January 2010

Guam Governor officially requests troop relocation delayAudio

Updated 29/01/2010 20:53:32

The Governor of Guam, Felix Camacho, is requesting a delay to the planned redeployment of thousands of U-S troops from Japan to Guam. A letter from Governor Comacho to the United States Navy has been obtained by Radio Australia. It requests that all actions related to the Guam Military Buildup Program be delayed beyond the planned date of 2014. The Governor says the delay is to protect the integrity of the Marine Expeditionary Force, and ensure that impacts are to Guam's island infrastructure and services are minimised.

China plans major economic development in restive Xinjiang provinceAudio

Updated 29/01/2010 20:53:38

China is planning a surge of economic development for the far-west region of Xinjiang, where ethnic riots killed almost two hundred people last year. The strategy was announced at a meeting of Chinese officials, economic planners and energy executives in Beijing. It'll be expanded on at a conference later in the year. While Beijing deals with the politics of the issue, security forces continue to round up Uighurs who fled after the violence, with 17 Uighurs deported from Burma. Rights groups are concerned that those sent back to China remain unaccounted for, and are at risk of torture and execution.

Taliban to consider invitation to Afghan peacetalks following summitAudio

Updated 29/01/2010 20:53:43


A spokesman for the Taliban has said it will decide 'soon' whether or not to take part in proposed Afghanistan peace talks. The Afghan Government invited the Taliban to a peace council during Thursday's international conference on Afghanistan in London. The conference was attended by leaders and ministers from 60 countries, and was aimed at bringing an end to the nine year old war in Afghanistan.

Australian writer quits China tourAudioTranscript

Updated 29/01/2010 20:53:48


Award-winning Australian author Frank Moorhouse is pulling out of a Government backed writer's tour to China. He says it would be against his conscience to take part while the high profile dissident writer Liu Xiaobo is in jail. Liu was sentenced to 11 years jail last month for his part in writing a petition calling for political reforms in China.

Toyota stocks slide over massive international car recallAudio

Updated 29/01/2010 20:53:53


Japan's leading car-maker Toyota is recalling more than seven million cars worldwide, in a move that will cost at least a billion dollars. Some models are suffering problems with sticking accelerator pedals. Toyota had recently overtaken General Motors to become the world's biggest car manufacturer, but it's fortunes have taken a turn for the worse in recent weeks. It's now planning to close down production in the United States in a frantic attempt to limit damage to its reputation from the recall.

Apple unveils latest tech toy the iPADAudio

Updated 29/01/2010 20:53:27


Apple has unveiled its latest tech toy, the iPAD. It's a so-called tablet computer somewhere between the smartphone and a laptop. The computer software giant is hoping to have another mass market hit on its hands.

Indonesia claims detained Aust refugee activists broke visa conditionsAudio

Updated 28/01/2010 20:29:05

Indonesian authorities say two Australian refugee advocates breached their visa conditions and entered a restricted area while trying to make contact with a group of asylum seekers at Merak Port. The two Australians and one Canadian have been detained and questioned twice by Indonesian immigration officials who are now holding their passports. The Indonesian government says it's likely the women will be deported, but it's undecided if charges will be laid against them.

Malaysia detains terror suspects using Internal Security ActAudio

Updated 28/01/2010 20:29:09


Police in Malaysia have detained at least 10 people, including nine foreigners, saying they are members of an international terrorist group. Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein declined to name the terrorist group the detainees are alleged to belong to. He says the arrests were made with input from foreign intelligence agencies using Malaysia's controversial Internal Security Act, or ISA, which allows for indefinite detention without trial.

Re-elected Sri Lankan President faces tough task to rebuild economyAudio

Updated 28/01/2010 20:28:55

Re-elected Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse says his challenge now is to develop the country, after 37 years of bloody and divisive civil war. On top of that, Sri Lanka is struggling to recover from the global economic slowdown of the past two years. Having achieved a convincing mandate, the President must now deliver on the economic promises he made to the nation.

Australian academic calls for engagement with Fiji military GovtAudio

Updated 28/01/2010 20:29:00


An Australian academic and commentator says Canberra should tone down its tough rhetoric towards Fiji. Professor Richard Herr, from the School of Government at the University of Tasmania has written a paper for the Australian Strategic Policy Unit, and claims the 'line in the sand' approach, demanding Fiji return to democracy isn't working. Professor Herr says a change in tack is needed, and is arguing for an easing of travel bans on family members of those involved with the 2006 coup, and re-engaging with the Fiji military.

Indonesia's Govt revives interest in nuclear power plant planAudioTranscript

Updated 28/01/2010 20:29:19

The idea to develop Indonesia's first nuclear energy plant has been around since the 1970, but the project has gone in and out of fashion as political factions have come and gone. After backing off from the proposal during his re-election campaign, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's Government appears to be again pressing forward with the power plant plan. However, local opposition to the proposal is strong, and there are considerable risks to consider.

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse expresses relief at victoryAudio

Updated 28/01/2010 20:29:14


A triumphant Sri Lankan President says he wants reach out to the Tamil people even if they didn't vote for him. Mahinda Rajapakse swept back into a second term in office after Tuesday's bitterly fought election. According to the electoral commission he won 58 percent of the popular vote, soundly defeating his former army chief, General Sarath Fonseka, who managed 40 percent.

Indonesia's President announces billion dollar green fundAudio

Updated 27/01/2010 20:46:17

Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyo is marking the first 100 days of his second term in office by announcing a 1 billion dollar green investment fund, and launching his latest pop album. But the moves have failed to address widepreaed dissatisfaction with his administration's efforts to combat corruption. Thousands of anti-corruption activists are planning demonstrations in the capital Jakarta over a series of scandals that have threatened to bring down the country's well respected Corruption Eradication Commission.

IMF predicts bright 2010 for Asian economiesAudio

Updated 27/01/2010 20:46:21

Asia's emerging economic powerhouses are surging out of the uncertainity of the post global financial crisis more quickly than anticipated. In its latest update on the world economy, the International Monetary Fund has confirmed other recent reports pointing to better prospects for 2010. But as analysts say policymakers will need to have their hands ready to pull the monetary levers, should price pressures and inflation threaten to de-rail growth.

International meeting on Afghanistan to endorse Taliban negotiationsAudioTranscript

Updated 27/01/2010 20:46:26

A major international meeting in London gets underway on Thursday to chart a way out of the nine-year-old war in Afghanistan. The meeting's explected to endorse a plan to coax rank-and-file Taliban to the Government side. The United States has led a group of countries which now backs serious negotiations with the Taliban aimed at handing security back to the Afghans. But the negotiating formula with the Taliban remains unknown.

Refugee activists released by Indonesian policeAudio

Updated 27/01/2010 20:46:31

Three refugee advocates including two Australians have been released by authorities in Indonesia after being detained by police for trying to visit a group of asylum seekers at Merak Port. The group of 240 Sri Lankan asylum seekers were intercepted by the Indonesian Navy on their way to Australia in October last year and escorted to the Indonesian port of Merak in West Java. Since then they have refused to disembark from their boat they fear they will have to wait years for resettlement in Australia or another third country.

Cambodia's main opposition leader sentenced to two years prisonAudio

Updated 27/01/2010 20:46:13


Cambodia's main opposition leader Sam Rainsy has been convicted on charges of incitement to racial discrimination and destroying property. The provincial court sentenced him in absentia to two years jail. The charges relate to an incident in October, when the opposition leader helped farmers pull out wooden posts that marked the border with Vietnam.

Sri Lanka's President set for second term, troops surround opponentAudio

Updated 27/01/2010 20:46:13


Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse appears to have won a second term in office. With about half the votes counted, the President had a commanding 1.8 million vote lead. Turnout of the 14-million eligible voters was also been high, at an estaimed 70 percent. Election day passed peacefully, but there are concerns that the peace may be fragile with soldiers later surrounding the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel where President Rajapakse's main opponent, former General Sarath Fonseka was staying.

Looming humanitarian crisis in Mongolia as freeze follows droughtAudio

Updated 26/01/2010 19:53:23


The United Nations has raised concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Mongolia. The country's currently being threatened by multiple natural disasters consisting of freezing weather that follows months of drought this past summer summer. Aid groups and authorities fear the extreme weather conditions could worsen food security and deepen poverty.

Australian of the Year sets off debate on asylum seeker detentionAudioTranscript

Updated 26/01/2010 19:53:27


He's been Australian of the Year for just a day, but acclaimed psychiatrist Professor Patrick McGorry has spent it embroiled in controversy. Professor McGorry accepted his award, and then touched off a new row on the politically volatile issue of asylum seekers by pointing out the mentally corrosive effects of Australia's detention policies. He woke to find newspaper headlines declaring it an attack on Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on the issue.

Sri Lankans vote for new President amid fears of poll violenceAudio

Updated 26/01/2010 19:53:32


Sri Lankans are choosing a new President, with the winner likely to be known sometime on Wednesday. A tight race is expected between current President Mahinda Rajapakse, and former army commander Sarath Fonseka, who is making his first foray into politics. It's the first election since the end of the 37 year long civil war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elaam.

Cambodian drug rehabilitation centres deny patient abuse claimsAudio

Updated 26/01/2010 19:53:36

Operators of drug rehabilitation centres in Cambodia have denied accusations patients are subjected to 'sadistic violence'. Human Rights Watch claims people are being held in the centres against their will, where they are subjected to torture, rape and humiliation. The organisation is calling for Cambodia authorities to shut down controversial facilities .

Author puzzled by Indonesian ban on his book about communist purgesAudioTranscript

Updated 26/01/2010 19:53:23

The author of a book banned by the Indonesian Government says he doesn't know why his work has been singled out. Canadian History Professor John Roosa is the author of the book 'Pretext for Mass Murder', which is about the Suharto era purge of communists in the 1960s. Professor Roosa says he's not the first to write about the Communist Party and the period known as the September 30th Movement of 1965, and says other books on the topic have been published with less controversy. John Roosa's book is one of several banned recently by the Attorney General's Office.

New Zealand tour operator uses fake Maori to greet touristsAudio

Updated 26/01/2010 03:25:38


In New Zealand a tour operator is in trouble after employing foreigners to dress up and pretend to be Maori, to attract tourists. The company enlisted backpackers of various nationalities to perform dances and give visitors a 'real' Maori experience. The boss of the company, who is Maori, says she was forced to employ the fakes because local Maori are too lazy and don't want to work.

Costello pushes USD$600 mil investment in CambodiaAudioTranscript

Updated 25/01/2010 20:15:27

Australia's former Treasurer Peter Costello left parliament four months ago and now is hard at work in Cambodia. Mr Costello is acting as a financial adviser to an investment fund that's planning a 600-million dollar project. If successful it will be the biggest single foreign investment in Cambodia to date, roughly equalling the total approved investment in the country last year.

Indonesian Police hunt gunmen after shooting near Papuan Gold mineAudio

Updated 25/01/2010 20:15:38

Indonesian police hunting for the gunmen responsible for a shooting near the Freeport mine in Indonesia's restive Papua Province that has up to nine people injured. It's the latest in a string of attacks near the mine that authorities blame on independence fighters. Police had hoped the death of Papuan rebel leader Kelly Kwalik last month would improve security in the area, but observers say latest attack reinforces the view it's not the independance fighters but the police and military that are responsible for the violence.

Australia day sees debate over replacing flag resurfaceAudioTranscript

Updated 25/01/2010 20:15:42


As Australia celebrates its national day, the spotlight has been once again thrown on the country's flag, and the possibility of replacing it. The flag has been branded colonial by a popular news personality who's leading a new effort to have the British Union Jack dropped in favour of a uniquely Australian symbol.
Neither the Prime Minister nor the Opposition leader agree.

Tamil MP predicts trouble if President Rajapakse loses Sri Lanka pollAudio

Updated 25/01/2010 20:15:32


On Tuesday, the people of Sri Lanka will go to the polls to choose a President. Current President Mahinda Rajapakse called the poll almost two years early, hoping to capitalise on his success in bringing an end to Sri Lanka's decades long civil war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elaam, better known as the Tamil Tigers. However, he may have badly miscalculated, with campaigning now over, President Rajapakse finds himself locked in a tight battle with his opponent, former General Sarath Fonseca, who led the war to its brutal conclusion. Some political commentators are concerned there could be violence if President Rajapakse loses the poll.

Ministers of 13 nations with Tiger populations to discuss conservationAudioTranscript

Updated 25/01/2010 20:51:48

Ministers from 13 countries with Tiger populations will meet in the Thai resort town of Hua Hin this week to discuss ways to save the big cats from extinction.
The Worldwide Fund for Nature estimates that a century ago there were 100-thousand tigers in the wild. Now it's believed there could be as few as three thousand.

Finance companies on Asian markets suffer on US announcementAudio

Updated 22/01/2010 20:31:20

Financial companies on Asian share markets took a beating on Friday after US President Barak Obama said he would crack down on reckless banks. The President says his plans to limit the size and scope of banks will prevent the problems which sparked the economic crisis. His tough stance against the big banks could mean some will look outside the United States for returns.

Thai migrant worker policy tough on BurmeseAudioTranscript

Updated 22/01/2010 20:31:24

The Thai Cabinet has moved to enforce tougher monitoring of more than one million Burmese, Cambodian and Lao migrants legally working in Thailand.

Former Fiji PM's pension cancelledAudio

Updated 22/01/2010 20:31:15

Former Fiji prime minister and coup leader, Sitiveni Rabuka, has had his government pension cancelled by the interim government. In early January the interim prime minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, unveiled a decree stating that Fiji pensioners who criticise his government may have their pensions stopped. It appears Mr Rabuka, who staged Fiji's first coup in 1987, is the first to be affected by the move. He has had been striped of all benefits, including a government-supplied four-wheel-drive vehicle, which was confiscated from him when he was out picking coconuts an hour from his village.

New documentary shows inside of Burma's resistance movementsAudio

Updated 22/01/2010 20:31:15


A new documentary filmed secretly inside Burma showcases the country's little known networks of resistance movements. 'Breaking the Silence; Burma's Resistance' was shown to journalists in the Thai capital Bangkok on Friday. It sheds light on the enormous risks taken by ordinary Burmese, and their long struggle to remove the country's brutal military dictatorship.

US demands internet transparency in ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 22/01/2010 20:31:29

China appears to be playing down its dispute with internet company Google - and its implications for already strained relations with the US. The signal has come as the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called on Beijing to conduct a thorough and transparent review of cyber intrusions against the internet giant, which has led it to threaten to leave China.

Japan's Health Ministry rejects easing requirements for foreign nursesAudioTranscript

Updated 22/01/2010 20:31:34

The Japanese health ministry has rejected a plan to make it easier for Indonesian and Filipino nurses to qualify for work in Japan. A 2008 Economic Partnership Agreement allows a number of Indonesian and Filipino nurses and caregivers to train and work in Japan. But the compulsory national exam and the level of language the overseas workers must pass is too difficult for many, with no Indonesian nurses passing last year's exam.

World Bank predicts global economic growth but rising unemploymentAudio

Updated 21/01/2010 20:30:05

The World Bank is warning that challenging economic times still lie ahead, despite signs of a recovery from the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.
The World's Bank's latest report predicts growth of almost three percent this year, but warns in most countries unemployment will continue to rise. And even China is not free from risk, despite GDP growth is still powering along at nearly nine per cent.

Asian languages on the endangered list over the next centuryAudioTranscript

Updated 21/01/2010 20:30:10

The United Nations cultural organisation UNESCO says one language becomes extinct every fortnight. By the end of this century, the world will likely lose half of its 6,700 languages. Cambodia has 19 languages listed as endangered, and it is unlikely that many of them will survive the next 90 years.

Burma to choose a 'Miss Tourism' to boost visitor numbersAudio

Updated 21/01/2010 20:30:15


Despite massive potential, tourism in Burma has never taken off mostly due to human rights groups actively discouraged tourists due to the military regime's brutal supression of pro-democracy activists. Not to be deterred, Burma's tourism sector is trying to boost the country's profile. It's looking for a fresh face to represent Burma to overseas tourists, and next month plans to hold a 'Miss Tourism' contest. Contest organisers say the first-ever 'Miss Tourism' will have to be more than just a pretty face.

Research shows deaths from war falling rapidlyAudioTranscript

Updated 21/01/2010 20:30:20


Research on the human toll of war has found far fewer people die now compared to the 1950s, contrary to perceptions that war's now more deadly. Part of the reason is that conflicts have become smaller. But better healthcare and humanitarian efforts have generally cut national death rates and the report finds that's not reversed by deaths in war. The report also recommends that the United Nations do more to gather evidence to help fill big gaps in information on the impact of war.

South Korea turns out the lights to encourage people to make babiesAudio

Updated 21/01/2010 20:29:54


South Korea has one of the world's lowest birth rates, and is resorting to ever more inventive ways to encourage people to breed. The country's health ministry is turning off its office lights once a month in a bid to encourage staff to go home early and make more babies. The fertility rate is a pressing issue in this rapidly ageing society, but observers say a lights-off policy may not be the most sophisticated solution. They say the answer is cheaper education and childcare, more family friendly workplaces and a little more help from fathers in the home.

Proposed Fiji diplomatic appointment to New Zealand "a provocation"Audio

Updated 21/01/2010 20:30:00

Fiji's interim government has announced plans to appoint its military spokesman, Lt Col Neumi Leweni, as a diplomat to its High Commission in Wellington, New Zealand. This goes against an apparent thawing in the diplomatic relationship between the two countries, with a meeting between both foreign ministers agreeing to increase the number of diplomats. Professor Steve Hoadley from the History Department at Auckland University says it's likely the move will be seen by New Zealand as an insult.

Victoria's top cop says attacks on Indians a problem for past 2 yearsAudioTranscript

Updated 20/01/2010 21:01:28


Victoria's top police officer has admitted today that the force has known for two years that offences against Indian people were a problem. The Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, Simon Overland, says he's acknowledged all along that some assaults and robberies were racially motivated. The Chief Commissioner's comments have been hailed by the Federation of Indian Students, saying they mark the 'end of denial'.

UN report predicts strong economic growth for Asia Pacific in 2010Audio

Updated 20/01/2010 21:01:32


Economic prospects the Asia Pacific are looking brighter for the coming year, according to a new United Nations report. The World Economic Situation and Prospects report for 2010 is predicting worldwide economic growth of 2.4 percent. Asia and the Pacific are however expected to lead the way, with regional growth of almost 7 percent. The WESP reports have a good track record with their predictions, with earlier reports warning of the risks of last year's crash.

Report recommends Australia become Asian financial services hubAudio

Updated 20/01/2010 21:01:37

A report commissioned by the Australian Government says it has a lot of work to do if Australia is to get the most out of its world class financial system, and now is the time to exploit its good reputation after survivng the worst of the Global financial crisis better than most. Canberra's hopes of developing Australia as a financial centre for Asia and beyond wont be realised without substantial concessions to the tax treatment of foreign earnings.

Arrival of Prince William reignites republic debate in AustraliaAudioTranscript

Updated 20/01/2010 21:01:41


Australia's perenially debate on becoming a republic has been re-iginted this week with the arrival of second inline to the throne Prince William. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says the idea of becoming a republic will be part of its agenda should it win a second term in this year's election. A referendum on a republic could form part of a wider set of referendum questions, which would include recognition of the country's Indigenous people in the Constitution.

Indonesian prosecutors seek execution for former anti-corruption headAudio

Updated 20/01/2010 21:01:18

Indonesia state prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for the former head of the nation's anti-corruption commission who's been charged with the murder of a wealthy businessman. But the case against Antasari Azhar is anything but clear cut. Prosecutors say he ordered the drive-by-killing of businessman Nasrudin Zulkarnaen after having an affair with Mr Zulkarnaen's wife. Mr Azhar says the charges are pay-back for the high-profile cases he pursued as chief of the KPK.

Trial of Vietnamese pro-democracy activists sparks outrageAudioTranscript

Updated 20/01/2010 21:01:23


A group of democracy activists are facing the death penalty in Vietnam, accused of carrying out activities aimed at overthrowing the communist regime. Their trial, which began on Wedensday has sparked international outrage, with politicians from Europe and the United States calling for their immediate release.

Natural proteins may hold key to malaria vaccineAudioTranscript

Updated 20/01/2010 07:09:03

Scientists hunting for an effective vaccine against one of the world's biggest killer diseases, Malaria, believe the answer could lie within the body's own immune system. Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute in Melbourne have studied years of research on Malaria. They've now identified a group of proteins that the body produces naturally after years of exposure to the Malaria parasite, which could form the basis of a vaccine.

Japan's national airline files for bankruptcyAudio

Updated 19/01/2010 20:34:25

Japan's national airline has filed for bankruptcy under a Government sponored restructuring plan. The cost will be borne by shareholders, tax payers and the airline's workforce. Banks have also been asked to forgive debts of about $US3 billion.

Adventurer to tackle deadly North Pole trekAudio

Updated 19/01/2010 20:34:29

West Australian Tom Smitheringale heads to Canada this week for cold weather training. In February he'll set out on a solo 800 kilometre trek to the North Pole. He'll drag a 160-kilogram sled for 70 days across the Arctic, enduring temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius - that's about 90 degrees cooler than his home town of Perth at the moment. Five people have tried the same feat in the last five years. All have failed and two have died trying.

Mongolia's President announces plan to abolish the death penaltyAudio

Updated 19/01/2010 20:34:33


Mongolia's plan to abolish the death penalty is being welcomed by human rights group Amnesty International. Mongolian President Tsakhia Elbegdorj made the announcement late last week in a lengthy speech to Parliament, in which he described the death penalty as a 'black spot' on Mongolia's reputation.

Sri Lankan Govt orders security crackdown over election violenceAudio

Updated 19/01/2010 20:34:21

The Sri Lankan Government is ordering a security crackdown after two people were killed and several injured in escalating violence ahead of next week's Presidential election. But election monitors say the Government's efforts don't go far enough to guarantee safety for voters. Meanwhile, political opponents are accusing rival supporters of inciting the pre-election attacks.

Analaysis begins of US President Barack Obama's first year in officeAudioTranscript

Updated 19/01/2010 20:34:22


It's one year since Barack Obama was inaugurated as President of the United States. It was a year that began with dizzying high hopes for an America reborn, but ends with the President himself questioning his achievements, and his opinion poll support below 50 percent. Critics accuse him of apologising for America, of being pro-big government and of being soft on terrorism. His supporters say he inherited an agenda littered with danger and that a new era IS dawning.

Attacks on Indian taxi drivers further damage Australia's reputationAudioTranscript

Updated 18/01/2010 20:55:20

Australia's reputation in India continues to slide, following two more attacks on Indians in Australia. The assaults on two taxi drivers in the rural Victorian town of Ballarat follow the stabbing death earlier this month of a 21-year-old Indian man in Melbourne. The incidents have brought a fresh call from India's tourism minister for Australia to somehow bring an end to such attacks.

Japan's DPJ Government in fresh poll slump amid Ozawa funding probeAudio

Updated 18/01/2010 20:55:25


It's been another difficult day for Japan's Government, with two major polls showing its approval rating has slumped further still, down to 42 percent, from a giddy 70 percent five months ago. The Democratic Party of Japan won an historic and comprehensive victory in last August's general election, but since then it's been all downhill. Adding to the DPJ's woes, 67 percent of respondents in the Asahi-Shimbun poll think the architect of the election win, former leader Ichiro Ozawa, should quit over a lingering funding scandal.

South Korea to send delegates to North despite renewed threatsAudio

Updated 18/01/2010 20:55:07


South Korea says it will send delegates to talks with North Korea on Tuesday, despite Pyongyang threatening it with war. The North has warned it will break off all dialogue with the South, unless Seoul apologises for allegedly drawing up a contingency plan to handle regime collapse in the communist state.

Experts warn of another tsunami causing earthquake to hit SumatraAudioTranscript

Updated 18/01/2010 20:55:08


You'll have heard the Haiti earthquake being compared to disasters like the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami in South-East Asia. International scientists are warning that another devastating Tsunami is due to hit Indonesia again, and that last year's big earthquake in Padang in Sumatra wasn't the big one they were expecting. Instead they believe it's put more presure on the fault-line, making it highly likely that a tsunami-causing quake will hit the region soon.

Lack of prosecutions over Nepal civil war sparks fear of new unrestAudioTranscript

Updated 18/01/2010 20:55:11

Concern is mounting that Nepal could slip back into civil strife, with a report from the International Crisis Group noting there hasn't been a single civilian prosecution for abuses during the ten year Maoist insurgency. The report lays out the need for definitive action to end impunity, with a Crisis Group analyst accusing all political parties of a conspiracy to avoid responsibility.

United States considers Washington DC trial for suspected Bali bomberAudioTranscript

Updated 18/01/2010 20:55:16

Authorities in the United States are deliberating about whether to try Riduan Isamuddin, better known as Hambali, in a Washington DC court. Hambali is the alleged mastermind of the 2002 Bali bombings and believed to have been Osama bin Laden's point man in Indonesia.

Media given rare glimpse of Australian cyber security centreAudioTranscript

Updated 15/01/2010 19:50:09


One of Australia's most secretive organisations has opened its doors to the media for the first time in its history. The spy agency, the Defence Signals Directorate, has launched a new cyber space security centre to combat thousands of attempts to hack into Australia's Defence computer systems. At its opening, Defence minister Senator Faulkner declared cyberspace a 'battlefield' saying the internet has a dark side.

Thai Government says Cambodia has right to build new border villagesAudio

Updated 15/01/2010 19:50:13


Thailand is giving a measured response to Cambodia's plans to build five new villages close to the disputed Preah Vihear temple, which has been the focus of sporadic and deadly military clashes between the two countries. The five villages will be in neighbouring Oddar Meachey and Preah Vihear provinces, which form Cambodia's northern border with Thailand. The Cambodian Centre for Mine Action says three hundred de-miners are clearing the area for settlement of soldiers and their families. The Thai Government says it is waiting for more information on whether or not the building is taking place on disputed land.

Temple lifts veil on Indonesia's Hindu secretsAudio

Updated 15/01/2010 19:50:20

Archaeologists in Indonesia have uncovered a thousand-year-old temple that could shed light on the country's Hindu past. The intricately carved statues and reliefs are some of the best preserved in Indonesia, but the dig is being conducted under tight security to protect the site from well-organised relic thieves.

Deported Hmong will be safe: Thai PMAudioTranscript

Updated 15/01/2010 19:50:26

Thai Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, has defended his decision to return thousands of Lao Hmong back to Laos.

More Jetstar Pacific employees detained in VietnamAudio

Updated 15/01/2010 19:50:04

Problems are mounting for Australian airline Qantas in Vietnam. It's low cost subsidiary Jetstar Pacific has received a negative safety audit from the Cival Aviation Authority of Vietnam. The former chief executive of the airline
Presenter: Karon Snowdon
Speaker: Bruce Buchanan, Jetstar Group Chief Executive Officer

New UN report paints grim picture for world's indigenous peoplesAudioTranscript

Updated 15/01/2010 19:50:04


Human rights abuses, land dispossession and persistent poverty are just a few of the grim realities faced by the world's 370-million indigenous people according to the United Nations. The UN has just released a hefty two-hundred-and-68 page report which comes in just in time for a review of the poor progress towards the Millenium Development Goals, and a U-N review of the definition of development.

Sharia Law questioned in Aceh after three officers suspected of rapeAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 20:13:10

The credibility of a police unit that implements Sharia law in Indonesia's Aceh Province has been dealt a severe blow...after two of its officers were arrested on rape charges..with another suspect still at large. Investigators say the three officers allegedly raped a female detainee at a jail cell during an interrogation. While case has sparked concern across Indonesia, Acehnese remain divided over the enforcement of Sharia law in their province.

FSM opposes Czech power plant extensionAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 20:14:07

The Federated States of Micronesia has decided to challenge plans to extend and modernise a massive coal-fired power plant. The plant in question is in the Czech Republic and it's the European Union's 18th biggest source of carbon emissions. Undeterred by the fact it's 13,000 kilometres away, the FSM's Office of Environment and Emergency Management has sent it's assessment of why the extension shouldn't go ahead. It says the extension would impact not just the FSM but many other climate vulnerable nations.

Indian Govt to assist men detained over diamond smuggling in ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 14/01/2010 20:13:24

India has extended consular support to 21 nationals detained in China on diamond smuggling charges. The Indians were reportedly part of a raid in which 50 people, including 35 foreigners were arrested in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen.

Cricket Australia unfazed by Shiv Sena threats in IPL leadupAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 20:13:28


Cricket Australia is playing a straight bat to threats from India's right-wing Shiv Sena party, which says it will prevent Australian cricketers from playing in India.
Shiv Sena has a history of political violence, and of stopping cricket matches for nationalism reasons. It's 83-year old founder and chief Bal Thackery says it will not allow 'kangaroo cricketers' to play in Mumbai while Indian students are being attacked in Australia.

Slumdog Millionaire composer to hold Sydney concert promoting harmonyAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 20:13:15


Amid tensions over attacks on Indian students, one of Bollywood's biggest stars has arrived in Australia to stage a free concert promoting harmony and good will. A-R Rahman is the composer of the film Slumdog Millionaire, and says he hopes his extravaganza of music and dancing in the heart of Sydney's Indian community will soothe racial conflict. He says he is worried about the safety of Indian students here, but says the media reporting of such attacks needs to be more responsible.

Mongolian copper and gold mine deal draws mix of praise and criticismAudioTranscript

Updated 14/01/2010 20:13:20

A resources deal hailed as a cornerstone for Mongolia's future growth has drawn the ire of civil society groups. The Mongolian Government recently granted long-awaited approval for Rio Tinto and Ivanhoe Mines Mongolia to start developing the Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold deposit. Rio calls it 'the world's best untapped copper reserve', but an alliance of NGOs in Mongolia say the deal breaches the constitution, international law and damages the country's national interests.

Asia Pacific region offers aid and sympathy to quake hit HaitiAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 20:13:05

Haiti's Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive says the death toll from the devastating earthquake in his impoverished country could reach well over 100 thousand.
Rescuers are working against the clock to pull people from the rubble of hundreds of collapsed buildings. Aid, supplies and personnel are pouring into the Carribean nation by sea and air. Australia has pledged 10 million dollars.

Think tank predicts Pakistan will become increasingly anti AmericanAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 14:11:08

Pakistan is predicted to become a more fundamentalist state and increasingly anti-American in the coming years according to a new report from a British think tank. The report from the Legatum Institute in London makes a forecast for Pakistan over the next one to three years, and says moves towards a more Islamist state will complicate the United States efforts to win support against violent extremists.

Cold snap in China causes heating fuel shortage, spike in coal priceAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 14:11:12

Temperatures in China are expected to plunge again later this week, as another cold front passes over the north of the country. The big freeze has created a run on thermal coal supplies, with surging demand from both large power stations and small households. According to Citigroup, the spot-price for coal has risen by 40 percent since September . The price is strongly expected to keep going up, as China looks to lay its hands on all the coal it can get.

Google threatens China pullout over intellectual property theft claimAudio

Updated 14/01/2010 14:10:57

Internet giant Google is threatening to shut down its operations in China saying its uncovered a sophisticated cyber attack on the company and human rights activists. Google claims the mid-December attack involved the theft of intellectual property from Google and that at least twenty other large companies were targetted. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says the incident raises serious concerns and she wants an explanation from China.

Cambodian PM launches verbal attack on Thai GovernmentAudioTranscript

Updated 14/01/2010 14:13:57

Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen has launched a scathing verbal attack on the Thai government, saying that the current administration's days are numbered. He's also labelled Thailands foreign minister the "Chief of terrorists", for orchestrating the collapse of the previous pro-Thaksin government.
Mr Hun Sen comments follow a series diplomatic incidents over the past 15 months, that include deadly border clashes centering on an ancient Buddhist temple. Both countries are also at loggerheads over the appointment of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, as an advisor to the Cambodian Government.

Indian Government considers extending voting rights to non residentsAudioTranscript

Updated 12/01/2010 20:39:10


The Indian government is working on an ambitious plan to enable millions of residents living abroad to cast their votes in future elections. Non-resident Indians, or NRI's, say they're looking forward to taking part in their home country's political process. The move has also been welcomed by the country's main opposition, but the BJP says there are major legal and logistical problems to contend with, as Girish Sawlani reports.

Australia stands by decision to refuse visas to five Tamil refugeesAudioTranscript

Updated 12/01/2010 20:39:20

The Australian Government is standing by a decision to refuse visas to five Tamils declared refugees by the United Nations but found to be a security risk to Australia. Neither Australia's Immigration Minister nor its Foreign Minister would be drawn on the details of the security risk. They say they'll now work with the UNHCR to find another option for the group. But one former diplomat says the logical security concern, membership of the Tamil Tigers, hasn't been a problem for Australia in the past.

Indonesian prosecutors appeal overturned conviction of crash pilotAudio

Updated 12/01/2010 20:39:25

Indonesian prosecutors are appealing a court decision which overturned the conviction of a Garuda pilot who crashed a passenger jet killing 21 people. The appeal comes a month after the High Court quashed an earlier two year prison sentence against pilot Marwoto Komar, who was flying the plane that crashed on landing at Yogyakarta airport in 2007.

Hong Kong suffering surge in life threatening air pollutionAudio

Updated 12/01/2010 20:39:15

A report in Hong Kong media last week says the city and its surrounding areas experienced life-threatening levels of air pollution one in every eight days last year.
The South China Morning Post reports figures from the Environment Protection Department showing there were 44 days of 'very high pollution' reported in Central, on Hong Kong island. In some areas air quality has deteriorated five-fold in just five years, and there are criticisms that official records do not show the whole picture.

Malaysia and China sign $11 billion energy investment dealAudioTranscript

Updated 12/01/2010 20:39:04

A major investment deal said to be worth 11-billion dollars has been signed between Malaysia and China. The joint venture between two government owned corporations will focus on energy projects in the state of Sarawak. The agreement will help reverse the loss of foreign investment in Malaysia dating back to the financial crisis of 1998.But its being criticised by environmentalists who say Sarawak has suffered immense damage from insensitive developments already.

Iraqi refugee attempts to sell kidney to fund illegal passage to AustAudioTranscript

Updated 11/01/2010 21:32:39


With a huge shortfall in human organs for transplant, black market traders may be turning their attention to the thousands of desperate asylum seekers and refugees in Indonesia. An Iraqi refugee says he's trying to stop a friend who's considering selling a kidney to a Saudi Arabian tout to fund an illegal journey to Australia. Its difficult to verify the claim but the United Nations refugee agency says it is aware of the case and is checking it.

Cull proposed as thirsty camels invade Northern Australian townsAudioTranscript

Updated 11/01/2010 21:32:44

More than a million camels roam the Australian desert which stretches the tens of thousands of kilometres from the far west, to the east. The residents of one distant community, Docker River, are living with hordes of thirsty camels who are invading the town, knocking over hydrants and taps in search of a drink.

Former Tamil Tigers reunited with families after release from campsAudio

Updated 11/01/2010 21:32:49

More than 700 former Tamil Tiger rebels have been reunited with their families after spending months in rehabilitation camps. President Mahinda Rajapakse attended the special ceremony in the Manik Farm Camp where more than 100, 000 refugees are being held. It comes as President Rajapaksa is touring the war-ravaged north in a bid to win votes from the Tamil minority in this month's presidential election.

More Christian properties burn in Malaysia as religious tension growsAudioTranscript

Updated 11/01/2010 21:32:53

Religious tensions are threatening to boil over in Malaysia after arsonists struck a sixth church and a convent school. The attacks follow a court ruling last week which gave a Catholic newspaper the right to use the word 'Allah'. The Government has banned the use of the word by non-Muslims and has refused to make an exception for the paper, even though its Malay edition is read only by indigenous Christian tribes in the remote states of Sabah and Sarawak.

China considers economic cooling as easy credit stokes speculationAudio

Updated 11/01/2010 21:32:34


Chinese banks have extended loans amounting to 88-billion US dollars in just one week, prompting authorities to consider measures to curb inflation. The level of credit is setting off alarm bells in Beijing according to state media reports. Asset prices are rising fast as money is poured into speculation, especially in real estate. The Government now is considering new measures to cool the market and increase housing affordablity.

Tamil voters likely to be king makers in Sri Lankan electionAudio

Updated 11/01/2010 21:32:34


Both main candidates for Sri Lanka's Presidency have been touring the country's war torn north and east. With Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority almost evenly split between President Mahindra Rajapakse and his challenger Sarath Fonseca, it's minority Tamils who are likely to decide who Sri Lanka's next President will be.

Church burned in Malaysia as Muslims dispute the use of the word AllahAudio

Updated 08/01/2010 21:25:00

Police in Malaysia have stepped up patrols around Christian churches after a church was fire-bombed overnight. Malaysian church officials believe the attack was in protest over a recent court decision overturning a government ban on the use of the word "Allah" to refer to God in Christian texts. The Catholic Church lead the court challenge on behalf of the Herald Newspaper, which uses the term in its Malay language edition. But some Muslim groups are angry about the ruling and are planning large protests across the country.

Nepalese child soldiers return home as peace process consolidatesAudioTranscript

Updated 08/01/2010 21:25:06

The first group of nearly four thousand former Maoist child soldiers have left jungle camps in Nepal, finally heading home three years after the end of the civil war. Years of calls from the United Nations for the discharge of the young recruits has finally paid off, and the UN representative in Nepal described the day as a crucial step in the peace process.

Huge Christian gatherings signal new religious freedoms in VietnamAudio

Updated 08/01/2010 21:25:11


Religious freedoms in Vietnam appear to be expanding. In the lead up to Christmas, huge Christian prayer gatherings were held in the major cities, attracting 12-thousand Christians in Hanoi and 40-thousand to one event in Ho Chi Minh City. Christian groups admit to being surprised by their new found freedoms, saying such large gatherings would have been unthinkable even 12 months ago.

Australian airline executives detained in VietnamAudio

Updated 08/01/2010 21:24:55


Two executives from an airline part-owned by Qantas are being refused permission to leave Vietnam amidst an investigation into financial losses. The two executives work at Jetstar Pacific, the Vietnamese franchise of Qantas' low cost carrier. Jetstar Pacific's chief operating officer, Daniela Marsilli, and financial officer, Tristan Freeman, are being questioned by authorities in relation a 34-million-dollar loss on fuel hedging contracts.

Clinton to make major Asia Pacific policy speech during tourAudio

Updated 08/01/2010 21:24:55

The future of the security alliance between Japan and the United States is set to dominate the early stages of U-S Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's trip around the Asia-Pacific region next week. Mrs Clinton will meet Japan's Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada in Honolulu to discuss the impasse over the U-S military base on Okinawa. The U-S wants clear statements from Japan's somewhat unpredictable new Government on its commitment the alliance.

UN warns Afghanistan on the brink of becoming 'unmanagable'Audio

Updated 07/01/2010 20:57:09


The outgoing Special Representative of the United Nations in Afghanistan warns the situation in the war-torn country is on the verge of becoming 'unmanageable'. Kai Eide says foreign donors and the Afghan people are becoming impatient with the slow progress being made by the Government and the international community. His warning comes in the lead up to an international conference in London later this month that troop-contributing nations hope will lead the way towards an exit strategy.

Australia and NZ scientists conduct non-lethal whale researchAudio

Updated 07/01/2010 20:56:40


While Japan continues its controversial whaling research program in the Southern Ocean, Australia and New Zealand are about to begin a research voyage of their own. Japan kills up to a thousand whales each year in the name of research, and much of the meat ends up in Japan's fish markets. The Australian and New Zealand research trip will aim to answer similar questions to the Japanese research, but will do it using non-lethal methods.

New report accuses China of using drug rehab patients as forced labourAudio

Updated 07/01/2010 20:57:00

A new report accuses Chinese health authorities of arbitrary detention and inhumane treatment of many of the country's drug users. The Human Rights Watch report is titiled 'Where Darkness Knows No Limits'. It documents instances of unpaid forced labour, physical abuse and denial of healthcare among patients in compulsory drug detention centres in Yunnan and Guangxi provinces.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to visit Australia and PacificAudioTranscript

Updated 07/01/2010 20:57:05


Terrorism, counter-terrorism, and the war in Afghanistan will be on the agenda for talks in Australia later this month between the United States and Australian foreign and defence ministers. Broader questions about Asia's shape and security also loom for the 25th anniversary of the Australia-U.S. Ministerial talks, known as AUSMIN. The talks will bring Hillary Clinton to Australia for the first time as U-S Secretary of State. The visit is part of a wider Pacific tour, as the U-S continues its efforts to reshape its place in the world.

Low cost airlines Jetstar and Air Asia join forces to lower costsAudio

Updated 06/01/2010 20:38:28

Asia's two biggest budget airlines are joining forces. The Qantas off-shoot Jetstar and Malaysia's AirAsia will cooperate to reduce costs through shared services and aircraft purchases. Executives of the two companies say the alliance could achieve savings of hundreds of millions of dollars.

Thailand's pro-Thaksin Red Shirts planning million man marchAudio

Updated 06/01/2010 20:38:33


Thailand's United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship, better known as the Red-Shirts, are planning to hold a million-man march in Bangkok aimed at toppling the Government. Thailand's army is already preparing for trouble. The Thai cabinet has approved the spending of seven-and-a-half million dollars on new riot gear, including rubber bullets, tear gas, net launchers and body armour. No date has been set for the planned million man march, but UDD spokesman Sean Boonpracong says it will go ahead within a month.

Anti-whaling vessel sunk in collision with Japanese whaling boatAudio

Updated 06/01/2010 20:38:38


There's been a serious escalation in the whaling war in the waters of Antarctica. The anti-whaling group Sea Shepherd says one of its vessels has been rammed and sunk by a Japanese whaling boat. The group says the Japanese security ship Shonan Maru has sheared off the bow of its million dollar carbon-fibre boat. The group is also accusing the Japanese of using Australian charter planes to spy on the whereabouts of its boats.

India auto giant Tata targets US car marketAudio

Updated 06/01/2010 20:38:28

Indian auto giant Tata is considering an ambitious plan to launch its much publicised Nano car in the United States. The announcement follows possible sales of the 'world's cheapest car' to Europe and Latin America by the end of 2011. But when it comes to the US market, some analysts believe the odds are stacked against Tata.

Japan's Finance Minister struggling with health problemsAudio

Updated 06/01/2010 20:38:44

There was a fresh blow for Japan's prime minister today, with reports his influential finance minister is bowing out due to poor health. 77-year-old Hirohisa Fujii is one of the few experienced members of Yukio Hatoyama's coalition government. But he looks set to quit amid reports he's exhausted after months of stitching together the country's annual budget. Analysts say his departure couldn't come at a worse time for Mr Hatoyama.

Burmese leader Than Shwe urges people to vote correctly in 2010 pollAudio

Updated 05/01/2010 10:28:38

Burma's military leader Than Shwe has marked his country's independence day by urging Burmese to make the 'correct choices' when voting in this year's elections. No date has yet been announced for the poll, which will be the first election in Burma in 20 years. Aung Sung Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy won a resounding victory in the 1990 poll, but the military never allowed her to take power. The NLD has not yet announced whether or not it will take part in this year's election, and there's widespread scepticism in the international community about whether it will be free and fair.

Australian Greens call for freeze on radio equipment sales to BurmaAudio

Updated 05/01/2010 10:28:33

Despite an international arms embargo, Burma's military is still able to rule the country with an iron fist, and Australia is being accused of helping them do it. Western Australian company Barrett Communications manufactures and sells high-frequency radio sets to the regime. The Australian Green Party says these radios are capable of frequency-hopping and encryption which makes radio traffic impossible to intercept, assisting the Burmese military in its operations against ethnic minorities. But Barrett Communications Managing Director Phil Bradshaw says the Barrett 2050 radio he exports to Burma isn't capable of encryption.

Yellow River oil spill threatens drinking supply of millions in ChinaAudio

Updated 05/01/2010 10:28:33

The drinking water of millions of people in China is under threat from a massive oil spill into the Yellow River. 150-thousand litres of diesel spilled into the the river on Wednesday last week after a pipeline operated by China's largest oil producer ruptured. After some delays in reporting the disaster, the water quality has reached grade five, making it unfit for human consumption. Authorities are scrambling to organise alternative water sources as environmentalists demand answers.

Philippines Govt to train sea-farers in anti-piracy measuresAudio

Updated 05/01/2010 10:28:38

The Philippines Government is introducing mandatory anti-piracy training for their seafarers. The training will include techniques to prevent pirates from boarding vessels, and how to manage a hostage situation. The compulsory training is hardly surprising, given that about a third of the world's 1.5 million commercial seafarers are from the Philippines, and almost five hundred Filipinos have been held hostage at some point off the coast of Somalia in the past three years.

Calls for East Timor police to disarmAudioTranscript

Updated 05/01/2010 10:28:38

East Timor's Chief of Police has suspended an officer while they invesitgate the shooting death of a man during the holiday period. The incident sparked angry protests on the streets of the capital. Some victims advocacy groups are calling for East Timorese police to be disarmed, and the Government says guns should only be used as a last resort.

Push for more Indian statesAudio

Updated 04/01/2010 12:19:07

Just weeks after the Indian government announced it would allow the formation of India's new Telangana state, communities and districts elsewhere have begun campaigns demanding their own territories.

Cambodian opposition leader to remain abroad until charges droppedAudioTranscript

Updated 04/01/2010 12:19:07

A member of the Cambodian opposition Sam Rainsy Party says the party's leader will not return to the country while charges remain against him. Sam Rainsy has been charged with inciting racial hatred and destruction of property. An arrest warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court to hear the charges, which he has described as politically motivated.

Karzai cabinet rejectedAudio

Updated 04/01/2010 12:19:07

Afghanistan's parliament has rejected 70 per cent of President Hamid Karzai's nominees for cabinet. His former opposition rival says this latest blow from parliament is confirmation the country is in the midst of a political crisis, and political analysts warn Afghanistan's foreign backers will not be pleased at the delay to appointing key ministers.

Dubai to unveil height of world's tallest buildingAudio

Updated 04/01/2010 12:19:01

Dubai may be in financial turmoil, but later on Monday the Emirate officially opens perhaps its most incredible construction project yet. The Burj Dubai is set to become the world's tallest building. While its exact height has been a closely guarded secret, it's known to be more than eight-hundred metres high. That smashes the previous record of five-hundred-and-eight metres held by Taiwain's Taipei 101. On a good day, workers in the office on the hundred-and-60th floor will be able to see across the Persian Gulf to Iran.

Asian stock markets make a bright start to 2010Audio

Updated 04/01/2010 12:19:01

Asia's share markets have made a bright start to 2010. Strong manufacturing data from China, and a Government lifeline for Japan Airlines have helped boost market sentiment. And Tokyo has a brand new computer system for its troubled stock exchange.