September 2008

Indonesian tycoon to launch new daily newspaperAudio

Updated 30/09/2008 19:42:23

The Indonesian press is about to get a whole lot more interesting. A new newspaper the Jakarta Globe will hit newstands in Indonesia's major cities within weeks. The 48-page full colour English language broadsheet will rival Indonesia's stalwart newspaper, the Jakarta Post.

Indonesian exodus to celebrate end of RamadanAudioTranscript

Updated 30/09/2008 19:42:27

Across the world, Muslims are preparing to end Ramadan celebrations, it's a time when families and friends come together to break their month long fast. In Indonesia tens of millions people are now making the long journey across the archipelago, returning to their hometowns and villages.

Cambodia's Prince Ranariddh returns homeAudioTranscript

Updated 30/09/2008 19:53:40

Cambodia's Prince Norodom Ranariddh has returned from exile just days after being pardoned by the king over a fraud conviction. His political rival, Prime Minister Hun Sen requested the amnesty.

UN to return to Sri LankaAudio

Updated 30/09/2008 19:42:35

Two weeks ago, the Sri Lankan government ordered aid workers out of the strife-torn north of the country. The move all but severed relief supplies to the thousands of people displaced by fighting between government forces and the separatist Tamil Tigers. But now, the UN says the World Food Program has been given the green light to send a 60- truck convoy to the north carrying hundreds of tonnes of food to those in need.

Asian stocks dive as panic sweeps global marketsAudio

Updated 30/09/2008 19:42:39

Global stockmarkets have suffered the worst carnage since the crash of October 1987. The trigger, the shock vote by the U-S Congress to reject a 700 Billion U-S dollar bail-out of the American financial system. Across Asia, stocks have plunged extending the biggest sell-off in 21 years.

The death of Singapore's political opposition stalwartAudio

Updated 30/09/2008 19:42:23

The grand old man of Singapore's political opposition Joshua Benjamin Jeyaretnam or JBJ as he was better known has died. He was 82. JBJ was one of the rare few to speak out against Singapore's People's Action Party.

Pakistan's war on militants focused in BajaurAudio

Updated 29/09/2008 20:41:24

In Pakistan the government's war against Al Qaeda and Taliban militants seems to be centred in Bajaur, an obscure tribal region bordering Afghanistan.
Major General Tariq Khan who commands the troops here says if the army looses Bajaur it will loose everything. Much rides on Bajaur but in an interview in New York Pakistan's president Asif Ali Zardari called on Washington to be patient and said his military is capable of quelling the militants.

US House of Representatives lifts ban on nuclear sales to IndiaAudioTranscript

Updated 29/09/2008 20:41:24

The US House of Representatives has passed a deal that lifts a three decade-old ban on civilian nuclear trade with India. But it's still unclear if it will get through the US Senate before Congress adjourns, ahead of the November 4th elections. The deal gives India access to Western fuel and technology, as long as it allows UN inspections of some of its nuclear facilities. Critics say the deal is full of loopholes, and they're still hoping they can block it from going through.

Australians uneasy about China's rising influenceAudio

Updated 29/09/2008 20:41:24

Australians appear to be increasingly uneasy over China's rising influence in the region. While they welcome the benefits of China's economic growth, trust in Beijing has dropped according to an annual poll conducted by one of the country's most respected independent think tanks. At the same time, the Lowy Institute's survey of one thousand and one Australians has found an improvement in attitude towards the US just when Washington's influence globally is perceived as a negative.

Islamic stock markets performing wellAudioTranscript

Updated 29/09/2008 20:41:24

The biggest financial bailout in US history will soon be put to the test when Congress starts voting on the package. The proposed deal is designed to ease the crisis which has sent financial markets into a tailspin. But new figures show one global finance sector might be better equipped to weather the storm. In August, the one hundred leading Shariah compliant stocks lost one point six per cent of their value, while the Dow Jones Global Titans 50 lost more than two and a half percent. During the 1997 Asian financial crisis, the region's Islamic stock markets performed better than their conventional counterparts. Could history be repeating itself?

Japan's new cabinet looses its first ministerAudio

Updated 29/09/2008 20:41:24

The Japanese transport minister, Nariaki Nakayama has resigned less than a week after taking the job. He's been criticised for a series of remarks - such as calling Japan's largest teachers' union "a cancer", and referring to campaigners opposed to airport expansion as "squeaky wheels". Kazuyoshi Kaneko will be the new transport minister in Prime Minister Taro Aso's cabinet.

Presenter: Sonja Heydeman
Speaker: Dr.Jeff Kingston, Director of Asian Studies at Japan's Temple University

China hosts summer Davos talksAudio

Updated 29/09/2008 20:41:24

At the weekend the world's leading business people meeting for the Summer Davos Forum in the Chinese city of Tianjin were asking if the US bailout can help emerging economies like China maintain their progress. The certainly hope so. Organised by the World Economic Forum, it's the second time China has hosted the Summer Davos and many are now saying it should be an annual event in Asia.

Business elite gather in China to discuss economic crisisAudio

Updated 26/09/2008 18:40:55

The best of the best in the business world will gather in the Chinese city Tianjin this weekend to discuss the current economic situation and share their vision for the future. Organised by the World Economic Forum, the The Next Wave of Growth conference is hoping to seek new ways to move forward from the current global economic crisis.

India's record drink driving death tollAudio

Updated 26/09/2008 18:40:59

India records the highest number of deaths in the world when it comes to road accidents due to drunken driving. Every year nearly 300-thousand road accidents are recorded in India. And around 90-thousand Indians die on the roads every year as a result of drink-driving.

East Timor mulls traditional justice for serious crimesAudioTranscript

Updated 26/09/2008 18:41:04

For many in East Timor, access to the justice system is almost impossible.Institutions are weak and the remoteness of many villages means it can take days to reach the nearest police station. Now, one government official is travelling around East Timor promoting the use of traditional justice for all crimes, including rape.

Burma on alert on anniversary of Saffron RevolutionAudioTranscript

Updated 26/09/2008 18:41:08

Security has been increased in the Burmese capital Rangoon after yesterday's bomb blast injured several people and the timing couldn't be worse. A year ago this week, 31 Buddhist monks and protestors were shot dead by security officers during a massive pro-democracty street protest.

New Zealand in recessionAudio

Updated 26/09/2008 18:41:22

The New Zealand economy has fallen into recession for the first time in a decade. Like Australia, it's being weighed down by high interest rates, mountains of household debt and drought. But its size makes New Zealand much more susceptible to the flow on effects of the global financial crisis.

New youth TV channel for CambodiaAudio

Updated 26/09/2008 18:40:55

The popular Cambodian Television Network is getting ready to launch a new free-to-air channel aimed specifically at young people. MY-TV is set for launch in January. It will carry music shows, dramas aimed at a teenage audience and educational documentaries.

New Thai cabinet unveiledAudioTranscript

Updated 25/09/2008 19:55:23

Thailand's new Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat has revealed a new 36-member line-up made up of veteran politicians, academics and a few controvesial faces from the past. But the new cabinet has done nothing to appease anti-government protestors who are vowing to continue their campaign.

India and Pakistan agree on fresh talksAudio

Updated 25/09/2008 19:55:56

After months of strained relations, India and Pakistan have agreed to resume peace talks. The newly elected Pakistani president Asif Ali Zardari and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh say high level talks will be held in the next few months.

Asia's nuclear worriesAudioTranscript

Updated 25/09/2008 19:56:02

North Korea has barred international nuclear inspectors from its main plutonium reactor and says it plans to reactivate the facility within days. Pyongyang's move has once again focussed attention on other nations wanting to get nuclear, like India which is stepping up efforts to buy uranium for its increased energy demands At the same time Australia and Japan are trying to speed up discussion on nuclear disarmament.

Japan's craze for pink Australian diamondsAudio

Updated 25/09/2008 19:55:06

Australian mining giant Rio Tinto is in Tokyo to launch its three day auction for fans and collectors of pink diamonds recovered at the Argyle mine in Western Australia.

US Presidential advisors debate Asian foreign policyAudioTranscript

Updated 25/09/2008 19:55:15

It's still unclear if the first U-S presidential debate between Senators Barack Obama and John McCain will go ahead as scheduled. But at least their Asian policy advisors have met for talks in Washington. And it turns out there's more that unites the two camps than divides them.

Thousands of children working as slaves in MalaysiaAudio

Updated 25/09/2008 19:55:19

Indonesia's Child Protection Commission says it has evidence showing more than 30-thousand Indonesian children are working in virtual slavery in oil palm plantations in the eastern Malaysian state of Sabah.

Asian nations make annual corruption listAudioTranscript

Updated 24/09/2008 19:38:29

The corruption watchdog Transparency International has released its annual ranking of countries and it's a mixed bag for Asia. While many Asian nations still languish towards the bottom of the list, there are some glimmers of hope, with Indonesia rewarded for its efforts at tackling graft.

Pressure intensifies on Malaysian PM to resignAudioTranscript

Updated 24/09/2008 19:38:32

Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi is under intense pressure to resign, following rare criticism from within his own cabinet. To add to his woes, Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim continues to crow about having the numbers to sack the government.

Focus on Pakistan's new shadowy terror groupAudio

Updated 24/09/2008 19:38:35

Islamabad is on high alert as fears grow of more attacks within the capital as intelligence officers hunt for members of a new shadowy group calling itself Fedayeen Islam. The group has already claimed responsibility for the weekend Marriot blast and it's warned of more suicide bombings.

New Zealand dairy giant apologises for China milk contaminationAudio

Updated 24/09/2008 19:38:38

New Zealand dairy giant Fonterra says it's "sorry" for the milk contamination crisis in China which has killed four babies and made more than 50-thousand infants ill. Fonterra part-owns San Lu, the Chinese company which sold contaminated milk formula to unsuspecting parents. Now the Chinese government is alleging that representatives from San Lu knew as far back as eight months ago that babies were getting ill and they lied about it.

China prepares for first space walkAudio

Updated 24/09/2008 19:38:29

China's ambitious space programme will take a giant step forward on Thursday night when three astronauts blast off on a mission to undertake China's first space walk.

China and India not strong enough to weather financial hurricaneAudioTranscript

Updated 23/09/2008 20:04:26

The world's stock markets continue to dive as scepticism grows about how Washington's massive bail-out fund can restore economic confidence. Economists say not even Asia's powerhouse economies of India and China, long talked about as the world's locomotive of economic growth, can offset this financial hurricane.

Bangladesh announces poll dateAudioTranscript

Updated 23/09/2008 20:04:03

Bangladesh has announced it will go to the polls in December. The announcement has been welcomed as a chance to restart the country's stalled political process.

Asian women want protection in Australian workplaceAudioTranscript

Updated 23/09/2008 20:04:08

As the Australian government introduces regulations covering guest workers from the Pacific, another group of migrant employees are pushing for greater safeguards under the proposed changes to Australia's industrial relations laws. A group of Asian women are in the capital to tell the government they need protection in the workplace.

Philippine Muslim separatists allegedly training foreign militantsAudioTranscript

Updated 23/09/2008 20:04:14

Muslim separatist rebels in the southern Philippines have been accused of training foreign militants and recruiting child soldiers while engaged in peace talks with the government. Military intelligence officials say training manuals and bomb-making equipment was recovered from a camp in southern Mindanao last week.

Fresh concerns over North Korean nuclear ambitionsAudio

Updated 23/09/2008 20:04:20

North Korea is reportedly preparing to resume its nuclear weapons program. Pyongyang has asked the U-N nuclear watchdog to remove seals and surveillance cameras from its nuclear reprocessing facility to allow it to carry out tests. It comes after the North accused Washington of not fulfilling its part of a disarmament-for-aid deal.

Japan's new prime minister Taro AsoAudioTranscript

Updated 22/09/2008 20:22:43

Japan has a new Prime Minister. Taro Aso has been elected in a ballot of M-Ps and party delegates and he's won convincingly with more than two thirds of the vote. But as leader Mr Aso is facing political turmoil as his party faces the prospect of losing power entirely.

Al Qaeda blamed for Pakistan bomb attackAudio

Updated 22/09/2008 20:22:49

Pakistan has pledged to take targeted action against militants in the wake of the suicide bombing that killed 53 people in the capital Islamabad. More than 260 people were injured in the weekend suicide truck bomb attack on the Marriott Hotel. No group has yet claimed responsibility, but intelligence officials have pointed the finger at Al Qaeda.

Presenter: Sonja Heydeman
Speakers: Pakistan President Asif Ali Zadari; Associate Professor David Wright-Neville, Global Terrorism Research Centre at Monash University; Talat Masood, Retired Pakistani General.

UN challenges to help Asia's displacedAudioTranscript

Updated 22/09/2008 20:22:39

There are an estimated eight-million people in Asia, displaced this year by conflict and natural disasters like Burma's Cyclone Nargis and China's Sichuan earthquake. And they face a deeply uncertain future once the emergency aid and camera crews move on.

China toxic milk sickens 53,000 babies as scare spreadsAudioTranscript

Updated 22/09/2008 20:23:06

China's tainted milk scandal has spiralled into uncharted territory, as authorities dramatically revise the number of sick children to 52-thousand and counting. Four babies have died and at least 19-thousand children are sick after drinking milk contaminated by the industrial chemcial melamine. Now Chinese families are preparing to launch the biggest class action China has ever seen.

Mysterious lump found on New Zealand beachAudio

Updated 22/09/2008 20:22:39

A mysterious object has washed up on a beach near the capital Wellington. It's the size of a 44-gallon drum, weighs a couple of hundred kilos and is white in colour. Initially, everyone thought it was a giant block of cheese. But now, more weird and wonderful theories are doing the rounds.

China's Sinosteel to buy slice of Australian mining companyAudio

Updated 22/09/2008 20:27:31

The Australian government has given the green light to one of China's biggest state owned businesses to buy a large slice of an emerging mining company in Western Australia.

Challenges facing East Timor's internally displacedAudio

Updated 19/09/2008 20:13:00

Two years ago, East Timor descended into chaos and violence forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes in the capital Dili. Since then, the government has done all it can to try and return its internal 100-thousand refugees. But the long term challenge will be ensuring the re-integration is a long term success.

Indonesia's anti-corruption watchdog makes a differenceAudio

Updated 19/09/2008 20:13:04

The Indonesian Government's recent successes in fighting corruption is beginning to lose support from people in high places. Critics of Jakarta's anti-corruption watchdog the KPK say its interfering in the work of the government. But with general elections set for next year, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono needs the support of several parties. And some would prefer he went soft on corruption.

PNG resources boom attracts investmentAudio

Updated 19/09/2008 20:13:00

While financial problems and pessimism have ensnared a lot of the world's western markets, they're not worrying Papua New Guinea. There the resources boom continues to attract big investment. The latest is the world's third largest liquified natural gas project, that will see gas piped from the PNG highlands.

Concerns for Burma as milk formula scandal widensAudio

Updated 19/09/2008 20:13:08

In China, there's growing anger at new reports that the company at the centre of the tainted milk formula scandal knew of the contamination three years ago. More than six thousand babies have fallen sick after drinking the formula, four have died and more than 150 are ill with kidney failure. Local officials have confirmed there are 22-other producers of the tainted formula and two of those have been exporting it to countries including Burma.

US looks to fast track India nuclear dealAudioTranscript

Updated 19/09/2008 20:13:11

The US Congress has begun discussions on a landmark civilian nuclear agreement with India, with a call from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to fast track endorsement this month. If approved, the civil nuclear agreement would give India access to western technology and cheap atomic energy.

Asia panics as central banks aid U-SAudioTranscript

Updated 18/09/2008 19:43:27

The world's largest central banks have announced they're joining forces in an unprecedented fund to inject money into global markets. It comes after the US government's 85-billion dollar bail-out of the giant insurance company, A-I-G failed to stop the panic swirling around the world. Investors are convinced its just a matter of time before more big names fall.

Pakistan-US tensions worsen amid over new US strikeAudioTranscript

Updated 18/09/2008 19:43:19

Tensions between Pakistan and the United States continue to deteriorate after a U-S missile strike killed five people in a Pakistani village. It comes less than a day after U-S military chief Admiral Mullen reiterated American respect for Pakistan's sovereignty.

Small business still suffering in East TimorAudioTranscript

Updated 18/09/2008 19:43:15

A new report by the World Bank shows it's no easier to run a business in East Timor now than it was a year ago, despite the government's efforts. The survey shows small businesses have trouble getting lines of credit and foreign investors still face many hurdles.

US presidential hopefuls spell out China policyAudio

Updated 18/09/2008 19:43:10

U-S Presidential contenders John McCain and Barack Obama have published their view's on China's rising diplomatic and economic power. If elected, both men say they will press China on trade, climate change and human rights. But Democratic candidate Obama has gone a step further saying his first priority will be to shift Beijing's currency policies.

China milk formula scandal widensAudio

Updated 18/09/2008 19:43:23

In China, hospitals are preparing for what they fear will be a massive increase in the number of children made sick by milk powder which was deliberately contaminated with a toxic chemical. Six thousand babies in China are ill. Three have died.

Thailand's parliament elects a new prime ministerAudio

Updated 17/09/2008 20:53:10

Thailand's parliament has elected a brother-in-law of ousted leader Thaksin Shinawatra as prime minister.

Indian Courts using brain scanning technologyAudioTranscript

Updated 17/09/2008 20:53:08

An Indian court in July became the first in the world to convict a suspect based on evidence from brain scanning technology.

French Defence Minister visits AustraliaAudio

Updated 17/09/2008 20:53:09

Australia and France are closer than the thickness of a cigarette paper when it comes to Afghanistan. Well that's how France's defence Minister Herve Morin described the relationship during his first visit to Australia.

China's milk scandal escalatesAudio

Updated 17/09/2008 20:53:10

China's latest food contamination scandal is worsening. An investigation has revealed a dramatic rise in the number of babies made sick by milk contaminated with the toxic chemical melamine.

UN staff leave Sri Lanka's northAudio

Updated 17/09/2008 20:53:10

The United Nations has pulled its staff out of rebel-held areas in Sri Lanka's north after the government refused to guarantee the safety of aid workers.

Presenter: Sonja Heydeman
Speakers: Gordon Weiss, UN Spokesman in Sri Lanka

Fallout from US financial crisis hits Asia hardAudioTranscript

Updated 16/09/2008 19:39:32

Asian markets have felt the full force of the shock wave from the latest financial meltdown in the United States, with the collapse of the one of the most respected American investment banks, Lehman Brothers. Stock markets plunged throughout Asia, New Zealand and Australia, as authorities issued calming messages that had little effect.

Australia's defence minister en route to Indonesia and TimorAudio

Updated 16/09/2008 19:39:24

The region's security and arms build up will be on the agenda this week when Australia's defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon travels to Jakarta for talks with defence officials.

Indonesia to appeal funds access for Tommy SuhartoAudioTranscript

Updated 16/09/2008 19:39:28

The Indonesian government says it plans to appeal against a Supreme Court decision granting the youngest son of former President Suharto access to more than 134-million U-S dollars of frozen funds.

Paralympic athletes competing during RamadanAudio

Updated 16/09/2008 19:39:19

The Paralympics are coming to an end in Beijing. The athletes have had four years of gruelling preparation to make it to the Games. And on top of their particular disability some have other challenges to contend with including the fact that the Paralympics have fallen squarely within the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Freeport blasts in Indonesia's Papua ProvinceAudio

Updated 16/09/2008 19:39:19

There's been a spate of bomb attacks in and around the American Freeport owned gold and copper mine in Indonesia's Papua Province, with a separatist group claiming responsibility. The Free Papua Movement has issued a statement calling for the mine to be closed.

Disease surveillance systems still weak in AsiaAudio

Updated 15/09/2008 20:02:53

There are warnings that newer and tougher approaches to disease prevention are going to be needed in the Asia Pacific as climate change combined with population pressures increase the risks to human health. Australian scientists are creating a new committee to provide an early warning system for dangerous diseases that will link up with countries in South East Asia.

Cracks in Malaysian ruling party over arrestsAudio

Updated 15/09/2008 20:02:53

Several Malaysian cabinet ministers have broken rank to speak out against the Internal Security Act arrests. But it also plays right into the hands of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim's much touted plans to form a new administration with the help of defecting politicians.

China milk formula scandalAudio

Updated 15/09/2008 20:03:27

In China, two babies are dead and more than 600 sick with kidney stones after drinking contaminated milk formula.
The milk powder is produced by the Chinese company Sanlu, which is partly owned by the New Zealand dairy giant Fonterra. At least 19 people have been arrested accused of adding the toxic substance Malamine to the formula.

Indian police seek militant bomb suspectsAudio

Updated 15/09/2008 20:03:21

In India, calls are growing for tougher laws and strategies to combat attacks by militant groups after a series of bomb blasts in the capital, New Delhi on the weekend. The Indian Mujahideen militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Malaysia's controversial ISA arrestsAudioTranscript

Updated 15/09/2008 20:03:09

Malaysia's law minister has quit in protest against the arrest of three people under the country's harsh Internal Security Act.
Zaid Ibrahim tendered his resignation saying he disagrees with the use of the act against an anti-government blogger, a journalist and an opposition politician.

New nominee for Thai Prime MinisterAudio

Updated 15/09/2008 20:03:15

Thailand's ruling People Power Party has nominated Somchai Wongsawat as its candidate for prime minister to replace the embattled Samak Sundaravej. But it won't signal an end to Thailand's three month long political crisis because of his close ties to former leader, Thaksin Shinawatra.

Temporary migration under OECD scrutinyAudioTranscript

Updated 12/09/2008 18:47:05

With their ageing populations and need for low-skilled labour, the world's richest nations are increasingly looking for temporary migrants. The OECD's latest report on temporary migration was out this week.

Election date set for New ZealandAudio

Updated 12/09/2008 18:59:05

After months of speculation, the New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark has finally set the date for the country's election.
And if the polls are right, November the eighth could spell the end of her nine year reign. Helen Clark says she's confident she can hold on to the top job but others aren't convinced.

Indonesia's presidential candidates talk up issuesAudio

Updated 12/09/2008 18:58:41

Indonesia's Presidential elections are still more than a year away but potential candidates, young and old, are already making their case for a nomination.

A cautious view on Australia's relationship with ASEANAudioTranscript

Updated 12/09/2008 18:58:51

The Australian Prime Minister this week flagged a major expansion of Australia's defence forces to counter what he described as an increasing military build-up in the Asia Pacific region. Kevin Rudd was at pains to describe it as an arms build-up and not an arms race. Now a parliamentary inquiry has heard a more cautious view put forward during a hearing into Australia and its relationship with ASEAN.

Malaysia's opposition pursues potential government defectorsAudio

Updated 12/09/2008 18:58:58

Malaysia' opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has been steadfast in meeting his deadline to unseat the government by next Tuesday. But now he's been forced to shelve that plan with fifty government MP's on a study trip to Taiwan. Now a delegation has been sent to Taipei to woo potential defectors.

Exiled Burmese news agency marks tenth anniversaryAudio

Updated 12/09/2008 18:47:05

It's 10 years since Mizzima News was set up by a group of Burmese reporters living in exile in the Indian capital to provide a rare window into events affecting the lives of Burma's people. Despite the difficulties in getting information out of the military-run country, Mizzima's looking to strengthen the flow of information.

Pakistan angry at US over insurgency battleAudioTranscript

Updated 11/09/2008 20:38:11

Washington's new approach to the war in Afghanistan means closer co-operation with Pakistan. But Pakistan's Army chief, General Ashfaq Kayani says no foreign troops will be allowed to conduct operations inside Pakistan. He says the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan will be protected at all costs.

Hopes the Paralympics will educate China about disabilityAudio

Updated 11/09/2008 20:37:59

There are millions of people in China with a disability. And from a shaky beginning, China has come a long way in its treatment of these people. But authorities want to improve the public perception of people with a disability and hope the Beijing Paralympic Games will help to do that.

US says it's 'losing' the war in AfghanistanAudio

Updated 11/09/2008 20:38:15

America's top military man has given a sober assessment of the fight in Afghanistan, saying the allies are not winning. In a statement to the U-S Congress, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff Admiral Mike Mullens expressed grave concern about the progress of the war.

East Timor veteran lobby wants financial recognitionAudioTranscript

Updated 11/09/2008 20:38:03

In East Timor a group claiming to represent 200 former resistance fighters is demanding financial recognition for its contribution to the country's independence struggle.

Australia's foreign investment rules to be testedAudio

Updated 11/09/2008 20:38:07

The Australian Government's adjustments to foreign investment guidelines have come in for criticism. Canberra has tightened scrutiny of direct investments in response to a surge of interest from China in the resources sector. Critics believe the changes announced in February risk discouraging new foreign investment in Australia.

Australian PM warns of Asia-Pacific 'arms race'AudioTranscript

Updated 10/09/2008 20:16:07

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has flagged a major expansion of Australia's defence forces to counter what he describes as an increasing military build-up in the Asia Pacific region on the back of an economic boom.

Cambodian children begging on Bangkok streetsAudio

Updated 10/09/2008 20:14:21

Young children begging for money are a common sight on the streets of Bangkok, but a significant proportion of those children aren't from Thailand at all. They are one of the more visible parts of an illegal Cambodian diaspora, driven to Thailand by their country's poverty.

Asian reaction to Kevin Rudd's military expansion planAudioTranscript

Updated 10/09/2008 20:14:48

The world of defence is scrambling to catch up after the Australia Prime Minister promised a big increase in military spending. Kevin Rudd flagged the expansion to counter what he describes as an increasing military build-up in the Asia Pacific on the back of an economic boom. But his assertion that the Asian military build-up amount to an emgering arms race has raised eyebrows in the region.

Indonesia departs OPEC as production cutAudioTranscript

Updated 10/09/2008 20:14:43

The only Asian member of the oil cartel, OPEC, has left the organisationm saying its now a net importer, rather than an exporter of oil. The announcement was made at OPEC's meeting in Vienna along with a major cut of more than half a million barrels a day in world output.

North's Korea's reclusive leaderAudio

Updated 10/09/2008 20:14:38

North Korea's Kim Jong-Il mysteriously failed to appear at a parade to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the founding of the country. His no-show has given credence to reports that he's ill.

US incursions into Pakistan creates resentmentAudioTranscript

Updated 09/09/2008 20:16:08

The election of Pakistan's new president Asif Ali Zardari comes as the U-S faces criticism over unauthorised troop incursions and airstrikes into Pakistan.

Samoa Church opposed to decriminalising homosexualityAudio

Updated 09/09/2008 20:16:02

The head of Samoa's biggest church has warned that any attempt to decriminalise male homosexuality in the Pacific is likely to face strong opposition, describing it as morally wrong.

Australian soldiers accused of bringing toads in TimorAudio

Updated 09/09/2008 20:15:59

Australian peacekeepers who arrived in East Timor in 1999 are being accused of bringing more than good-will. Farmers have accused the Australian Defence Force of bringing in cane toads.

More dams for Cambodia to help rural poorAudioTranscript

Updated 09/09/2008 20:15:59

The Cambodian government is preparing to build ten hydro-electric and irrigation dams in the country's north-west provinces.
It's hoped the four billion dollar project will supply more than 100-thousand rural families with water and electricity.

Aid workers warn of humanitarian disaster in Sri Lanka's northAudio

Updated 09/09/2008 20:16:11

Sri Lanka Colombo has ordered all humanitarian workers to immediately leave the rebel held north, saying it cannot guarantee their safety as it proceeds with its plan to wipe out the rebels by year's end. But a few aid agencies, including U-N organisations like the World Food Program warn any withdrawl of aid will equal a humanitarian disaster.

Court tells Thai PM to step downAudioTranscript

Updated 09/09/2008 20:16:35

Thailand's Constitutional Court has found prime minister Samak Sundaravej guilty of violating the constitution by appearing on a TV cooking show. It says the prime minister broke the law by accepting payment to host the program. And it'sordered Mr Samak and his entire cabinet to step down immediately.

Eyes to Pakistan's new PresidentAudio

Updated 08/09/2008 20:34:27

Pakistan's struggling democracy has voted to its highest office, the widower of Benazir Bhutto and it's not expected to be an easy transition.

India has nuclear trade embargo liftedAudio

Updated 08/09/2008 20:34:27

The Japanese government has defended its support for a controversial deal opening nuclear trade with India. The support comes despite a public outcry in the only nation to have suffered atomic bombings.

Hong Kong's pro-democracy parties strugglingAudio

Updated 08/09/2008 20:34:27

Hong Kong's pro-democracy parties have won more than a third of seats in the weekend's Legislative Council elections - but only just.

Aid assistance to the PacificAudio

Updated 08/09/2008 20:34:27

The question of aid assistance in the Pacific has at times highlighted the dollar diplomacy-battle between China and Taiwan. This subject has been one of the main topics during a meeting in China with 10 of the Pacific Forum countries.

Aid to Bangladesh flood victimsAudio

Updated 08/09/2008 20:34:27

To Bangladesh now and flooding has peaked for the current monsoon season and those affected are likely to get some reprieve by the end of the week.

Aid agencies struggle to reach flood-hit IndiaAudio

Updated 08/09/2008 20:34:27

Relief workers are still battling to bring help to more than a million villagers displaced by recent flooding in northeastern India and Nepal.

Pacific Forum countries head to China for talksAudio

Updated 05/09/2008 18:42:11

The Pacific has long been seen as part of the wider battleground between China and Taiwan as the two strive for diplomatic and economic influence. Now several of the Pacific Forum countries including Australia all of whom recognise China are heading to Beijing to talk about its role in the region.

Indonesian corruption court hands down record sentenceAudio

Updated 05/09/2008 18:42:14

Indonesia's corruption court has handed down its longest sentence, jailing for 20 years a former senior prosecutor with the Attorney General's office. Urip Tri Gunawan's conviction relates to his role in burying a case against a banking tycoon who'd been accused of embezzling three-billion dollars.

Japan and Australia boost art tiesAudio

Updated 05/09/2008 18:42:07

The strength of Australia's trade relationship with Japan has provided the foundation for a much broader partneship to include cultural, education and exchange programs. And now there's a push to focus on contemporary art.

Beijing prepares to open ParalympicsAudioTranscript

Updated 05/09/2008 18:42:07

This weekend Beijing is hosting the opening ceremony for the Paralympic Games. China's fielding more than 300 competitors. But just three each are going from the Philippines, Indonesia and Burma, while Cambodia's pinning its medal hopes on just one competitor.

Anger in Pakistan over US-led strikesAudioTranscript

Updated 05/09/2008 18:42:18

Pakistan is furious with the United States over a ground raid by American led forces in its border area. At least 20 people are believed to have died in the attack in what's believed to be the first ground assault into Pakistan by foreign forces based in Afghanistan.

Fiji military chief accused of treasonAudio

Updated 05/09/2008 18:42:22

Fiji's ousted government has officially lodged a complaint of treason against military chief and interim prime minister Frank Bainimarama.

Philippines ends MILF peace talksAudioTranscript

Updated 04/09/2008 20:32:14

Manila has abandoned more than a decade of peace talks with the country's largest Muslim rebel group the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The move threatens to collapse a five-year-old ceasefire between the two sides, and to escalate the fighting that's already occurring in the southern island of Mindanao.

Presenter: Tom Fayle
Speaker: Irene Santiago, government advisor on the peace process and a former member of the government peace panel that has just been abolished

Region affected by Australia's climate change reportAudioTranscript

Updated 04/09/2008 20:32:10

The next step in Australia's response to handling climate change will be released Friday. Professor Ross Garnaut will reveal targets and trajectories Australia should set to lower its carbon emmissions and help ease the problem of climate change.
His report is timely and will be anticipated as much around the region as in Australia.

Thai protests show no signs of easingAudioTranscript

Updated 04/09/2008 20:32:18

A state of emergency remains in force in Bangkok, but that appears to have little effect on the anti-Samak protestors.

Thai Government proposes referendum to end crisisAudio

Updated 04/09/2008 20:32:22

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has announced his government is proposing to hold a national referendum on its future as a means of ending the crisis. He says the referendum can be held within 30 days of senate approval.

East Timor 'still needs international help'AudioTranscript

Updated 04/09/2008 20:32:00

East Timor's prime minister has signalled a gradual reduction in the number of international troops needed in his country. Xanana Gusmao said depending on the circumstances, troops could begin a gradual withdraw from next year. But the leaders of the international military and UN police have warned that timetable is premature.

New report warns of stronger cyclonesAudio

Updated 04/09/2008 20:32:05

As Australia debates how to handle climate change, new research from the U-S warns there's no time to lose. In the wake of Hurricane Gustav and earlier this year, Cyclone Nargis in Burma, American scientists say global warming will only boost the power of the strongest tropical cyclones.

Dalai Lama health raises succession questionsAudio

Updated 03/09/2008 20:16:51

The Dalai Lama was in the middle of a gruelling world tour when he was hospitalised last week. His health has again raised the question of succession in Tibet.

Suicide can be prevented says WHOAudioTranscript

Updated 03/09/2008 20:16:57

Worldwide, nearly a million people a year commit suicide, surpassing the combined death toll from murder and war. The World Health Organisation is keen to reduce that number and emphasises that it is a preventable death. And it's released a new study identifying cheap, effective means of helping people at risk of suicide, even in places with minimal resources.

New humanitarian crisis looming in India's Bihar floodsAudio

Updated 03/09/2008 20:17:04

Another humanitarian crisis is emerging in India's flooded Bihar region with the targetting of children by human traffickers.
Bihar state is notorious for such activities and they appear to be now going largely unchecked as authorities struggle to deal with evacuation and relief operations.

Australia to tighten Indian student restrictionsAudioTranscript

Updated 03/09/2008 20:17:00

Indians make up the second largest cohort of international students in Australia. But now India along with a number of other countries has been moved up the Australian Government scale of immigration risk with applicants subject to tougher scrutiny.
The new rules could affect the flow of students from India and that's a cause for concern for Australian universities.

Does Ramadan drive up food pricesAudio

Updated 03/09/2008 20:16:48

Across the Muslim world, the holy fasting month of Ramadan is under way and will continue throughout September. But observers warn the ritual feasting at the end of each day is increasing the demand for food and driving up prices.

State of emergency in BangkokAudio

Updated 02/09/2008 20:49:55

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has declared a state of emergency in the capital Bangkok after protests against him turned violent overnight. One person was killed and dozens injured when pro and anti-government protestors clashed.

Japanese Prime Minister resignsAudioTranscript

Updated 02/09/2008 20:49:35

Japan's ruling party, the Liberal Democrats, are on the hunt for a new leader after Yasuo Fukuda dramatically resigned.

Thai economy suffers from political crisisAudio

Updated 02/09/2008 20:49:39

The political uncertainty in Thailand is having an effect on the economy. Governments have issued travel warnings and tourism is suffering. Unfortunately for Thailand, the longer term effects are easier to identify than the immediate outcome of this crisis.

Australia takes a stand on Indian adoption agenciesAudioTranscript

Updated 02/09/2008 20:48:14

The Australian government has frozen the possible adoption of children where there are doubts over the conduct of the Indian adoption agencies involved in the process. It follows claims of child trafficking where Indian children who have been abducted were then put up for adoption to unsuspecting Australian families.

China and Japan ties post FukudaAudioTranscript

Updated 02/09/2008 20:48:18

Yasuo Fukuda is known for his efforts to repair relations with Asia, especially China. China's Foreign Ministry has released a statement praising Mr Fukuda's contribution to improving relations.

Big voter turn-out for Vanuatu electionsAudio

Updated 02/09/2008 20:48:14

Vanuatu has gone to the polls with a record number of candidates and a high turnout expected. But results won't be known for another 48 hours.

Thai anti-government protestors stand firmAudio

Updated 01/09/2008 20:30:51

Support is growing for Thailand's People's Alliance for Democracy protestors, with the country's state sector unions announcing they'll begin a nationwide strike on Wednesday to force Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej from power.

Thai opposition asks Samak to call new electionAudio

Updated 01/09/2008 20:30:20

Opposition MP's in Thailand are urging Prime Minister Samak to call for new elections in order to end the crisis.

Indian floods leave millions homeless in BiharAudioTranscript

Updated 01/09/2008 20:31:21

Millions of people in India are struggling to cope with some of the worst flooding in half a century. Rescue and relief operations
Presenter: Tom Fayle
Speakers: Jason Smith, Asia Pacific zone of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

Australia urged to seek new uranium markets in AsiaAudio

Updated 01/09/2008 20:30:09

Australia's uranium policy is again in the spotlight as the Federal Government reviews an agreement to sell the mineral to Russia. But as the world's largest source of uranium, Australia is being urged to seek new markets, particularly in Asia.

Timor's controversial gun amnesty endsAudioTranscript

Updated 01/09/2008 20:30:09

East Timor's six month gun amnesty has ended. The opposition is describing it as pointless, saying the government should be trying to recover the weapons taken from police during the 2006 crisis. But the government is now focusing on getting its new gun law through parliament.

Bangladesh braces for floodingAudio

Updated 01/09/2008 20:31:02

Rising river levels are now sounding alarm bells in neighbouring Bangladesh. Already there are about half a million people marooned after rivers in the north and central districts broke their banks.