The past few decades has seen the surge of fame of several Asian languages, particularly Korean, Chinese and Japanese. Once largely confined only to their respective borders and mainly used as a tool of nation-building, they are now studied all around the globe in schools and universities as well as language institutions. This trend can be attributed to the shifting of the world’s economic and geopolitics hotspot to the Indo-Pacific region, as well as the growing global appeal of East Asian cultural exports ranging from K-Pop to anime.
Category: Society
Powerful El Niño emerges, threatening Southeast Asian agriculture and food security
Earlier this June, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed that a powerful El Niño has begun to emerge above the Pacific Ocean. Analysts warned that the phenomenon will threaten Southeast Asia with severe drought and critical agricultural shocks.
Cambodia and Embassy of India celebrate International Day of Yoga
On June 21, Cambodia joined countries around the world in celebrating the 12th International Day of Yoga with a large-scale event at Techo Meas Techo Yort Park in Phnom Penh.
New contagious fungus species discovered in Malaysia’s Borneo forest
On June 19, recent findings in scientific discovery conducted by the University of Malaysia Sabah’s Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation unveiled a new species of contagious fungus in the Malaysia Borneo forest. Also known as “zombie fungus”, the species contaminates insects which later leads them to death.
Indonesian students receive Official Pre-Departure Seminar ahead of studies in France
On June 18, the French Institute in Indonesia (IFI), along with Campus France, organised a Pre-Departure Seminar to prepare Indonesian students for their studies in France. The event provided students and their parents with essential information and practical guidance for their academic journey abroad.
Laos promotes inclusive society through The Disability Inclusion Fun Day
On June 17, Laos hosted an inclusive community event, “The Disability Inclusion Fun Day”, with an aim to promote disability awareness and equal participation. The event brought together people from a wide range of backgrounds to encourage mutual learning and greater social inclusion.
Thailand reinforce efforts to fight against child labour
On June 16, Thailand enforced several rigorous policies in an attempt to counter child labour, such as developing vocational training and 10.000 safe jobs for children during the school holidays.
Vietnam and India deepen cultural ties through mass yoga event in Hanoi
On June 14, a large public yoga session brought hundreds of participants together in Hanoi, coinciding with the occasion to celebrate the upcoming International Day of Yoga and reinforce cultural ties between Vietnam and India. This year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, focuses on yoga’s contribution to maintaining physical and mental health while enhancing resilience at every stage of life.
Thailand mourns death of Princess Bajrakitiyabha
The Thai Royal Government announced the death of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati on June 12, as Thailand enters a period of national mourning. The eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn or Rama X passed away at the age of 47 after spending nearly four years in a coma.
Cambodia showcases 136 Khmer artifacts in Shanxi Museum
On June 9, a collection of ancient Khmer artifacts from Cambodia spanning from prehistoric times to the post-Angkorian era was transported to China to be showcased at the Shanxi Museum for a five-month exhibition.