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China says to expel Canada’s top diplomat in Shanghai

China has expelled Canada’s consul in Shanghai, Jennifer Lynn Lalonde, in retaliation after Canada announced the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat. The move deepens the diplomatic dispute between the two countries, following allegations of foreign interference and tensions over the arrest of a Huawei executive and the detention of two Canadians in China. The situation adds further strain to already souring relations between Beijing and Ottawa.

Self-exiled ex-PM Thaksin seeks return to Thailand by July

Thailand’s exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra announced his intention to return to the country before his birthday in July. Despite corruption charges, Thaksin’s opposition party is leading in the polls, fueling speculation about his comeback. He expressed readiness to face justice and reunite with his family after 17 years of exile.

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Pak Lah’s dementia worsen, says son-in-law KJ

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, known as ‘Pak Lah,’ experiences advanced-stage dementia, leading to severe memory loss and limited conversation. His son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about dementia and cognitive issues in Malaysia. Pak Lah served as the country’s fifth Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, focusing on economic and social reforms.

Thailand chokes on pollution but greens struggle to be heard in election

Green candidates in Thailand’s election struggle to gain support despite record-breaking pollution. The public acknowledges the environmental issues but lacks hope in politicians’ ability to solve them. Environmental concerns have taken a backseat to other political priorities in the election campaign.

Xi to host first China-Central Asia summit this month

President Xi Jinping will host a summit with Central Asian leaders, aiming to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. China’s investments in the region’s natural gas reserves and rail links are crucial for its Belt and Road Initiative. Beijing’s growing influence in Central Asia is challenging Russia’s dominance.

Desmond Lee stresses balancing act in land use for Singapore’s present and future generations

Singapore’s Minister for National Development Desmond Lee spoke at the 52nd St. Gallen Symposium, emphasizing the importance of balancing present and future needs, as well as the role of empathy in governance. He shared personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating how compassion and understanding are crucial in leadership, especially in challenging situations.

Thai parties in financial bidding war as election heats up

Thailand faces deep-seated inequality and rising poverty levels as it struggles to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite promises from political parties to ease poverty through populist policies, analysts warn that sustainable economic development and structural changes are necessary to address the country’s economic challenges. The focus needs to shift to spending on those in need and providing better education to increase earning potential rather than untargeted handouts.

Kenneth Jeyaretnam slams PAP’s “fake solidarity” in May Day speech

Reform Party Secretary-General, Mr Kenneth Jeyaretnam launched a scathing critique of Singapore’s ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) and its leaders, particularly Mr Lawrence Wong, accusing them of feigning concern for ordinary Singaporeans while undermining their interests. In a passionate opinion piece, Jeyaretnam highlighted income disparities, questioned housing arrangements, allegations of nepotism, and called out the lack of transparency. Urging citizens to scrutinize the PAP’s claims of unity, Jeyaretnam emphasized the need to examine Singapore’s reserves and question who truly benefits from their management.

Anwar lost majority support? Malaysia’s news source says the Palace won’t entertain such claims

Speculation is growing over a plot to remove Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after reports emerged that 10 MPs are considering forcing by-elections. However, Barisan Nasional deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan denies involvement in any efforts to topple the government. An anonymous source stated that an unexpected change in government is unlikely, with any attempt to do so through the Palace deemed impossible. Political instability in Malaysia is expected to be resolved by the upcoming six-state elections.

Myanmar junta pardons 2,153 prisoners jailed for dissent against military

Myanmar’s junta announced on May 11 that over 2,000 prisoners, including protesters and activists, had been pardoned under a law that carries a maximum three-year jail term. The military has arrested thousands of dissidents since it seized power more than two years ago. Those who re-offend will have to serve the remainder of their sentence with an additional penalty. Wednesday’s announcement comes as Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is visiting for talks with the junta, amid several Beijing-backed infrastructure projects slated to run through northern Myanmar.