Quad plans to hold joint coastguard training to counter China in Indo-Pacific: experts
By Junaid Kathju
The members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (the Quad) plan to hold a joint coastguard training and launch a range of new initiatives to strengthen Indo-Pacific maritime security next year, a strategy experts say reflects a shift towards grey-zone tactics to uphold regional norms and counter China’s assertive interpretation of maritime rules.
The group consisting of India, Australia, Japan and the United States will conduct their first-ever joint coastguard drill at the Port of Yokohama in Tokyo Bay from January 8, according to a Nikkei Asia report citing a source in Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The drill has been timed to coincide with a visit by Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani and the arrival of a large Indian patrol vessel at Yokohama.
Japan and India’s coastguards will join the US Coast Guard and Australian Border Force for oil and hazardous substance control training, sharing and assessing each other’s operational methods, according to the report.
Dongkeun Lee, a PhD candidate at Australian National University’s Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, said the role of coastguards in the Indo-Pacific has grown due to the existing balance of power in the region.
“Since both China and the US [along with its partners] recognise the risks of escalating conflicts to the level of direct military clashes, these countries are increasingly adopting grey-zone tactics to either uphold or enforce the rules and norms they support,” Lee told This Week in Asia.
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By Junaid Kathju
The members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (the Quad) plan to hold a joint coastguard training and launch a range of new initiatives to strengthen Indo-Pacific maritime security next year, a strategy experts say reflects a shift towards grey-zone tactics to uphold regional norms and counter China’s assertive interpretation of maritime rules.
The group consisting of India, Australia, Japan and the United States will conduct their first-ever joint coastguard drill at the Port of Yokohama in Tokyo Bay from January 8, according to a Nikkei Asia report citing a source in Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The drill has been timed to coincide with a visit by Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani and the arrival of a large Indian patrol vessel at Yokohama.
Japan and India’s coastguards will join the US Coast Guard and Australian Border Force for oil and hazardous substance control training, sharing and assessing each other’s operational methods, according to the report.
Dongkeun Lee, a PhD candidate at Australian National University’s Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, said the role of coastguards in the Indo-Pacific has grown due to the existing balance of power in the region.
“Since both China and the US [along with its partners] recognise the risks of escalating conflicts to the level of direct military clashes, these countries are increasingly adopting grey-zone tactics to either uphold or enforce the rules and norms they support,” Lee told This Week in Asia.
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China stands behind Somalia amid US push for Somaliland recognition
By Jevans Nyabiage
China’s special envoy for the Horn of Africa Xue Bing has visited Somalia to assure the nation of Beijing’s support, amid a push by Washington officials for recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland.
Xue, who was appointed in 2022 to mediate regional crises, told Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud that China “supports Somalia in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity” during his visit to capital Mogadishu on Tuesday.
It follows the December 12 inauguration of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, also known as Irro, as the new Somaliland president. Located on the Gulf of Aden coastline, Somaliland proclaimed its independence in 1991 but has not been recognised by any country. Mogadishu continues to consider the region part of northern Somalia.
Last week’s swearing-in ceremony was attended by Taiwan’s deputy foreign minister Wu Chih-Chung, leading to a protest by China, with Beijing saying it opposes the “establishment of official institutions or any form of official exchanges between Taiwan authorities and Somaliland”.
Beijing sees Taiwan as part of its territory, to be brought under mainland control by force, if necessary. Most countries, including the United States, do not recognise the island as an independent state, but Washington is opposed to any unilateral change to the status quo.
The US was also represented at Irro’s inauguration, with US Ambassador to Somalia Richard H. Riley leading a delegation as he praised Somaliland’s “commitment to fair and credible elections and the peaceful transfer of power”.
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By Jevans Nyabiage
China’s special envoy for the Horn of Africa Xue Bing has visited Somalia to assure the nation of Beijing’s support, amid a push by Washington officials for recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland.
Xue, who was appointed in 2022 to mediate regional crises, told Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud that China “supports Somalia in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity” during his visit to capital Mogadishu on Tuesday.
It follows the December 12 inauguration of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, also known as Irro, as the new Somaliland president. Located on the Gulf of Aden coastline, Somaliland proclaimed its independence in 1991 but has not been recognised by any country. Mogadishu continues to consider the region part of northern Somalia.
Last week’s swearing-in ceremony was attended by Taiwan’s deputy foreign minister Wu Chih-Chung, leading to a protest by China, with Beijing saying it opposes the “establishment of official institutions or any form of official exchanges between Taiwan authorities and Somaliland”.
Beijing sees Taiwan as part of its territory, to be brought under mainland control by force, if necessary. Most countries, including the United States, do not recognise the island as an independent state, but Washington is opposed to any unilateral change to the status quo.
The US was also represented at Irro’s inauguration, with US Ambassador to Somalia Richard H. Riley leading a delegation as he praised Somaliland’s “commitment to fair and credible elections and the peaceful transfer of power”.
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China’s record farm yields see fertiliser on its way out as advanced tech is in
By Alice Li
As China ploughs toward its agricultural-modernisation targets for 2025, a former backbone of its agrarian ecosystem – fertiliser – is gradually being supplanted as the country reimagines how it grows food.
Smarter, more maintainable methods of farming are being relied on to drive yields to record highs while ensuring soil sustainability for future generations.
Fertiliser usage in China has seen eight consecutive years of declines, since 2015, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Yet, the nation’s agricultural production has maintained stable growth, year after year, with grain output reaching a record high of 706.5 billion tonnes in 2024 – a 1.6 per cent increase from 2023, according to NBS data released on Friday.
Experts attribute this ongoing growth, in part, to more precise fertiliser applications that deliver only necessary nutrients to the soil. Additionally, advancements in seed quality, farmland conditions and machinery have all played a crucial role in maintaining stable food output.
“The steady increase in grain output is the result of various technological advancements in agriculture,” said Li Guoxiang, a researcher at the Rural Development Institute under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). “It’s not something that can be achieved by one factor alone.”
Amid mounting challenges such as climate change, geopolitical tensions, and the need to feed nearly 18 per cent of the global population with a mere 9 per cent of the world’s arable land, China has strived to secure food security while ensuring sustainable farming practices.
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By Alice Li
As China ploughs toward its agricultural-modernisation targets for 2025, a former backbone of its agrarian ecosystem – fertiliser – is gradually being supplanted as the country reimagines how it grows food.
Smarter, more maintainable methods of farming are being relied on to drive yields to record highs while ensuring soil sustainability for future generations.
Fertiliser usage in China has seen eight consecutive years of declines, since 2015, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Yet, the nation’s agricultural production has maintained stable growth, year after year, with grain output reaching a record high of 706.5 billion tonnes in 2024 – a 1.6 per cent increase from 2023, according to NBS data released on Friday.
Experts attribute this ongoing growth, in part, to more precise fertiliser applications that deliver only necessary nutrients to the soil. Additionally, advancements in seed quality, farmland conditions and machinery have all played a crucial role in maintaining stable food output.
“The steady increase in grain output is the result of various technological advancements in agriculture,” said Li Guoxiang, a researcher at the Rural Development Institute under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). “It’s not something that can be achieved by one factor alone.”
Amid mounting challenges such as climate change, geopolitical tensions, and the need to feed nearly 18 per cent of the global population with a mere 9 per cent of the world’s arable land, China has strived to secure food security while ensuring sustainable farming practices.
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Hong Kong Housing Society reclaims 30 rental flats from well-off tenants
By Vivian Au
Hong Kong’s second-largest public housing provider has reclaimed about 30 rental flats from well-off tenants, with “good progress” made in addressing the misuse of resources, according to its newly elected chairman.
Ling Kar-kan, who rose to the leadership of the Hong Kong Housing Society in September, said on Thursday the organisation was continuing with efforts to combat well-off tenants abusing public rental flats.
“The reclaiming of rental flats is progressing well,” he told a radio show, adding that the society had taken back 30 flats and was investigating other tenants who were suspected to have provided false information.
Ling said the organisation had included more specific conditions in new rental contracts to target well-off tenants and hoped residents would proactively provide information when asked about their financial status.
He also said the next five years would be a “peak” period for the society to build new housing, with 17,000 homes expected to be completed.
Ling stressed that the organisation would control its budget and manage finances carefully.
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By Vivian Au
Hong Kong’s second-largest public housing provider has reclaimed about 30 rental flats from well-off tenants, with “good progress” made in addressing the misuse of resources, according to its newly elected chairman.
Ling Kar-kan, who rose to the leadership of the Hong Kong Housing Society in September, said on Thursday the organisation was continuing with efforts to combat well-off tenants abusing public rental flats.
“The reclaiming of rental flats is progressing well,” he told a radio show, adding that the society had taken back 30 flats and was investigating other tenants who were suspected to have provided false information.
Ling said the organisation had included more specific conditions in new rental contracts to target well-off tenants and hoped residents would proactively provide information when asked about their financial status.
He also said the next five years would be a “peak” period for the society to build new housing, with 17,000 homes expected to be completed.
Ling stressed that the organisation would control its budget and manage finances carefully.
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Yew Chung students see a world without limits
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[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.]
A core objective for Yew Chung International School (YCIS) is to ensure students receive a holistic education which develops interests, opportunities, practical skills, and the personal qualities that allow individuals to shine. YCIS is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah (YCYW) Education Network, an unrivaled network of schools spanning 10 international cities. All YCYW schools operate under a unified educational mission and share a similar pedagogy, which encapsulates a unique educational pedigree that blends the best of Chinese and Western cultures. This mission is dedicated to nurturing competent, compassionate, and globally aware leaders who strive to create a better world.
The benefits of a holistic approach were evident at the school’s December 14 open day which featured first-rate musical and theatre performances plus numerous booths and exhibits showcasing student-led projects on everything from design and technology to the creative arts, social awareness, and care for the environment.
The chosen theme for the day was “A Glimpse Back, A Leap Forward”, which provided the chance to reflect on key events since the school’s founding in 1932, as well as what lies ahead for an institution that now has over 2,000 pupils in classes from kindergarten to senior secondary spread across nine close-knit campuses.
“The open day was a moment to celebrate achievements and lessons we have learned as we prepare to take the next bold steps forward,” said Martin Scott, Western Co-Education Director and Co-Executive Principal at YCIS Hong Kong. “We believe that by understanding our past, we can better shape our future, making sure students are equipped with the knowledge and wisdom they need to navigate an ever-changing world and reach their fullest potential.”
Not only does YCIS guide students to achieve academically, but it also encourages a spirit of cultural humanism by cultivating a multilingual environment. There is a deliberate emphasis too on fostering each child’s innate abilities, as well as diverse perspectives and a sense of autonomy. This approach builds self-confidence, while also sharpening decision-making skills and promoting whole-hearted engagement in extracurricular activities such as theatre arts.
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By Advertising partner
[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.]
A core objective for Yew Chung International School (YCIS) is to ensure students receive a holistic education which develops interests, opportunities, practical skills, and the personal qualities that allow individuals to shine. YCIS is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah (YCYW) Education Network, an unrivaled network of schools spanning 10 international cities. All YCYW schools operate under a unified educational mission and share a similar pedagogy, which encapsulates a unique educational pedigree that blends the best of Chinese and Western cultures. This mission is dedicated to nurturing competent, compassionate, and globally aware leaders who strive to create a better world.
The benefits of a holistic approach were evident at the school’s December 14 open day which featured first-rate musical and theatre performances plus numerous booths and exhibits showcasing student-led projects on everything from design and technology to the creative arts, social awareness, and care for the environment.
The chosen theme for the day was “A Glimpse Back, A Leap Forward”, which provided the chance to reflect on key events since the school’s founding in 1932, as well as what lies ahead for an institution that now has over 2,000 pupils in classes from kindergarten to senior secondary spread across nine close-knit campuses.
“The open day was a moment to celebrate achievements and lessons we have learned as we prepare to take the next bold steps forward,” said Martin Scott, Western Co-Education Director and Co-Executive Principal at YCIS Hong Kong. “We believe that by understanding our past, we can better shape our future, making sure students are equipped with the knowledge and wisdom they need to navigate an ever-changing world and reach their fullest potential.”
Not only does YCIS guide students to achieve academically, but it also encourages a spirit of cultural humanism by cultivating a multilingual environment. There is a deliberate emphasis too on fostering each child’s innate abilities, as well as diverse perspectives and a sense of autonomy. This approach builds self-confidence, while also sharpening decision-making skills and promoting whole-hearted engagement in extracurricular activities such as theatre arts.
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Tencent gives up Epic Games board seats after US antitrust scrutiny
By Bloomberg
Tencent Holdings removed two directors it appointed to the board of Epic Games after the US Justice Department deemed the positions a violation of antitrust laws.
China’s most valuable company owns both a minority stake in Epic and a direct competitor in its Riot Games subsidiary, giving rise to concern about antitrust violations, the DOJ said in a statement Wednesday. Tencent relinquished the seats as well as its unilateral right to appoint directors or observers, according to the statement.
The two directors stepping down are David Wallerstein and Ben Feder, Epic Games said in an email. Wallerstein was a long-time Tencent executive before taking on an advisory role this year, while Feder is managing partner of Tirta Ventures.
Epic Games is one of the gaming industry’s key companies, producing the Unreal Engine that’s widely used for building advanced 3D graphics and in-game physics. It’s also the creator of Fortnite, Rocket League and other globally popular games, and it has a PC game distribution platform called Epic Games Store that competes with Valve’s Steam. Tencent and PlayStation maker Sony Group have both invested significantly in Epic, whose technology they rely on.
The Department of Justice said it has amped up enforcement and oversight of potential violations of Section 8 of the Clayton Act, which prohibits directors from serving on the boards of competing companies such as Epic and Riot Games, the latter being the creator of multiplayer online games like League of Legends.
“Scrutiny around interlocking directorates continues to be an enforcement priority for the Antitrust Division,” Deputy Director of Civil Enforcement Miriam Vishio said in the DOJ’s statement. “Our increased enforcement around Section 8 over the last few years has achieved substantial results.”
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By Bloomberg
Tencent Holdings removed two directors it appointed to the board of Epic Games after the US Justice Department deemed the positions a violation of antitrust laws.
China’s most valuable company owns both a minority stake in Epic and a direct competitor in its Riot Games subsidiary, giving rise to concern about antitrust violations, the DOJ said in a statement Wednesday. Tencent relinquished the seats as well as its unilateral right to appoint directors or observers, according to the statement.
The two directors stepping down are David Wallerstein and Ben Feder, Epic Games said in an email. Wallerstein was a long-time Tencent executive before taking on an advisory role this year, while Feder is managing partner of Tirta Ventures.
Epic Games is one of the gaming industry’s key companies, producing the Unreal Engine that’s widely used for building advanced 3D graphics and in-game physics. It’s also the creator of Fortnite, Rocket League and other globally popular games, and it has a PC game distribution platform called Epic Games Store that competes with Valve’s Steam. Tencent and PlayStation maker Sony Group have both invested significantly in Epic, whose technology they rely on.
The Department of Justice said it has amped up enforcement and oversight of potential violations of Section 8 of the Clayton Act, which prohibits directors from serving on the boards of competing companies such as Epic and Riot Games, the latter being the creator of multiplayer online games like League of Legends.
“Scrutiny around interlocking directorates continues to be an enforcement priority for the Antitrust Division,” Deputy Director of Civil Enforcement Miriam Vishio said in the DOJ’s statement. “Our increased enforcement around Section 8 over the last few years has achieved substantial results.”
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Arrest of South Korea’s former spy chief sheds light on martial law conspiracy
By Park Chan-kyong
South Korean authorities have arrested a retired military intelligence commander accused of orchestrating President Yoon Suk-yeol’s failed bid to impose martial law, casting light on a hidden web of loyalists allegedly entrusted with enforcing the short-lived self-coup.
Noh Sang-won, the former head of the secretive Defence Intelligence Command (DIC), was taken into custody on Wednesday after he refused to attend a court hearing assessing whether he might tamper with evidence or flee the country.
Opposition lawmakers have accused Noh of assisting Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun with drafting the December 3 martial law decree and planning its implementation, including the coercive measures needed to enforce it.
“The defence minister gathered close confidantes to impose martial law, and Noh appears to be one of the most important figures in that effort,” Choi Jin, head of the Institute for Presidential Leadership, told This Week in Asia on Thursday.
The decree called for halting the National Assembly’s operations and implementing press censorship, sparking allegations that Yoon was seeking to prolong his grip on power through the extraordinary measure.
However, his martial law bid quickly collapsed as lawmakers defied military roadblocks to hold an emergency vote, swiftly rejecting the decree and forcing Yoon to withdraw it within hours.
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By Park Chan-kyong
South Korean authorities have arrested a retired military intelligence commander accused of orchestrating President Yoon Suk-yeol’s failed bid to impose martial law, casting light on a hidden web of loyalists allegedly entrusted with enforcing the short-lived self-coup.
Noh Sang-won, the former head of the secretive Defence Intelligence Command (DIC), was taken into custody on Wednesday after he refused to attend a court hearing assessing whether he might tamper with evidence or flee the country.
Opposition lawmakers have accused Noh of assisting Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun with drafting the December 3 martial law decree and planning its implementation, including the coercive measures needed to enforce it.
“The defence minister gathered close confidantes to impose martial law, and Noh appears to be one of the most important figures in that effort,” Choi Jin, head of the Institute for Presidential Leadership, told This Week in Asia on Thursday.
The decree called for halting the National Assembly’s operations and implementing press censorship, sparking allegations that Yoon was seeking to prolong his grip on power through the extraordinary measure.
However, his martial law bid quickly collapsed as lawmakers defied military roadblocks to hold an emergency vote, swiftly rejecting the decree and forcing Yoon to withdraw it within hours.
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Chinese cybersecurity centre accuses US of hacking and stealing tech secrets
By Phoebe Zhang
A Chinese cybersecurity body has accused the United States of carrying out cyberattacks and stealing business secrets from a research centre and a data company as the American government launched a national security investigation into Chinese router company TP-Link.
The National Computer Network Emergency Response Technical Team/Coordination Centre of China, a non-governmental body that monitors cybersecurity threats, said in a statement on Wednesday that it had found and “dealt with” these attacks.
The statement was widely carried by state media.
Since August, an advanced material design research unit has been targeted in suspected cyberattacks by American intelligence agencies, it said.
An analysis showed that the attacker used a breach in an electronic document security management system to invade the company’s server and deployed a Trojan horse virus to more than 270 hosts through a software upgrade service, the statement said, adding that the virus took control of these hosts and stole commercial secrets.
Another attack took place in May 2023, according to the centre. The attacker used a breach in Microsoft Exchange software to invade the email server of a large hi-tech enterprise specialising in smart energy and digital information.
The attacker implanted back-door programs into the company’s server and stole email data, then attacked and took control of more than 30 devices to steal commercial secrets, the centre said.
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By Phoebe Zhang
A Chinese cybersecurity body has accused the United States of carrying out cyberattacks and stealing business secrets from a research centre and a data company as the American government launched a national security investigation into Chinese router company TP-Link.
The National Computer Network Emergency Response Technical Team/Coordination Centre of China, a non-governmental body that monitors cybersecurity threats, said in a statement on Wednesday that it had found and “dealt with” these attacks.
The statement was widely carried by state media.
Since August, an advanced material design research unit has been targeted in suspected cyberattacks by American intelligence agencies, it said.
An analysis showed that the attacker used a breach in an electronic document security management system to invade the company’s server and deployed a Trojan horse virus to more than 270 hosts through a software upgrade service, the statement said, adding that the virus took control of these hosts and stole commercial secrets.
Another attack took place in May 2023, according to the centre. The attacker used a breach in Microsoft Exchange software to invade the email server of a large hi-tech enterprise specialising in smart energy and digital information.
The attacker implanted back-door programs into the company’s server and stole email data, then attacked and took control of more than 30 devices to steal commercial secrets, the centre said.
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Japanese police arrest man who stabbed schoolgirl to death at McDonald’s
By Agence France-Presse
A man was arrested on Thursday over the fatal stabbing of a junior high school student and the wounding of another at a McDonald’s in southwest Japan, local media reported.
Violent crime is rare in Japan, but there are occasional stabbings and even shootings, including the 2022 assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.
The teens were in line to order at around 8:30pm on Saturday when the attacker reportedly entered the restaurant in the city of Kitakyushu and wordlessly stabbed them both.
Police have arrested a man in his 40s who lives nearby, public broadcaster NHK and other media outlets said. Officers could not immediately confirm the reports to AFP.
Saaya Nakashima was stabbed in the abdomen and later confirmed dead at a hospital.
The boy, who was stabbed in the waist area and remains in hospital, was quoted as saying they were “stabbed by a complete stranger”.
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By Agence France-Presse
A man was arrested on Thursday over the fatal stabbing of a junior high school student and the wounding of another at a McDonald’s in southwest Japan, local media reported.
Violent crime is rare in Japan, but there are occasional stabbings and even shootings, including the 2022 assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.
The teens were in line to order at around 8:30pm on Saturday when the attacker reportedly entered the restaurant in the city of Kitakyushu and wordlessly stabbed them both.
Police have arrested a man in his 40s who lives nearby, public broadcaster NHK and other media outlets said. Officers could not immediately confirm the reports to AFP.
Saaya Nakashima was stabbed in the abdomen and later confirmed dead at a hospital.
The boy, who was stabbed in the waist area and remains in hospital, was quoted as saying they were “stabbed by a complete stranger”.
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Malaysian artist Fahmi Reza’s investigation fuels freedom of speech fears
By Hadi Azmi
Controversial Malaysian graphic artist Fahmi Reza was summoned by police on Thursday over a satirical poster he reportedly shared on social media, marking the latest case in what critics claim is a growing crackdown on freedom of speech in the country.
The questioning comes just weeks before a January 1 deadline for social media platforms to obtain licences to operate in Malaysia. The government has justified the move by citing a need to curb scams, bullying and pornography, but there are concerns such regulations could suppress legitimate criticism and stifle free expression.
Fahmi, known for his sharp political commentary, recently resurfaced after a period of reclusion with a new wave of satirical posters. His latest work, posted on Wednesday, targeted the appointment of former Sabah chief minister Musa Aman – plagued by corruption allegations – as the state governor.
Emerging from the police headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Fahmi, clutching a copy of the artwork featuring Musa’s face overlaid with the words “Sabah’s No 1 Corruptor” in red, chided the government for lodging the report against him.
“Criticising the government and rulers through art and satire is not a crime,” he said in a social media post.
“If you don’t want to be ridiculed by the people, don’t be a scoundrel government!”
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By Hadi Azmi
Controversial Malaysian graphic artist Fahmi Reza was summoned by police on Thursday over a satirical poster he reportedly shared on social media, marking the latest case in what critics claim is a growing crackdown on freedom of speech in the country.
The questioning comes just weeks before a January 1 deadline for social media platforms to obtain licences to operate in Malaysia. The government has justified the move by citing a need to curb scams, bullying and pornography, but there are concerns such regulations could suppress legitimate criticism and stifle free expression.
Fahmi, known for his sharp political commentary, recently resurfaced after a period of reclusion with a new wave of satirical posters. His latest work, posted on Wednesday, targeted the appointment of former Sabah chief minister Musa Aman – plagued by corruption allegations – as the state governor.
Emerging from the police headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Fahmi, clutching a copy of the artwork featuring Musa’s face overlaid with the words “Sabah’s No 1 Corruptor” in red, chided the government for lodging the report against him.
“Criticising the government and rulers through art and satire is not a crime,” he said in a social media post.
“If you don’t want to be ridiculed by the people, don’t be a scoundrel government!”
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China court rules man can keep US$40,000 gifted by ex after her affair to salvage relationship
By Alice Yan
A Shanghai court ruled that a man was not obliged to return the 300,000 yuan (US$40,000) his ex-girlfriend gave him in an attempt to salvage their relationship after he discovered her affair with his nephew.
The man, surnamed Li, and the woman, identified as Xu, met in 2018 and soon began dating. Two years later, Li discovered that Xu had been unfaithful with his nephew, as reported by the Shanghai Morning Post.
Angered by the betrayal, Li wanted to end their relationship, but Xu wrote him a letter of apology.
“I have deeply reflected on my mistakes. Yes, I’ve cheated on you multiple times, causing you immense pain,” Xu wrote. “I am sincerely remorseful. I will correct my mistakes and compensate you with my sincerity.”
In the following two days, Xu transferred 300,000 yuan to Li through several bank transactions as a form of apology.
Li forgave her, and their romantic relationship continued until 2022, when he discovered she was still involved with his nephew.
This revelation prompted Li to end the relationship decisively, but afterwards, Xu demanded the return of the 300,000 yuan she had given him two years earlier.
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By Alice Yan
A Shanghai court ruled that a man was not obliged to return the 300,000 yuan (US$40,000) his ex-girlfriend gave him in an attempt to salvage their relationship after he discovered her affair with his nephew.
The man, surnamed Li, and the woman, identified as Xu, met in 2018 and soon began dating. Two years later, Li discovered that Xu had been unfaithful with his nephew, as reported by the Shanghai Morning Post.
Angered by the betrayal, Li wanted to end their relationship, but Xu wrote him a letter of apology.
“I have deeply reflected on my mistakes. Yes, I’ve cheated on you multiple times, causing you immense pain,” Xu wrote. “I am sincerely remorseful. I will correct my mistakes and compensate you with my sincerity.”
In the following two days, Xu transferred 300,000 yuan to Li through several bank transactions as a form of apology.
Li forgave her, and their romantic relationship continued until 2022, when he discovered she was still involved with his nephew.
This revelation prompted Li to end the relationship decisively, but afterwards, Xu demanded the return of the 300,000 yuan she had given him two years earlier.
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US Fed’s hawkish rate-cut forecast slams China’s yuan
By Sylvia Ma
The offshore yuan weakened overnight and broke a key psychological level of 7.3 per US dollar, as the US Federal Reserve’s unexpectedly cautious forecast for rate cuts next year strengthened the dollar.
In the early hours of Thursday, the yuan depreciated to over 7.32 per US dollar – a higher number signals relative yuan weakness – reaching its lowest level since November 2023, while the latest data showed an uptick in the Chinese currency’s share of global payments.
The yuan’s decline was driven by the Fed’s latest projections, which signalled only two quarter-point rate cuts in 2025 as it cut the rate on Wednesday by 25 basis points to a range of 4.25 to 4.50 per cent – a more hawkish outlook than markets had anticipated.
Chen Zhiwu, chair professor of finance at the University of Hong Kong, said the yuan will face continued depreciation pressure next year, as the Fed is likely to slow its pace of rate cuts while China is expected to adopt “stronger rate reductions”.
“Especially with Trump potentially imposing more tariffs on goods, the Chinese government may need to show greater tolerance for a weaker yuan to stabilise exports,” Chen said.
On Thursday morning, the People’s Bank of China set the midpoint rate – also known as the fixing rate – at 7.1911 per US dollar, the lowest level in two weeks, while the offshore yuan traded at 7.31 against the US dollar Thursday afternoon.
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By Sylvia Ma
The offshore yuan weakened overnight and broke a key psychological level of 7.3 per US dollar, as the US Federal Reserve’s unexpectedly cautious forecast for rate cuts next year strengthened the dollar.
In the early hours of Thursday, the yuan depreciated to over 7.32 per US dollar – a higher number signals relative yuan weakness – reaching its lowest level since November 2023, while the latest data showed an uptick in the Chinese currency’s share of global payments.
The yuan’s decline was driven by the Fed’s latest projections, which signalled only two quarter-point rate cuts in 2025 as it cut the rate on Wednesday by 25 basis points to a range of 4.25 to 4.50 per cent – a more hawkish outlook than markets had anticipated.
Chen Zhiwu, chair professor of finance at the University of Hong Kong, said the yuan will face continued depreciation pressure next year, as the Fed is likely to slow its pace of rate cuts while China is expected to adopt “stronger rate reductions”.
“Especially with Trump potentially imposing more tariffs on goods, the Chinese government may need to show greater tolerance for a weaker yuan to stabilise exports,” Chen said.
On Thursday morning, the People’s Bank of China set the midpoint rate – also known as the fixing rate – at 7.1911 per US dollar, the lowest level in two weeks, while the offshore yuan traded at 7.31 against the US dollar Thursday afternoon.
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By SCMP
Catch up on some of SCMP’s biggest China science stories of the year. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.
Chinese scientists have sent a hypersonic aircraft with a remarkably bulky body soaring through the sky, reaching a speed that could cover the distance from Beijing to New York in two hours.
Chinese scientists have achieved a breakthrough in submarine detection by successfully creating a radio-emitting source in the sky using high-energy microwave synthesis technology.
Chinese scientists have unveiled Zuchongzhi 3.0, a 105-qubit quantum processor that puts China on par with the United States in the race to build the world’s most powerful quantum computer.The Zuchongzhi 3.0 processor. Photo: CCTV
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Malaysian court clears Najib’s wife Rosmah Mansor of money-laundering charges
By Hadi AzmiJoseph Sipalan
A Malaysian court on Thursday quashed over a dozen charges of money-laundering and tax evasion against Rosmah Mansor, the wife of jailed former leader Najib Razak.
The once-powerful couple faced a string of trials linked to alleged corruption and abuse of power over the course of Najib’s nine-year tenure as prime minister.
A Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that the charges filed by the prosecution were flawed as they failed to make clear what offences Rosmah had allegedly committed.
Judge K Muniandy granted Rosmah a full acquittal from all 17 charges without having to go through a full trial.
Rosmah, 72, welcomed the ruling, which she described as a true representation of justice.
“This is what I call justice, and this is the kind of justice that everybody should have,” she told reporters after the hearing.
Rosmah was first charged in 2018 with 12 counts of money-laundering involving 7.09 million ringgit (US$1.6 million) and five counts of failing to declare her income to the tax authorities.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Hadi AzmiJoseph Sipalan
A Malaysian court on Thursday quashed over a dozen charges of money-laundering and tax evasion against Rosmah Mansor, the wife of jailed former leader Najib Razak.
The once-powerful couple faced a string of trials linked to alleged corruption and abuse of power over the course of Najib’s nine-year tenure as prime minister.
A Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that the charges filed by the prosecution were flawed as they failed to make clear what offences Rosmah had allegedly committed.
Judge K Muniandy granted Rosmah a full acquittal from all 17 charges without having to go through a full trial.
Rosmah, 72, welcomed the ruling, which she described as a true representation of justice.
“This is what I call justice, and this is the kind of justice that everybody should have,” she told reporters after the hearing.
Rosmah was first charged in 2018 with 12 counts of money-laundering involving 7.09 million ringgit (US$1.6 million) and five counts of failing to declare her income to the tax authorities.
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Operation Santa Claus: runners don festive outfits for Hong Kong charity run
By Jay Ganglani
Dressed in Christmas outfits, more than 120 people joined an annual cross country run to help raise funds for a Hong Kong charity drive.
Participants of “Santa Hash” gathered at the Lockhart Road Playground in Wan Chai at 2:30pm on December 8 before they made their way around some of the city’s key landmarks, including Star Ferry Pier, St John’s Cathedral and Hong Kong Park.
“This is the one event in the year where we all come together for a good cause,” organiser Mark Hope said.
Santa Hash originated in Malaysia in 1944, while the Hong Kong edition was started in 1991. At the time, the main items of donation were toys.
Last year’s Santa Hash raised more than HK$60,000 (US$7,721) for Operation Santa Claus (OSC), an annual fundraising drive established by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK.
“I don’t get much opportunity to otherwise give back to the community. It’s also a bit more meaningful than simply just putting money in a box,” participant Allan Knowles said.
The annual event also helps bring people of different backgrounds together.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Jay Ganglani
Dressed in Christmas outfits, more than 120 people joined an annual cross country run to help raise funds for a Hong Kong charity drive.
Participants of “Santa Hash” gathered at the Lockhart Road Playground in Wan Chai at 2:30pm on December 8 before they made their way around some of the city’s key landmarks, including Star Ferry Pier, St John’s Cathedral and Hong Kong Park.
“This is the one event in the year where we all come together for a good cause,” organiser Mark Hope said.
Santa Hash originated in Malaysia in 1944, while the Hong Kong edition was started in 1991. At the time, the main items of donation were toys.
Last year’s Santa Hash raised more than HK$60,000 (US$7,721) for Operation Santa Claus (OSC), an annual fundraising drive established by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK.
“I don’t get much opportunity to otherwise give back to the community. It’s also a bit more meaningful than simply just putting money in a box,” participant Allan Knowles said.
The annual event also helps bring people of different backgrounds together.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By SCMP
We have selected five Trending in China stories from the past seven days that resonated with our readers. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.
A viral video of a 16-month-old boy in China, who died in his mother’s arms while watching fireworks, has touched the hearts of millions of internet users.
A Hong Kong woman shared her disappointing experience at a “matchmaking corner” in southern China, where she faced rejection due to her age and height of only 154cm, igniting ridicule and humorous debate among mainland netizens.A Hong Kong woman was rejected for her height at a “matchmaking corner” in mainland China, sparking humorous debate about dating preferences. Photo: SCMP composite/Sohu/Xiaohongshu
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Russia rewards top neuroscientist who left Europe for China with Vyzov Prize
By Victoria Bela
A prominent neuroscientist who left Europe to join a brand new research facility in China has won one of Russia’s top science awards for opening up the possibilities of non-invasive studies of brain activity in real time.
Nikos Logothetis was awarded the Vyzov Prize’s discovery category for his contributions to the development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and its introduction into the study of human brain activity.
“When I started, I realised to my surprise that people have no idea what fMRI signals are,” said Logothetis, co-director and senior investigator at the International Centre for Primate Brain Research in Shanghai.
According to the Vyzov Foundation, Logothetis was recognised for making it possible to study brain activity non-invasively at a high resolution, potentially leading to new ways to diagnose and treat neurological conditions like depression and Alzheimer’s disease.
Logothetis said it was an “extremely nice” surprise to win the international category, which this year received more than 600 nominations from scientists in more than 30 countries.
He is the first non-Russian to win the prize, which was established in 2023 in partnership with the government. Logothetis will receive his award at a ceremony in Moscow on Thursday night.
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By Victoria Bela
A prominent neuroscientist who left Europe to join a brand new research facility in China has won one of Russia’s top science awards for opening up the possibilities of non-invasive studies of brain activity in real time.
Nikos Logothetis was awarded the Vyzov Prize’s discovery category for his contributions to the development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and its introduction into the study of human brain activity.
“When I started, I realised to my surprise that people have no idea what fMRI signals are,” said Logothetis, co-director and senior investigator at the International Centre for Primate Brain Research in Shanghai.
According to the Vyzov Foundation, Logothetis was recognised for making it possible to study brain activity non-invasively at a high resolution, potentially leading to new ways to diagnose and treat neurological conditions like depression and Alzheimer’s disease.
Logothetis said it was an “extremely nice” surprise to win the international category, which this year received more than 600 nominations from scientists in more than 30 countries.
He is the first non-Russian to win the prize, which was established in 2023 in partnership with the government. Logothetis will receive his award at a ceremony in Moscow on Thursday night.
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