Weakened Typhoon Talim hits Vietnam after passing through China

Typhoon Talim passes through China and Vietnam with minimal damage, no reported deaths, but concerns of heavy rains persist.

Indian tycoon Adani slams ‘malicious’ Hindenburg report

Indian tycoon Gautam Adani denies fraud accusations against his group, calling them a deliberate attempt to damage its reputation.

Succession plan: Cambodia PM’s favoured son on path to power

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen’s dynastic succession plans raise concerns about democracy, resembling North Korea, and stifling reform.

Philippines’ Marcos signs US$9 bn wealth fund into law

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos signs a law creating a US$9 billion sovereign wealth fund to stimulate economic growth and infrastructure spending, despite critics warning of potential misuse and public opposition. The fund, named the “Maharlika Investment Fund,” will draw funds from various sources, including the national government, gaming revenue, and private investments. Marcos assures transparency and prudent management of the fund.

Sri Lankan leader seeks to disarm India’s China fears

Sri Lanka’s president visits India amidst concerns over China’s influence and economic crisis, as India aids the island nation while maintaining its own interests in the region. Debt restructuring and infrastructure projects are key topics in discussions between the two nations.

Norway threatens US$100,000 daily fine on Meta over data

Norway’s data protection agency has announced a ban on Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, from using user data for targeted advertising, with the threat of a daily fine of US$100,000. European scrutiny of big tech’s privacy practices continues to increase.

Childhood routine jabs pick up after COVID backslide: UN

Routine childhood vaccination rates are improving globally after a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, but significant gaps remain, with millions of children still missing out on vaccines, particularly in low-income countries, according to the United Nations. While progress has been made, efforts to bridge the disparities in immunization coverage are necessary to protect children from preventable diseases.

Thwarted Thai PM candidate chases support for next vote

Thailand’s liberal reformist leader seeks support for his second attempt at becoming prime minister after facing opposition from military-appointed senators in his initial bid.

Thousands evacuated as typhoon nears southern China, Vietnam

Tens of thousands of people were evacuated in southern China and Vietnam as Typhoon Talim approached, with powerful winds, storm surges, and heavy rains predicted to hit the coastal areas.

Solomons PM attacks ‘unneighbourly’ China questions

Solomon Islands’ Prime Minister criticized foreign interference over a new police deal with China, calling it “unneighbourly,” while defending the benefits of the agreement and the financial support provided by China.