appropriated by a single prompt on an AI tool.
Lifestyle
Ajeo-chic? How middle-age became cool in the eyes of South Korean youth
Ajeo-chic? How middle-age became cool in the eyes of South Korean youth
Typically used for middle-aged men, often married with children, the Korean term carries a connotation of being outdated and uncool — essentially the opposite of an eligible bachelor.
Entertainment
Malaysian comedian ‘Uncle Roger’ shares his engagement photos on social media
Malaysian comedian ‘Uncle Roger’ shares his engagement photos on social media
His fiancee, Sabrina, in her post said that the photoshoot took place while "running around" the markets in Taipei, Taiwan.
CULTURE
Kuensel
Bhutanese community’s traditional paper craft faces market decline
Started in 2003 with the Tarayana Foundation’s help, the paper-making was successful at first. Then, the villagers took over. The...
The Daily Star
Shakrain: Kites and tastes of Old Dhaka
As kites soar high in the air, households remain busy preparing traditional Bengali pithas, rice cakes, and other treats that...
China Daily
China’s ethnic games combine competitiveness with tradition for passionate fans
Some 1,000 competitors battled for glory in 16 events — from camel racing to goat-grabbing, or buzkashi (a horseback game...
The Kathmandu Post
Thousands throng Nepali festival honouring mothers
Devotees take holy baths and make offerings to mark Mata Tirtha Aunsi.
Viet Nam News
Unsung heroines of Vietnam’s resistance war
While there is no exact figure for how many women took part, their services remain undeniable.
The Straits Times
Poster power: Singapore’s vintage election memorabilia in the spotlight
For some, these old pieces are just relics of a bygone era. For others, they are imbued with stories of...
China Daily
Preserving Tibet’s Potala Palace
A team of specialists and modern technology and equipment maintain the building's structural integrity and safety.
Viet Nam News
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City gears up for 50th anniversary of the South’s liberation
The streets are bursting with pride and people are ecstatic to prepare for the exciting activities such as military parades,...
Arts
Bhutanese community’s traditional paper craft faces market decline
Bhutanese community’s traditional paper craft faces market decline
Started in 2003 with the Tarayana Foundation’s help, the paper-making was successful at first. Then, the villagers took over. The centre used to produce over 2,000 sheets of paper every month. However, now they make and sell much less.
Culture
Shakrain: Kites and tastes of Old Dhaka
Shakrain: Kites and tastes of Old Dhaka
As kites soar high in the air, households remain busy preparing traditional Bengali pithas, rice cakes, and other treats that bring families and neighbours together.
Culture
China’s ethnic games combine competitiveness with tradition for passionate fans
China’s ethnic games combine competitiveness with tradition for passionate fans
Some 1,000 competitors battled for glory in 16 events — from camel racing to goat-grabbing, or buzkashi (a horseback game in which players compete to place a goat carcass in a goal).
Culture
Thousands throng Nepali festival honouring mothers
Thousands throng Nepali festival honouring mothers
Devotees take holy baths and make offerings to mark Mata Tirtha Aunsi.
People
Unsung heroines of Vietnam’s resistance war
Unsung heroines of Vietnam’s resistance war
While there is no exact figure for how many women took part, their services remain undeniable.
Heritage
Poster power: Singapore’s vintage election memorabilia in the spotlight
Poster power: Singapore’s vintage election memorabilia in the spotlight
For some, these old pieces are just relics of a bygone era. For others, they are imbued with stories of Singapore’s colourful political history and visual culture, starting with the artisans and printers.
Culture
Preserving Tibet’s Potala Palace
Preserving Tibet’s Potala Palace
A team of specialists and modern technology and equipment maintain the building's structural integrity and safety.
Heritage
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City gears up for 50th anniversary of the South’s liberation
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City gears up for 50th anniversary of the South’s liberation
The streets are bursting with pride and people are ecstatic to prepare for the exciting activities such as military parades, fireworks and aircraft displays.
ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS
The Straits Times
K-idol Lee Seung-gi cuts ties with in-laws over alleged stock manipulation
The 38-year-old singer-actor tied the knot with South Korean actress Lee Da-in, 32, in April 2023. They welcomed their first...
Dawn
Indian media believes Shah Rukh Khan is in early talks to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe
The post specifically ruled out a role in Avengers: Doomsday — the much-anticipated next chapter in the Avengers saga —...
Dawn
‘Killing of innocent people is never right’: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan on supporting Palestine
The Irish actor spoke at Canneseries after being awarded the Commitment Prize for 'actively making a change well beyond television.'
The Kathmandu Post
Moulding calmness: Growing number of young Nepalis turning to pottery as new form of self-expression
A growing number of young people are turning to pottery to ease stress, express emotions, and reconnect with themselves.
The Japan News
‘Kyotographie’ highlights humanity through historic scenography
The event, which launched in 2013 and marks its 13th anniversary this year, recorded over 270,000 visits last year. This...
The Korea Herald
‘Culinary Class Wars’ star Paik Jong-won faces mounting controversies amid business, TV uncertainty
The star entrepreneur is mired in troubles ranging from alleged abuse of power to food code violations.
The Daily Star
Scorsese backs Bollywood’s ‘Homebound’ for Cannes
Starring Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, "Homebound" is backed by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions. Notably, the film has...
The Jakarta Post
For hit animated film ‘Jumbo’, Indonesian children are the true heroes
Jumbo, an animated feature produced by Visinema Studios, was released in theaters in Indonesia on March 31, and has amassed...
Entertainment
K-idol Lee Seung-gi cuts ties with in-laws over alleged stock manipulation
K-idol Lee Seung-gi cuts ties with in-laws over alleged stock manipulation
The 38-year-old singer-actor tied the knot with South Korean actress Lee Da-in, 32, in April 2023. They welcomed their first child, a girl, in February 2024.
Entertainment
Indian media believes Shah Rukh Khan is in early talks to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Indian media believes Shah Rukh Khan is in early talks to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe
The post specifically ruled out a role in Avengers: Doomsday — the much-anticipated next chapter in the Avengers saga — but suggested that another Marvel project could be in the works for the superstar.
Conflict/War
‘Killing of innocent people is never right’: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan on supporting Palestine
‘Killing of innocent people is never right’: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan on supporting Palestine
The Irish actor spoke at Canneseries after being awarded the Commitment Prize for 'actively making a change well beyond television.'
Arts
Moulding calmness: Growing number of young Nepalis turning to pottery as new form of self-expression
Moulding calmness: Growing number of young Nepalis turning to pottery as new form of self-expression
A growing number of young people are turning to pottery to ease stress, express emotions, and reconnect with themselves.
Arts
‘Kyotographie’ highlights humanity through historic scenography
‘Kyotographie’ highlights humanity through historic scenography
The event, which launched in 2013 and marks its 13th anniversary this year, recorded over 270,000 visits last year. This year, 14 cutting-edge artists and groups of all generations from Japan and abroad are participating in the festival, which is being held across 14 venues.
Entertainment
‘Culinary Class Wars’ star Paik Jong-won faces mounting controversies amid business, TV uncertainty
‘Culinary Class Wars’ star Paik Jong-won faces mounting controversies amid business, TV uncertainty
The star entrepreneur is mired in troubles ranging from alleged abuse of power to food code violations.
Entertainment
Scorsese backs Bollywood’s ‘Homebound’ for Cannes
Scorsese backs Bollywood’s ‘Homebound’ for Cannes
Starring Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, "Homebound" is backed by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions. Notably, the film has been selected for Cannes's prestigious Un Certain Regard section.
Entertainment
For hit animated film ‘Jumbo’, Indonesian children are the true heroes
For hit animated film ‘Jumbo’, Indonesian children are the true heroes
Jumbo, an animated feature produced by Visinema Studios, was released in theaters in Indonesia on March 31, and has amassed more than 6.4 million ticket sales as of the end of April.
ASIAN FLAVOURS
Philippine Daily Inquirer
5 coach-approved, healthy Filipino recipes to try
From Spanish and Chinese to Malay and American, Filipino cuisine has fused with the different types of food our Indigenous...
The Star
Touring Malaysia for the best of local cuisine
From nasi lemak ayam rendang and beef satay to Sarawak laksa and chicken briyani, diners will embark on a gastronomic...
The Star
In Malaysia’s Ayer Kuning, a little coffeeshop is a bustling haven during by-election
The quaint Xin Aun Nong Yong coffeeshop on Tapah Road has been serving Malays, Chinese, Indians and people from other...
The Korea Herald
Brewing heritage: How Korea’s traditional alcohol is finding new life
Hands-on brewing classes and diverse flavor profiles are drawing younger generations into Korea’s centuries-old drinking traditions.
The Japan News
Authentic Chinese eateries increasing near Kyoto University; students flock for taste of home
Called “gachi chuka," with “gachi” meaning “serious” or “for real” in casual Japanese while “chuka” means China, these restaurants are...
The Star
5 reasons to get excited for Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week 2025
Organised by a group of local industry leaders and stakeholders with the objective of highlighting the art of cocktails and...
The Nation
The many flavours of Thailand’s iconic Songkran streets
These Songkran streets do more than provide a space for fun and water fights — they serve as cultural landmarks...
The Straits Times
Of bak chor mee and ballot boxes: Can Singapore’s politicians win hearts with hawker food?
Is it a casual update or calculated strategy?
Food
5 coach-approved, healthy Filipino recipes to try
5 coach-approved, healthy Filipino recipes to try
From Spanish and Chinese to Malay and American, Filipino cuisine has fused with the different types of food our Indigenous ancestors made. However, some Filipino dishes aren’t exactly healthy.
Food
Touring Malaysia for the best of local cuisine
Touring Malaysia for the best of local cuisine
From nasi lemak ayam rendang and beef satay to Sarawak laksa and chicken briyani, diners will embark on a gastronomic journey that connects them to the roots of the nation’s most beloved dishes.
Food
In Malaysia’s Ayer Kuning, a little coffeeshop is a bustling haven during by-election
In Malaysia’s Ayer Kuning, a little coffeeshop is a bustling haven during by-election
The quaint Xin Aun Nong Yong coffeeshop on Tapah Road has been serving Malays, Chinese, Indians and people from other backgrounds for the past 90 years and will continue to do so after all the bigwigs and politicians leave after the by-election.
Culture
Brewing heritage: How Korea’s traditional alcohol is finding new life
Brewing heritage: How Korea’s traditional alcohol is finding new life
Hands-on brewing classes and diverse flavor profiles are drawing younger generations into Korea’s centuries-old drinking traditions.
Food
Authentic Chinese eateries increasing near Kyoto University; students flock for taste of home
Authentic Chinese eateries increasing near Kyoto University; students flock for taste of home
Called “gachi chuka," with “gachi” meaning “serious” or “for real” in casual Japanese while “chuka” means China, these restaurants are frequented by many foreign exchange students at the university.
Culture
5 reasons to get excited for Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week 2025
5 reasons to get excited for Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week 2025
Organised by a group of local industry leaders and stakeholders with the objective of highlighting the art of cocktails and promoting the city’s growing cocktail scene, this year’s KLCW promises an even more exciting schedule of events and guest shifts for cocktail lovers.
Culture
The many flavours of Thailand’s iconic Songkran streets
The many flavours of Thailand’s iconic Songkran streets
These Songkran streets do more than provide a space for fun and water fights — they serve as cultural landmarks celebrating Thailand’s rich heritage, regional specialities and strong community ties.
Food
Of bak chor mee and ballot boxes: Can Singapore’s politicians win hearts with hawker food?
Of bak chor mee and ballot boxes: Can Singapore’s politicians win hearts with hawker food?
Is it a casual update or calculated strategy?
BOOKS
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Some books to (re)visit this National Literature Month in the Philippines
In recent, overstimulated and digitally-saturated years, leisure has come to be redefined not just in terms of free time out...
The Korea Herald
Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s latest work brings meditative reflections on life while tending small garden
The 172-page collection titled 'Light and Thread' is her first publication since winning the Nobel Prize.
Asia News Network
From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author
Some people are born storytellers—be it through the spoken or written word. While most excel in one medium over the...
The Korea Herald
Recent Korean books on unconventional families share wisdom of living without marrying
More Koreans than ever are living alone — and choosing to stay that way.
The Kathmandu Post
Unraveling postmodernism in Nepali writing
Novelist Govinda Raj Bhattarai discusses his literary journey and the qualities of a good translation.
The Korea Herald
Japanese translator of South Korean Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s ‘We Do Not Part’ receives award
Saito Mariko won the Research and Translation category at the 76th Yomiuri Literary Awards, marking the first time a single...
The Japan News
Japan’s one-person publishers create unique books
The term “hitori shuppansha” (one-person publisher) refers to one person who edits and launches a book that they feel only...
The Statesman
Purvodaya literary festival 2025 to celebrate eastern India’s stories and culture
With over 200,000 attendees expected, the festival will feature a dynamic lineup of events, including panel discussions on literature, culture,...
Arts
Some books to (re)visit this National Literature Month in the Philippines
Some books to (re)visit this National Literature Month in the Philippines
In recent, overstimulated and digitally-saturated years, leisure has come to be redefined not just in terms of free time out of work or casual entertainment but also as “serious” detoxification from the mad rush of modern life.
Lifestyle
Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s latest work brings meditative reflections on life while tending small garden
Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s latest work brings meditative reflections on life while tending small garden
The 172-page collection titled 'Light and Thread' is her first publication since winning the Nobel Prize.
Lifestyle
From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author
From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author
Some people are born storytellers—be it through the spoken or written word. While most excel in one medium over the other, some are brilliant at both. Filipino author Marga Ortigas is one of those rare few.
Society
Recent Korean books on unconventional families share wisdom of living without marrying
Recent Korean books on unconventional families share wisdom of living without marrying
More Koreans than ever are living alone — and choosing to stay that way.
Arts
Unraveling postmodernism in Nepali writing
Unraveling postmodernism in Nepali writing
Novelist Govinda Raj Bhattarai discusses his literary journey and the qualities of a good translation.
Lifestyle
Japanese translator of South Korean Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s ‘We Do Not Part’ receives award
Japanese translator of South Korean Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s ‘We Do Not Part’ receives award
Saito Mariko won the Research and Translation category at the 76th Yomiuri Literary Awards, marking the first time a single translated work by a Korean author has won in the category.
Lifestyle
Japan’s one-person publishers create unique books
Japan’s one-person publishers create unique books
The term “hitori shuppansha” (one-person publisher) refers to one person who edits and launches a book that they feel only they can present to the world, even if only with a small number of copies.
Lifestyle
Purvodaya literary festival 2025 to celebrate eastern India’s stories and culture
Purvodaya literary festival 2025 to celebrate eastern India’s stories and culture
With over 200,000 attendees expected, the festival will feature a dynamic lineup of events, including panel discussions on literature, culture, and contemporary issues and more.
TRAVEL & TOURISM
Borneo Bulletin
Cruise ship visitors laud Brunei’s beauty, hospitality
Sailing in from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the ship’s maiden visit reflects the growing appeal of Brunei Darussalam as a stopover...
China Daily
Cafes, restaurants and homestays capitalise on beauty of redeveloped Chinese village
In 2013, Henggang's local authorities launched reforms that gradually shut down livestock sheds and poultry enclosures, and restored the land...
The Kathmandu Post
Nepal draws new line in snow: Everest to no longer be anybody’s climb
When open-to-all regime ends, a mountaineer must have summited a 7,000-metre peak before attempting the world's highest peak.
The Statesman
Tourism under fire: Why boycotting Kashmir will hurt India
In the heart of the Himalayas lies a land of extraordinary beauty—and extraordinary fragility. Kashmir, long known for its snow-capped...
The Nation
Tourists invited to experience Mon traditional Songkran festival in Phra Pradaeng
While the nationwide Songkran Festival typically runs from April 13–15, Phra Pradaeng’s unique celebration, known as Wan Lai Songkran Phra...
Viet Nam News
Special interactive exhibition to commemorate Vietnam’s 50th reunification anniversary
Nhan Dan Newspaper's media campaign has been meticulously prepared and developed over the past six months and implemented across all...
Kuensel
Bhutan’s Gangtey-Phobji biking trail poised for revival
Stretching nearly 53 kilometres, the trail begins near the Gangtey Gewog Centre and weaves through the scenic Phobjikha Valley—an area...
China Daily
Fujian’s ancient wonders
From ancient philosophers, sea-faring explorers and tranquil tea ceremonies, this episode brings the past into the present with a modern-day...
Lifestyle
Cruise ship visitors laud Brunei’s beauty, hospitality
Cruise ship visitors laud Brunei’s beauty, hospitality
Sailing in from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the ship’s maiden visit reflects the growing appeal of Brunei Darussalam as a stopover for international travellers. Following its brief stop in Brunei Darussalam, MS Artania is scheduled to depart for Pulau Tioman, Malaysia.
Lifestyle
Cafes, restaurants and homestays capitalise on beauty of redeveloped Chinese village
Cafes, restaurants and homestays capitalise on beauty of redeveloped Chinese village
In 2013, Henggang's local authorities launched reforms that gradually shut down livestock sheds and poultry enclosures, and restored the land to its original agricultural use. The transformation not only reclaimed the landscape, but also injected fresh green momentum into its development.
Nature
Nepal draws new line in snow: Everest to no longer be anybody’s climb
Nepal draws new line in snow: Everest to no longer be anybody’s climb
When open-to-all regime ends, a mountaineer must have summited a 7,000-metre peak before attempting the world's highest peak.
Conflict/War
Tourism under fire: Why boycotting Kashmir will hurt India
Tourism under fire: Why boycotting Kashmir will hurt India
In the heart of the Himalayas lies a land of extraordinary beauty—and extraordinary fragility. Kashmir, long known for its snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and centuries-old cultural heritage, is today walking a tightrope between economic revival and political volatility.
Culture
Tourists invited to experience Mon traditional Songkran festival in Phra Pradaeng
Tourists invited to experience Mon traditional Songkran festival in Phra Pradaeng
While the nationwide Songkran Festival typically runs from April 13–15, Phra Pradaeng’s unique celebration, known as Wan Lai Songkran Phra Pradaeng – or the Water Flowing Days of Songkran – is held later in accordance with local customs preserved by the ethnic Mon community.
Heritage
Special interactive exhibition to commemorate Vietnam’s 50th reunification anniversary
Special interactive exhibition to commemorate Vietnam’s 50th reunification anniversary
Nhan Dan Newspaper's media campaign has been meticulously prepared and developed over the past six months and implemented across all its publications.
Lifestyle
Bhutan’s Gangtey-Phobji biking trail poised for revival
Bhutan’s Gangtey-Phobji biking trail poised for revival
Stretching nearly 53 kilometres, the trail begins near the Gangtey Gewog Centre and weaves through the scenic Phobjikha Valley—an area famed for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Culture
Fujian’s ancient wonders
Fujian’s ancient wonders
From ancient philosophers, sea-faring explorers and tranquil tea ceremonies, this episode brings the past into the present with a modern-day wonder — AI technology.
NATURE
China Daily
Chinese pangolins: fragile rebound amidst mounting challenges
In Huizhou's Wuqinzhang mountains, the species' population increased from 62 individuals in 2020 to over 100 today. Yet this growth,...
The Yomiuri Shimbun
All giant pandas at Japan theme park to return to China
Rauhin, a 24-year-old female which gave birth to 10 pandas at the park, will return, along with her daughters Yuihin,...
Dawn
Bird on the brink: Great Indian bustard nears vanishing point in Pakistan
An official pointed out that local misconceptions have further endangered the bird, with some believing its meat is an aphrodisiac.
The Japan News
Nemophila: Sea of blue flowers flows seamlessly into blue spring sky in Japan’s Ibaraki
According to the park, the flowers will stay at their peak until early May.
The Straits Times
Love is in the air: Giant panda enclosure in Singapore Zoo to close for breeding season
Beloved giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia are getting some space for a bit of romance this breeding season.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
3-month-old Philippine eaglet ‘Riley’ dies
The Philippine Eagle Foundation noted that a necropsy is being conducted to determine the cause of the eaglet’s death.
The Japan News
Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan
The siblings were named “High” and “Ball,” apparently hinting at the name of the popular highball drink. Their sex is...
The Straits Times
What Singapore’s breeding programmes mean for conservation of Southeast Asia’s biodiversity
Such breeding efforts are key in ensuring that species threatened with extinction do not disappear off the face of the...
Nature
Chinese pangolins: fragile rebound amidst mounting challenges
Chinese pangolins: fragile rebound amidst mounting challenges
In Huizhou's Wuqinzhang mountains, the species' population increased from 62 individuals in 2020 to over 100 today. Yet this growth, while significant, masks the immense biological challenges facing the planet's most trafficked mammal.
Lifestyle
All giant pandas at Japan theme park to return to China
All giant pandas at Japan theme park to return to China
Rauhin, a 24-year-old female which gave birth to 10 pandas at the park, will return, along with her daughters Yuihin, 8, Saihin, 6, and Fuhin, 4. They will reportedly be moved to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Sichuan Province.
Nature
Bird on the brink: Great Indian bustard nears vanishing point in Pakistan
Bird on the brink: Great Indian bustard nears vanishing point in Pakistan
An official pointed out that local misconceptions have further endangered the bird, with some believing its meat is an aphrodisiac.
Nature
Nemophila: Sea of blue flowers flows seamlessly into blue spring sky in Japan’s Ibaraki
Nemophila: Sea of blue flowers flows seamlessly into blue spring sky in Japan’s Ibaraki
According to the park, the flowers will stay at their peak until early May.
Lifestyle
Love is in the air: Giant panda enclosure in Singapore Zoo to close for breeding season
Love is in the air: Giant panda enclosure in Singapore Zoo to close for breeding season
Beloved giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia are getting some space for a bit of romance this breeding season.
Nature
3-month-old Philippine eaglet ‘Riley’ dies
3-month-old Philippine eaglet ‘Riley’ dies
The Philippine Eagle Foundation noted that a necropsy is being conducted to determine the cause of the eaglet’s death.
Nature
Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan
Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan
The siblings were named “High” and “Ball,” apparently hinting at the name of the popular highball drink. Their sex is not yet known.
Nature
What Singapore’s breeding programmes mean for conservation of Southeast Asia’s biodiversity
What Singapore’s breeding programmes mean for conservation of Southeast Asia’s biodiversity
Such breeding efforts are key in ensuring that species threatened with extinction do not disappear off the face of the earth.