Taiwan tribe despairs as drought shrinks bamboo crop

Avayi Vayayana, a tribal chief of the Tsou tribe in southern Taiwan, faces the challenges of declining bamboo shoot harvests due to erratic weather patterns and a severe drought. With rain arriving late and bamboo forests dying, the tribe is struggling. Some have turned to growing coffee as a new cash crop, but even that is not immune to the effects of climate change.

Taiwan, US to sign trade deal in Washington amidst growing pressure from China

The United States and Taiwan are set to sign a trade deal, sparking tensions with Beijing. The agreement aims to streamline customs, enhance regulatory procedures, and strengthen anticorruption measures. China strongly opposes any diplomatic relations involving Taiwan, which it considers its territory. Beijing’s military drills and aggressive rhetoric towards Taiwan have escalated in recent years. Bipartisan support for Taiwan exists in the United States, with politicians from both parties publicly engaging with Taiwanese officials.

Singaporeans with dementia find their groove at silent disco

Residents at a Singapore care home danced to golden oldies in a silent disco for people with dementia. The playlist, featuring songs from the 1940s to the 1980s, evoked happy memories and provided comfort. The initiative, inspired by similar ones in the UK and Australia, aims to help people with dementia through the power of music. The program, called “Return to the Tea Dance,” has been adopted by multiple establishments in Singapore. As the residents sang along to Doris Day’s “Que Sera Sera,” their nostalgic journey continued.

US trial opens over alleged forced repatriation of Chinese abroad

The first federal trial in the United States regarding China’s alleged forced repatriation campaign, known as “Operation Fox Hunt,” has commenced in New York. The trial involves three defendants accused of coercing US residents, who were wanted for alleged crimes in China, to return. The trial is expected to last two to three weeks, with the defendants facing up to ten years in prison if convicted. The US government has previously prosecuted Chinese nationals involved in surveillance and harassment activities within the country.

EU, US ready common code of conduct on artificial intelligence

The European Union (EU) and the United States have announced their plans to soon release a voluntary code of conduct on artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to establish common standards among democracies. As China makes rapid strides in AI, both political and technology industry leaders have raised concerns about potential risks to privacy and civil liberties. The code of conduct aims to address these issues and invite like-minded countries to join the initiative. The EU and US also discussed cooperation on AI standards and tools, while emphasizing the need to mitigate risks associated with the transformative technology.

UN special envoy for Myanmar to step down: UN chief spokesman

The United Nations’ special envoy for Myanmar, Noeleen Heyzer, will be stepping down in June after an 18-month tenure marked by criticism from both the military junta and its opponents. The crisis in Myanmar, which began when the military seized power in February 2021, continues to escalate despite diplomatic efforts led by the UN and ASEAN. Heyzer’s departure comes as the search for a resolution and lasting peace in the country remains elusive.

AI tools threaten to upend ad industry

Data-driven algorithms transformed the advertising industry, but new AI tools are poised to disrupt it further. Brands like Coca-Cola and Stradivarius are experimenting with AI-generated content, while agencies like Seedtag are leveraging contextual advertising. However, controversy arises as AI-generated models replace human talent, sparking debate about value and cost savings. As AI tools become more accessible, the industry faces uncertainty as to whether they will enhance or undermine traditional advertising practices. The entry of Meta and Google further intensifies the disruption, leaving ad agencies questioning their future.

‘We want to be free’: Filipinos demand right to divorce

Divorce is illegal in the Philippines, the only country outside the Vatican where it remains outlawed. Advocates argue that the ban makes it difficult for couples to escape violent relationships and remarry. While couples can seek annulment or declare their marriage invalid, the process is slow, expensive, and often subject to government appeals. Efforts to legalize divorce have gained traction, but face opposition from the powerful Catholic Church. Victims of fraudulent annulment services highlight the need for new legislation, as they seek alternative methods to end their marriages.

UN weather agency chooses next chief to lead climate change fight

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is set to elect a new leader this week to bolster global efforts in tracking climate change. Four candidates, including two women, are vying for the position. The WMO’s role in climate change has gained prominence, and the new secretary-general is expected to become a prominent advocate on this urgent global issue. The election will conclude the WMO’s general assembly, which focuses on ramping up climate response and supporting countries in climate adaptation. The new leader will assume office on 1 January 2024.

Musk talks ‘new energy vehicles’ with industry minister during China visit

Elon Musk met with China’s industry minister to discuss the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles. Tesla has extensive business interests in China, and Musk expressed his desire to expand further in the country. China is the world’s largest electric vehicle market, and Tesla plans to build a second factory in Shanghai. Musk also expressed opposition to economic “decoupling” between China and the United States.