November 2008
China cuts growth forecast and interest rates
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:12
In a shift away from the double digit growth of recent years, China has lowered its economic growth forecast for this quarter to 8 percent. The country's top economic planner, Zhang Ping, says the global financial crisis is still spreading, and its impact is deepening in China. The People's Bank of China this week moved to cut interest rates by 1.08 percentage points to 5.58 percent, the biggest single cut since the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis. While some say the cut may provide some relief to businesses and mortgage holders, it is unlikely to reverse China's economic slowdown.
Thai PM declares emergency at two airports
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:12
In Thailand, the embattled prime minister, Somchai Wongsawat, has declared a state of emergency at the country's two biggest airports to allow police to clear them of protesters. Thailand's tourism minister says authorities plan to begin flying thousands of stranded travellers out of one or two military bases in the next 48 hours. Meanwhile, it's the hour of reckoning for thousands of anti-government protesters in Thailand who are trying to force Prime Minister Somchai to resign. Despite the damage being done to Thailand's economy, the People's Alliance for Democracy is insisting it genuinely has the country's interests at heart.
Hunt on for perpetrators of Mumbai attacks
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:12
Mujahideen, criminal elements and foreign infiltrators are all under suspicion as Indian police continue their operations in the financial centre of Mumbai in the wake of Wednesday's bomb and gun attacks.
Major anti-militant operation continues in Mumbai
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:13
Police and commandos in India are trying to flush out armed gunmen from the Oberoi hotel in Mumbai, 24 hours after a series of attacks in the city. An estimated 125 people died and nearly 300 were injured after suspected Islamic militants attacked ten sites across Mumbai, including the five-star Oberoi and Taj hotels, while military commandos are trying to end a multiple hostage crisis.
Leading Australian architect's 40 years of design
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:10
Booming cities in Asia are home to some of the ugliest buildings in the region. And yet, some of the most innovative and stunning architecture could be found there too. Australian architects have contributed to the changing skylines in Asia, among them Philip Cox. He has designed some of Australia's most iconic buildings, including the National Maritime Musuem, and the athletics stadium and aquatic centre for Sydney 2000 Olympics. This week he's launching a book which is a retrospective of more than 40 years' practice in architecture in Australia and internationally.
World leaders offer condolences to Mumbai victims
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:12
One expert called the string of attacks on Mumbai as symbolic as the felling of the twin towers in New York. Emblems of India's western heritage - the iconic Taj Hotel and the Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus - were hit, as well as other key locations at the heart of India's booming capitalist economy. World leaders and national security committees have been trying to learn something about the group claiming responsibility, the previously unknown Deccan Mujahideen. Indian security forces spent the night trying to end a multiple hostage crisis, and to secure an office-residential complex that also houses a Jewish centre, where an unknown number of Israelis were believed trapped.
New aid approach to domestic violence in East Timor
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:10
The Australian Government's development agency AUSAID will change the way it tackles violence against women in Melanesia and East Timor, following the release of a new report. AUSAID consulted more than 700 stakeholders across the region to find out which methods used to reduce domestic violence work, and which don't. At the report's launch in Dili, Australia's ambassador said grassroots projects and access to justice will be the focus of future AUSAID funding to tackle domestic violence in East Timor.
Australia considering Indonesian loan request
Updated 28/11/2008 12:29:12
Australia has confirmed its considering a request from Indonesia for a loan, with Jakarta also approaching multilateral forums like the World Bank, amid continued gloomy economic conditions. There are reports the funds would help finance infrastructure projects. Australia joined a group that extended a line of credit to Indonesia during the 1997-98 Asian financial crisis, but it has never been drawn down.
World leaders condemn deadly Mumbai attacks
Updated 27/11/2008 15:17:41
World leaders have been quick to condemn the attacks in Mumbai. The US State department called the attacks "horrific", with US President elect Barack Obama pledging to work with India to "root out and destroy terroist networks". And the European Union said it "shares in the mourning of the Indian nation and stands by it's side during this dramatic test". Australia's Acting Foreign Affairs minister, Simon Crean said the Mumbai attacks were indiscriminate and cowardly. The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that two Australians were injured but that their injuries are not life-threatening. The state government in New South Wales has been trying to make contact with a trade delegation that was staying at the Oberoi hotel - one of the two five-star establishments where western hostages are reportedly being held. State premier Nathan Rees says at least some of the 20 members of the delegation have made contact and are safe.
Thai PM refuses to quit, despite protests
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:02
In Thailand, Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat has gone on national television to say he won't step down or call a snap election, as suggested by Thailand's military chief. Prime Minister Somchai wants the military and the police to quash anti-government protestors who've occupied Bangkok's international airport, which have left tens of thousands of passengers stranded. The announcement came after anti-government protestors occupied Bangkok's international airport. Mr Somchai was responding to the head of the armed forces, General Anupong Pojinda, who's urging the government to dissolve parliament and hold new elections to diffuse the political crisis. General Po-jinda held a news conference and demanded that the demonstrators abandon their airport protest. But he stressed the army is not planning to intervene in the crisis and stage a coup.
Dozens killed in Mumbai blasts and shooting
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:02
In India's financial capital Mumbai, local authorities have confirmed at least 78 people have died in a series of shootings and blasts across the city. The Press Trust of India says more than 250 people were wounded in the attacks, reportedly carried out by heavily-armed men with automatic weapons and grenades. Police in Maharashtra state said "unknown terrorists" opened fire at several locations across Mumbai, and western hostages have been taken at the five-star Taj and Oberoi Hotels.
Researchers to study bushfires close-up
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:01
There's a poem Australian children often learn at school, "I Love a Sunburnt Country", and while the love extends in the first few lines to "droughts and flooding rains", it doesn't include Australia's notorious bushfires. Over the past 40 years, around 250 people have died in bushfires in this country. Thousands of homes have been lost, and the overall economic cost has been over $2 billion. Now, a new facility - the Pyrotron - has opened in the capital Canberra, which scientists hope will revolutionise the study of bushfires.
Singapore court fines Wall Street Journal for contempt
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:01
Singapore's High Court has slapped a substantial fine on the publisher of the Wall Street Journal for contempt of court, the largest fine ever levied against a media organistaion. The high-profile media outlet's publisher has been fined 16 thousand US dollars for two editorials published earlier this year. The High Court ruled the articles insinuated a lack of impartiality, bias, and a lack of independence within the Singapore judiciary. Expressing disappointment with the judgement, the Dow Jones Publishing company has denied the material contained in the articles constituted contempt.
Historic Taj hotel burns after Mumbai attacks
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:01
In India's financial capital, Mumbai, local authorities have confirmed at least 78 people have died in a series of shootings and blasts across the city. Nore than 250 people were wounded in the attacks, reportedly carried out by heavily-armed men with automatic weapons and grenades. Police in Maharashtra state said "unknown terrorists" opened fire at several locations across Mumbai, and western hostages have been taken at the five-star Taj and Oberoi Hotels.
Nepal's Maoists mark 100 days in office
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:01
It's a hundred days this week since Nepal's Maoists formed government in the new Himalayan republic of Nepal. And it would seem the former rebels are finding adminstration as much of a challenge as fighting a guerilla war. Some diplomats say progress on key issues has been slow.
Federal Reserve's Volcker bolsters Obama's economic team
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:02
US President-elect Barack Obama is bolstering his economic team with the addition of the widely respected former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker. Mr Volcker will head a new White House panel that will advise the president on ways of reviving the economy. The announcement came amid further reminders of just how serious an economic crisis the US is facing.
Kevin Rudd warns Australia may enter deficit
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:02
As the global economic crisis has unfolded in recent weeks, one word Australian politicians have been stringently avoiding in government pronouncements about the national budget has been "deficit". But it's become less and less tenable for Canberra to avoid what's become known as the "D" word. Not that Australia's economic position is particularly bad; the OECD says the country should avoid a recession. But now Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has admitted a deficit is where the budget could be heading.
Former East Timor PM to negotiate Sunrise
Updated 27/11/2008 10:57:02
In East Timor, the former prime minister Mari Alkatiri has been appointed to lead the country's negotiations over one of its major developments. Mr Alkatiri, who's been a vocal critic of the government, has been tasked with co-ordinating talks to come up with a development plan for the Greater Sunrise oil and gas field. East Timor is at loggerheads with the Sunrise operator, Woodside Petroleum over the site of the downstream processing plant for gas from Sunrise. It is a long running dispute which could jeopardise the development.
Thai political conflict exposes class differences
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:38
Unfolding events in the Thai capital are threatening to turn political agitation into an all-or-nothing struggle. The yellow-shirts of the PAD and the pro-government supporters in red have so far managed to avert violent confrontation. The six-month campaign of the PAD has also exposed class differences in Thailand.
Anti-government Thai protests turn violent
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:38
In Thailand, anti-government protesters forced the partial closure of Thailand's main international airport yesterday, as anti-government demonstrations descended into violence with 11 injured in clashes. Thousands of supporters of the People's Alliance for Democracy breached police lines and stormed Suvarnabhumi Airport, forcing flight cancellations and leaving international travellers stranded. The new $US4 billion dollar airport is the main gateway for 14-and-a-half million visitors to Thailand each year.
The anti-government movement said this week it had begun what it called a "final battle" to force the resignation of Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat.
Malaysian Muslim council issues anti-yoga fatwa
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:36
The National Fatwa Council of Malaysia has issued a religious edict instructing Muslims to stop practising yoga because of its Hindu roots. Some Muslim clerics believe yogic practices such as chanting mantras and physical movement could damage the faith of their followers.
Filmmaker sees East Timor through Rosa's eyes
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:37
"Rosa's Journey" is a new documentary set to air on Australian television. It tracks more than a year in the life of Timorese widow Rosa Martins and her brood of eight children. The political events of post independence timor are shown through Rosa's eyes who struggles to sustain a family now that the euphoria of independence has passed. It's the second time Rosa has featured in a film by Luigi Acquisto and I asked him what had changed since he made his last film eight years ago.
UNICEF urges Asia Pacific to protect health of poor
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:37
The divide between rich and poor in access to life-saving health services in the Asia Pacific is becoming more pronounced, according the the United Nations Children's Agency UNICEF. The UNICEF Head of Health Programs, Dr Peter Salama, says that of the region's children are carrying a huge burden of the disease. Dr Salama says of the 9.2 million deaths of children under five every year, 40 per cent occur in the Asia Pacific region.
Asia's Rabobank confident of future for farmers
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:37
A top executive at the world's biggest farm lender says he remains confident about the future for farming, despite the global credit crisis. Sander Prujis, the head of Rabobank International for the Asia-Pacific Region, says the bank has a solid balance sheet, at a time when many multi-nationals are in turmoil.
Australia to help disabled in developing countries
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:37
The Australian government has launched a strategy to provide people with a disability in developing countries, with more support. About 650 million people in the world live with a disability and 80 percent of these live in developing countries, including the Asia-Pacific. The Australian government says its new strategy aims to improve the quality of life for people with a disability. It says they face barriers which prevent them from participating in society, especially women and children.
World Bank warns China's growth set to drop
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:37
The global economic slowdown is cutting into growth expectations across the region. Indonesia has slashed its growth forecast from an optimistic 6.3 per cent to 4.5 per cent next year. Now the World Bank has cut its forecast for the economy meant to be driving growth in the region. The Bank says China will grow by about 7.5 per cent during 2009 - down from its earlier forecast of more than 9 per cent.
US announces fresh $800 billion rescue fund
Updated 26/11/2008 10:12:38
In a sign that the global financial crisis is far from over, the US government is spending another $US800 billion, in a fresh attempt to free up stalled credit markets. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson says the extra cash is needed to stabilise the financial system, by encouraging banks to start lending again and for rattled consumers to resume borrowing.
Two child policy being debated in Vietnam
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:32
Vietnam's government is considering a return to a two child policy in an attempt to control population growth.
China urging local officials to allow citizens to voice concerns
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:32
China is urging local officials to provide citizens with proper outlets to air public grievances to avoid violent unrest as the country faces the prospect of higher unemployment amid a global economic slowdown.
Almost 60 men die in China's coal mines in a month
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:32
Nearly sixty men have died in China's coal mines in the past four weeks showing once again that China's mining industry remains one of the world's most dangerous.
Bylaw proposed to microchip Papuans with HIV/AIDs
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:32
A local doctor and legislator in the Indonesian province of Papua has sparked outrage by announcing that he expects to pass a by-law to make it legal to "microchip" Papuans with HIV/AIDS.
Has Pakistan's ISI become a scapegoat for failed US policy?
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:33
So has Pakistan's military intelligence agency, the ISI been made a scapegoat for failed US policy in Afghanistan?
Pakistan government disbands ISI's political wing
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:33
To Pakistan, and when an Islamist militant uprising erupted at Islamabad's Red Mosque last year, one cabinet member asked the-then Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, how Pakistan's spies could report what he had for dinner, but not know what was going on around the corner from his office?
Thailand's parliament forced to close by protesters
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:33
Thousands of protesters in Bangkok yesterday forced parliament to close and surrounded the Prime Minister's makeshift offices at an old airport.
US President elect says economy caught in cycle of crisis
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:33
US President-elect Barack Obama says the American economy is stuck in a vicious cycle of crisis, and extraordinary measures will be needed to jolt it back into life.
Domestic violence the main cause of murder in Australia
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:32
It's estimated that in Australia, at least 74 women and dozens of children die in Australia each year at the hands of violent men.
Australia's growth in broadband to double the electricity required
Updated 25/11/2008 12:43:32
New research predicts that the rapid growth in high speed broadband will double the amount of electricity needed to run the internet in Australia.
Australia's Labor government marks its first anniversary
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:14
A year ago today Kevin Rudd triumphantly lead the Australian Labor Party out of Opposition after more than eleven years of the Howard government.
US economic and political clout expected to decline
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:14
America's economic and political clout will decline over the next twenty years and the world will be more dangerous with concerns over food and water security, and the spread of advanced weapons.
Foreigners travel to India to find surrogate mothers
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:15
For years, foreigners have been travelling to India to find surrogate mothers to have their babies.
Australia's Defence Chief concerned about China
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:15
Australia's Defence chief is concerned about China's military build up and says he's seeking more information about the country's long term aims.
Protesters in Thailand plan to march on parliament
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:15
Thousands of protesters in Thailand are planning to march on parliament this morning, as the house convenes to discuss amending the 2007 constitution.
Dalai Lama urges caution in relation to Tibet's future
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:15
Tibet's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, has urged caution to be exercised by Tibetan leaders-in-exile in planning the future of their homeland.
China asserts its role in world economy
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:15
China has used the 21 member Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum to assert its role in reviving the world economy, though with a note of caution it has its own domestic considerations too.
East Timor still facing weapons control challenges
Updated 24/11/2008 11:16:14
A new report by the Small Arms Survey group says East Timor still has a serious challenges regarding weapons control and management with controlling weapons.
Singapore's politicians turn to YouTube
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:31
Singapore's ruling People's Action Party has decided to use information technology to reach out to younger voters. Politicians around the world have in recent years been using the internet to get their message across. And now campaigning rules in Singapore have been relaxed, to allow political parties to use the popular video-sharing website You Tube.
National elections in Singapore are not due until 2012, but there's speculation the government may be considering early polls.
US companies shed jobs in face of looming recession
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:32
The next stage of the global economic crisis is beginning to bite in the US with claims for unemployment benefits surging to a sixteen year high. More than half-a-million Americans applied for help last week, as more and more firms shed workers in the face of a looming recession. US politicians are now scrambling to extend unemployment benefits to help ease the impact of the economic slowdown.
"Australia" likely to generate outback jobs interest
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:29
"Australia" - the long-awaited epic film from director Baz Lurhmann, has opened to enormous fanfare. Could a film that has Hollywood stars riding horses through stunning outback scenery create a flood of interest in getting a job in Australia's cattle industry? Many in the industry are hoping it can - although they warn the realities aren't quite as romantic as the silver screen version.
Ramos-Horta forges ahead with Dili peace plan
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:32
East Timor's president Jose Ramos-Horta is forging ahead with his ambitious goal to have Dili declared a 'City of Peace' by 2010. He's engaged the help of a Swiss-based mediation organisation - the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue - to work with both the current leaders and the next generation to talk about issues of national importance.
WORLD: terrestrial carbon must be in Post Kyoto mix
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:32
A leading group of climate change specialists is urging developing nations to take more action against climate change. The group says putting a price on carbon stored in vegetation and soils can help reduce greenhouse gases by up to one quarter. The group says this is now mostly left out of any solution dealing with climate change.
Financial crisis to dominate APEC talks in Peru
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:32
The APEC ministers and leaders meetings in Lima, Peru, are being dominated by one over-arching concern - the need to co-ordinate a response to the global financial crisis, with a new international trade agreement key. Many of those APEC leaders have been basking in the symbolism at least of being included at the global table, after the Washington G-20 leaders meeting.
Australian PM to push Asia-Pacific grouping
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:32
The Australian prime minister will have plenty of time to review his plans for an Asia Pacific community as he wings his way today to the annual APEC forum. Kevin Rudd is flying to Peru via Honululu and Acapulco - a 32 hour trip. Before leaving for the APEC meeting, Mr Rudd re-affirmed his determination to set up a European Union style forum in the Asia-Pacific region.
People smuggling syndicates continue to eye Australia
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:32
Australia's Immigration Minister Chris Evans believes Australia is still being targeted by people smugglers in the region. A Royal Australian Navy vessel this week rescued a group of 12 people from their sinking boat in waters off Western Australia. The 12, including two crew members, have been taken to Christmas Island where they'll be assessed. The shadow minister for Immigration, Sharmon Stone has just returned from visiting the people-smuggling routes of South east Asia.
Global shipping concern over increased pirate attacks
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:33
Britain's Maritime Component Command centre in Bahrain reported that pirates took just 16 minutes to seize control of a Saudi tanker in the Indian Ocean. The British report described the Sirius Star as a 'lumbering prey' for the well-armed pirates in two speedboats. The report said the tanker's manoeuvrability was restricted due to its heavy load of oil, worth 100-million dollars. Recent attacks by Somali pirates on international shipping have sparked concerns of copycat raids in Asia.
Thai PM denies involvement in grenade attack
Updated 21/11/2008 14:10:33
Anti-government protestors in Thailand are calling for a major rally this Sunday in a renewed push to oust the government, a call that comes after one person was killed and more than 20 injured by an explosion in the compound the protesters have been occupying for almost three months.
Khmer Rouge photo exhibition opens in Cambodia
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:53
In Cambodia, a unique photography exhibition is touring the provinces. The photographs were taken by Sweden's Gunnar Bergstrom in 1978, when he was a guest of the Khmer Rouge. At the time Mr Bergstrom was a committed Maoist who believed Pol Pot was embarking on a project to create a perfect society. It was only after he arrived home that Mr Bergstrom decided he'd been used as a propaganda tool and, far from creating social perfection, the Khmer Rouge was systematically destroying Cambodia's people.
Infighting 'damaging' women's wing of Malaysia's ruling party
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:54
Malaysia's prime minister, who's announced he'll step down next March, has appealed to the women's wing of the ruling party, UMNO, to resolve leadership issues. Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi, who's the president of UMNO says he's dismayed the issue of sucession has not been resolved within UMNO Wanita. The head of UMNO Wanita is Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, Malaysia's Trade Minister and a veteran politician from the Mahathir days.
Indonesia's Muslims flock to the Hajj
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:54
For the past week or so, tens of thousands of Indonesians have been leaving home for Saudia Arabia, to take part in the annual Muslim pilgrimage, the Hajj. Nearly a quarter of a million people from Indonesia - the world's most populous Muslim country - are expected to head for Mecca this year.
Security forces quell northwest China protests
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:54
Security forces in northwest China have used tear gas to quell two days of violent protests by thousands of people, some of whom attacked police with axes and iron bars. Reports from Longnan city in Gansu province say at least 60 people, including police and officials, were injured during the riots. The government said the protest was triggered on Monday by about 30 people whose houses had been demolished to make way for a new government building, in an apparent case of what's called a "land grab" by local authorities.
World's poorest nations meet in Cambodia
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:54
As trade officials from the 21 APEC nations gather for their high profile meeting in Peru, their counterparts from the world's poorest countries are doing the same in Cambodia. A two-day ministerial meeting of nearly 50 least-developed countries is underway, looking at how poorer nations can integrate into the global trade system. The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation Pascal Lamy says the meeting comes at a crucial time, when the global financial crisis could jeopardise the goal of reducing world poverty.
Tens of thousands displaced in Sri Lanka
Updated 20/11/2008 11:50:02
In Sri Lanka the human rights organisation Amnesty International has warned of a looming humanitarian crisis, as 300,000 people remain trapped by the civil war in the island's north. Amnesty has also accused the Tamil Tiger rebels of using civilians as human shields in the rebel-controlled areas of the Wanni region, where there had been intense fighting in recent weeks. Amnesty says two-thirds of people in the area have been driven out of their homes by the conflict.
Miniature primate rediscovered in remote Indonesia
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:53
On the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, a team of American scientists have tracked down a mouse-sized primate that hasn't been seen in the wild for more than 80 years. The pygmy tarsier, as its known, is a fluffy little creature with enormous eyes and splayed fingers like a frog - but, being a primate, it's related to monkeys, apes, lemurs, and people. It's found in other parts of Asia, but until the American researchers stumbled across it in remote mountain forest, no one had seen an Indonesian tarsier since 1921, and there were fears it had become extinct.
Gong Li joins fellow celebrities in taking foreign citizenship
Updated 20/11/2008 10:53:53
One of China's best known international movie-stars, Gong Li, has joined a string of Chinese celebrities in taking up foreign citizenship. Gong Li's decision to become a Singaporean citizen has sparked fierce debate in China.
Help for suicidal Australian farmers
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:58
Research out this week from scientists in South Australia has found farmers are much more likely than other people living in rural areas to commit suicide. The Flinders University report is the first to specifically study farm-related suicide, and it shows farmers are particularly vulnerable to social isolation and the impact of the ongoing drought.
Indonesia to 'speed up' death row executions
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:59
Authorities in Indonesia have warned they plan to speed up the process of executing prisoners on death row. The Attorney-General says Jakarta wants to make a more dramatic example of drug traffickers, and will look to expedite the cases of people given the death penalty. There are three Australians on death row in Indonesia - members of a convicted drug-trafficking group known as the Bali Nine. While their lawyers hope their sentences will be commuted to life, there's little suggestion from the Indonesian authorities that appeals will succeed.
Cambodia joins international HIV test effort
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:59
Thousands of people in Cambodia will be tested for HIV-AIDS over the next two weeks. It's part of a global bid to test a million people worldwide by World AIDS Day on December the first. In Cambodia, the project is a joint venture between the government and the international charity, AIDS Health Foundation, or AHF. The testing work's already begun, taking advantage of the huge crowds visiting the capital Phnom Penh for the Water Festival this week.
Australia loses out on solar production
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:59
The largest producer of solar panels in Australia is closing up shop and moving its operations off-shore. BP Solar is an offshoot of British petroleum giant BP, and it says it can't afford to make solar panels in Australia. It means the loss of 200 jobs and it's another blow to an industry struggling to find its place in one of the sunniest countries on earth.
Historic Bangladesh elections in jeopardy
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:59
The interim government in Bangladesh has been holding crisis talks with leaders of the two major parties, in a bid to ensure next month's landmark elections go ahead. Former prime minister Khaleda Zia is threatening to pull her Bangladesh Nationalist Party out of the elections, unless emergency rule is lifted, and a new election timetable set. Begum Zia's main rival Sheikh Hasina Wajed, says her Awami League party is happy with the set date of December the 18th. Both women are out on bail after being given one-year jail sentences for corruption, as part of the interim government's efforts to stamp out corruption before returning Bangladesh to democratic rule.
Independence on the agenda for Tibet talks
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:59
Hundreds of exiled Tibetan leaders from around the world have been holding crisis talks in the Indian city of Dharamsala to discuss the future of Tibet and relations with China. The five-day public meeting is the first of its kind since Tibet's spiritual leader the Dalai Lama went into exile nearly 50 years ago. The Dharamsala talks were called by the Dalai Lama, after he announced his efforts to secure greater autonomy from Beijing have failed. The meeting in India has already seen calls for a shift in policy towards calls for full independence for six-million ethnic Tibetans.
Veteran politician elected to head Philippine Senate
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:59
There is a new president in the Philippines' Senate. Veteran Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, one of the key figures who helped oust the late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos, has taken over as leader of the upper house, after his predecessor resigned on Monday to head off a no-confidence vote. The new leader is an 84-year old veteran politician, widely seen as a close ally of President Gloria Arroyo.
Japanese opposition puts stranglehold on parliament
Updated 19/11/2008 10:18:00
As Japan sinks into recession, the government is facing an intransigent Opposition, stalling key bills in parliament, aimed at rescuing the economy. The Democratic Party of Japan is boycotting debates in the Opposition-led upper house, in an attempt to force Prime Minister Taro Aso to call a snap election for the more influential lower house, which is not due until September next year. The bickering could delay a government bill to allow the injection of public funds into regional and other banks, to facilitate loans to small businesses facing a credit crisis.
Epic film 'Australia' premieres in Sydney
Updated 19/11/2008 10:17:58
At the cost of $A130 million and after an extraordinary amount of publicity, the film "Australia" is now waiting for the public's verdict. Sydney last night played host to the world premiere, where the cast and crew, including the stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, finally got to see the finished work for the first time. Critics and film industry veterans who attended last night's screening are adamant the film will be a big success, but whether or not it's the beginning of an Australian film-making renaissance is still being debated.
Indian labourer's children at risk on construction sites
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:40
A welfare group in India says millions of children are growing up on construction sites, because their working parents have no access to childcare. As New Delhi installs new public transport systems and apartment blocks, ahead of the Commonwealth Games, labourers are hard at work, and many have to take their small children with them. The children are at higher risk of injury and stand little chance of going to school.
Conditions 'not right' for Taliban peace talks: US
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:40
The most senior military officer in the United States says conditions in Afghanistan are not yet right for talks with Taliban insurgents. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael Mullen, says negotiations with Afghanistan's former leaders should be part of a long-term strategy in Afghanistan, but now is not the right time. He was responding to an offer this week by Afghan president Hamid Karzai to protect to Taliban leader Mullah Omar, if he agrees to hold peace talks.
Australia braces as Japan falls into recession
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:40
Japan has become latest major economy to fall into a recession, follows Germany and other European countries last week And things are expected to get worse in Japan. The government says in the three months to September, growth contracted by point-one of-one percent. It also revised figures for the previous quarter saying the economy shrank by almost a full one percent. Consumers are tightening their belts and job losses are expected to follow as companies try to cut costs.
Has homeland security shifted under Australian PM
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:40
Australia's conservative government was accused of being complicit in Mamdouh Habib's detention at the time of his imprisonment, and of ignoring his inhumane treatment. The government of then Prime Minister John Howard, in late 2005 pushed through parliament controversial anti-terrorism laws, which allowed police to detain terror suspects in Australia, without charging them.
Former Guantanamo detainee doubts Obama's 'closure' promise
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:40
The US president-elect, Barack Obama says getting his national security team in place is a top priority ahead of taking office in January. Mr Obama told reporters that the US could be vulnerable to a terrorist attack during the transition period, and that he wanted a "seamless" hand-over from the Bush administration. Barack Obama also confirmed reports he plans to close the controversial US detention centre at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba.
Australian trade minister to seek Doha support in Peru
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:41
Australian trade minister Simon Crean is on his way to Peru for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, or APEC meeting. Mr Crean says he hopes to use the trip to gather support to restart the Doha round of international trade talks.
APEC Ministers meet in Peru
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:41
Ministers of the APEC governments gathering in Peru this week are under pressure to build on the G-20's command that the Doha round of world trade talks be finalised by year's end. It's just four months since what was seen as a last-ditch marathon meeting on Doha collapsed, amid seemingly intractable differences between the United States, China and India. But the global financial crisis has breathed new life into the plan. Australia in particular made a strong push on trade issues at the G20, particularly towards getting the stalled Doha round across the line.
China's Muslims begin Hajj journey
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:39
The annual Muslim pilgrimage known as the Hajj gets officially underway in early December, but millions of Muslims have already begun leaving for Saudi Arabia. For thousands of Chinese Muslims, the trip of a lifetime has already begun. Almost 12,000 pilgrims are chartering direct flights from China to Saudi Arabia to take part in the Hajj this year, the highest number since flight services began 20 years ago.
Bionic experts meet in Australia
Updated 18/11/2008 10:24:40
Twenty years ago, researchers in Australia revolutionised life for the deaf community, developing the first bionic ear - the cochlear implant. It can help profoundly deaf people to hear and communicate. Bionics has moved on a lot since then, with scientists hard at work on bionic eyes, therapies to help paralysed people regain movement and even treatments for diseases of the brain. This week, Australia is hosting the world's first medical bionics conference, bringing together more than 150 experts on bionics from 12 countries.
Homelessness remains serious challenge for Australia
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:02
Most Australians can look forward to retreat to a comforting bed after a long day, but for an estimated 100,000 people on any given night, that's not an option. That homelessness is still an issue for a rich nation like Australia may surprise some, but often the problem is made worse because of drugs and alcohol. In Australia, a homeless person is six times more likely to be addicted to drug or alcohol.
Australia mulls review of temporary worker scheme
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:03
There are changes in store for Australia's temporary workers visa program, after cases of worker exploitation prompted a government review. The government have approached several countries with a view to halting unscrupulous practices, including China. The so-called 457-visa program enables workers to move to Australia for up to four years, to help resolve skill shortages, but the government is now considering a rethink.
Serious risks facing deteriorating Indian economy
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:03
More than 700 economists are in the Indian capital, New Delhi, for urgent talks on the deteriorating Indian economy. The meeting has been organised by the World Economic Forum and the Confederation of Indian Industry.
Activists urge rethink on Mekong dam plans
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:03
Water resources were under the spotlight in the Thai capital Bangkok at the weekend, where activists gathered to look at regional government plans to install hydro-electric dams on the mighty Mekong river. Environmentalists say the dams could reshape an entire way of life. For centuries, communities along the Mekong have relied on it for fishing and agriculture, but activists meeting in Bangkok say getting a review of the plans to dam the river won't be easy.
Desalination 'a waste of money', warns Australian economist
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:03
A leading Australian economist says spending billions of dollars to build water desalination plants in a bid to drought-proof cities is a waste of money. The Australian National University's Economics Professor Quentin Grafton says a better solution is to put up the price of water. He was speaking at an international conference held at the weekend in Canberra, to look at planning for drought in expectation of climate change.
State polls a 'mini-referendum' for Indian PM
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:03
In India, state elections have begun, with Chhattisgarh being the first of six states to vote in a month of polls widely seen as a mini-referendum on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Chhattisgarh will be followed by central Madhya Pradesh, the capital Delhi, Mizoram in the northeast, Rajasthan in the west, and the disputed Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir. The vote is taking place against the backdrop of rising food prices and the global financial crisis, and inflation, which hit a record high in India earlier this year. There could be heavy losses for Prime Minister Singh and his Indian National Congress party, ahead of next year's general elections.
Tibetan exiles begin historic talks on China
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:03
Hundreds of exiled Tibetan leaders have arrived in Dharamsala in northern India for landmark talks on the future direction of the Tibetan government in exile. This week's talks were called by Tibet's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, who has said new ideas are needed after negotiations with Beijing on autonomy have repeatedly failed. Last month, the Dalai Lama voiced impatience with China, appearing to abandon hopes for an autonomy under which Tibetans can freely practise their religion, culture and language.
G20 leaders reach financial crisis deal
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:04
World leaders who met over the weekend in Washington have unveiled a set of measures to address the worsening global economic crisis. The G20 summit identified big government spending and interest rate cuts as the possible antidote to the recession already ailing many nations. It also called for bodies like the International Monetary Fund to be more involved in financial crisis management and to help identify potential risks.
Talks on ETimor youth role in nation-building
Updated 17/11/2008 10:14:02
Dozens of young people from Asia, Africa and the Middle East met in East Timor for a three-day conference looking at the role of youth in nation-building. The meeting was sponsored by the East Timorese government and the Norwegian Foreign Ministry, and aimed to help young East Timorese overcome their feelings of exclusion and disempowerment.
Top three stress triggers identified
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:56
Stress can do a lot of harm to our health - and new research from the Australian Psychological Society has identified the top triggers for irritation. Apparently, Australians are most stressed out by unsolicited phone calls, bad drivers and rudeness. The research has been published to coincide with National Psychology Week, which winds up today.
Australian Prime Minister heads to G20 summit
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:57
As more nations plunge into recession, world leaders are heading to Washington for the G20 summit which starts tomorrow. The emergency summit was called by President George Bush, and charged with coming up with both short-term solutions to the current economic crisis, and long-term outcomes to prevent a repeat of the credit crunch. Among those on the way to Washington, is Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
Singapore's fashion police enforce student dress code
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:56
Conservative Singapore has often been called a "nanny state" by foreign media for its rules and regulations. And it seems the island state is still living up to its reputation. One of Singapore's biggest private schools, the Management Development Institute of Singapore, has started enforcing a student dress code, following a surge of mini-skirts, bottle blondes and what's been termed "distasteful dressing".
Gender inequality 'a huge waste of talent'
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:56
A new global report on gender equality has found that women are still less likely than men to get top political and decision-making roles. The report from the World Economic Forum looked at the status of women in 130 countries, and says its findings show huge amounts of talent are simply going to waste.
Violence against Afghan women remains commonplace - MP
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:56
The shocking acid attack on a group of schoolgirls in the Afghan city of Kandahar this week was a brutal reminder of the human rights challenges facing Afghan women. Ultra-conservative religious forces continue to oppose full female participation in society, and violence against women and girls remains commonplace. One woman who sits in Afghanistan's Parliament says this violence is not just against women, but against the very idea of progress in Afghanistan.
Court rules against ETimor mid-year budget
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:56
East Timor's Court of Appeal has ruled that the $400 million mid-year budget is illegal. The government had sought to take an extra $290 million from the nation's petroleum fund than its own finance ministry had deemed sustainable. The budget had been appealed against by the main opposition Fretilin party; the court of appeal has now ruled in Fretilin's favour, and the party is now calling on the government to reassess spending for the rest of the year.
Australia hosts major drought conference
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:56
The Australian National University in Canberra is hosting a two-day international meeting on one of the most pressing issues for many countries - drought. The conference brings together experts from Australia, China, the United States and Europe to look at drought management, in the face of climate change. It's part of a broader initiative to look at how countries handle drought around the world.
Iranian diplomat kidnapped in Pakistan
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:57
An Iranian diplomat has been kidnapped in Peshawar in northwestern Pakistan - a day after an American aid worker was shot dead in the same city. Hashmatullah Atharzadeh was kidnapped when armed assailants attacked his car and killed his driver. Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesman, Muhammad Sadiq, told reporters in Peshawar his government is working hard to secure the diplomat's release. Seven months after taking power, Pakistan's civilian government is struggling to cope with deteriorating security.
Historic Tibetan meeting may push for independence
Updated 14/11/2008 10:47:57
Hundreds of leading Tibetans in exile will gather in India next week, for historic talks that could radically alter the course of their decades-long struggle against Chinese rule in Tibet. The meeting was called by Tibet's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, to will look at new ways in dealing with Beijing. Many of the more radical exiles believe the "middle way" of the Dalai Lama, and his attempts to secure "meaningful autonomy" have failed, and calls for independence may be back on the agenda.
Food shortage dominates global farming talks
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:51
World demand for food is expected to double in the next 50 years. This week, Australia's national capital hosted a meeting of the International Federation of Agricultural Producers. Representing one third of the world's farming population, the meeting was told farmers need to work together to help address food shortages.
North Korea to close southern border
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:51
North Korea says it will close its border and cut non-military phone links with South Korea, in protest against what it calls South Korea's 'confrontational stance'. Pyongyang also announced that it is shutting down the Red Cross office in the border village of Panmunjom and cut its cross-border telephone lines. The border closure will threaten a South Korean-funded industrial complex built just north of the border. If implemented, the border closure will be a blow to inter-Korean relations, which have deteriorated since South Korean President Lee Myung-bak came to office.
ETimor leprosy experts train Australian health workers
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:51
The disfiguring disease leprosy may have been almost eradicated worldwide, but it's still endemic in a handful of countries, including East Timor. There very few cases of leprosy in Australia, even though a small number still occur in remote regions each year. Australian doctors see the disease so rarely, diagnosing leprosy is often a struggle, and recently, a team of medical workers from northern Australia visited East Timor, to learn from their colleagues there on how to spot the disease.
Indonesian foreign minister speaks out on death penalty
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:51
Australia and Indonesia have again showcased their strong bilateral relationship, during annual ministerial talks in Canberra, covering issues from the global financial crisis to people trafficking and climate change. And while addressing the media after the talks, Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Hassan Wirajuda, eloquently explained his country's debate on the death penalty, which Australia opposes.
US bail out plan 'working', says Paulson
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:51
Two days ahead of the G20 meeting in Washington, US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, has insisted the $US700 billion bail-out package has already helped stabilise the global financial system. Speaking in Washington, Mr Paulson said there are still many challenges ahead, and that market volatility is likely to continue for some time. In a shift away from the original bail-out plan announced last month, Mr Paulson said the US has decided not to use bail-out funds to purchase bad debts from banks.
G20 meeting needs 'tough talking'
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:52
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd will be among the leaders converging on Washington on Saturday for the G20 meeting on the financial crisis. The emergency summit was called two months ago by President George Bush to discuss the international financial crisis. Most of the discussions will take place behind closed doors, with much of the focus on the United States.
Bangkok governor resigns over corruption case
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:52
Just a month after being re-elected, the governor of Bangkok has resigned, after being implicated in a $US190 million corruption case. Thailand's anti-corruption commission found Apirak Kosayodhin had a case to answer over irregularities in the purchase of hundreds of fire-trucks and boats. Although he has agreed to step down while the deal is investigated, Mr Apirak has insisted he's innocent of corruption.
Environment battle may cost India the Commonwealth Games
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:50
India has been warned it could lose the right to host the next Commonwealth Games in 2010, because of a dispute over the construction of the athletes' village. The village is being built on the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi, which is the subject of a legal battle, after environmentalists say it will damage the area. Work on the site has yet to begin, and now the organising committee for the International Commonwealth Games has urged India to resolve the matter, or lose the Games... with Australia, cited as a possible alternative host.
Maldives looking to buy new homeland
Updated 13/11/2008 10:36:51
Global warming is a threat to many island nations in the Asia Pacific region. Not least, the Maldives, which is the lowest nation in the world, and is made up of over a thousand islands and coral atolls in the Indian Ocean. It's a major tourist destination. But it's under threat from the rising sea levels. And it's first democratically elected president, Mohamed Nasheed, who's just been sworn in to office, has a plan to buy a new homeland.
New plan to encourage young Singaporean volunteers
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:36
Despite having a regional reputation for political apathy, young people in Singapore are flocking to do volunteer work. University students are at the forefront of this new activism with students organising computers for Cambodians, books for schools in Sudan and building homes in Laos.
Clean-up to rid northern Australian waters of discarded fishnets
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:36
There is growing concern in Northern Australia over the damage being done to marine life by fishing nets discarded by fishing boats from Asia. Officials say the so-called "ghost nets" are often deliberately abandoned. Now, the Carpentaria Ghost Net Progamme has been launched with a view to getting rid of marine debris in Northern Australian waters. The program is being supported by sea rangers from indigenous communities in the Torres Strait, Arnhem Land and the Gulf of Carpentaria. But the rangers say volunteers from South East Asia should also be recruited to help clean up the nets.
East Timorese occupation victims face fresh wait for justice
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:36
East Timor's parliament has again postponed a debate over a report that recommends justice and reparations for victims of crimes committed during Indonesia's occupation of the country. President Jose Ramos-Horta has said he wants all investigations and prosecutions for gross human rights violations committed during the occupation dropped. But human rights advocates say that decision should be left up to the country's citizens.
Global food crisis 'remains daunting'
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:36
A leading Australian think tank has warned that the global economic crisis has distracted the world from a precarious world food situation. Although food prices have come down from the peaks of some months ago, the food situation remains daunting, according to a new report called 'A Food Secure World: How Australia Can Help'. A key recommendation is that Australia substantially increase aid for agricultural research in Africa.
Chinese children 'self-harming' six months after quake
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:37
Six months after China's Sichuan Province was devastated by a massive earthquake aid organisations say they are still very much needed to help the reconstruction. The quake killed 70,000 people, left five million homeless and over 8,000 children orphaned. Among the most tragic outcomes are the instances of self-harm by children disturbed by their experiences.
Heavy jail sentences for Burmese activists
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:37
At least 14 Burmese pro-democracy activists have been jailed for up to 65 years each, for taking part in last year's anti-government protests. They include the prominent activists Nilar Thayn and her husband, Jimmy, who had to abandon their daughter and go into hiding after the demonstrations last August against Burma's ruling military.
Cambodia investigates chopper crash that killed police chief
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:37
Officials in Cambodia have pledged a full investigation into a helicopter crash, in which the country's police chief was killed. Hok Lundy was killed, along with deputy army commander Sok Sa Em and the aircraft's two pilots, shortly after they took off in bad weather from Phnom Penh airport on the weekend. Last year, Human Rights Watch issued strident criticism of Hok Lundy, calling him "the worst that Cambodia has to offer", and questions are being asked about the cause of the crash.
Former Taiwan leader Chen detained over corruption charges
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:37
Taiwan's former president Chen Shui-bian has been detained for questioning by prosecutors over corruption charges. Mr Chen was handcuffed and taken to the Taipei District Court, charged with money laundering and illegal use of a special presidential fund. Chen Shui-bian broke the nationalist KMT's 50-year rule when he won office eight years ago and his Democratic Progress Party was a constant irritant for mainland China through its pro-independence stance. Mr Chen has denied all wrongdoing, and accused the new administration of KMT leader Ma Ying-jeou of pandering to Beijing.
Social networking sites take off in China
Updated 12/11/2008 10:23:36
In recent years, social networking websites have taken off all over the world, and China is no exception. With more than 200 million regular internet users in China, the American-based networking giants - MySpace and Facebook - are keen to get a slice of the lucrative market. But they are being kept out by local operations and, adding to their frustration, many Chinese sites are a close mimic of their would-be American competitors.
When is military intervention justified?
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:15
The world's lukewarm response to recent humanitarian crises in Darfur, Burma and Zimbabwe has again raised the question of when and how military intervention is justified. One attempt to answer that question is a concept known as "the responsibility to protect". It sets out to define the responsibilities of a state towards its citizens, and the measures the global community can take to enforce those obligations. But how has the doctrine been received in Asia - where many countries are against interfering in the domestic affairs of other nations?
Afghan politicians visit Australian parliament
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:16
Gruesome tales of conflict are the daily news diet from Afghanistan, but the country does have a parliament and some of its members are being dispatched to observe and learn from more mature parliaments around the world. One such delegation is currently visiting Australia and has just begun an intense program on the workings of parliament in Canberra.
Ousted Thai PM and wife barred from Britain
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:16
The former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife have been barred from re-entering Britain, after the UK government revoked their visas at the weekend. The couple had been living in London after skipping bail in August and avoiding facing corruption charges back home. Last month, Mr Thaksin was given a two-year prison sentence by a Thai court in absentia. Yesterday, reporters tracked him down in Beijing, where he said he planned to "keep travelling". Legal experts agree that Mr Thaksin could easily be brought back to face justice in Thailand, if the government seriously wished to do so.
Bali Bombers' lawyers threaten rights lawsuit
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:16
Lawyers for the Bali Bombers, who were executed at the weekend, say they'll file a lawsuit with Indonesia's Attorney General's office, accusing the government of human rights violations. Imam Samudra, Amrozi, and Muklas were executed by firing squad just after midnight on Sunday morning, for their roles in the 2002 Bali bombings. Their legal team claims that the men's rights and the rights of their families were violated because they weren't allowed to meet with the three men before they were executed.
Chinese officials shelve plans to visit Taiwan
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:16
Three official groups from China have shelved plans to visit Taiwan, citing safety concerns in the wake of violent protests last week, that targeted Beijing's top envoy to the island. The visit by Chen Yunlin to Taiwan was the highest-level meeting between Beijing and Taipei in 60 years, but hopes it might lead to warmer relations have been left badly damaged by the mass protests in Taipei.
Global markets digest China's huge stimulus package
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:16
China's massive economic stimulous package is being digested around the world. The rate of China's growth will make or break some industries among its trading partners, including Australia. But Beijing's four-trillion yuan package has at least sent a glimmer of hope to stock markets throughout the region.
Islamic financial institutions seek greater reach
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:15
With Islamic banks holding steady in these gloomy times, institutions are looking to expand beyond the Gulf and into the Asia Pacific region, including Australia.
'More Australian children should learn Chinese' - report
Updated 11/11/2008 10:43:15
The University of Melbourne has published a report on the teaching of standard Chinese or Mandarin in Australian schools. The report found that at the end of last year, less than a fifth of all Australians working in China could speak Mandarin, and just one in ten had ever studied a China-related subject. The report's authors say last year, only three per cent of Year 12 students in Australia were studying Chinese - and almost all of them were already native Mandarin speakers. The Australian education sector says it is now looking at ways to increase the number of students in Australia who study Chinese.
World Bank says developing nations face danger
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:06
The World Bank says developing nations are heading into a new danger zone.
Aerial survey being conducted of Australia's water birds
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
The world's largest ever aerial survey of water birds is underway in Australia.
India and Australia battling for world cricket recognition
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
The battle for world cricket supremacy is being played out by India and Australia.
Bali bombers executed in Indonesia
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
This weekend saw the executions of the three Bali bombers finally bringing to an end a prolonged legal process, which began six years ago following their arrest.
Concern in China about exports future
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:06
One of the problems for China is its reliance on exports for economic growth.
China to spend millions on infrastructure
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:06
The Chinese Government has announced it will spend more than half a trillion US dollars on infrastructure projects to help boost the slowing Chinese economy in the face of flagging exports to the rich world.
Calls for more accountablity for Aboriginal health
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
A leading Australian aboriginal advocate says senior bureaucrats aren't taking enough responsibility for health and social outcomes in Aboriginal communities.
Islamic banking rapidly expanding
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
Islamic banking is an industry now worth almost a trillion US dollars and it's considered to be one of the fastest growing sectors in the world of finance.
Concern about abuse of homeless in Cambodia
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
A human rights group is concerned that the upcoming Water Festival in Cambodia could see another surge of illegal detentions and hidden abuses for the capital's homeless and sex workers.
Criminal allegations against Chinese official visiting Australia
Updated 10/11/2008 12:10:05
There has been an attempt to bring criminal charges against a high ranking Chinese official, who is due to meet Prime Minister Kevin Rudd while visiting Australia.
Australia's Resources Minister holds talks in New Delhi
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
Australia's Resources Minister Martin Ferguson has held talks in New Delhi aimed at repairing ties between Australia and India, which have been strained by the Federal Government's refusal to sell India uranium.
The challenges of doing business in China
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
Foreign businesses have looked to China as the great frontier of opportunities and subsequently realised that great profits are not as easy to come by as they thought.
Floods in Vietnam causing disease concern
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
In Vietnam flooding over the past few days has killed up to 93 people in the northern and central regions.
Fear of famine in North Korea
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
As the northern winter approaches, North Korea again faces the grim prospect of famine... with research from the United States saying it's the first year in over a decade North Koreans will be unable to feed themselves.
Muslim Americans overwhelmingly supported Obama
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
False rumours during the campaign that the president elect was secretly a Muslim or had ties to Islamic extremism angered Muslim Americans, who overwhelming supported him in Tuesday's election.
China expected to become important part of US foreign policy
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
Internationally, Afghanistan and Pakistan will overtake Iraq as Washington's security priority.
US economy to present challenges for new government
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
Iraq and Afghanistan are urgent issues for the Obama Presidency but there is the US economy, which presents huge challenges for the new administration.
Barack Obama briefed for the first time on US security threats
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:07
US President elect Barack Obama is being briefed for the first time on the key security threats facing America and he's facing intense scrutiny over who he'll choose to fill key staff and cabinet posts.
Bhutan crowns its new king
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:06
The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has crowned its new king in a colourful ceremony King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is the world's youngest monarch.
Signs of internal discord in Malaysia's ruling Coalition
Updated 07/11/2008 12:44:06
It's rare that Malaysia's ruling coalition shows signs of internal discord, but this past week has seen increasing tension not only between different component parties, but also within the dominant party UMNO.
China's food scandal spreads to eggs
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:58
China's food scandal widens with authorities in Hong Kong finding high levels of melamine in eggs imported from the mainland.
Indonesians excited over Obama's victory
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:59
Although many thousands of kilometres from the campaign trail, Indonesians have been captivated by Barack Obama's Presidential campaign.
Japan still undecided on impact of Obama's victory
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:59
Japan is not expecting radical changes to its relationship with the US following Barack Obama's victory in the US Presidential election, but has a wait and see approach.
Many World leaders welcome Obama's victory
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:59
Many of the world's leaders including those in Asia have welcomed Barack Obama's election win including those in China and Indonesia.
Supporters of Obama party in New York
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:59
There were parties aplenty in New York last night to celebrate Barack Obama's victory in the Presidential elections.
A new day dawns in the United States
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:59
The day after the sweeping election triumph, Barack Obama faces the task of quickly building a new administration and defining his priorities for the formal takeover on January 20th.
US President elect celebrates his victory
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:59
US President-elect Barack Obama, the nation's first African-American leader has basked in the warm afterglow, but has also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead.
94 year old passenger liner in East Timor
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:58
The world's oldest passenger liner the MV Doulos has pulled into port in East Timor.
How Relevant is ASEAN?
Updated 06/11/2008 12:48:58
At the age of 41, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations may be forgiven for thinking that it's approaching a mid-life crisis, while others would say it is having a crisis of relevance.
Unsafe drilling practices blamed for mud volcano
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:51
A group of leading geologists has concluded that the Lusi mud volcano, which erupted two years ago on the Indonesia island of Java was caused by unsafe drilling practices.
Sri Lanka 8th last in media freedom survey
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:51
Sri Lanka is ranked eighth last, out of 173 countries surveyed in the annual Reporters Without Borders report.
China and Taiwan to have direct air and sea links
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:51
Taiwan and mainland China have signed an agreement that will allow direct air and sea links between Taiwan and the mainland.
Australian legend wins Melbourne Cup
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:51
Praise and adulation has been pouring forth for Australian thoroughbred training legend Bart Cummings who has taken victory a twelfth time in Australia's Melbourne Cup.
Bangladesh warships respond to Burma oil exploration
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:51
Bangladesh has sent warships into the Bay of Bengal in response to oil exploration by Burma in disputed waters.
China to develop Human Rights plan
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:52
China says it will introduce what it calls a human rights action plan over the next two years.
Volunteers crucial role to both US Presidential candidates
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:52
At the end of the day, both presidential candidates depended on the sacrifices and hard work of many people, including the thousands of volunteers across the nation.
US Presidential elections underway
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:52
Americans are queuing up to cast their votes in a history making election deciding on the best man to lead the United States in these uncertain times.
International feminism conference held in Barcelona
Updated 05/11/2008 12:04:51
Barcelona has hosted the third international conference on Islamic Feminism, bringing together feminists from across the world.
Cambodia to double defence budget ahead of aid talks
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
Cambodia says it will double its defence budget in response to the ongoing border standoff with Thailand at Preah Vihear temple.
Further speculation about absence of North Korean leader
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
There's further speculation about the health of the North Korean leader Kim Jong-il after he failed to attend a funeral of a senior member of the Communist state.
Calls for Australia's education system to be improved
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
This month marks the first anniversary of Australia's Labor government under Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and if there's one phrase you've heard time and time again, it's the education revolution.
Change of Malaysia's UNMO leadership confirmed
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
The man who is almost certain to be Malaysia's next Prime Minister is a step closer to his goal, Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak has won the Presidency of the ruling UMNO party unopposed, ahead of party elections in March.
Preparations for big celebrations for US Democrat presidential hopeful
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
In Chicago Illinois, Democrat presidential hopeful Barack Obama's home state, there are preparations underway for some big celebrations.
Candidates in the US election continue political attacks
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
Traditionally, US election campaigns have backed off on negative attacks in the few days before polling time, but not this one with both the Republicans and Democrats continuing their political attacks.
US urged to stop air strikes in Pakistan's tribal region
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
The new head of the US Central Command, General David Petraeus has met Pakistan officials for the first time and received one clear message America must stop its air strikes against militants in Pakistan's tribal region.
Dalai Lama looking forward to retiring
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:51
Tibet's spiritual leader the Dalai Lama is preparing to step back from the political fight for his disputed region, he says he's looking forward to retirement.
Some activists in Thailand aiming to spread a message of peace
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:44
After a week of shootings and bombings that left several people dead, a solution to the Thai political crisis seems distant, but some Thais are hoping that a new message of peace might catch on such as kissing in public.
Fate of Bali Bombers raises concerns over Bali Nine
Updated 04/11/2008 13:17:50
In Australia, a degree of populist hysteria has played out over the imminent execution of the Bali bombers.
US civil rights group want to ensure Asian Americans cast votes
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
With a record turnout expected in the US elections on Tuesday, civil rights groups are working together to ensure every Asian American who wants to cast a vote gets the chance to do so.
Security stepped up in Indonesia ahead of execution of Bali bombers
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
The Australian government and Indonesian authorities are taking extra security precautions as the execution of the three Bali bombers appears to be imminent. We gauge the mood in Jakarta.
East Timor students to study natural resources in Australia
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
In East Timor, 33 students are on their way to Australia to begin bachelor degrees in Natural Resource development areas.
Calls for Australia to continue pursuing climate change
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
China's ambassador to Australia says action on climate change should not be derailed by the global financial crisis.
China's regional envoy visiting Taiwan
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
China's top regional envoy Chen Yunlin goes to Taiwan today, accompanied by a high-level delegation, for a five-day visit.
Thailand's deposed PM appears before crowd via video
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
Thailand's deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has appeared by a video link in front of 90 thousand people in Bangkok with many wearing red T shirts to show their support for the controversial leader.
Warning Australia is ill prepared to cope with global financial crisis
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
World media magnate, Australian born Rupert Murdoch is warning that Australia is ill prepared to cope with the future challenges of the global economy.
Another interest cut expected in Australia
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:34
There may be some respite from the prevailing economic gloom in Australia in the form of another interest rate cut even though that's predicted to be smaller than the last cut of one percentage point.
Britain in damage control after Afghanistan's SAS commander resignatio
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:33
The British government is in damage control after its top SAS commander in Afghanistan resigned in protest over the lack of equipment.
US pre-elections show Obama could be President
Updated 03/11/2008 13:07:33
If the pre-election polling is to be believed, then 47 year old Barack Obama, the African American Senator from Illinois, may soon be the President of the United States.
