Regional News Roundup: August 24-25, 2025
Malaysia: A state visit is currently underway in Malaysia. Additionally, malaysia is expanding its halal travel offerings through ITM 2025, reflecting a rise in Muslim-friendly tourism. An Indian woman was arrested for attempting to leave the country using a fraudulent special pass.
Brunei: Temburong celebrated the 79th birthday of the Sultan of Brunei.The Sultan also received Singapore’s minister in an audience.
Indonesia: A kite festival took place at Mertasari beach in Denpasar, Bali, on Sunday, August 24, 2025. (Photo by sonny Tumbelaka / AFP)
China: China is taking steps to address price wars by updating a 1998 law. The country is also activating its highest alert level as Typhoon kajiki approaches Hainan province. China’s rise in biotechnology could possibly lower healthcare costs, according to investors. Analysts suggest China’s new K visa for young STEM talent signals both ambition and underlying anxieties. Guangdong province is pursuing ventures in space mining and tourism,aiming to compete with initiatives like those led by Elon Musk. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has described Pakistan as a “most reliable partner” amidst ongoing tensions with India. China held its third rehearsal for an event commemorating the 80th anniversary of its victory over Japanese aggression and fascism.
South Korea: South Korea and Japan have agreed to strengthen ties in the face of mounting challenges. Special prosecutors are seeking to detain former Prime Minister Han over a martial law crisis. Discussions are underway regarding a potential meeting between South Korea and Donald Trump, wich could present a new opportunity for engagement with North Korea. The “Korean Wave,” or Hallyu, continues to exert meaningful soft power influence. Taiwan has indicated openness to nuclear power despite a failed referendum to restart a power plant.
Japan: Eighteen people were injured after an individual allegedly released pepper spray in Tokyo, leading to an arrest.
India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is offering tax cuts as potential US tariffs loom. India is planning a large dam project in Arunachal Pradesh, with consideration given to China’s hydropower station in Tibet. A woman was allegedly burned to death for dowry, and her husband has been arrested in Greater Noida. Postal deliveries to the US are being suspended due to tariff confusion. A report indicates no abnormalities in ocean monitoring two years after the start of treated water release from Fukushima. A historical piece examines the legacies of indian warrior kings Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan and their resistance to colonial rule.
Pakistan: A lake formed by a mountain mudslide poses a threat of “catastrophic” floods.
Sri Lanka: The former president of Sri Lanka has been rushed to intensive care following imprisonment.
North Korea: North Korea has test-fired two “new” air defense missiles, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Australia: Protests were held across Australia in support of Palestinians. The country is aiming to accelerate housing construction to address a lingering crisis.
Hong Kong: Scammers are exploiting rental platforms amid a rise in investment fraud.
International/Other: A badminton player, Zii Jia, has publicly discussed his struggles with depression.
