LATEST PULSE

Iran has raised alarms across the region after issuing a fresh warning to the United States and Israel. With tensions rising again in the Strait of Hormuz, Southeast Asia is watching developments closely due to the waterway's critical role in global energy flows.   Growing Threats to Close the Strait Tehran has repeatedly threatened to shut down the Strait as the US has increased pressure on Tehran, including surrounding it with military ...

Asia’s tourism scene is getting more competitive, with Malaysia and Japan almost tied as the region’s top destinations. In 2025, Malaysia welcomed 42.2 million visitors, close to Japan’s 42.68 million. Both countries are expected to grow further in 2026, with Malaysia aiming for 43 million arrivals. Thailand, South Korea, and the Philippines trail behind, showing just how tight the regional tourism race has become. &n...

2025 may be remembered as a turning point for both climate and global politics. Scientists confirmed it as one of the hottest years on record, while extreme weather events disrupted economies, displaced communities, and strained governments around the world.   From wildfires across Europe to deadly heatwaves and floods in Asia, climate-driven disasters no longer exist in isolation. They are shaping political decisions, worsening social ten...

The Philippines took major defense steps in 2025 and early 2026. Manila expanded military alliances, signed new security deals, and strengthened old partnerships. These moves signaled a clear shift in defense strategy and a willingness to prepare for a more contested region.   China’s rising military activity in the South China Sea influenced nearly every decision. Analysts say Beijing’s pressure has accelerated Manila’s ...

Tensions between China and Japan rose sharply in early November 2025 after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned that a Chinese naval blockade of Taiwan could threaten Japan’s survival and force the mobilization of its military. In response, Beijing rolled out a coordinated pressure campaign on Tokyo. Measures included suspending Japanese seafood imports, slowing approvals for Japanese films, discouraging its citizens from traveling...