The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) recently held its 43rd summit, which provided insight into the growing alliance between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea (ROK), with a particular emphasis on President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s role in promoting regional centrality and universal multilateralism in opposition to China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea. Historical Foundation and …

The “Save Malaysia” protest, which is scheduled to take place in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, has drawn notice due to the support it has received from several Malaysian organizations and political parties, including PAS, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia, and Gerakan. The rally’s underlying causes, repercussions, and competing viewpoints are all covered in depth in this article. Political Climate and the …

Last month’s BRICS summit held in South Africa concluded with a surprising decision – Indonesia did not join the group. This left many questioning why a nation with one of the world’s largest populations and economies, as well as a rich history of leadership in developing countries, did not become a new member.  In 1955, Indonesia hosted the Bandung Conference, …

In a rapidly evolving criminal landscape, Chinese criminals have found a new tool to facilitate their illicit activities and avoid the clutches of law enforcement: foreign passports.  These passports, often obtained through so-called “citizenship for sale” programs in countries like Cambodia, Cyprus, and Vanuatu, are enabling criminals to cross borders, rebrand themselves, and continue their illegal enterprises, even as authorities …

Yoshiki, is the first Japanese celebrity, to join hundreds of legendary celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and George Clooney, among others, with hand and footprints immortalized in cement at the TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood.  The rockstar, who received his first-ever piano at the age of four, has risen as one of the most influential musicians and composers in Japanese history. He …

Following a stunning victory in the most recent election, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former Senior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, was sworn in as the country’s ninth President, creating history in Singapore. This article examines the significance of his presidency, the changing responsibilities of the Singaporean President, and the long-term effects of this achievement for Singapore. The election of Tharman Shanmugaratnam …

According to associate professor Mohd Yusri Mohd Yunus from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Malaysia is sitting on a goldmine of non-radioactive rare earth elements (NR-REE) with a value of an estimated RM1 trillion. These NR-REE deposits, which contain the elements dysprosium (Dy), neodymium (Nd), and praseodymium (Pr), are spread over several states, including Terengganu, Kelantan, Perak, Pahang, and Kedah. …

In a puzzling turn of events for an agriculture-centered country like the Philippines, authorities are actively considering the prospect of importing rice from as far away as Argentina. This unexpected move has left many wondering why a nation known for its rich agricultural heritage would need to look abroad for its staple food source. Rice Challenges? But Why? The idea …

These days, it has become relatively more easy to identify the top most watched sports events in the world as the views of any event clearly reveal its popularity. Read on for a list of the world’s most-watched sports events in 2023, with the rankings based on the events’ media presence and the number of viewers. FIFA Women’s World Cup …

Singapore is going through a difficult transition, economically and politically, into a competitive new era that is not only about money and power. And now Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who was urged by Singaporeans to rise up as the country’s next Prime Minister, has been sworn in as Singapore’s 9th President.  He believes he can best serve Singapore in a different role …