Taiwan's president, William Lai Ching-te, stated on Thursday that stricter measures are necessary to combat China's increasing infiltration, espionage, and other efforts to undermine Taiwan’s security and hasten Beijing's ambition to seize control of the self-governing island republic, a key ally of the U.S. Lai pointed to several recent incidents involving China that fall into a “gray area,” including psychological warfare that stops short of direct military conflict. He explained that Beijing’s attempts to “subvert, steal secrets, lure military personnel, and manipulate public opinion to erode trust in our national defense” require Taiwan to enhance its legal protections to prevent and identify such activities. Lai outlined proposed actions to counter China’s influence, such as reintroducing military tribunals for crimes like espionage and making it harder for individuals from China and the Chinese territories of Hong Kong and Macau to acquire Taiwanese identification. This is complicated by the high rate of intermarriage between Taiwanese and Chinese. China says US has 'gravely backpedaled' on Taiwan Taiwan will also restrict contact with individuals linked to China’s Communist Party’s United Front department, which aims to use cultural exchanges and personnel to promote Beijing's unification agenda. This decision followed an incident last year in which a student in a delegation backed by a pro-unification Taiwanese group used disparaging language about Taiwan, causing public outrage, though no legal action was taken. Lai's Democratic Progressive Party supports Taiwan's de facto independence from Beijing. Since Lai’s predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, took office eight years ago, China has largely cut off official communication with the DPP. China frequently sends ships and planes into Taiwan's airspace and waters to intimidate its 23 million citizens and weaken Taiwan’s military and morale. Taiwan’s government recently expelled the Chinese wife of a Taiwanese man after she posted videos on Chinese social media claiming that China could conquer Taiwan in half an hour and praising the Chinese leadership. These actions violate Taiwan’s laws on aiding the enemy. The woman, who also held Chinese government roles, will be allowed to reapply for residency in five years. Other recent cases include Taiwanese influencers and artists in China sharing Chinese state media statements affirming China's sovereignty over Taiwan. Retired Taiwanese military personnel have also provided information about Taiwan’s weapons systems to Chinese agents and attempted to recruit active-duty soldiers as spies. The Defense Ministry confirmed a recent case where a retired air force major, claiming to work for a U.S. think tank, convinced an air force intercept controller to provide classified documents in exchange for money. The retired major, surnamed Shih, sent the files to his Chinese handlers for around $45,000, sharing $6,000 of it with the active-duty officer, surnamed Hsu. The leaked information pertained to Taiwan’s domestically developed Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missiles and Taiwan’s response to Chinese incursions into its air defense identification zone. The two sides have been separated since the 1949 civil war, with China continuing to view Taiwan as its territory to be reclaimed by force if needed. Lai’s remarks coincided with the 20th anniversary of China’s Anti-Succession Act, which sets out conditions for an invasion, including if Taiwan declares formal independence or refuses unification indefinitely. Taiwan maintains that it is already functionally independent, a stance supported by most of the population, and does not see the need for a formal declaration of independence. Thousands in Taiwan and China celebrate the Lantern Festival with high hopes and rice dumplings To strengthen its defenses, Taiwan has been bolstering its military with new missiles, U.S. tanks and planes, and domestically produced submarines. The country has also recently extended mandatory national military service for all men from four months to one year.

Industry leaders from the media and PR sectors gathered at a high-profile conference in Singapore to advocate for greater collaboration between PR firms and news agencies, urging them to combine their strengths in delivering accurate information timely. The AsiaNet Board Meeting & Forum, held on January 22-23, brought together key stakeholders to discuss ways to empower Asia’s media and PR sectors. With a focus on innovation, digital transformation and cross-industry collaboration, the event underscored AsiaNet’s commitment to fostering growth and adapting to evolving technological landscapes. A dynamic panel discussion, moderated by Amrita Sidhu of Medianet, centred on strategies to optimise media operations in the digital age. Its panelists included: * Nahar Khan, Executive Editor of UNB * Pannee Yongpiyakul, Managing Director of Dataxet * Anubha Verma, Chief Marketing Officer of Press Trust of India (PTI) * Michiko Fujimoto, Director of Kyodo JBN The panel explored how each agency is embracing AI within their operations. All participants agreed that, while AI presents significant opportunities, a cautious approach is necessary to preserve the credibility and trust built over decades. AsiaNet Board Meeting & Forum urges embracing innovation This year’s forum was themed "Embracing Innovation," highlighting the critical need for media and PR organisations to leverage technology to improve efficiency, audience engagement and competitiveness. Key discussion points included: * Digital transformation to modernise operations and enhance effectiveness * Cross-industry collaboration to pool expertise and create synergies * Innovation as a driver for sustainable growth and regional progress Prominent representatives from AsiaNet partners, including Xinhua, VNA, Yonhap, Bernama, Medianet, United News of Bangladesh (UNB), and Kyodo News, were in attendance. Nahar Khan, discussing as a panelist at the session, shared that UNB embraces the transformative potential of AI to enhance workflows and storytelling, but firmly believes that people must remain at the centre - shaping its application with human judgment, ethics and creativity. She added that AI-driven tools have made way for a more creative, collaborative, data-driven and a responsive newsroom environment. Pannee Yongpiyakul shared that at Dataxet Thailand, their innovation process blends business-driven strategic planning with customer-driven insights, enabling informed decisions on pursuing and implementing innovations effectively. He also said that their technical team continuously monitors technological developments to assess their potential impact on the company and its operations. Anubha Verma emphasised that while AI presents immense opportunities for PTI and the whole media industry, it is crucial to adopt a cautious approach to preserve the credibility and trust that have been built over decades. Michiko Fujimoto discussed how Kyodo News, Japan's leading news agency, approaches AI within their organization. The AsiaNet Board Meeting & Forum 2025 reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to empower its members with tools and strategies essential for thriving in the digital era. By uniting key players from Asia’s media and PR sectors, the forum set the foundation for a more innovative, collaborative and resilient regional media ecosystem.

Japan and the Philippines intend to emphasise to President-elect Donald Trump the critical importance of continued U.S. involvement in upholding the rule of law in Asia, particularly amid escalating security concerns, Japan's Foreign Minister said on Wednesday, reports AP. Under President Joe Biden, the U.S., Japan, and the Philippines have been fostering a strategic alliance to address China's increasingly assertive actions in the contested South China Sea and East China Sea. However, Trump's "America First" policy has raised doubts about the future extent of U.S. engagement in the region. Blinken heads to Asia, Europe on last expected trip as top US diplomat Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, speaking at a news conference alongside his Philippine counterpart Enrique Manalo in Manila, stated, "We will communicate to the next U.S. administration that constructive U.S. engagement in this region is not only crucial for us but also beneficial for the U.S. itself." Iwaya confirmed his plans to attend Trump’s inauguration on January 20 as Japan remains a close treaty ally of the U.S., alongside the Philippines. Musk hiring cheaper tech servants from Asia: Alleges Bernie Sanders "Given the increasingly severe strategic environment in the region, Japan prioritises both bilateral cooperation with the Philippines and strengthening trilateral collaboration with the United States," Iwaya noted. Rising tensions between Chinese and Philippine coast guards in the heavily trafficked South China Sea have heightened fears of a larger conflict, potentially drawing in the U.S. The U.S. has reiterated its commitment to defend Philippine forces under their mutual defence treaty if they face armed attacks in the region. "The South China Sea issue is a legitimate international concern as it directly impacts regional peace and stability," Iwaya remarked. He added that Japan firmly opposes any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through force and urged for a de-escalation of tensions. Jonathan Malaya, assistant director-general of the Philippine National Security Council, cautioned that China’s actions are becoming increasingly provocative, stating, "China is pushing us to the wall," and noting that "all options are on the table," including new international legal challenges. Zelenskyy, Macron discuss Western troop deployment in Ukraine The Philippine coast guard reported that a large Chinese coast guard vessel recently patrolled the contested Scarborough Shoal and approached the northwestern Philippine coast, coming within 77 nautical miles (143 kilometres). Meanwhile, a Chinese official in Beijing reiterated that the South China Sea falls under China’s established sovereignty, asserting that their coast guard’s activities are lawful and justified. China has consistently accused the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia of encroaching on what it considers its territorial waters. Philippine Foreign Minister Manalo said the latest developments would be discussed during a scheduled meeting on Thursday in Xiamen between Chinese and Philippine diplomats. The two nations have engaged in ongoing talks through the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism, aiming to manage disputes and prevent them from escalating into armed conflict.

US Senator Bernie Sanders has sharply criticised Elon Musk, accusing the tech magnate of exploiting the H-1B visa system to hire lower-wage foreign workers, particularly from India, instead of employing highly skilled American labour. Sanders, known for his staunch advocacy for workers' rights, has called for significant reforms to the visa programme to protect local jobs. Speaking on Thursday, Sanders argued that Musk’s reliance on the H-1B programme is motivated more by cost-cutting than by filling a skills gap. "Elon Musk is wrong," Sanders posted on social media platform X. "The H-1B visa programme’s primary purpose is not to bring in the best and the brightest, but to replace good-paying American jobs with low-wage labour from abroad." Apple to pay $95 million to settle lawsuit accusing Siri of eavesdropping The Senator highlighted that companies like Tesla have used the programme to hire workers for roles such as associate accountants and mechanical engineers, positions he believes should first be offered to qualified Americans. Sanders also noted Tesla's decision to lay off over 7,500 American workers earlier this year while continuing to employ H-1B visa holders. The debate over the H-1B visa programme has long been contentious, with critics alleging that it undermines American workers by allowing corporations to prioritise cheaper foreign labour. Sanders joins a growing chorus of political voices, including Laura Loomer and Steve Bannon, who have called for a reassessment of the programme. However, Musk has consistently defended the H-1B visa system, claiming it addresses a critical shortage of highly skilled tech talent in the United States. Musk has pointed out that many engineers who have contributed to the success of his companies, Tesla and SpaceX, entered the US through the programme. In response to Sanders’ accusations, Musk reiterated his position, stating that the US education system struggles to produce enough top-tier engineering talent. Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, a close ally of Musk, echoed these sentiments, calling for an overhaul of the US education system to better prepare the domestic workforce. Former President Donald Trump also weighed in, expressing support for the H-1B programme. He argued that the US must continue to attract skilled individuals to maintain its economic competitiveness. Elon Musk sparks speculation with name change on X; this is the name he chose The controversy over the H-1B programme reflects broader tensions between safeguarding American jobs and ensuring access to global talent in a competitive tech landscape. As the debate intensifies, policymakers face mounting pressure to strike a balance that addresses both concerns. Source: With inputs from Indian media

MASK Associates (Pvt.) LTD, a leading manufacturer and exporter of jute and jute-based products, has been named Asia's Most Promising SMEs 2024 by the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability Awards (ACES Awards). Established in 2012, the ACES Awards recognise outstanding companies across Asia for their commitment to business excellence, sustainability, and innovation. ACES Awards committee said "MASK Associates (PVT) LTD., drives sustainable growth through responsible innovation. With a commitment to balancing growth with responsibility, MASK Associates has become a key player in the global jute industry, responding to rising demand for sustainable products." Over the years, MASK Associates has evolved into a recognized brand known for reliability, quality, and innovation. Its ability to adapt to shifting market trends has enabled it to expand product offerings and explore new markets while remaining committed to its core values. This adaptability reflects a forward-thinking approach that positions the company for continued growth. Read: 14-year-old wins award for developing soap to treat skin cancer MASK Associates has shown a clear business direction by integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations. The company's zero-waste production model ensures that every part of the jute plant is utilized, reducing waste and environmental impact. The company's adherence to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 standards reflects its commitment to both quality management and environmental responsibility, said a press release.

The number of people aged 60 and above in developing Asia and the Pacific is set to nearly double by 2050 to 1.2 billion—or about a quarter of the total population—significantly increasing the need for pension and welfare programs as well as healthcare services, said a new report on Thursday (May 02, 2024). At the same time, economies have an opportunity to reap a “silver dividend” in the form of additional productivity from older people, which could boost gross domestic product in the region by 0.9% on average, said the Asian Development Bank (ADB). “Asia and the Pacific’s rapid development is a success story, but it’s also fueling a huge demographic shift, and the pressure is rising,” said ADB Chief Economist Albert Park.  “Governments need to prepare now if they’re going to be able to help hundreds of millions of people in the region age well. Policies should support lifetime investment in health, education, skills, and financial preparedness for retirement. Family and social ties are also important to foster healthy and productive populations of older people and maximize their contribution to society.” Developing Asia and the Pacific is unprepared to secure the well-being of its rapidly aging population as the growing share of older people in the region face challenges from low pension coverage to health problems, social isolation, and limited access to essential services, according to the multilateral development bank. ADB, WTO strengthen collaboration for sustainable economic growth in Asia-Pacific region While longer lifespans reflect the region’s development success, comprehensive policy reforms are urgently needed to support the welfare of older people, according to “Aging Well in Asia: Asian Development Policy Report,” released on Thursday by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at its 57th Annual Meeting. According to the report, 40% of people over age 60 in Asia and the Pacific lack access to any form of pension—with women disproportionately affected, as they are more likely to do unpaid domestic work.  As a result, many older people in the region have no choice but to work well beyond retirement age to survive.  Among those still working at age 65 or older, 94% work in the informal sector, which typically doesn’t provide basic labor protections or pension benefits. Physical and mental health challenges also increase with age.  FBCCI urges govt policy to facilitate backward linkage industries Around 60% of older people in Asia and the Pacific do not attend or receive regular health checks, while 31% report depressive symptoms owing to illness, social isolation, and economic insecurity.  Older women in the region are also more likely than older men to suffer from ill health, from depression to diabetes and hypertension.  The report recommended a wide range of policy measures to support healthy and economically secure aging.  Among these are government-assisted health insurance and pension plans, improved health infrastructure, and free annual check-ups and lifestyle evaluations.  Policy makers should aim for universal healthcare coverage, while basic labor protections should be extended to older informal workers, according to the report. By making mandatory retirement ages more flexible, helping older people stay healthy, and providing them with suitable work opportunities as well as lifelong learning and skills development, economies in the region can help older people stay productive longer. Read more: Developing Asian economies’ growth expected to be sustained at 4.9% this year and the next, ADB President says ahead of Annual Meeting

When stepping into Indonesia, every globetrotter finds it to be a treasure-trove of islands. A nation adorned with natural wonders, each island tells a tale of its own. Especially the historical attractions along with spectacular beaches hold surprises for winter wanderlusts. Unveiling the budget-friendly gems, this list meanders through Indonesia's winter retreats. These are the most affordable tourist spots in the Indonesian archipelago. 10 Best Budget-Friendly Indonesian Destinations to Visit in Winter Gili Islands A trio of small islands off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, the Gili Islands are famed for their lush vegetation and world-class diving and snorkeling spots. The underwater world surrounding these islands is a mesmerizing sight, easily accessible from any point along the shoreline. For those considering a journey from Dhaka to Lombok by air, the most economical per-head deal is USD 334 in parity with BDT 36,689.97, with the exchange rate at USD 1 = BDT 109.85.  Accommodation costs per person are generally IDR 146,755 or BDT 1,027.21 (IDR 1 = BDT 0.007), and a day's worth of meals can be budgeted at IDR 49,993 which is equivalent to BDT 349.93. Read more: Best Asian Alternatives to the Maldives: Affordable Island Getaways Ubud Located in the uplands of Bali, Ubud offers a central hub of attractions. The Royal Palace, situated in the heart of town, is free for visitors, and just down the road lies the Sacred Monkey Forest, a popular destination. A bemo ride takes travelers to the famous Goa Gajah, an elephant cave in Bedulu village, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for intricate carvings. Accommodation costs in Ubud typically IDR 2,142,151 in proportion to BDT 14,993.94, with budget options such as Agung Trisna Bungalows and Inang Villa. The daily charge for food in Ubud is approximately IDR 189,959 equaling BDT 1329.61. The most cost-effective airfare from Dhaka to Ngurah Rai Airport is USD 252 in parity with BDT 27,682.25. Read more: Shopping in Malaysia: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Nestled serenely within the expanse of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has lured travelers with its opulent allure. The pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts have made it an icon in high-end travel. Yet, for those with a more budget-conscious spirit, some exotic tourist destinations in the heart of Asia can offer almost similar experiences. Let’s take a look into some of the most popular budget-friendly Asian alternatives to the Maldives. 10 Best Budget-Friendly Alternatives to the Maldives in Asia Phi Phi Islands, Thailand This tropical paradise, along with its mesmerizing blend of stone and sand beaches, is located in the Andaman Sea. Among this island group comprising six distinct islands, Phi Phi Don is renowned for its Monkey Beach and Maya Bay. In the case of spending the night, Tropical Garden Bungalows come with a jungle vibe with modern amenities. The airfare to Phitsanulok, the nearest airport to this place, from Bangladesh starts at USD 230 (BDT 25,264.65 at an exchange rate of USD 1 = BDT 109.85) per person. Meals cost approximately THB 417 or BDT 1,289.45 (THB 1 = BDT 3.09) per day, while local transportation is estimated at THB 253 or BDT 782.33 daily. The average cost for a couple's hotel stay in Koh Phi Phi is THB 2,956 (BDT 9,140.58). Read more: Beach Bucket List: 9 Magnificent Sea Shores in South Asia Koh Lipe, Thailand This hidden gem, located in the Andaman Sea, offers hiking opportunities to take in the island's natural beauty from elevated vantage points. The island provides a variety of amenities, from bars and open-air restaurants to cafes and massage shacks.

Asia is often considered the most diverse continent in the world. From winter escapades to tropical retreats, Asia offers a vacation experience unlike any other. To complement these retreat options, there are thousands of hotels and vacation stays available across countries. In this article, let's take a look at 25 of the best hotels in Asia and the amenities that await travellers.  Best Hotels in Asia According to Tripadvisor This list will focus on ratings taken from Tripadvisor, one of the leading websites for hotel reviews. The platform takes reviews and ratings from thousands of users based on their experience and aggregates them to create their list. Let’s start from the bottom.  #25 Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong  The last on the list is Four Seasons Hong Kong. The hotel is situated right across the famous Victoria Harbor adjoining the Hong Kong financial district. Visitors can conveniently access the Hong Kong metro and the famed Star Ferry Terminal. The specialty of his hotel is the incorporation of several world-leading features into their service. The most notable of them are the two Michelin-starred restaurants: Caprice and Lung King Heen. The latter is also the first authentic Chinese restaurant to receive this honor.  Read more: These are the countries you can visit visa-free with a Bangladeshi passport in 2023 There is also their award-winning spa experience on the rooftop adjoining the infinity pool overlooking the Hong Kong skyline. 

Located around the edge of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is a country bestowed with natural beauty and archaeological heritage. This small country has a mix of everything from luscious beaches down south to the ethereal jungle temples in the north. It’s a maze of amazements waiting to be explored. Let's take a look at the 10 most amazing tourist attractions in Cambida.  10 Most Popular Tourist Destinations in Cambodia  The Temple of Angkor Wat  It's difficult to find someone who hasn’t heard of the legendary temple of Angkor Wat. This UNESCO world heritage site was built in the 12th Century by the Khmer Empire. There’s a lot to explore other than the main temple of Angkor Wat. The temple of Bayon and Ta Prohm gets a special mention in this regard.