On June 8, a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines, with its epicentre located off the coast of Mindanao island. The earthquake caused massive casualties and widespread destruction, collapsing buildings, triggering landslides and leaving 32 victims dead.
Category: Society
Timor-Leste showcases marine heritage on National Ocean Day celebrations
A series of environmental, educational and cultural activities will take place across Timor-Leste from June 3 to 8 as the government prepares to commemorate National Ocean Day and promote greater awareness of marine conservation.
Thailand and Bhutan reinforce sustainable tourism cooperation
Thailand and Bhutan have reinforced their tourism partnership through a series of reciprocal familiarisation trips held in May 2026, as part of the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative aimed at promoting high-value and sustainable travel.
France and Indonesia deepen ties on scientific and research collaboration
On June 4, France and Indonesia deepened ties on scientific and research collaboration in order to support their newly established strategic global partnership, with the aim to expand cooperation in innovation, education and sustainable development.
Over 100 Indonesians held in Cambodia following cyber scam raid
On June 3, more than 100 individuals were detained in Cambodia following a large-scale operation targeting an alleged online scam network in the coastal city of Sihanoukville. A total of 111 individuals were arrested. According to officials, 108 of those detained are Indonesian nationals, including 37 women.
Five survivors evacuated from Laos flooded cave, two remain missing
On May 30, rescue teams evacuated five local villagers after they were trapped for 10 days inside a flooded cave in Xaysomboun Province, Laos. All survivors have already received appropriate treatments. However, the challenge still persists. As of June 3, the rescue team is still underway to locate two other villagers missing in a steeper area.
Myanmar warehouse explosion kills 41 civilians
On May 31, a deadly explosion in Myanmar’s Kaung Tat area, close to the Chinese border, claimed the lives of at least 41 civilians and caused extensive damage to nearly 200 homes.
Malaysia’s Perak state to broaden appeal through cruise tourism
The state of Perak in Malaysia has intensified efforts to position itself as a prominent cruise tourism destination, as authorities believe the sector could unlock new economic opportunities and broaden the state’s appeal to international travellers.
For ASEAN’s youth climate declaration to work, look at how China turns promises into proof
The ASEAN Declaration on the Empowerment of Youth in Climate Action and Disaster Resilience, adopted at the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu on May 8, is a welcome signal.
Vietnam’s Bánh Mì ranked among world’s best sandwiches 2026
Vietnamese authentic sandwich Bánh mì has been ranked among the world’s best sandwiches and wraps, earning three positions on TasteAtlas’ 2026 list. Based on this year’s list, Turkey’s Tombik Döner is at the top of the ranking, while Lebanon’s Shawarma secured fourth place. These rankings aim to highlight popular sandwiches and wraps from different continents, curated by international and local food enthusiasts, while helping local foods gain wider recognition.