Nyepi, also known as the Balinese Day of Silence, is a sacred Hindu celebration observed annually to mark the Saka New Year. Held this year on 19–20 March 2026, the occasion sees the island of Bali come to a complete standstill — no travel, no work, no entertainment, and no artificial light. It is a day devoted entirely to stillness, self-reflection, and spiritual purification.
Category: Society
UNESCO commends Vietnam’s “people-centred growth model”
On March 20, marking the International Day of Happiness, Vietnam’s development achievements were highlighted as a strong example of how prioritising people can drive national progress. The country has gained global recognition for improving the well-being and happiness of its citizens, reflecting a model that extends beyond economic growth to embrace a more holistic vision of development. According to UNESCO Representative Jonathan Baker, Vietnam’s leadership consistently places the needs, lives, and future of its people at the centre of policymaking.
Four Indonesian soldiers detained over acid attacks on activist
At least four Indonesian navy and air force personnel were detained by the military police following the acid attack on human rights activist Andrie Yunus, from the CSO Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), on March 12. As a response, the Indonesian Armed Forces stated on March 18 that four suspects will be undergoing interrogation over their alleged involvement and would be held in the super-maximum security detention facility.
Indonesia considers medical aid for Iran via Red Cross
The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI – Palang Merah Indonesia) is considering sending medical assistance to Iran following a formal request from Tehran, amid rising concerns over strained healthcare capacity due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Bangkok ranked second among Asia’s Best Cities for 2026
On March 13, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) through The Nation Thailand announced that Bangkok has returned to the global top 10 in the latest Best Cities ranking by Time Out.
Three Indonesian crew members went missing after their tugboat sank in the Strait of Hormuz
Three Indonesian tugboat crew members are missing after their ship sank in the Strait of Hormuz.
Luang Prabang tightens traffic control in UNESCO heritage zone
Luang Prabang authorities have introduced stricter traffic regulations on March 7 in an effort to ease congestion and restore order within the city’s UNESCO World Heritage zone, with fines imposed on motorists who violate the new rules.
Vietnam and Brunei reaffirm bilateral ties through cultural workshop
The Ambassador of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam, Tran Anh Vu, and the President of the Veteran Association of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (PERWIRA), Lt Col (Rtd) Ramli Abdul Hadis, have underscored the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties.
Singapore to lower drink-driving limit amid road safety concerns
Singapore will lower its legal drink-driving limit from 35 to 15 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, aligning its rules with those in Taiwan, Japan and South Korea.
Malaysia reiterates travel advisory on Iran
Wisma Putra is continuing to monitor the situation in Iran and the welfare of Malaysian citizens there amid ongoing developments on the ground. (BERNAMA) Malaysia’s […]