Lifestyle & Culture
Thai fans lament end of iconic 43-year-old rock band over old age, illnesses
The 43-year-old rock band, which was founded in the Philippines, has built an ardent fan base with its songs chronicling coup-prone Thailand’s political and social turmoil.
Why are Japan’s workers reluctant to take paid leave?
Japanese employees across age groups are unwilling to use up their paid leave, even as the younger generation aspires to have a better work-life balance.
‘Closed little societies’? Japanese schools criticised for hair discrimination
Japanese schools have a reputation for being extremely strict, but there’s been a growing backlash against harsh rules on student appearance.
Miss Universe Vietnam rejects claims pageant was rigged: ‘I deserve the title’
Social media users, who pointed out that one of her interview answers matched Google search results, welcome the probe by the contest organization.
Mum of Blackpink’s Lisa criticised over star’s Paris club show: ‘bad role model’
The criticism came after Chitthip Bruschweiler shared an Instagram photo of her daughter, Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban of K-pop supergroup Blackpink, posing with scantily clad dancers at a Paris club.
‘Small fish’ retailers choose defiance as Indonesia targets sales over TikTok
Experts believe the ban will not last, given the economic heft of TikTok in Indonesia, and urged improving regulation instead.
Fears of ‘cultural genocide’ on Indonesian island over Chinese-funded project
A Chinese-backed economic zone on an Indonesian island south of Singapore is facing stiff resistance from residents who face eviction and an uncertain future.
Japanese island imposes tourist tax after G7 leaders’ visit sparks travel rush
The tax of 100 yen (67 US cents) will be added to each visitor’s ferry fare to the island that is home to Unesco-listed Itsukushima Shrine.
Does ‘Girl Math’ help Singapore’s Gen Z ‘find joy’ – or spend recklessly?
Some Singaporeans say Girl Math is a ‘coping mechanism’ for young people grappling with cost-of-living pressures in the city state.
Thailand mulls ban at Unesco site Si Thep after tourists climb sacred hill
Thailand may impose a climbing ban at the Unesco-listed ancient town of Si Thep after visitors flocked to its hill where sacred relics were placed.
India ‘doctor’ keeps fountain pens flowing with care, devotion to tradition
India has a rich history of fountain pen-making and vintage shops that repair pens of all types for enthusiasts from around the world.
Indonesia’s emissions surge as Asia seeks more energy-intensive data centres
Pollution woes are hampering Indonesia’s economic ambitions as more Asian technology firms seek vast new spaces for energy-intensive data centres.
Digital nomads embrace ‘freedom’ of work and travel lifestyle in Japan
More foreign digital nomads are working and travelling in Japan while local authorities also are aiming to attract such entrepreneurs
‘They do not understand’: anger mounts against Japan sex predator’s talent firm
Johnny & Associates has failed in another attempt to recover from its late founder’s sexual abuse scandal, as the talent agency loses more advertising contracts and faces public demands for legal sanctions.
Nepali food is ‘unique, flavourful’ but unknown. This chef wants to change that
Santosh Shah, winner of Masterchef: The Professionals, Rematch, wants to raise the global profile of Nepali food by showcasing various indigenous cuisines and communities.
Indian folk art becomes canvas for social change and ‘communal harmony’
Indian folk painters who sing to narrate the stories depicted in their paintings are using their art to address modern issues – from the climate crisis to India’s moon landing.
Malaysia’s previous government would have banned Anwar biopic: cartoonist Zunar
Zulkiflee Anwar Haque was almost imprisoned for satirising figures including former leader Najib Razak. Now he’s turned his gaze elsewhere, with his film about PM Anwar Ibrahim bringing its own set of challenges.
Thais irked as Kuwaiti bikers living the fast life descend on Pattaya
Students from Kuwait are flocking to Pattaya, attracted by lower temperatures than home, stronger spending power – and the chance to attract an online following through high-risk riding.
Nepal’s older LGBTQ people still feel ‘invisible’ despite rights progress
Many over the age of 50 married against their will or to meet social norms and are still not recognised for who they really are, let alone sharing in legal gains.
Filipino women cyclists reclaim Manila’s roads as they defy ‘unladylike’ stigma
Many women who began pedalling in the Philippines during the pandemic want to continue – but prejudice is still a bump in the road.