Asia

The article details the complex dispute over Taiwan’s sovereignty. China claims it belongs to the PRC, while Taiwan functions as a de facto independent state with its own government and military. International recognition remains contested by major powers like the US.

Singapore and Indonesia pledged to deepen bilateral ties, focusing on digital and green economies. They also plan enhanced cooperation with Malaysia and boosting regional connectivity through initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid.

A boat carrying 37 undocumented migrants from Indonesia sank off Malaysia's Pangkor Island. Authorities rescued 23 survivors, with efforts ongoing to locate the remaining 14 missing individuals.

Australia's Budget overhauls tax rules, targeting property investors by limiting negative gearing and changing capital gains taxes. It also allocates funds for fuel costs and infrastructure, aiming to boost economic resilience amid inflation concerns.

China's marriage registrations dropped 6.2% in Q1, reaching about half of 2017 levels. This decline signals deepening demographic strain. The country faces a record-low birth rate and population decrease, underscoring major challenges for family planning and social stability.

Indonesian authorities detained over 200 foreign nationals in Batam for allegedly running an online investment scam ring. The suspects, including Vietnamese and Chinese citizens, are accused of fraud targeting victims across Europe and Vietnam. They face deportation from Indonesia.

Following a Mount Dukono eruption in Indonesia, authorities are searching for three missing hikers. The volcano sent an ash cloud 10km high, forcing search operations to halt due to ongoing seismic activity and safety risks.

Amid Middle East tensions, ASEAN proposed establishing a regional fuel stockpile and food security arrangements. Leaders stressed strengthening coordination, diversifying energy sources, and improving intra-regional trade to manage global supply risks effectively.

Thai and Cambodian leaders are set to meet in the Philippines during the ASEAN summit. These talks aim to resolve border tensions following deadly fighting last year. Philippine President Marcos Jr. will oversee discussions emphasizing peace and dialogue between the two nations.

Indonesia's Densus 88 arrested eight suspected militants in Central Sulawesi. The suspects are linked to the Islamic State-affiliated group MIT. Authorities allege they operated as a sleeper cell network, spreading extremist propaganda online and engaging in other terrorism activities.

U.S. President Trump has renewed his trade war with China since 2025. The conflict involves escalating tariffs, sanctions on refiners, and export controls on advanced technology, fueling deep economic rivalry between the two powers.

Looming El Niño heatwaves combine with oil shocks, creating a double threat for Asia's economy. Rising food and utility costs are driving inflation to multi-year highs, especially in vulnerable emerging markets.