ASEAN News

Robust Economic Growth The UAE’s economy is on an upward trajectory, with a projected GDP growth of 4.2% in 2024, rising to 5.2% in 2025. This robust economic performance is underpinned by strong non-oil sector growth, which is expected to remain resilient despite global economic challenges. Strategic Initiatives and Development Plans The UAE’s 2024 development plan is paving the way …

A Culinary Journey for the Muslim Traveler Taiwan’s commitment to accommodating Muslim travelers is evident in its diverse culinary landscape and hospitality sector. The island offers a plethora of halal-certified eateries and hotels, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience. Halal Hotels: Comfort and Convenience Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport is a prime example of a hotel that caters to halal …

A Display of Global Partnership President Joe Biden’s recent White House summit with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has underscored the robust alliance between the United States and Japan. The leaders showcased a united front, particularly in their joint defense cooperation to deter an assertive China. Strategic Defense and Economic Cooperation The summit was a platform for about 70 agreements …

In a concerning development, reports have emerged of smuggling involving vaccines for avian influenza (AI) and African swine fever (ASF) in travel luggage. This illicit activity highlights the challenges faced by countries in controlling the spread of these diseases. The Smuggling Incident Recent investigations have uncovered that individuals have been smuggling unauthorized vaccines for bird flu and ASF through travel …

Pope Francis’ upcoming visit to Indonesia in September 2024 is a momentous occasion for the country’s Catholic community and a significant event for interfaith dialogue in the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation. Here’s what to expect from the papal visit: The Itinerary Pope Francis is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia on September 3, 2024, following invitations from President Joko Widodo …

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been on a steadfast journey towards economic diversification and technological advancement. Central to this transformation is the strategic partnership with Japan, a country renowned for its cutting-edge technology and robust investment strategies.  Here’s an in-depth look at how Japanese investment and technology are playing a pivotal role in the development process of the Emirates: …

The latest report from the World Bank paints a nuanced picture of the economic trajectory of Asian economies in 2024. While the region continues to outperform much of the world, growth is forecast to slow to 4.5 percent this year, down from 5.1 percent in 2023. This slowdown can be attributed to a combination of factors, including debt, trade barriers, …

Indonesia’s Defense Minister and president-elect, Prabowo Subianto, set out on a noteworthy political trip with his visit to Beijing, China. This visit holds monstrous significance for respective relations between Indonesia and China but moreover for the broader geopolitical scene of Southeast Asia. As Prabowo plans for his upcoming inauguration in October, his engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping underscores the …

A health crisis has unfolded in Japan, where cholesterol-lowering supplements have led to devastating consequences. These supplements, containing an ingredient called red yeast rice or “beni kōji,” were marketed as effective in lowering cholesterol levels. However, the situation has taken a tragic turn, resulting in fatalities and hospitalizations.  Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co.: The Center of Attention Awareness Gap: Osaka-based Kobayashi Pharmaceutical …

The Oscar-winning film “Oppenheimer,” directed by Christopher Nolan, has finally premiered in Japan after more than eight months since its global debut in 2023. However, the film’s release in the only country ever attacked with nuclear weapons has been met with mixed reactions and high emotions. A Sensitive Subject Matter Historical Context: Japan, the nation that experienced the devastating bombings …