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Scientists discover skincare compound that kills drug-resistant bacteria
A popular Korean skincare ingredient may be far more powerful than anyone realized. Scientists have discovered that madecassic acid—derived from the herb Centella asiatica—can stop antibiotic-resistant bacteria in their tracks, including dangerous strains of E. coli. By targeting a bacterial protein that humans don’t have, the compound disrupts the microbes’ ability to survive, making it a promising new type of antibiotic.
US crude futures fall as investors reassess US-Iran risks ahead of ceasefire deadline
U.S. crude futures fell nearly 2% in early Asian trade on Tuesday as investors reassessed supply risk, with uncertainty over U.S.–Iran peace talks persisting ahead of a key ceasefire deadline.
Google brings Gemini in Chrome to users in Asia and the Pacific
Google is rolling out Chrome's new built-in chatbot to users in countries in East Asia and the Pacific.
George Ariyoshi, 100, America’s First Governor of Asian Descent, Dies
A Democrat, he served three terms as Hawaii’s governor (1974-86), rising out of a tough district of Honolulu. He tried to diversify an economy heavily dependent on tourism.
Advancing epidemic and pandemic preparedness through research readiness: SEAR Unity Studies Network Sites chart the way forward in 2026
On 25 March 2026, WHO Regional Office for the South‑East Asia Region (SEARO) convened the first meeting of the SEAR Chapter of the Unity Studies Network Meeting in 2026 to take stock of progress and plan next steps for strengthening epidemic and pandemic preparedness across the Region. The meeting focused on reviewing the ongoing adaptation of selected, standard Unity Study methodologies, sharing field implementation experiences from 2025, and identifying key priorities to guide collaborative work in 2026.Held virtually, the meeting brought together representatives from six Unity Studies network sites across five countries (Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand) as well as participants from all three levels of WHO.The meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing regional efforts in South‑East Asia to strengthen early investigations and studies for epidemic and pandemic preparedness, with a focus on pandemic influenza and other emerging respiratory pathogens with epidemic and pandemic potential. In this context, and as part of preparedness for the rapid generation of evidence, the WHO Health Emergencies Programme in SEAR (WHE/SEAR) encourages Unity Studies sites to adapt prioritized, standardized Unity Study protocols to their national contexts. This approach supports the generation of timely and reliable evidence to inform public health decision‑making during epidemics and pandemics.These efforts are supported through a combination of experience sharing, participation in the global Unity Studies network webinars, capacity‑building of the national public health workforce, and regional collaboration that promotes inter‑country, inter‑agency, and inter‑ministerial action. In parallel, sites are encouraged to explore diversified funding sources to help sustain research preparedness over the long term.Discussions highlighted the importance of WHO’s catalytic financial support through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contributions (PIP‑PC). When combined with national and institutional resources, this support enables countries and sites to maintain continuity of activities at a core level and remain prepared to respond rapidly and effectively to future epidemics and pandemics.Regional and Global Updates: Opening the session, Dr Pushpa Ranjan Wijesinghe, Programme Area Manager, Pandemic and Epidemic Management (PEM) Unit, WHO Health Emergencies Programme, highlighted the progress made in operationalizing the Unity Studies Network across the Region and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of WHO at all three levels, together with country unity studies sites. He emphasized the availability of limited but catalytic funding through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PIP‑PC) workplan at SEARO to sustain network activities in 2026, while encouraging sites to leverage additional funding sources to expand implementation.Representing SEARO, Dr Ashok Basnet, consultant, Pandemic Influenza Preparedness reported that, at the regional level, the Unity Studies Network currently includes six sites across five countries: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. He noted that in 2025, catalytic funding supported protocol adaptation, training, and pilot implementation. In addition, a regional Unity Studies symposium held during the Global Public Health Summit in Sri Lanka strengthened and advocated collaboration between the Unity Studies site, national decision‑making forum, relevant technical units of the ministry of health, WHO and other partners.The symposium also highlighted the role of early investigations and studies as a key component of a multi‑source surveillance system needed at country level to generate a broad range of evidence. It underscored the critical role of country Unity Studies sites and similar research entities in generating evidence to support public health decision‑making during epidemics and pandemics.Participants of the WHO GISRS Unity Studies Sites Network- SEAR Chapter Meeting 2026 (Photo credit- PEM/WHE/SEARO). SEARO also updated participants on ongoing efforts to develop a regional Unity Studies webpage and to promote participation in global knowledge‑sharing platforms, including webinars and the WHO Community of Practice. Priorities for 2026 include supporting the implementation of Unity protocols, strengthening collaboration and experience sharing across sites, documenting and publishing findings, integrating Unity Studies activities as a component of multi-source national surveillance systems, and building workforce capacity.Dr Nickle Boddington of the Global Influenza Programme (GIP) at WHO Headquarters, which coordinates the Unity Studies Network globally, provided updates on global Unity Studies activities, noting that the network has expanded to 16 sites worldwide. New and updated protocols, including rapid clinical severity assessment tools and standardized data platforms, are being developed to support implementation. The global Community of Practice has also been launched to facilitate technical exchange, and continued support will be provided to sites for protocol adaptation, ethical approvals, and readiness for early investigation during outbreaks. Updates from Unity Studies sites in SEAR in 2025Unity Studies sites shared progress and experiences in implementing protocols across diverse country contexts. Sites initiated activities in 2025 using catalytic funding from SEARO, complemented by the mobilization of internal national resources. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Bangladesh, reported the adoption and piloting of investigation protocols on non‑seasonal influenza and emerging respiratory diseases during recent avian influenza outbreaks, demonstrating a multi‑source funding approach involving government, WHO and One Health partners.The Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (HIMSR), New Delhi, India, highlighted the piloting of household transmission investigation studies, the expansion of the national Unity Studies network, and the contribution of study findings to global evidence through published outputs. The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India, shared experiences from large‑scale seroprevalence studies conducted during the COVID‑19 pandemic, recent efforts to strengthen national Unity network sites through training activities, and plans to initiate multi‑centre studies on respiratory viruses.Similarly, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, highlighted its experience in developing integrated surveillance and diagnostic protocols for multiple respiratory pathogens, enhancing readiness for targeted investigations of emerging threats. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, reported ongoing engagement with the Ministry of Health and exploration of additional funding sources to initiate studies. Meanwhile, the National Public Health Laboratory, Nepal, provided updates on continued coordination with national stakeholders to initiate implementation, despite delays related to the country context.Across sites, shared experiences underscored the importance of protocol adaptation, multisectoral collaboration, and sustainable funding to operationalize Unity Studies and generate evidence for public health action.Discussions and Way ForwardThe meeting reinforced key priorities for 2026, including strengthening unity studies protocol implementation, enhancing collaboration, knowledge sharing, integrating research as a component of national multi-source surveillance systems, and ensuring that generated evidence informs public health decision‑making. Participants also emphasized the importance of documentation, visibility, and leveraging multiple funding sources, and agreed on the following action points.Unity Studies Sites and WHO Country Offices:Advance adoption and implementation of at least one Unity protocol, continuing activities initiated in 2025 with catalytic funding, supplemented with other sources of funding where feasible.Document site-specific experiences, outcomes, and lessons learned; participate in regional and global knowledge-sharing platforms including WHO webinars and the Community of Practice.Work closely with ministries of health to establish unified national platforms for translating generated evidence into national public health decision-making. WHO Country Offices may facilitate technical support and complementary, synergistic funding opportunities where feasible. WHO Regional OfficeCoordinate with WHO Country Offices to support implementation of core unity studies activities by network sites through catalytic funding and provide technical guidance and virtual engagement opportunities throughout 2026.Facilitate the participation of all Unity Studies sites in the regional meeting on Unity Studies implementation in October 2026, to be held back‑to‑back with the Annual SEAR Regional PIP‑PC Meeting; develop and host a SEAR Unity Studies website; and mobilize support from academic institutions within the SEAR Unity Studies Network to support the development of regional manuscripts that showcase Unity Studies activities to scientific audiences and promote knowledge‑sharing.Explore complementary funding opportunities and partnerships to sustain and expand network activities across the Region.WHO HeadquartersProvide global technical guidance, updated protocols, and toolkits to support the implementation of Unity Studies in SEAR.Facilitate engagement of SEAR sites in global webinars, the Community of Practice, and opportunities to showcase their work.Support joint publications, inclusion of SEAR experiences in global outputs, and identification of additional funding and collaborative opportunities to strengthen Unity Studies activities.
Barcelona to beat Chelsea to signing of highly-rated midfielder
Barcelona are set for a big summer of transfers, as they plan to add extra quality to Hansi Flick’s squad for next season. Sporting director Deco will also oversee more La Masia additions, and the l...
Lurie’s Asia trip targets tourism rebound, new cultural exchanges with San Francisco
Daniel Lurie kicked off his delegation to Shanghai by signing a partnership between the SF Conservatory of Music and its counterpart 6,000 miles away.
Things to do in Cincinnati this week, April 20-26
If you're looking for the best events happening in Cincinnati, you're at the right place. Find your next concert, game, festival or family event.
Jade Market launches incubator for Asian retailers amid vision to build cultural, business hub in KC
A small group of Asian entrepreneurs leading product-based businesses are getting an opportunity to brush up on their retail readiness in Hella Good Deeds’ inaugural Jade Market Cohort.
Science history: Doctor autopsies the brain of a man who couldn't speak — and reveals the seat of spoken language
Dr. Paul Broca conducted an autopsy on a patient known as "Tan," who had aphasia, or the inability to speak. Broca's work identified a region of the brain that is key to spoken language.
West Eugene break-in latest in Asian business owner burglaries
Eugene police are investigating a new break-in targeting an Asian American business owner, part of an ongoing pattern of similar crimes in the Eugene-Springfield area, with authorities urging increased vigilance
Location-Based Entertainment Market Analysis Report 2026: $14.35 Bn Opportunities, Trends, Competitive Landscape, Strategies, and Forecasts, 2020-2025, 2025-2030F, 2035F
The location-based entertainment market offers opportunities in themed venues, digital gaming experiences, immersive VR/AR attractions, and interactive content. Growth is driven by rising consumer spending, technological innovations, and increased global tourism, with Asia-Pacific poised for rapid expansion. Location-Based Entertainment Market Location-Based Entertainment Market Dublin, April 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Location-Based Entertainment Market Report 2026" has been added to Res
Cleveland’s Asian Festival returns with more food, vendors and entertainment
Cleveland Asian Festival returns May 16–17 with its largest footprint yet, featuring 35+ food vendors, live performances, cultural showcases, and fan-favorite contests in Asiatown.
Japan Pledges $10 Billion to Help Countries Cope With Oil Prices
With supply chains at risk, the aid to Southeast Asian nations is aimed at securing the availability of oil-based products, including medical equipment.
UK fund major L&G aims to double Asia business, CEO says
Britain's biggest asset manager Legal & General aims to double its assets under management in Asia to around $500 billion amid its push to grow its international business, CEO Antonio Simoes told Reuters on Monday.
Asian shares mostly rise after Wall Street rallies on lower oil prices
Asian shares are mostly rising, echoing the rally on Wall Street that came as oil prices eased on hopes the United States and Iran may try again on talks to end their war.
Asian carp politics, teen takeover solutions | The Chicago Report
The Trump administration and Illinois continue their back-and-forth over the vital Asian carp Great Lakes project. A child psychologist discusses the rise in viral teen takeovers. And we hear from Yusef Jackson as he takes over his father's organization, Rainbow PUSH.
Philippine president does jumping jacks to disprove health rumors
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., 68, said the impromptu workout was meant to ease worries about his health as the Southeast Asian nation struggles with fallout from the Iran war.
Towards better vision: WHO South-East Asia regional meeting on eye health
The WHO South-East Asia Regional Meeting on Eye Health was convened to address the substantial and persistent burden of avoidable vision impairment in the Region. South-East Asia accountsfor nearly one third of the world’s blind and visually impaired population, with cataract, uncorrected refractive error, and diabetic retinopathy contributing to more than 90 percent of cases. The meeting responded to the need for coordinated action to achieve the 2030 global targets for effective cataract surgical coverage and effective refractive error coverage, and to advance implementation of the Regional Action Plan for Integrated People Centred Eye Care. It provided a platform for reviewing progress, identifying system gaps, and strengthening country pathways to accelerate universal access to quality eye care.
US crude futures fall over $1 as traders weigh supply risks
U.S. crude futures fell more than $1 in early Asian trade on Tuesday as traders balanced heightened supply risks linked to a U.S. blockade of Iranian shipping in the Strait of Hormuz with reports that Washington and Tehran were still open to talks after a tense meeting in Islamabad.
We built a $7 million business while traveling the world
Tricia Redulla co-founded Sky and Sol and built a sunscreen business while traveling across Asia, Europe, and the US. A year later it made $33 million.
Early data promising on RI's evolving behavioral health model
Rhode Island's certified community behavioral health clinics are showing promising results, increasing access and improving outcomes, the author says.
Iran war diverts US military and attention from Asia ahead of Trump's summit with China's leader
President Barack Obama in 2011 declared it was time to leave behind the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and “pivot” to Asia to counter China’s rise
Ayush Shetty in Badminton Asia C'ship semifinal; Candidates resumes after rest day; ISL; shooting WC continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 11
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 11, 2026.
Ayush Shetty in Badminton Asia C'ship semifinal; Candidates resumes after rest day; ISL; shooting WC continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 11
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 11, 2026.
Countries are turning against U.S. fossil fuels after Iran war
As economies in Asia and Europe reel from the energy disruption, leaders make plans to permanently replace imported oil and gas with homegrown energy.
Oil rises and Asian stocks fall amid worries over ‘fragile’ ceasefire deal in Middle East
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
Sindhu faces tough test in badminton Asia C'ships; medal matches in boxing, Shooting WC, Candidates continue: Indian Sports LIVE, April 9
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 9, 2026.
Sindhu faces tough test in badminton Asia C'ships; medal matches in boxing, Shooting WC, Candidates continue: Indian Sports LIVE, April 9
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 9, 2026.
Southeast Asia’s business leaders want wellness at work—as long as the programs get real results
Successful wellness benefits should avoid portraying the worker as the problem.
Asian benchmarks jump after oil prices sink in response to the Iran ceasefire
Asian shares are surging as oil prices plunged after the U.S. and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire that includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Indians in action at badminton, boxing, wrestling Asian C'ships; shooting WC, chess Candidates continue: Indian Sports LIVE, April 8
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 8, 2026.
Indians in action at badminton, boxing, wrestling Asian C'ships; shooting WC, chess Candidates continue: Indian Sports LIVE, April 8
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 8, 2026.
Broadening the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Engagement In South and Central Asia - United States Department of State
On April 6, the United States signed a bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Republic of Tajikistan under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy (AFGHS). This breakthrough MOU marks the first bilateral health cooperation signed in the South and Central Asia region and aims to protect Americans from infectious disease threats while strengthening U.S.-Tajikistan relations. Through the MOU worth $78 million and working with Congress, the […]
Asia Minute: U.S. regional partners pursue new paths in the politics of energy
President Trump has made it clear he's not happy with several U.S. partners in the Asia Pacific, naming South Korea, Australia and Japan. But when it comes to the politics of energy, regional partners are making their own plans. HPR's Bill Dorman has more in today's Asia Minute.
Look: Alaska Airlines unveils new business class for long-haul flights
Alaska Airlines will debut lie-flat suites on its Europe and Asia flights this spring. Here's what passengers can expect.
GRATON RESORT & CASINO ANNOUNCES APRIL PROMOTIONS, ENTERTAINMENT, AND MAY 4 EXPANSION OPENING
This spring marks the start of a new era at Graton Resort & Casino. On May 4, the resort will unveil the next phase of its expansion, introducing new dining, entertainment, and gaming experiences. At the heart of the expansion is a new 144,000-square-foot, fully smoke-free gaming floor, creating a more spacious and comfortable environment for guests while expanding Graton’s…
Apple's foldable iPhone encounters engineering snags, faces potential shipment delays, Nikkei Asia reports
Apple has been encountering setbacks in the engineering test phase of its first foldable iPhone, which could lead to delays in its mass production and product shipment schedule, Nikkei Asia reported on Monday, citing sources.
Badminton Asia C'ship, Billie Jean Cup ties begin; medal chances at boxing, wrestling Asian C'ship; Candidates continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 7
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 7, 2026.
Charting a New Phase of Trump Administration's America First Global Health Strategy in Asia, Beginning with Cambodia - United States Department of State
On April 2, the United States signed a bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Royal Government of Cambodia through the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy (AFGHS). This landmark five-year MOU is the first to be signed through the Trump Administration’s AFGHS in Asia, and advances shared global health goals, such […]
WHO calls for science-led action and stronger One Health approach to address evolving health risks
The World Health Organization today called for urgent scale-up of research, innovation, and collaboration to accelerate momentum towards ending tuberculosis in the WHO South-East Asia Region, which continues to bear nearly half of the global TB burden, accounting for the highest share of cases and deaths worldwide. To build momentum, experts, national TB programme managers, researchers, along with partners and members of civil society, began a three-day virtual workshop organized by WHO for ‘Advancing research and Innovation to accelerate momentum towards ending TB in the WHO South-East Asia Region.’
World Health Day 2026
World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.
World Health Day 2026
World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.
What Canada’s Euthanasia Surge Reveals About Single-Payer Health Care
For patients facing severe illness and suffering, the option is framed as an act of compassion. But its rapid expansion raises uncomfortable questions.
Nikhat, Lovlina in Asian Boxing Championships semifinals; Asian Wrestling Championships begin; IFL continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 6
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 6, 2026.
Nikhat, Lovlina in Asian Boxing Championships semifinals; Asian Wrestling Championships begin; IFL continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 6
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 6, 2026.
Asian shares mostly gain while oil prices keep rising
Asian markets that are open for trading are mostly rising as investors continue to closely watch the war in Iran, soaring oil prices and what President Donald Trump might say next
Asian shares mostly gain while oil prices keep rising
Asian markets that are open for trading are mostly rising as investors continue to closely watch the war in Iran, soaring oil prices and what President Donald Trump might say next.
Previously Unknown Human Lineage Discovered In Northern East Asia Survived And Adapted After The Ice Age Ended
The results suggest these hunter-gatherers persisted and adapted to a warming world, rather than being quickly replaced by farmers.
The war’s economic impact could get worse for Americans
Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz is disrupting economic activity across Asia and Europe. The U.S. may escape the worst effects, but it will not emerge unscathed.
International News: Bids In For Brisbane Entertainment Precinct; War Roils Touring & More
AUSTRALASIA
Punjab face Mohammedan in ISL; Indians at Asian Boxing Championships: Indian Sports LIVE, April 3
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 3, 2026.
Unveiling a New Era of Home Entertainment in Southeast Asia and Oceania
By CU Kim, President & CEO, Samsung Electronics Southeast Asia & Oceania
For the First Time, This U.S. Airline Will Offer Business Class on International Flights
Now travelers can fly to Europe and Asia in added comfort.
Santa Clara businesses sue over shopping center displacement
A once-busy Santa Clara shopping center home to Asian-owned businesses is now nearly empty — and multiple tenants are taking their former landlord to court as the property moves toward redevelopment.
Saving biodiversity: Can innovation stop extinction?
Nearly a third of all species are at risk. New tools—from biodiversity credits to AI like BirdNET and measures against the Asian tiger mosquito—aim to protect ecosystems and human health.
Barça secure Shane Kluivert's future until 2028
FC Barcelona have officially announced the contract renewal of Shane Kluivert, one of La Masia’s brightest gems.The young Dutch forward has signed a new deal that will keep him at the club for the n...
Member of burglary ring targeting Asian business owners in Oregon pleads guilty
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon said conspirators ransacked homes in cities including Gresham and Salem.
MUFG Chases Global Peers for Cash in $1.3 Trillion Bank Business
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. is trying to boost its transaction banking business by hiring more people and expanding domestic money transfer services in Asia, as it plays catch-up with global peers, according to a senior executive.
Eurovision Song Contest is expanding with an Asian edition later this year
i e israel-hamas-war music entertainment eurovision-song-contest world-news general-news | Newsradio 1140 WRVA
Eurovision Song Contest is expanding with an Asian edition later this year
i e israel-hamas-war music entertainment eurovision-song-contest world-news general-news | Newsradio 1140 WRVA
Eurovision Song Contest is expanding with an Asian edition later this year
i e israel-hamas-war music entertainment eurovision-song-contest world-news general-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
Eurovision, the glitzy contest where music meets politics, is adding an Asian edition
The Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be held in Bangkok on Nov. 14, with 10 countries competing so far.
Brent Crude rises after Trump says he wants to ‘take the oil’ in Iran; Starmer to gather business leaders to discuss emergency measures
Asian stocks fall and Brent rises to over $115 a barrel; Trump says US could seize Iran’s export hub on Kharg Island
Asian Shares Decline as Oil Prices Soar Amid the War in Iran, Echoing Last Week's Wall Street Drop
TOKYO (AP) — Asian shares mostly dipped in Monday morning trading as worries continued about soaring oil prices and the potential for further escalation in the U.S. war with Iran. The drops in Asia follow the deep declines on Wall Street last Friday that finished off a fifth straight losing week,
SM Entertainment, Unicef partner to empower Indonesian girls, improve school facilities
K-pop powerhouse expanded its social contribution program across Southeast Asia by signing a new partnership with Unicef to support children in Indonesia, the company said on Monday.
Scientists Solve Decades-Long Mystery About Why Saturn Appears To Change Its Spin
Researchers at Northumbria University have used the most powerful space telescope ever built to answer one of the longest-standing puzzles in planetary science – why does Saturn appear to spin at a...
Private equity is eying Asia’s healthcare funding gap as countries get wealthier and older
“Asia has more diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular patients than anywhere else in the world,” Abrar Mir, co-founder of Quadria Capital, says.
Stablecoin payments go 'invisible' in Southeast Asia as crypto card business surges
StraitsX, a Singapore-based company, has seen rapid growth in its stablecoin card program, with a 40x surge in transaction volume and an 83x increase in card issuance between 2024 and 2025.
Things to do in Pensacola: ZZ Top; Santana; Fantasia; White Tie Rock
It's a week for legends in Pensacola with performances by ZZ Top and Santana! You can also catch Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton.
Bayern honour Asian Cup champion Tanikawa
Newly crowned Asian Cup winner Momoko Tanikawa was honoured for her achievement by FC Bayern Women director Bianca Rech ahead of the team’s Bundesliga game at home to Nürnberg on Saturday. The Baye...
Constraint and uncertainty ahead for Japanese politics
Japan’s path forward requires reconciling its divided political landscape with urgent reform needs to sustain its domestic stability and regional leadership capacity.
/C O R R E C T I O N -- Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE)/
The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), the world's leading anti‑piracy coalition, has successfully shut down AnimePlay, one of the largest illicit anime streaming applications operating in the Asia-Pacific region. The application was run out of Riau, Indonesia.
Breathing easy: prioritising respiratory health for older adults in Asia Pacific
Highlights the growing burden of respiratory disease in ageing societies and calls for greater attention, outlining actions for earlier prevention, diagnosis and care in Asia Pacific.
Eurozone, Asian Business Activity Slows as Iran War Ramps Up Uncertainty
The war has driven up energy prices and uncertainty, while a cooling of new orders points to longer-lasting harm if the conflict continues or escalates.
Grab Strikes $600 Million Deal for Foodpanda Taiwan Business
Grab Holdings Ltd. agreed to buy Delivery Hero SE’s Foodpanda operations in Taiwan for $600 million, a deal that marks its first foray outside of its Southeast Asian home market.
Samsung Brings AirDrop Support to Quick Share with Galaxy S26 Series
Samsung is introducing AirDrop support to the Galaxy S26 series, making it easier for users to share content between devices using Quick Share. The feature will begin rolling out from March 231, starting in Korea and expanding to more regions including Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan. AirDrop support […]
LIVE: Japan vs Australia – Women’s Asian Cup 2026 final
Follow our live build-up, with team news, ahead of our text commentary stream of the Women's Asian Cup final.
InSo brings fine dining, nightlife entertainment to Las Colinas
InSo is an upscale Southeast Asian fusion restaurant that turns into a lively nightspot.
War is only the starkest way that politics is disrupting tourism
Geopolitics disrupts global tourism as wars, visa restrictions and political tensions reshape travel patterns, affecting destinations from the Caribbean to Asia.
Forum on harnessing Artificial Intelligence for health equity
Register to this forumOver the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly evolved in complexity, performance, and utility. Its integration across a wide range of industrial sectors has accelerated, with healthcare emerging as one of the most transformative sectors. In this sector, AI has enabled high-impact applications – from enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis and supporting clinical decision-making, to strengthening public health initiatives such as disease surveillance and workforce optimization. Moreover, AI holds immense potential to empower individuals, enabling them to take greater control of their personal health and well-being. Yet the central question remains: Who benefits, who is at risk, and do these innovations close or widen health inequities? While the potential of AI-enabled applications is substantial, many countries have approached their adoption with caution. This hesitancy stems from concerns about risks and benefits, including model bias, data breaches, privacy violations, and the erosion of professional skills due to over-reliance on AI. Additional barriers include inadequate data infrastructure and a lack of robust evidence on the most effective forms and interfaces of AI to enhance service delivery and system performance. Moreover, the rapid rise of Generative AI has introduced a heightened urgency for the development of comprehensive governance and ethical frameworks. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Health Practice Team and Digital Sector, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Western Pacific, are convening the Forum on Harnessing AI for Health Equity on 25–26 March at ADB Headquarters. Senior health officials from 16 developing member countries (DMCs), alongside leading researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across Asia and the Pacific, will engage in discussions on how AI can be governed, financed, and scaled to deliver healthier lives for all. The forum is funded through the High-Level Technology Fund with support from the Government of Japan. Objectives The two-day forum aims to:Identify high-impact, evidence-based health AI use cases suitable for resource-constrained settings and map out a pipeline for potential supportIntroduce and validate the WHO's policy guidance on minimum necessary ecosystem for countries and institutions to self-assess readiness for AI adoptionObtain initial commitment from participating stakeholders to join a pilot regional initiative focused on data/model sharing for a priority health challengeEndorse a prioritized set of actionable policy recommendations focusing on governance, regulation, and sustainable financing necessary to scale high-impact health AI use cases in resource-constrained settings Target participants The forum will convene participants from 16 ADB DMCs including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam. In addition, health system leaders and practitioners, private sector technologists, academic experts, representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, and philanthropic institutions engaged in AI for Health from Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea will also be invited. SessionsDay 1 (25 March)Session 1: AI Use Cases for the Care Continuum: Improving Access and QualitySession 2: Adopting a risk-based approach for AI use case prioritizationSession 3: Establishing the Minimum Ecosystem for Implementation Risk ManagementSession 4: Future-Ready Health Workforce: Building Competency for Human-AI CollaborationDay 2 (26 March)Session 5: The Political Economy of AI in Health: Understanding Stakeholder Interests and their Impact on EquitySession 6: AI and Health Financing: Supporting Fair Coverage and ProtectionSession 7: AI Regulation and Oversight: Pathways for Different RealitiesSession 8: The Way Forward – Building Alliances and Regional Partnership How to registerThe forum will be held in a hybrid format. In-person attendance is by invitation only, while livestreaming of the forum will be available to the public. To register, please complete this form on or before 24 March 2026.Event organizers / partnersAsian Development Bank (ADB)WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific High-Level Technology Fund (HLTF)ContactAkihito WatabeHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDawatabe@adb.org Jae Kyoun KimHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDjkkim@adb.org
Here's Where Apple is Hosting More 50th Anniversary Events Following New York
After hosting a surprise Alicia Keys concert at its Grand Central store in New York last week, Apple is turning to Asia for more 50th-anniversary celebrations. So far, it has been discovered that there will be events held in China and South Korea. Apple's retail store at Taikoo Li in Chengdu, China is temporarily closed this Wednesday, March 18, according to the store's page.
Southeast Asian Fuel Prices Destabilize Politics
Indonesia, for one, has a bloody history of fuel-related riots.
APAC Buy-Side Firms Embrace AI, Automation To Optimize Business Processes | Insights
In this new survey of 50 buy-side firms across Asia-Pacific, Bloomberg and WatersTechnology reveal an industry that has moved decisively past experimentation and into live, production-grade adoption of AI and automation.
Apple Acquires Final Cut Pro Plugin Company MotionVFX
Apple today acquired the major Final Cut Pro plugin company MotionVFX. MotionVFX is a Polish company founded by Szymon Masiak in 2009. It creates high-quality plugins, transitions, templates, and visual effects (VFX) for video editors. The company specializes in tools for Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Apple Motion, such as mFilmLook, mO2, and the Design Studio extension.
2 of US' 3 mine-hunting ships for Middle East just seen in Asia
The Independence-class littoral combat ships were seen docked at Penang amid worries that Iran may mine the Strait of Hormuz.
Things ‘I do not like’ led me to quit US for Hong Kong, top mathematician says
The academic also says he is motivated by his vision to make Asia an intellectual powerhouse for science and learning.
Strengthening One Health Field Epidemiology Capacity in the WHO South-East Asia Region
Recent public health emergencies—including the COVID-19 pandemic, recurrent zoonotic disease outbreaks, and the high level of antimicrobial resistance—have underscored the urgent need for strong, multisectoral field epidemiology capacities. This reinforces the importance of a workforce equipped with One Health field epidemiology competencies. To address this need, WHO works with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), as part of Quadripartite Alliance for One Health, to strengthen field epidemiology training programmes using a One Health approach.These efforts are aligned with WHO SEARO’s Strategic Framework for Action for Strengthening Surveillance, Risk Assessment and Field Epidemiology and the Regional Roadmap to Advance Field Epidemiology Capacities 2025–2029 emphasize workforce development, multisectoral collaboration, and enhanced preparedness for health emergencies. With funding from the Pandemic Fund, The Competency for One Health Field Epidemiology (COHFE) integration within Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs) or similar initiatives has been initiated in Bangladesh and India and is planned in Sri Lanka.BangladeshIn Bangladesh, COHFE is being adapted to strengthen the Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Bangladesh (FETP-B) Advanced programme. Initiated in July 2025 and led by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), the process brought together stakeholders from human, animal, and environmental health sectors, academia, and laboratories.A Multisectoral Working Group (MWG) was established to guide implementation, conduct readiness assessments, and identify opportunities to institutionalize One Health collaboration. Through national multisectoral consultations and a competency prioritization workshop held in Dhaka in November 2025, stakeholders identified priority technical competencies for surveillance, outbreak investigation, data analysis, and risk assessment, alongside functional competencies related to leadership, coordination, and the laboratory–epidemiology interface. The process also surfaced systemic barriers—such as challenges in data sharing and limited joint investigations—enabling targeted recommendations. These outcomes are guiding curriculum revision, the introduction of One Health simulations and joint field exercises, and the development of a national multisectoral mentorship pool, with updated training materials expected to be implemented in the upcoming cohort.Figure 1. Competency prioritization involving multisectoral stakeholders“COHFE represents a significant step forward in operationalizing the One Health approach. The collaboration between national institutions and the Quadripartite partners is critical for building resilient systems to address complex health challenges in the region.”, Prof. (Dr) Tahmina Sirin, Director, Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Bangladesh.Aligning India’s One Health Training with COHFEIn India, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has strengthened One Health workforce development through its SectorConnect initiative. WHO supported a comprehensive competency mapping and curriculum review to align the Field Epidemiology Programme in One Health (FEP-OH) with all 14 COHFE domains. The review identified strong foundations while generating actionable recommendations to strengthen One Health learning outcomes, expand joint field-based learning, and enhance competency-based assessment. These improvements are informing programme refinement and phased scale-up across additional states.Figure 2. Strengthening learning outcomes for the SectorConnect FEP OH CurriculumThrough these efforts, WHO SEARO will continue to support countries to move from separate sector-based training toward an integrated, impact-driven One Health field epidemiology workforce capable of addressing complex health threats at human-animal-environment interface.ReferencesFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, World Health Organization, & World Organisation for Animal Health. (2024). Competencies for One Health field epidemiology (COHFE) framework. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240080058World Health Organization. (2023). Strategic framework for action for strengthening surveillance, risk assessment and field epidemiology for health security threats in the WHO South-East Asia Region. WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290210030World Health Organization. (2024). Regional roadmap to advance field epidemiology capacities in the WHO South-East Asia Region 2025–2029. WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290229544
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