September 2010

Indonesia to investigate BakrieAudio

Updated 30/09/2010 21:19:49

Indonesian authorities will investigate bribery allegations against companies controlled by one of the country's most powerful businessmen and politicians. Aburizal Bakrie is the chairman of the former Suharto party, Golkar, and heads the Bakrie Group of companies. He was a minister in President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's first cabinet and now controls the government's six party coalition. This week Mr Bakrie announced his intention to run for the president's job in four years time. But there's a growing concern about the power of the old guard in Indonesian politics.

Sri Lanka's Fonseka jailed for 30 monthsAudio

Updated 30/09/2010 21:19:49

Sri Lanka's president, Mahinda Rajapakse, has approved a prison sentence of 30 months for his former army chief Sarath Fonseka, who was convicted by a military court. The former general also faces a series of civilian charges for allegedly employing army deserters and revealing state secrets, which could mean a further twenty years in prison.

Australia lifts freeze on Afghan asylumAudio

Updated 30/09/2010 21:19:49

Australia has lifted a freeze on the processing of Afghan asylum seekers, saying it has updated information about conditions in Afghanistan. But Australia's minister for immigration has warned that the new guidance will mean fewer Afghan asylum seekers will have their applications approved and more will be sent back to Afghanistan.

Conference honours last great explorer of AsiaAudio

Updated 30/09/2010 21:19:48

Most of us are familiar with the great European adventurers who sailed to Asia in search of spices and wealth - people like Marco Polo who went to China and Sir Stamford Raffles who helped found a British settlement in Singapore. But how many of us have heard of Giuseppe Tucci? The Italian lived in the 20th century and is regarded by scholars as the last great European explorer of Asia.

Environment forces Asian green investorsAudio

Updated 30/09/2010 21:19:48

An alternative investment conference in Malaysia has heard there's evidence of a much needed change in attitude on the environment among investors. Businesses are increasingly turning to green technologies as a potential source of profit. But there's also evidence that many investors still only embrace green industries when they are forced to.

Malaysia's Pakatan Rakyat consolidates powerAudio

Updated 29/09/2010 20:59:24

There's a growing feeling that an ongoing sodomy trial in Malaysia against opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim is keeping foreign investors away. Businessman Richard Branson says the trial has damaged Malaysia. And Human Rights Watch has also urged Malaysia to drop the charges. But the trial doesn't seem to have harmed the opposition coalition's fortunes.

Pakistan comments over Kashmir anger IndiaAudio

Updated 29/09/2010 20:59:24

Pakistan's foreign minister has angered India by saying that the international community should call on New Delhi to end 'its repression in Kashmir'. Shah Mehmood Qureshi was speaking at the United Nations in New York. India has been struggling to find a solution to months of civil protest against Indian rule in Kashmir. But the Indian foreign minister, SM Krishna, says his counterpart's comments are 'unacceptable'. And it's been suggested that this may mark another low point in India-Pakistan dialogue.

Differences emerge in talks on Sunrise gasAudio

Updated 29/09/2010 20:59:24

Woodside Petroleum has denied reports that it's willing to consider processing gas from the Greater Sunrise field on East Timorese land. Woodside says a floating platform remains its preferred option, even while negotiations continue. Government officials from East Timor and Australia have held two days of meetings in the capital Dili with Woodside representatives. The meetings have been met with angry demonstrators accusing the company and Australia of denying Timor the full benefit of the multi billion dollar resource.

Cambodia trial visits old regime heartlandAudio

Updated 29/09/2010 20:59:23

The Khmer Rouge war crimes tribunal in Cambodia recently visited the border town of Pailin to explain the court and its workings to an audience of 250 people - most of whom are former members of the Khmer Rouge. The visit came just after the tribunal had indicted four former Khmer Rouge leaders - all of whom used to live in Pailin.

Concern over Chinese monopoly of mineralsAudio

Updated 29/09/2010 20:59:23

There was concern earlier this month over reports that China planned to cut off exports of 'rare-earth minerals' as part of a maritime border row with Japan. The reports were rejected. But the situation has drawn attention to the potential economic impact of a cut in China's mineral exports. Rare earth minerals are a vital part of many items of modern life.

Indonesia needs manufacturing to boost jobsAudioTranscript

Updated 28/09/2010 21:04:08

Indonesia's ability to create a large number of jobs is being hindered by its failure to support manufacturing industries. Manufacturing was once the driver behind the Indonesian economy, but it's been in the doldrums since the 1997 Asian financial crisis. And foreign investors are apparently staying away because of poor infrastructure, inefficiency and corruption.

Action on Burma more pressing than Suu KyiAudio

Updated 28/09/2010 21:04:08

The Burma Campaign UK says that real action on Burma is more important than calls for the democracy icon, Aung San Suu Kyi, to be allowed to take part in elections in November. This comes after the the United Nations chief, Ban Ki-moon, backed calls for an 'inclusive' election. Aung San Suu Kyi has been under house arrest for nearly 20 years - from around the time that her party won elections in 1990 but was barred from taking office - and she has been banned from contesting this year's long awaited ballot as well.

Thriller speaker ballot in Australian parliamentAudio

Updated 28/09/2010 21:04:08

After an extremely close election, a 17 day wait to see which way the independents would swing, and a messy struggle for control over how the house will vote for a speaker and deputy, Australia's new parliament has finally opened in Canberra. There was the expected pomp and ceremony, but also a stronger recognition of indigenous Australia before the house got down to the business of electing a speaker and deputy. Usually a mere formality, this time around it's been something of a thriller.

Thailand, Laos hope to end border disputeAudio

Updated 28/09/2010 21:04:04

Thailand's foreign minister, Kasit Piromya, says he hopes his nation can continue to strengthen economic ties with Laos and reach an agreement on disputed areas along their shared border. The two countries share 702 kilometres of border land and except for a few disputed areas 96 per cent of it has been demarcated. But they are still involved in legal negotiations over the last few bits of the border. And this will be one of the issues of mutual cooperation on the agenda at a Thai Lao Joint Commission meeting in Bangkok in October.

US seeks to renew military ties with ChinaAudio

Updated 28/09/2010 21:04:05

The US defence department is attempting to revive military-to-military relations with China in high level talks in Beijing. Michael Schiffer, the US deputy assistant secretary of defence for East Asia, has been holding talks with his Chinese counterparts about resuming the relationship. Because as the US president, Barack Obama, has said Asia will form a key plank of US foreign policy.

Are property markets in China and Australia set for a bubble?Audio

Updated 27/09/2010 20:37:24

China's property market is going through a significant slow-down with the number of sales falling sharply. But prices are not showing a similar fall - with housing affordability a problem on the Chinese mainland. Prices are also booming in Hong Kong where there's real fear of a real estate bubble, reflecting the same trend in Australia.

Indonesian Vice President's new anti-poverty taskforceAudio

Updated 27/09/2010 20:37:25

Housing and employment are still core political issues in Indonesia, with recent figures showing more than 13 per cent of the population still living below the poverty line. With the backing of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Vice President Boediono has set up a new task force - the National Team for Accelerating Poverty Reduction, which answers directly to him. The policy advisor to the task force is Doctor Sudarno Sumarto, an international specialist on poverty issues.

Australian PM sets up multi-party climate committeeAudio

Updated 27/09/2010 20:37:25

Australia's Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced a multi-party climate change committee, tasked with looking at how the country should use carbon prices to drive lower emissions. The group will include three Government MPs, two Greens representatives, and an independent MP. Ms Gillard invited the Opposition Coalition to nominate two members of the committee, but it's made it clear it won't be involved, calling the committee "repugnant".

US calls for Indonesia to improve attitude to West PapuaAudio

Updated 27/09/2010 20:37:24

The United States has publicly condemned Indonesia for its treatment of West Papuans. For the first time, the US Congress has held a hearing on the issue, during which it raised concerns about human rights abuses in the province. It also accused Indonesia of failing to grant West Papua the special autonomy it was promised 9 years ago. Helene Hofman spoke to the man who headed the hearing, American Samoa's Congressman Eni Faleomavaega.

Indonesia could see new presidential dynastyAudioTranscript

Updated 24/09/2010 21:00:21

Senior Democratic Party officials have said they are open to the idea that President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's wife, Ibu Ani, could run to replace her husband at Indonesia's 2014 presidential elections. Speculation that Ibu Ani might run surfaced earlier this year, with SBY still enormously popular but limited to just two terms in office. The issue has been discussed at the annual Indonesia Update Conference at the Australian National University in Canberra.

China launches new conventional submarineAudio

Updated 24/09/2010 21:00:21

Regional anxieties about China's naval expansion are likely to be fuelled by the confirmation that it's launched a new type of conventional submarine. It's been confirmed in the publication, Janes Navy International. Aerial surveillance images from August show a new pier under construction at China's naval base on Hainan island in the highly contested South China Sea - possibly to accommodate new submarines. The news comes as vessels from China's PLA Navy have been touring the Pacific.

Tensions ramp up between Japan and ChinaAudio

Updated 24/09/2010 21:00:21

Four Japanese nationals have been arrested in China, raising the tension between the two nations even more. The four are being investigated for entering and filming military zones without authorisation, according to Chinese media. It's the latest escalation in a dispute that started when Japan detained a Chinese fishing trawler captain two weeks ago. But it's thought the announcement that Japan will release the captain will do little to ease the region's most serious diplomatic rift in years.

Life of Cambodian star ballet dancer in filmAudio

Updated 24/09/2010 21:00:17

The American ballerina, Kristy Nilsson, once said that when it comes to dance, no translation is needed - and that's proved to be the case for one Cambodian teenager. Ten years ago, the philanthropist, Anne Bass, saw Sokvannara Sar perform a traditional Khmer dance at Angkor Wat. She was so impressed that she invited him to the United States to study ballet. After years of intense training, Sokvannara
Presenter: Helene Hofman Speakers: Anne Bass, director and producer, 'Dancing Across Borders'; Olga Kostritzsky, former teacher, School of American Ballet; Sokvannara 'Sy' Sar, Cambodian ballet dancer

Calls for UN inquiry on Burma human rightsAudio

Updated 24/09/2010 21:00:18

There is growing international support for a UN Commission of Inquiry to be established to investigate crimes against humanity in Burma. France, Canada, the Netherlands and New Zealand are the latest of ten countries to give their support. The formation of an inquiry was recommended by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Burma in March. The human rights organisation, Amnesty International, says the European Union is likely to submit a draft resolution to the United Nations general assembly next month.

China labour shortage gives power to workersAudioTranscript

Updated 23/09/2010 21:17:44

China's workers are quitting their jobs in unprecedented numbers and that's contributing to a growing labour shortage and threatening productivity in factories. But it's not all about wages. A new generation of workers want a better deal all round. Their bosses have yet to catch up and they are paying the price.

Billions pledged at UN but Pacific hits the richAudio

Updated 23/09/2010 21:17:44

The billion or more people in the world who go hungry every day may be wondering if this week's big summit in New York on the Millennium Development Goals will improve their lot any time soon - despite new pledges of big money. The US President Barack Obama has promised a new way of doing business. Europe has pledged more than a billion dollars to the cause. And Australia says countries should stop making one-off commitments which they later wriggle out of.

Cambodian opposition chief gets ten yearsAudio

Updated 23/09/2010 21:17:44

A court in Cambodia has sentenced the exiled opposition leader, Sam Rainsy, in absentia to ten years in prison over a border dispute involving Vietnam. The former Cambodian finance minister has also been fined for apparently forging public documents and spreading disinformation. But Sam Rainsy says Vietnam has been using its influence over Cambodia to move border posts further and further into his country. And he also claims farmers in the border region have lost valuable land and says that he has maps - that have been independently verified - to prove it.

Asia becoming more vulnerable to disastersAudio

Updated 23/09/2010 21:17:43

The Red Cross says climate change, rapid urbanisation, and poor governance are placing communities in some Asian countries more vulnerable to disasters. It says governments should work closely with their citizens to help improve safety precautions in villages and cities.

Calls to reject Indonesia ambassador to USAudioTranscript

Updated 23/09/2010 21:17:43

Human rights advocacy groups for East Timor are calling on the president of the United States, Barack Obama, to reject the appointment of Indonesia's ambassador-designate to Washington. The East Timor and Indonesia Advocacy Group and the West Papua Advocacy Team say Dino Patti Djalal played a key role in defending violence against the East Timorese by Indonesian militia and security forces around the 1999 referendum on independence and they want the United States to bring him to justice.

Fiji boasts it's ahead on UN MDGsAudioTranscript

Updated 22/09/2010 21:14:53

Leaders from the Pacific have told a high level meeting at the United Nations that if the developed world wants them to meet all eight Millennium Development Goals by 2015, the richer countries will have to provide more help. This week's summit is being seen as a progress report on the MDGs and many are saying they will fail to meet them.

Indonesia president's US snub may back fireAudio

Updated 22/09/2010 21:14:53

There are concerns in Indonesia that president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's decision to stay away from a string of meetings in the US this week could back fire. He was due to attend meetings at the United Nations and a US-ASEAN summit. But the feeling is that President Yudhoyono wants to teach the US president Barack Obama a lesson for having cancelled a trip to Indonesia three times. President Obama also cancelled a trip to Australia a few times, citing domestic issues that needed his immediate attention. In Jakarta, the international relations expert, Hariyadi Wirawan, says President Yudhoyono got bad advice.

Australian asylum detention system in 'chaos'AudioTranscript

Updated 22/09/2010 21:14:54

The Australian government is being warned that its system of detaining asylum seekers who arrive by boat is in 'chaos' and that there is the potential for mass hysteria and more suicides. On Monday, a Fijian man died in a suspected suicide in detention at Sydney. There have also been cases of self-harm and a string of protests. Now, Australia's immigration minister, Chris Bowen, says he is reviewing the system.

Top East Timorese cyclists go internationalAudio

Updated 22/09/2010 21:14:52

The Tour de Timor race may have wrapped up for another year, but for the local riders the real challenge is only beginning. They have just completed one of the world's toughest mountain bike races, covering 420 kilometres of rough terrain. But it's now - with limited resources - that a handful of the East Timorese who finished in the top 25 are trying to make their mark on the international cycling circuit.

Kim Jong Il expected to formally annoint sonAudioTranscript

Updated 22/09/2010 21:14:53

After months of speculation, North Korea's ruling party will hold its biggest meeting of the political elite in thirty years when the Workers' Party of Korea conference of delegates gets together next Tuesday. And many expect delegates to choose a new party leadership.

Australia, NZ, Russia prepare for 'huge' ASEMAudioTranscript

Updated 21/09/2010 20:43:03

Australia, New Zealand and Russia will next month formally join the second largest inter-governmental gathering after the United Nations - the Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM). And for the Australian prime minister, Julia Gillard, it will be her first international foray in the job. It will also be the eighth ASEM summit so far - but the grouping has been derided by some as a mere talking shop.

Australia urged to break silence on Munir caseAudioTranscript

Updated 21/09/2010 20:43:03

This month marks the sixth anniversary of the alleged murder of one of Indonesia's most prominent human rights activists, Munir Said Thalib. The European Parliament has taken the opportunity to highlight the unresolved case by again inviting Munir's wife to meet its members. And Australia is being urged to raise the issue with Indonesia. Despite evidence that members of Indonesia's intelligence agency were behind the murder, none have been convicted.

Indian government has 'no policy' on KashmirAudio

Updated 21/09/2010 20:43:03

The Indian government's all party delegation to Kashmir has continued a fact finding mission, visiting Tangmarg, which was the scene of arson attacks earlier in the month. Elsewhere in Kashmir, protests are ongoing - and look set to keep going on where hardliners, such as Syed Ali Shah Geelani, have influence. It's estimated that more than 100 people have died in three months of protests. The head of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference - a more moderate umbrella organisation of pro-independence groups in Kashmir - says that the entire state has become a virtual prison, with people confined to their homes, unable to get hold of food and drink and medicine, and there are curfews in 14 districts of Srinagar.

Cambodia moves to ban tobacco advertisingAudioTranscript

Updated 21/09/2010 20:42:56

Cambodia is in the final stages of considering legislation to control tobacco advertising and sponsorship. It's been a long time coming - health campaigners have wanted regulations against the so-called noxious weed for more than a decade.

Crisis looms as Chinese population agesAudio

Updated 21/09/2010 20:42:56

A new white paper in China has raised concerns about the impact that a retired workforce will have on the economy in 25 years. The paper says that under the current system, by 2035, it will take two members of the workforce to support every one person who is entitled to a pension. The government is considering whether to raise the general age of retirement from 60 to 65.

Timor to discuss asylum centre at NY meetAudioTranscript

Updated 20/09/2010 20:44:27

East Timor's foreign minister says setting up a regional asylum seeker processing centre is not a simple bilateral matter for his country and Australia to decide. The idea was first suggested by Australia, which detains thousands of asylum seekers at remote locations and places like the Villawood detention centre in Sydney, where a Fijian man died this Monday. Many centres are said to be overcrowded. And Zacarias da Costa has told Radio Australia that he expects the issue of a new regional centre to be raised by his Australian counterpart, Kevin Rudd, at three-way talks, including Indonesia, in New York.

Rudd 'on point' about Asia Pacific blocAudioTranscript

Updated 20/09/2010 20:44:27

This week's welcome for the Australian foreign minister in Washington DC marks his full restoration to the international stage - Kevin Rudd was deposed as the Australian Labor government's leader earlier this year and some commentators have wondered whether he might now become Australia's de facto prime minister abroad. The real prime minister, Julia Gillard, says she will be travelling widely in the next few months herself. But Mr Rudd has received a significant endorsement from Hillary Clinton, the US secretary of state, for his views on regional architecture. In Mrs Clinton's words, Mr Rudd is 'on point' with his views about the creation of an Asia Pacific Community.

Thousands could die in Pakistan, UNICEFAudioTranscript

Updated 20/09/2010 20:44:27

In Pakistan, 100,000 children are at risk of dying within the next six months from malnutrition brought on by the floods, according to the United Nations children's fund. UNICEF, along with other aid groups, is working against the clock to help victims two months after the floods began. The UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon has repeated his call for an urgent global response to what he calls one of the biggest and most complex natural disasters.

Pacific lags on achieving UN MDGsAudio

Updated 20/09/2010 20:44:25

In New York, world leaders at the United Nations are getting an update on the global progress, or lack of it, towards achieving the eight Millennium Development Goals. The goals were set in the year 2000 as the base standards that countries should have in the areas of health, education, and governance. But 10 years on, many say it will be a challenge to achieve the MDGs by the 2015 deadline. In the Pacific, there has been progress in some areas, but not enough.

Questions over Thai truth commissionAudio

Updated 20/09/2010 20:44:25

Thousands of anti-government 'Red Shirts' protesters gathered in the Thai capital over the weekend to mark the fourth anniversary of a coup that ousted the former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. They also gathered to commemorate people who died in a crackdown on their protests in May. The crackdown is blamed for sparking riots in which more than 90 people died and nearly 2,000 were injured. Next January, an Independent Truth and Reconciliation Commission - which is investigating the violence - is expected to release its first interim report. But some say the commission will be ineffective because those involved in the protests can't be compelled to give evidence.

New Australian trade minister to visit USAudio

Updated 17/09/2010 20:23:57

Ahead of his first overseas trip, Australia's new trade minister, Craig Emerson, has restated a commitment to a strong free trade agenda, saying free trade is good for poverty elimination and good for the developed world. But Dr Emerson says he won't be leaping straight into negotiations while in Washington and New York next week. He says the trip is about meeting people and building relationships. A key meeting on global services trade will see trade ministers from India, Malaysia and Mexico in the US at the same time as Dr Emerson is there, and he's also scheduled to see the key US players.

Former UN envoy cites Afghan poll 'disaster'AudioTranscript

Updated 17/09/2010 20:23:57

In Afghanistan, violence and security concerns are threatening to disrupt this weekend's elections - the second parliamentary polls since the Taliban was ousted in 2001. The Taliban has threatened to attack polling stations on Saturday, but the Afghan government insists the ballot will be safe, free and fair. Around ten and a half million Afghans are eligible to vote and will elect 249 members of the lower house of parliament, the Wolesi Jirga.

Diet divided after Japan cabinet reshuffleAudio

Updated 17/09/2010 20:23:57

Japan's prime minister Naoto Kan has reshuffled his cabinet two days after surviving a leadership challenge - but without a majority in the upper house Mr Kan faces an up hill battle to pass legislation and necessary reforms. He says he wants to cut government spending and rein in the massive public debt. And at the same time Japan faces challenging issues in its foreign relationships.

NZ firm eyes Asian demand for UHT milkAudioTranscript

Updated 17/09/2010 20:23:56

One of the world's largest exporters of dairy products is about to significantly increase its footprint in Asia - the New Zealand based company, Fonterra. It already has a strong presence in the region. But as the demand for UHT milk continues to rise, it is ready to increase its exports of the product by a third. So why the sudden interest in UHT milk and how will this affect local dairy farmers?

Rights groups question Bangkok curfewAudioTranscript

Updated 17/09/2010 20:23:56

This Sunday, Thailand marks the fourth anniversary of a military coup that ousted prime minister-turned-fugitive, Thaksin Shinawatra. In the four years since then, Thailand has seen successive waves of turmoil. In Bangkok, the government has announced heightened security as anti-government Red Shirt leaders prepare to stage rallies. But human rights groups say the government should lift the state of emergency in the capital.

Cambodia tribunal charges top Khmer RougeAudio

Updated 16/09/2010 21:19:53

Cambodia's United Nations backed tribunal has formally charged four former top ranking Khmer Rouge leaders - Nuon Chea, who was known as Brother Number Two, Ieng Sary, known as Brother Number Three, and his wife, Ieng Thirith - the 'First Lady' - and the regime's chief ideologue, Khieu Samphan. They have been charged with genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. An estimated 1.7 million people died during the Khmer Rouge regime, which was led by Pol Pot. And many of the deaths were violent. The case against the four surviving leaders is expected to go ahead next year. But many Cambodians do not expect to see justice.

India, ADB boost distance learning in the PacificAudioTranscript

Updated 16/09/2010 21:19:52

India is set to provide a major boost to distance learning in the Pacific through a groundbreaking partnership with the University of the South Pacific and the Asian Development Bank. Information and communications technology (ICT) will be upgraded at campuses in 12 Pacific Island nations and hundreds of new courses will become available from next year.

Review says overhaul PNG higher educationAudioTranscript

Updated 16/09/2010 21:19:52

A new review of Papua New Guinea's higher education system will recommend a dramatic overhaul to stop declining standards and fill growing skills gaps. Its recommendations include the amalgamation of some institutions and of the bodies that oversee higher education, as well as raising terms and conditions for staff, and increasing the amount of funding per student. But it warns against raising funding before quality is restored.

Tuvalu votes in parliamentary electionsAudio

Updated 16/09/2010 21:19:53

The small Pacific Island nation of Tuvalu has voted in national parliamentary elections, with 26 candidates contesting 15 constituencies. The results are expected by early Friday.

Asian currency policies caught in US politicsAudioTranscript

Updated 16/09/2010 21:19:53

Japan's intervention to weaken the yen this week is caught up in an ongoing spat between the US and China over Beijing's control of its currency. A congressional hearing in Washington has been told that China's policies were a factor in Japan's decision and that both are hurting the US economy. Some members of the committee want the US to impose trade sanctions against China for what they call currency manipulation. That's sure to put treasury secretary, Timothy Geithner, on the spot when he addresses the hearing on Friday.

Pakistan a 'slow burn' disaster, Australian FMAudioTranscript

Updated 15/09/2010 20:40:37

A day after being sworn in as the Australian foreign minister, Kevin Rudd, is already abroad, heading for the United States - via Pakistan - where he says the threat of water born diseases from the calamitous floods has to be dealt with urgently. Mr Rudd says Pakistan is a 'slow burn humanitarian disaster, potentially of horrendous proportions'. During the coming weekend Pakistan will continue to be on Mr Rudd's agenda when he arrives in Washington and then New York for the United Nations general assembly and other high level talks, including a meeting of Pakistan's supporters.

Art goes beyond Cambodia's Killing FieldsAudio

Updated 15/09/2010 20:40:31

Australian theatre audiences are being given the opportunity this week to share the experiences of four Cambodian artists who survived the rule of the Khmer Rouge between 1975 until 1979. The performers tell their story using traditional Cambodian dance, music and shadow puppetry. 'The Continuum - Beyond The Killing Fields' features an 80 year old female dancer, Em Theay, who was recruited as a Royal Court Dancer by the grandmother of Cambodia's present king when she was seven years old.

Nepal seeks explanation for corn crop failureAudioTranscript

Updated 15/09/2010 20:40:32

Nepal has suffered massive corn crop failure - both late last year and early this year - and some farmers blame the multinational companies who sold them the seed. The exact cause of the crop disaster remains a mystery, but at least one part of the mystery may soon be solved.

Fiji's MSG status still unsettledAudio

Updated 15/09/2010 20:40:36

The Melanesian Spearhead Group has still not settled the status of Fiji's membership. In July, Fiji was stopped from taking up the rotating chairmanship of the subregional bloc. This has led to new attacks from Fiji's interim regime on Australia and New Zealand's influence on the region, and the expulsion of Australia's acting high commissioner.

Dialogue 'only way' for Indian KashmirAudio

Updated 15/09/2010 20:40:37

The Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh has held an all-party meeting with an aim to make a final decision on a how to stop the current unrest in Indian Kashmir. One of the proposals was to remove the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act because it's said that could defuse the tensions. While the politicians and stakeholders met in New Delhi on Wednesday, three more protesters were shot dead by police in Indian Kashmir. In three months of protests by young Kashmiris, holding anti-India rallies, more than 90 people have died. And the result from the New Delhi talks was a statement saying - once again - that dialogue is the best way forward.

Burmese elections could kick start reformsAudio

Updated 14/09/2010 20:13:31

Few voices from Burma surface to speak outside the country, unless they are the voices of exiles. But after the junta put the country on a path to elections in November, new processes were unleashed, along with a debate about whether, despite all the flaws, change might be coming, change that even the ever-controlling generals have not anticipated. We've been speaking to one player, who says Burma's fate after the poll rests in the hands of the Burmese figure that the west most esteems, Nobel laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi.

Religious freedoms vulnerable in IndonesiaAudio

Updated 14/09/2010 20:13:31

The Indonesian president has been criticised for his slow response to an attack on two Christian leaders in Bekasi, West Java, over the weekend. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has now said that he wants the perpetrators quickly arrested and prosecuted. But analysts say he was far more vocal about controversial plans in the US to burn copies of the Koran on the anniversary of the September 2001 terrorist attacks - than on the domestic case in Bekasi. And they say it's a reflection of a broader failure to enforce religious freedom at home. Indonesia's constitution protects religious freedoms. But a 1965 Blasphemy Law specifically recognises only six mainstream faiths - it evokes a sense of majority rule - and if you're not part of the mainstream, or if you're atheist, you can face criminal and social repercussions.

Japan PM holds on to powerAudio

Updated 14/09/2010 20:13:31

Japan's prime minister, Naoto Kan, has survived a challenge to his party leadership and will hold on to the top job in the country too. In the contest for the presidency of the ruling party against political heavyweight, Ichiro Ozawa, Mr Kan won by an unexpected wide margin of 721 votes to 491. Mr Kan's success means Japan has avoided having to change the prime minister for the third time in one year. But the future is shaky all the same.

Team Timor to take national bicycle raceAudioTranscript

Updated 14/09/2010 20:13:30

All this week, East Timor hosts its second national mountain bike race - the Tour de Timor - which will see 340 cyclists from 16 nations cross the country. The race has grown significantly since the inaugural event last year and attracts attention from overseas enthusiasts and sponsors. But all eyes are on Team Timor, a group of 70 cyclists, who after just one month of training are relying on raw talent to make an impact.

Bid for Fiji Times newspaper blockedAudio

Updated 14/09/2010 20:13:30

Fiji's competition watchdog has blocked the Fiji Sun newspaper from making a bid for its rival, the Fiji Times. But a media crackdown by the Bainimarama government means the Rupert Murdoch owned company, News Limited, still has to sell 90 per cent of its stake in the Fiji Times before September 28.

China summit told 'act now' on climateAudioTranscript

Updated 13/09/2010 20:49:17

An international economic gathering in China has been told governments and business leaders need to act urgently on climate change. The three day World Economic Forum's Asian meeting has been opened by premier Wen Jiabao in Tianjin, south of the capital, Beijing. Over one thousand delegates will discuss resource limits, the role of Asia's soft power, and the Korean peninsula.

Australia, Indonesia talk Maluku rights abuseAudio

Updated 13/09/2010 20:49:18

Australian officials have been in talks with Indonesian authorities in Ambon - in Maluku Province - to discuss allegations of abuse against political prisoners. There have been a series of allegations in the past three years, dating back to 2007, when 22 activists were arrested by Indonesia's Special Detachment 88 when they unfurled a Maluku independence flag in front of the Indonesian president. They were later convicted of 'rebellion'. Rights groups have raised ongoing concerns about Special Detachment 88, Indonesia's elite counter terrorism unit. In particular, that it has been involved in torture against political prisoners, including the 22 separatists from Maluku.

Afghan asylum seekers still stuck in AustraliaAudioTranscript

Updated 13/09/2010 20:49:18

He's yet to be sworn in but Australia's foreign minister-designate, Kevin Rudd, is not standing still for long - he has announced travel plans for the United States, where he will attend the United Nations general assembly on behalf of prime minister Julia Gillard. Mr Rudd made the announcement as Ms Gillard faced new pressure over asylum seekers. A growing number of asylum seekers from Afghanistan are stuck in limbo because of an ongoing freeze on processing their claims.

'Shady' bookies still influencing Indian cricketAudio

Updated 13/09/2010 20:49:14

Another corruption scandal threatens to rock world cricket after the controversy engulfing Pakistan's captain Salman Butt and four other players. While the International Cricket Council launches an investigation into Pakistan, the spotlight is now on Indian betting syndicates. Huge volumes of money are involved in illegal betting and many of the bookies come from India.

Tribal violence declines in PNG highlandsAudioTranscript

Updated 13/09/2010 20:49:14

Australia's foreign aid programme has been under recent criticised about its effectiveness and the high salaries paid to some contractors - but an AusAID funded programme in Papua New Guinea's highlands is having an impact on the difficult problem of tribal fighting. It's led by a former Queensland detective who has earned the respect of locals and brought about a dramatic decrease in the level of violence.

India considers abolishing the death penaltyAudio

Updated 10/09/2010 19:49:44

There are more than 300 prisoners on death row in India and nearly 30 are at the final stage of seeking presidential pardon. The rest are awaiting results of appeals to courts. And although the supreme court has ruled that trial courts should pass the death sentence only in 'rarest of rare cases', a national debate has broken out about whether India should abolish the penalty completely.

Japan, China maritime dispute escalatesAudio

Updated 10/09/2010 19:49:44

A dispute between Japan and China has escalated, with China summoning Japan's ambassador and Japan raising renewed concerns over China's military activities. It started earlier in the week when a Chinese trawler allegedly rammed two Japanese coast guard vessels near islands that both countries claim in the East China Sea. Japanese authorities have been holding the captain of the Chinese trawler ever since. China wants him released 'unconditionally'. But the real issue is the two countries' competing territorial claims.

Buffett, Gates to spark Chinese philanthropyAudioTranscript

Updated 10/09/2010 19:49:43

Two of the world's richest and most generous men - Bill Gates and Warren Buffett - head to China later this month in an effort to promote the idea of philanthropy to Chinese millionaires. It's a tough sell in a nation where wealth is traditionally kept within the family. In fact, only two of the 50 Chinese businessmen invited to meet with Mr Gates and Mr Buffett have accepted the invitation. But small scale philanthropy is growing in China.

Mekong dams a threat to CambodiaAudioTranscript

Updated 10/09/2010 19:49:44

In Cambodia, the damming of the Mekong River is being blamed for drought conditions in parts of the country. There is also pressure on fish stocks, with shortages leading to steadily rising prices. Warnings about the downstream impact of dams, particularly those built by China, have been growing and there are now calls for ASEAN - a body frequently criticised for inaction - to take a stand. The issue was raised at talks in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, organised by the Melbourne University based Asialink, and was also an opportunity to assess Cambodia's overall progress.

Muslims mark end of RamadanAudio

Updated 10/09/2010 19:49:43

This Friday marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, with celebrations the world over for the Eid festival. Muslims make up about a quarter of the world's population and more than half a billion Muslims live in Asia. One of the millions of Muslims celebrating the auspicious day is an old friend of Radio Australia's - the Malaysian academic, activist and political scientist, Norani Othman.

China orders power cuts for carbon cutsAudioTranscript

Updated 09/09/2010 21:13:51

China's efforts to reduce its air pollution usually attract praise - but now they are copping criticism from within China itself. Authorities are ordering power cuts and factory shut downs in an all out effort to meet a 20 per cent carbon reduction target by the end of the year. Steel mills are especially hard hit and prices are likely to rise. Households aren't being spared, and demand for Australia's iron ore and coal could also be affected.

Philippine police may have shot HK hostagesAudio

Updated 09/09/2010 21:13:51

Investigators in the Philippines have acknowledged for the first time that police may have shot some of the hostages in a bungled rescue operation that left eight tourists from Hong Kong dead in Manila. In late August, a former Philippine police officer took a bus load of tourists hostage in a bid to clear himself of extortion charges and be reinstated. The Philippine president Benigno Aquino says he was frustrated to watch the confused rescue effort as it was broadcast 'live' on television. And now justice secretary, Leila de Lima, has said 'there is a big possibility that there was friendly fire'. Philippine authorities are waiting for results from ballistics experts in Hong Kong.

NGOs defeat Malaysia's 'dirty' power plantAudioTranscript

Updated 09/09/2010 21:13:50

In Malaysia, a coalition of environmentalists has scored a rare victory after the government rejected a bid by a consortium to build a coal fired power plant on a pristine coast line in Borneo. The coalition in eastern Sabah state had criticised the proposed power plant in Lahad Datu, arguing that the location was too close to environmentally sensitive areas, such as the Coral Triangle.

'Death of democracy' in Sri LankaAudio

Updated 09/09/2010 21:13:50

The 'death of democracy' - that's how Sri Lanka's opposition, United National Party, has described a constitutional vote to give more power to the president. Sri Lanka's parliament has approved a raft of changes to the country's constitution, allow president Mahinda Rajapaksa to seek a third term and remove some of the checks on executive power. But according to Gordon Weiss - a former senior official with the United Natioms in Sri Lanka - democracy has been dying there for some time.

India landgrabs meet massive resistanceAudioTranscript

Updated 09/09/2010 21:13:51

At a time when the rest of the world is still feeling the global financial pinch, India, like China, has been posting quite remarkable growth figures - but New Delhi is beginning to feel the pain of trying to balance economic development against the social demands of its people.

China, US 'be cautious': Cambodian princeAudio

Updated 08/09/2010 21:04:05

Prince Norodom Sirivudh - a major figure in Cambodian politics - has added to warnings about rising tensions in the South China Sea. Prince Sirivudh says China should be cautious, but so should the US, which has sided with Vietnam after Hanoi last year ordered six big submarines from its long standing ally Russia.

East Timor deputy PM Carrascalao resignsAudio

Updated 08/09/2010 21:04:05

East Timor's deputy prime minister Mario Carrascalao says he has been forced to resign by a prime minister who publicly offended him and by corrupt individuals who are opposed to his anti-corruption work. During a televised Council of Ministers meeting at the start of September, the prime minister Xanana Gusmao apparently called his deputy a liar, incompetent, and stupid. Mr Carrascalao's department has been accused of delaying the implementation of a budget and he himself has been accused of incompetence over an investigation into funds that were allegedly lost via the ministry of finance. But the opposition Fretilin Party says the prime minister is trying to discredit Mr Carrascalao's anti-corruption work and make him a 'scapegoat for government financial mismanagement'.

Norway blacklists Malaysian logging firmAudio

Updated 08/09/2010 21:04:04

Environmental groups are urging investment funds to follow the lead of Norway's state pension fund and boycott a leading Malaysian logging company. The Norwegian government says its own enquiries found Samling Global was responsible for extensive and repeated breaches of forestry regulations in Sarawak state. International NGOs hope the Norwegian decision will force the Malaysian government to scrutinise Samling and its logging operations more closely.

UN warns Nepal to form new governmentAudioTranscript

Updated 08/09/2010 21:04:04

Nepal's parliament has for the seventh time failed to elect a prime minister, leaving the nation in political limbo for months. Once again, the Maoist candidate and former prime minister Prachanda leads over the Nepali Congress contender, Ram Chandra Poudel, but he has failed to get the necessary 300 votes. But the ongoing deadlock has led the UN to warn that it will pull out its mission unless a new government is formed soon.

No time to lose to rebalance global economyAudioTranscript

Updated 08/09/2010 21:04:05

Secrecy surrounds the latest high level economic and security talks between the US and China, which are underway in Beijing. Senior White House advisers have met with Chinese president Hu Jintao. President Hu has praised the progress made in the bilateral relationship since president Barack Obama took office - the two leaders have met six times, but there are still significant sources of tension. They include the usual friction over Tibet and arms sales to Taiwan. But observers say the economic front needs the most urgent attention.

Multi billion deal breaks Australian deadlockAudioTranscript

Updated 07/09/2010 21:23:23

The return of the Gillard government comes at a price - the support of the two independents was secured with around ten billion dollars worth of government promises for non-metropolitan regions. The funds are likely to go primarily to hospitals, education and transport services.

Australian PM 'optimistic' about new termAudio

Updated 07/09/2010 21:23:23

The Australian prime minister Julia Gillard spoke at length after the independents, Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor, announced their support for the Labor Party. Ms Gillard thanked them, and the other independent, Bob Katter, and the Greens Party, for their 'business like' approach during the three weeks of negotiations. She also outlined some of her vision for the next three years.

Australia gets new governmentAudioTranscript

Updated 07/09/2010 21:23:23

Australia's political deadlock is broken and Labor - under Julia Gillard - is back in government and preparing for work after two weeks of uncertainty. The general election on August 21 delivered a hung parliament. Ms Gillard has now accepted the role of prime minister, and has acknowledged that she'll have to work more openly and more co-operatively to get her agenda through the parliament. So, there'll be more horse-trading to come and it's likely to test all the talk of a new, less combative politics in Australia. The tense atmosphere came to head as the three key independents announced their preference and it was full of last minute surprises.

Still homeless after 2007 Solomons tsunamiAudio

Updated 07/09/2010 21:23:22

As the new Solomon Islands parliament prepares for its first meeting since elections, the remote Western Province is calling on the country's leaders to help continue the recovery from the 2007 earthquake and tsunami. More than three years later, many of those affected are still living in temporary housing and are feeling the adverse effects on their way of life and their mental health.

India sets sights on China's expansionAudioTranscript

Updated 07/09/2010 21:23:22

In a rare statement, India's prime minister Manmohan Singh has accused China of seeking to expand its influence in South Asia at New Delhi's expense. Manmohan Singh says China's desire for a foothold in South Asia is a reality that India should be aware of and be prepared for. His comments come at a time when the two Asian powers are both trying to secure regional resources and geopolitical clout.

New Zealand faces billion dollar damage billAudio

Updated 06/09/2010 20:54:06

Authorities have extended a state of emergency in New Zealand's second biggest city until Wednesday after the strong earthquake that struck Christchurch on Saturday. Five hundred buildings were destroyed and many more have been condemned due to structural damage. It's estimated that the damage bill could reach NZ$2 billion.

Alarm over rise in SE Asian piracyAudioTranscript

Updated 06/09/2010 20:54:06

Calls have gone out for more action to combat piracy in the South China Sea after the latest attack on Sunday - there have been nine pirate attacks in the area between Singapore and Borneo in the past three weeks. In the latest attack, armed men boarded a Japanese tanker near Indonesia's Mangkai Island and robbed the crew.

Pakistan army pushed 'beyond capacity'Audio

Updated 06/09/2010 20:54:06

Another suicide blast in Pakistan's Northwestern Frontier has highlighted the country's severe instability as it continues to deal with terrorism and relief efforts because of the vast and devastating floods. In the latest incident - the third in Pakistan in the past week - a suspected bomber is said to have rammed a car into a police station in Lakki Marwat. Nearly 100 people have died in the past week, including those killed in earlier attacks in Lahore and Quetta. The Pakistani Taliban have claimed responsibility for the first two attacks. They, or other sectarian groups, may be taking advantage of the critical situation facing Pakistan's civilian administration and its security forces. But they may also be exploiting a lack of cooperation between the army and the government.

Taiwan and China in 'history war'Audio

Updated 06/09/2010 20:54:03

It's Taiwan and China's own 'history war' - both sides are battling over who can rightly claim responsibility for defending China from the Japanese during the second world war. China's then ruling Kuomintang party and the Chinese Communist Party formed a shaky alliance during the conflict, but their truce quickly spilled over into civil war when the Japanese invaders were defeated. Those events underline the tensions in the relationship between China and Taiwan today, making the contest over history a highly charged issue on both sides of the straits.

North Korean defectors to launch partyAudioTranscript

Updated 06/09/2010 20:54:03

Scores of former North Korean soldiers who defected to South Korea plan launch a party this week aimed at toppling the communist regime in Pyongyang. The defectors say they hope to conduct anti regime activities with the help of serving North Korean soldiers.

Laos trains midwives to reverse region's worst maternal mortality rateAudioTranscript

Updated 03/09/2010 19:53:23

Women in Laos have a one in 33 chance of dying as a result of childbirth.

Burma's tax burden heaviest on the poorAudioTranscript

Updated 03/09/2010 19:53:23

The poorest people in Burma are paying more than half their income in taxes.

Tension spikes between Indonesia and MalaysiaAudio

Updated 03/09/2010 19:53:23

Tensions between Indonesia and Malaysia have flared on the eve of further talks to resolve its ongoing border dispute. It was first prompted by the detention of three Indonesian officials by Malaysian police last month. But lately it's also been fanned by the efforts of Indonesian NGOs to draw attention to what they say are hundreds of Indonesians facing the death penalty in Malaysia. Backed by the opposition, they're demanding the government intervene to save their lives. Experts say that could have big implications for Indonesia's own stance on the death penalty - and for the Australians on death row in Indonesian jails.

Amnesty International reveals torture in Sri LankaAudio

Updated 03/09/2010 19:53:23

Amnesty International is pressing the Australian and Sri Lankan governments to take greater responsibility for the welfare of asylum seekers. The call comes after claims three men were tortured and jailed following their forced return from Australia to Sri Lanka. Amnesty says both governments must not only ensure the safety of the men in question but directly bear responsibility for the results of their policies and procedures.

Singaporean writer explores feeling of migrationAudio

Updated 03/09/2010 19:53:18

Between Stations is a selection of writings focussed on the experience of travelling and working in China, India, Egypt and Morocco.
Kim Cheng Boey's book is not just about his travels, but also a recollection of the Singapore of his childhood, before the skyscrapers and shiny shopping malls took over.

New Solomon Islands' government called on to take MDG's seriouslyAudio

Updated 03/09/2010 19:53:18

As the new Solomon Islands government begins taking the reigns of power in the nation, local NGOs are calling on it to start working seriously on improving the quality of life for its people.

'Robin Hood' tax on global finance gets boostAudio

Updated 02/09/2010 20:55:04

A 'Robin Hood' tax on financial transactions - aid groups have demanded it and now 60 governments say they support it and intend to lobby at the United Nations. There is still significant opposition to the idea in America, but Europe is well behind it. At a meeting in Paris, a working group has delivered a review of the proposal on behalf of 60 countries, which will take it to a summit in New York later this month.

Thailand shocked by school caning videoAudio

Updated 02/09/2010 20:55:04

In Thailand, a video that was secretly recorded on a mobile phone has exposed a teacher at a Catholic boarding school, hitting dozens of students with a cane wrapped with electrical wire. The students were apparently being punished for failing to clean their living quarters. But it's illegal to use corporal punishment in schools in Thailand and the video footage of the students being caned has caused shock and concern after it was aired on Thai television.

Bombings highlight Pakistan sectarian unrestAudioTranscript

Updated 02/09/2010 20:55:04

In the Pakistani city of Lahore, the death toll has risen to more than thirty after the first major attack since the devastating floods engulfed much of the country. Three suicide bombers targeted a Shiite mourning procession when thousands were marking the breaking of the fast in the holy month of Ramadan. Hundreds were injured. Lahore has seen a growing number of attacks by Taliban and Al-Qaeda linked groups. It has also been the scene of sectarian violence between Sunni and Shia groups in recent months.

Asia to change the way the internet is usedAudio

Updated 02/09/2010 20:55:03

A new report has found that the number of internet users in five emerging economies, including Indonesia, China and India, will nearly double by 2015. Researchers from the Boston Consulting Group also say the way people access and use the internet in those countries is quite different to that of the developed world. Instant messaging and social networking sites are extremely popular and people are more likely to use their mobile phone to go online than buy a PC. But there is still a vast divide between the digital haves and have-nots, and it's one that the Indonesian government is trying to rectify.

Calls for Solomons to take MDGs seriouslyAudio

Updated 02/09/2010 20:55:03

As the new Solomon Islands' government begins taking the reigns of power, local NGOs are calling on it to start serious work to improve the quality of life for the country's people. Solomon Islands signed up to achieve the eight United Nations Millennium Development Goals in the year 2000. But with just five years to go before the MDGs are due to be achieved, the Solomons looks like being one of the many developing nations which will fall short. And some people say it's down to a lack of political will.

NGOs slam Australia over indigenous healthAudio

Updated 01/09/2010 19:59:53

The United Nations Conference on Advancing Global Health has come to a close after three days of spirited debate among more than seventeen hundred participants from NGOs around the world. It was the largest UN conference ever held in Australia and, among other issues, focussed attention on the problems in Australia's own back yard - namely, the gap in life expectancy between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. The Northern Territory intervention also came in for scrutiny a week after a United Nations report found it breached Australia's international obligations.

Australia, Asia economies stronger than USAudioTranscript

Updated 01/09/2010 19:59:53

Australians have been basking in one of the world's best performing developed economies for the past year - but the latest official figures show even the optimists were too cautious about the outlook. Growth surged 1.2 per cent for the three months to June, or provisionally 3.3 per cent for the year. This is much better than forecasts. And along with data from China, Korea and India this week, Asia continues to lead the global rebound from recession. But the threat of a double dip recession still looms over the US and Europe.

Indonesia volcano still at alert levelAudio

Updated 01/09/2010 19:59:53

Thousands of people on the Indonesian island of Sumatra have returned home after the weekend eruption of Mount Sinabung, despite fears that it may not yet be safe. Mount Sinabung erupted for the first time in 400 years on Sunday and Monday, sending plumes of smoke into the air and displacing at least 30,000 people. There are still around 23,000 internally displaced people (IDPs), living in camps. And volcanologists say the situation remains at the alert level.

PNG hosts US, Australia Pacific PartnershipAudioTranscript

Updated 01/09/2010 19:59:50

The navies and defence forces of Australia, the United States and Papua New Guinea are on a multinational humanitarian mission under the annual Pacific Partnership exercise in Papua New Guinea. Personnel from the three countries will provide medical assistance and reconstruction work in New Britain province for the next few days.

NGO mixes toilets and profit in CambodiaAudioTranscript

Updated 01/09/2010 19:59:50

Sanitation in Cambodia's rural areas is noticeable mainly by its absence - but the Cambodian government aims for one third of rural households to have access to proper sanitation in five years' time. It says it will meet the target. And it wants all Cambodians to have toilets ten years after that. A novel approach from an international NGO, that combines the profit motive with sanitation, seems to be helping.