June 2009
Opium trade continues to support Afghan Taliban
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:16
Taliban insurgents are forcing farmers in southern Afghanistan to grow opium poppies and imposing a tax on the crops, according to reports.
Cambodia's oil wealth must benefit community: senior economist
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:16
One of the Cambodian government's most senior economists has warned the country must turn its emerging oil and gas wealth into community benefits - or risk social uprising.
US visa scam uncovered
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:16
A huge case of immigration fraud involving Indian, Romanian, Fijian and Nepali asylum seekers has emerged on the west coast of the United States.
Family planning essential for Asia Pacific security: report
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:16
A new report on Australia's strategic environment has recommended family planning as a priority for Australian aid.
Australia's military overstretched
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:17
Australia's defence strategy, as laid out in the latest White Paper, promises to continue assisting Pacific states when instability and crisis strike.
US withdraws from Iraqi towns
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:17
Today American forces hand over control of towns and cities to Iraqi security authorities.
East Timor responds to corruption allegations against PM
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:17
East Timor's government has defended Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao's authorisation of a multi-million dollar contract to a company in which his daughter was a major shareholder.
Japan's PM sticks with comic book museum
Updated 30/06/2009 12:53:14
The Japanese economy may be in its worst recession since World War Two, but Japan's leader is determined to push ahead with a plan to build a $US150 million museum dedicated to comics.
Thailand cracks down on copyright violations
Updated 30/06/2009 12:03:30
Thailand has stepped up policing of copyright and trademark piracy, in the face of United States trade sanctions.
ASIA's BIG QUESTIONS: The role of ASEAN
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:38
Is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations having a middle-aged crisis and can ASEAN stay in the drivers seat, to shape Asia's future?
Islamic banks eye Australia
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:38
Middle Eastern Islamic finance is looking for a home in Australia.
New UN rapporteur concerned about land rights in Cambodia
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:38
The new UN special envoy for human rights to Cambodia says a corrupt judiciary, forced evictions and land grabs are the country's most pressing issues.
South Korea's opposition vows to continue parliamentary blockade
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:38
Opposition members and their aides in South Korea's parliament are physically blocking the doors to the country's National Assembly.
Heatwave in India kills 120 and causes protests
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:39
A blistering heatwave in India has killed at least 120 people, as officials warn that deficient rainfall may result in lower agricultural output and higher food prices.
China's 'Dragon 600' plane will boost surveillance
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:39
China has approved the development and production of the world's largest amphibious aircraft, to be called the 'Dragon 600'.
Reporters suffer on both sides of Iran protests
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:39
Journalists have been the key targets of a government crackdown in the wake of opposition protests in Iran.
Iran arrests British diplomats
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:39
The diplomatic spat between Iran and Britain has escalated, after Teheran arrested a number of local staff working in the British embassy.
Vietnam's detox program for internet-obsessed teens
Updated 29/06/2009 11:42:32
Vietnam has begun a new cyber-addict treatment program to combat the growing numbers of teenagers obsessed with online compute games.
American Samoan Congressman defends Papua stance
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:28
American Samoa's Congressman Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin denies he has performed a backflip over his support for the people of Indonesia's Papuan province.
Debate over role of hunting in giant kangaroo extinction
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:27
Researchers in Australia have put forward a theory that a species of giant kangaroo, weighing more than 200 kilograms, was hunted to extinction by humans 45-thousand years ago.
Singaporeans upset at swine flu school closure plan
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:27
Singapore earlier this month advised its people to defer non-essential travel to Australia's state of Victoria, because of the-then rapid spread of swine flu.
East Timor PM accused of corruption
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:28
The father of East Timorese independence, Xanana Gusmao, is at the centre of a new corruption scandal.
ASIA's BIG QUESTIONS: The US role in Asia
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:27
America's role in Asia is changing and there are big changes under way in the both economic and security role played by America.
Chinese military target graduate recruits
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:27
Amid the global financial crisis, the Chinese military has intensified its campaign to recruit university students.
Changes to immigration detention in Australia
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:28
A much-criticised feature of Australia's immigration detention is set to be erased by the Rudd Labor government and a handful of conservative M-Ps .
Humanitarian crisis brewing for Burma's Karen people
Updated 26/06/2009 12:42:28
Burma's exiled democracy movement has warned of a humanitarian crisis on the doorstep of regional countries, if they ignore attacks by the Burmese military on ethnic groups.
Taiwan still source of US-China tension
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:18
China and the United States have hailed defence talks in the Chinese capital as a step forward in mutual understanding.
Pakistan's displaced fear returning home
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:18
Earlier this month the Taliban attacked a hotel in the Pakistan city of Peshawar.
Indigenous prisoners over-represented and overlooked
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:18
A new report being released today is urging Australia's federal and state governments to drastically change the way indigenous people are treated in the criminal justice system.
'Culture of abuse' in Indonesian police
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:18
Amnesty International has released a scathing report into the conduct of Indonesian police.
Sharp criticism levelled against Australian defence white paper
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:18
Australia's latest defence white paper has been heavily criticised for pretending that Australia's military could eventually deliver a knockout blow to China in the event of a full scale conflict.
Democracy advocate charged with subversion
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:18
A leading Chinese activist, jailed since last December, has been charged with subversion after calling for improved human rights in China.
Reports of heavy gunfire in latest Iran clashes
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:19
Iran's supreme leader has warned he will not back down in the face of unrest, following this month's disputed presidential vote.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's statement was the latest indication that the hardline regime will not brook dissent over the re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, despite a wave of public demonstrations and complaints that the election was rigged. There are reports of another brutal crackdown in Iran this morning - with websites, internet bloggers and eye-witnesses all talking of a bloodbath in Tehran. The reports suggest that thousands of police and pro-government militia have used firearms, clubs and teargas to suppress another opposition rally.
Controversial F1 head forced into backdown
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:15
After weeks of bitter wrangling over the future of Formula One, world motorsports most powerful and controversial boss, Max Mosley, has been forced into a humiliating backdown and his days at the top are numbered.
ASIA's BIG QUESTIONS: Dealing with resurgent China
Updated 25/06/2009 11:44:15
How will Asia and the United States will deal with China as a resurgent great power?
ASIA's BIG QUESTIONS: Facing up to resource crisies?
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:44
Can Asia get the food and fuel to feed its people and build its future?
More swine flu deaths likely
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:45
Australian government and health authorities are warning that more swine flu deaths are likely in the country, as the virus hits people with chronic health problems.
SBY cruising to victory in Indonesia
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:44
Three weeks from today, Indonesians will vote for their President - it's an election that will determine the pace of reform in Southeast Asia's biggest and most influential country.
Big pharma teaming up with generic drug producers
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:44
Fights over cheap medicines for patients in poor countries have shown the uglier sides of the pharmaceutical business.
China accuses Google of 'disseminating pornography'
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:44
The Chinese government has accused the US based internet search engine Google of 'disseminating pornography'.
Maoists considered India's biggest internal security threat
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:44
The government considers the Maoist Communist Party of India the biggest threat to the country's internal security and it's now officially banned the Maoists in what some are calling a 'technicality' to close a loophole.
Iranian protesters refuse to bow down to authority crackdown
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:45
Iranian protestors are refusing to bow to pressure, despite the brutal crackdown by police and paramilitary forces.
Voluntary codes help fight child labour
Updated 24/06/2009 11:17:44
In the face of the global financial crisis, competition among low wage countries has become ever more intense.
ASIA's BIG QUESTIONS: Asia's response to economic crisis
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:06
Is Asia is ready to step up to take leadership of the world economy?
Bi-election shows Thaksin still popular
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
The result of an important by-election in Thailand on the weekend was an indication that fugitive Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra still exerted influenced in some rural regions.
Aussie food a mystery overseas
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
An international expert in food marketing has given delegates at the first National Farmers Federation Congress in Brisbane plenty of food for thought.
Religious symbol or sign of enslavement: Sarkozy attacks the Burqa
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
The French President, Nicolas Sarkozy has used an historic address at the Palace of Versailles to attack the Muslim burqa.
China lifts ban on share market listings
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
In another sign of confidence in China's economy, regulators there have lifted a nine month ban on companies making new stock market listings.
Cambodian opposition MPs stripped of parliamentary immunity
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
Cambodia's opposition says it's under attack because of what it describes as a new round of politically motivated lawsuits and a vote by the National Assembly which has resulted in two opposition MPs being stripped of their parliamentary immunity.
Fake email backfires for Australian opposition leader
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
Australian opposition leader Malcolm Turnbull's attempt to link Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to special treatment for his car dealer friend has crumbled, with police finding the key email a fake.
Iran admits voter fraud but warns of crackdown
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:07
Iran's Revolutionary Guards have threatened another brutal crackdown if opposition supporters again take to the streets.
Music helps refugees settle in Australia
Updated 23/06/2009 11:56:04
Drums have been a communication tool for thousnds of years but now they're being used to help refugees integrate into Australian society.
Mud volcano could wreak havoc for 30 years say scientists
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:29
Scientists studying Indonesia's infamous Lusi "mud volcano" says it continues to pose a threat to more than 100,000 people and could keep flowing for another 30 years.
From bombs to bouquets: Obama's foreign policy challenges
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:29
North Korea and its nuclear ambitions, could mark the end of Barack Obama's foreign policy honeymoon.
Thailand should strengthen ASEAN pressure on Burma: professor
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:29
Burma's Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi spent her 64th birthday in prison, as activists worldwide took to the Internet and staged global protests, calling for her release.
Sushi showers puzzle Japans weather-watchers
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:29
Meteorologists in Japan are puzzled by a recent series of downpours - it's not heavy rain falling from the sky, but fish and tadpoles.
Thai challenges UNESCO over Cambodian temple grounds
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:29
Thailand's Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has announced that the country's heritage committee will ask UNESCO to reconsider its decision giving control of the 11th century Preah Vihear temple and its surrounding land to Cambodia.
Japan looks to triple army and boost defence budget
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:30
A draft of Japan's new mid-term defence policy guidelines is calling for an increase in military personnel and equipment upgrade in the face of growing regional tensions.
The Kyodo news agency, which obtained a copy, said the draft recommended Japan reversed its policy of reducing its defence budgets, following North Korea's nuclear missile tests, as well as China's rise as a major military power.
Kyodo says the document recommends tripling the number of Ground Self-Defence Forces, to 160,000.
Presenter: Sen Lam
Speaker: Takashi Inoguchi, political scientist and emeritus Professor at Tokyo University
Australian leaders face-off over 'loot-for-ute' claims
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:30
Australia's most senior politicians are embroiled in a high stakes game over classic allegations of influence-for-favours.
Iranian leaders accuse Britain of stoking protests
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:30
Iran's leaders have been quick to blame outside influences for the street protests.
Iran's oppositions hardens against violent crackdown
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:30
There's shock around the world today at the weekend scenes of violence on the streets of Iran.
Aboriginal dance festival a chance to connect
Updated 22/06/2009 13:07:26
Every two years, the tiny Australian town of Laura, on south-eastern Cape York, hosts one of the country's oldest and biggest Aboriginal dance festivals.
Thousands sign a Mekong River anti-dam petition
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
In an unprecedented move more than 15-thousand people from countries along the Mekong River system have signed a petition urging governments to abandon plans for hydropower along the river's mainstream.
Scientists warn of 'abrupt and irreversible climatic shifts'
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:22
Researchers are warning the planet is facing a growing risk of abrupt and irreversible climatic shifts unless carbon emissions are reduced.
Thai south worsened by government-sanctioned defence volunteers
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
A new report says the Thai government should stop arming civilians in the south and dismantle volunteer defence forces.
Iranians rally in London to protest against poll result
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
Iranian nationals have demonstrated in capital cities across Europe overnight as well.
Aussie POW seeks apology from Japanese PM
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
Nearly six-and-a-half decades after being liberated from a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp, an 88-year-old Australian man has travelled to Japan to seek an apology from the country's Prime Minister.
Similarities between NKorea crisis and Cuban missile crisis
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
As the world moves towards tougher sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, the International Crisis Group has appealed for a diplomatic push by the United States to resolve the situation.
Farm land being bought for golf courses in Vietnam
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:22
Golf is a sport on the rise in Vietnam.
Protests mark Aung San Suu Kyi's birthday
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
Burma's detained Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi turns sixty-four today her 14th birthday spent in detention.
Optimism in Seoul About Asia's Prospects
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
World government representatives and financiers meeting in the South Korean capital, say prospects for Asian economies are brighter than they were a year ago.
World Bank cautious optimism on China growth
Updated 19/06/2009 13:38:26
At the start of the global recession many had pinned their hopes on China as the engine that would drive the world's economy back into positive growth.
Governments to spend big on broadband future
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
Asia's biggest telecommunications trade fair is underway in Singapore this week with hundreds of new gadgets and software vying for people's attention.
Bi-lingual schools push Asian languages
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
Australia has a reputation as a multicultural country.
Malaysia considers making English compulsory for school leavers
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
English could soon become a compulsory component of final examinations for high school leavers in Malaysia, but there are fears that such a move would disadvantage students from rural areas.
Democrats polling well ahead of Japan election
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
In Japan, a judicial panel has ruled that prosecutors should re-open a case of alleged illegal fundraising by a government minister's support group.
New laws to protect victims of people trafficking in Australia
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
The Australian government has announced significant changes to its scheme for protecting victims of people trafficking, which has protected 131 people since 2004, but which, advocates say, could have done a lot more for many of those subjected to one of the world's worst trades. Victims will no longer be forced to become police informants in order to get government help and an Australian visa to allow them to stay in the country.
Obama overhauls regulation of US financial system
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
In the United States, where President Barack Obama has unveiled what he calls the most sweeping overhaul of America's financial regulatory system since the Great Depression.
Iranian Opposition supporters fearful but determined
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
In Iran's capital Teheran, where hundreds of thousands of people continue to pour onto the city's streets, to protest against election results which they say were rigged.
Japan to trials mobile phones to slow disease
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
There are plans in Japan to use mobile phones to stop the spread of diseases such as swine flu or SARS.
SBY plays it safe in election campaign
Updated 18/06/2009 13:29:36
With less than a month left until Indonesia's presidential elections, the candidates have been hitting the campaign trail.
India and Pakistan meet for first time since Mumbai attacks
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:51
India's prime minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistan's president Asif Ali Zardari have met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Russia, and Dr Singh's first words were a clear rebuke - that Pakistan should not allow itself to be used for terrorism.
International NGO pulls out of Hmong refugee camp
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:51
The Thai military and security forces are under the spotlight again.
Calls to transfer green technology to developing ones
Updated 17/06/2009 10:51:25
China believes the West is not transferring enough green technology when the technology could be used to help alleviate the dangerous effects that climate change is having on our environment.
White House report urges action on climate change
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:51
The White House has released a new report which it hopes will help to galvanise support for climate change legislation in the United States.
Commonwealth should pressure Sri Lanka on crisis
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:51
The International Commission of Jurists says the Sri Lanka Government is in breach of the Geneva Convention in its treatment of displaced Tamils held in government-run camps.
World ready to go beyond tit-for-tat on North Korea
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:52
The United States and South Korea have presented a united front, saying that North Korea must abandon its nuclear weapons program, and that it will not be rewarded for provoking a crisis.
Iran to review election results
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:52
This week's violent anti-government demonstrations in Iran's capital city, Teheran have not been seen since the Revolution of 1979.
Australia-Asia arts links weakening
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:50
Calls are being made for Australia to pay greater attention to promoting Australian theatre in Asia.
Ambitious Trans-Asian Railway network plan launched
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:50
An agreement to coordinate the development and operation of international rail routes connecting 28 countries throughout Asia and Europe has come into force.
Calls to transfer green technology to developing countries
Updated 17/06/2009 11:38:51
China believes the West is not transferring enough green technology when the technology could be used to help alleviate the dangerous effects that climate change is having on our environment.
Prominent lawyer jailed in Vietnam
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
To Vietnam now where prominent lawyer Le Cong Dinh has just spent his third night in jail.
Old growth forests best source of carbon
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
There are renewed calls to stop logging in old growth forests after new research shows they could be the most valuable source of carbon in the world.
China yet to decide on Rio - BHP deal
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
When Rio Tinto rejected a tie-up worth US$20billion from a Chinese company two weeks ago it threatened to start a potentially damaging diplomatic row.
China still demonstrating 'ambiguous' stance on North Korea
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
The United Nations' latest resolution on North Korea, which includes fresh sanctions over the country's atomic test last month, significantly received the support of Russia and China, but some say this does not signal a complete change in Beijing's ties with Pyongyang.
Pakistan could be planning high risk strategy in South Waziristan
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
Officials from Pakistan and unnamed US officials say Pakistani forces are set to target the lawless tribal region of South Waziristan in an effort to kill or capture Pakistani Taliban leader, Baitullah Mehsud, who's based there. And if they do, it could be a high risk strategy in the country's battle against Taliban militants. But leading experts say Pakistan should first consolidate what it's gained in the Swat Valley.
SCO no rival to NATO yet
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit is hosted by Russia this year, with security and the global economic crisis dominating the agenda.
Protests continue as Iran's Supreme Leader calls for investigation
Updated 16/06/2009 12:17:22
In Tehran, thousands of protestors have roamed the streets late into the night after a massive Opposition rally earlier in the day.
Prehistoric elephant found in East Java
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:45
Australian researchers have made the rare discovery of an almost complete prehistoric elephant skeleton, thought to be about 200-thousand years old.
China's Uigurs misunderstood the world over
Updated 16/06/2009 11:43:46
The group of Chinese Uighurs held in Guantanamo Bay since 2001 may have been offered resettlement in Palau, but China continues to demand the return of the detainees.
Football creates opportunities for Timorese
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:00
In East Timor it's soccer that's long been the dominant sport.
Vietnam shoots up rankings for outsourcing
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:04
A report on offshore industries has ranked Vietnam as among the top ten nations for outsourcing.
US moves to counter China in Southeast Asia
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:04
The United States has removed Laos and Cambodia from a trade black list, opening the way for American companies to do business with both countries.
Australia confident in World Cup bid
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:04
Australia's hosted a couple of Olympics, many Commonwealth Games and it's racked up a Rugby World Cup.
Aust PM criticised over pursuit of Asia Pacific community
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:04
An Australian foreign policy expert says Kevin Rudd's displaying a poor understanding of regional dynamics as he pursues his vision for a new Asia Pacific Community.
On patrol in Uruzgan
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:04
The Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan is notoriously media-shy, hosting journalists on tightly-controlled media visits, where all contact with the troops is closely-managed.
Thailand sets three year deadline to fix insurgent south
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:04
The Thai government has set a three year deadline to root out the ongoing violent insurgency in the South.
Aussies could still field team in lacrosse comp
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:05
Australia looks set to raise its swine flu alert level, as the number of cases rises across the country.
Questions over legitimacy of Iran election
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:05
Iran's Opposition is demanding that the results of weekend elections be scrapped.
Asia's first comedy festival kicks off in Bangkok
Updated 15/06/2009 13:18:00
It's known as the land of smiles - but the land of laughter?
Malaysia increasing as transit point for asylum seekers
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:33
Malaysia has become a transit point for illegal migrants seeking refugee status in Australia.
Arroyo in bid to extend leadership
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:47
She's been dubbed the most unpopular Philippine President since the late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos with surveys showing half the population does not trust her leadership.
Ex South Korean president calls for diplomacy with North
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:48
It's been nine years since his historic meeting with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il, and last night, former South Korean President Kim Dae-jung addressed a packed hall on the issue.
Ahmadinejad could lose in Iran elections
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:48
Iranians will begin voting in just a few hours in an election that could decide whether the country opens up to the west, or deepens its isolation.
Swine vaccine still two months away
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:48
In the Australian state of Victoria more than 1,000 people are now infected with swine flu and winter has well and truly set in, with a cold snap this week.
WHO declares swine flu pandemic
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:48
For the first time since the 1960s, the World Health Organisation has declared a global flu pandemic, and one of the factors is the big rise in the number of cases in Australia.
Record payment for footballer Cristiano Ronaldo
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:33
Football club Real Madrid has paid Manchester United a record $132 million US dollars to buy star midfielder, Cristiano Ronaldo. And that's just the sign up fee.
Malaysian increasing as transit point for asylum seekers
Updated 12/06/2009 12:04:08
Malaysia has become a transit point for illegal migrants seeking refugee status in Australia.
Australian government funding for indigenous projects
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:47
The Australian government has announced funding for a list of new projects for indigenous Australians, including housing and market gardening projects, as it continues to work on it's "Closing the Gap" Strategy.
Claims English skills in rapid decline in Philippines
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:47
The Philippines once boasted one of the largest numbers of English-speakers per capita in the world and even now, tens of thousands of foreigners - mainly from Asia and the Middle East - go to the Philippines each year to learn English.
China Minmetals to takeover OZ Minerals
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:47
China might have failed to secure a big chunk of Rio Tinto but now, it's managed to win control of another set of key mining assets in Australia.
Australian mail used for drug trafficking
Updated 12/06/2009 12:44:47
The Australian Crime Commission, says international drug traffickers are increasingly using the postal system to send drugs to Australia.
Afghanistan calls for joint 'war on terror' with Pakistan
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:20
The Afghan president Hamid Karzai has again called for a joint 'war on terror' in his condemnation of another suicide attack in the Pakistani city of Peshawar, close to Pakistan's border with Afghanistan.
Australia being left behind on Asian languages
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:22
A leading expert on international relations says Australia risks being left behind, unless it acts on improving the bilingual skills of its young.
Public anger in China over Rio Tinto-BHP Biliton deal
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:23
Rio Tinto's joint venture with rival BHP Billiton is attracting criticism around the world - not least in China - with the merger of iron ore operations of the two mining giants being called a monopoly.
Philippines fighting leaves 300,000 displaced
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:23
In the last six weeks, tens of thousands of people have been displaced as the Philippine army has stepped up its operations against 'rogue' commanders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the south around Mindanao.
Asian rivals to shape global politics
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:23
The global financial crisis may have caused the world's developed economies to slow down but it's done little to dampen China's economic outlook.
Five Australians freed from Merauke
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:23
Five Australians marooned in the Papuan town of Merauke for the last nine months will soon be on their way home.
Australia urged to stamp out Tamil support
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:23
The Sri lankan government has all but destroyed the Tamil Tigers, but it wants Australia to help deliver the final blow.
UN agrees to tougher sanctions on North Korea
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:23
After weeks of intense negotiations, key members of the UN Security Council have agreed to toughen sanctions against North Korea in response to its nuclear test.
Australia accused of reneging on illegal log ban
Updated 11/06/2009 12:06:20
The environment group Greenpeace has accused the Australian government of backtracking on an election promise to ban illegal timber imports.
Thai insurgency reignites in the south
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:32
The Thai government has again been taken unawares by Monday's attack on a mosque in the south of Thailand in Narathiwat, where eleven people were killed when the attackers opened fire during evening prayers.
Australia's species meltdown
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
An alarm has been sounded about the rate at which Australian species are dying out and a top Australian ecologist says Canberra has delayed releasing a report on just how poorly the government is responding.
Doha Round gets big push at Bali meeting
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
The Cairns group of agriculture producing nations has given a big political push to efforts for a new global agreement on free trade - the Doha Round - which is seen by many as vital for the world to get out of its current deep recession.
Disquiet in Beijing over soured Chinalco deal
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
It looks like Australia is going to have to do some fence mending in China.
Indian govt asks students to show restraint
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
The Indian government is calling on Indian students in Australia to show restraint and not retaliate against suspected attackers.
Indian students rally again in western Sydney
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
About one hundred young men have turned out onto the streets of Harris Park in Sydney's west for a second night, angry at what they say are racist attacks on students in the area.
Security Council grapples with sanctions on North Korea
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
The five permanent members of the UN Security Council are grappling with a final resolution to expand sanctions against Pyongyang, over its nuclear weapons programme.
Aung San Suu Kyi allowed to call defence witnesses
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
Burma's democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has had a small win in the bizarre court battle initiated against her by the military regime in Rangoon.
Asian women bearing the brunt of the economic downturn
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:32
Women in Asia are bearing the brunt of the region's economic downturn where funding on social protection mechanisms often falls short.
Police still seek mastermind in Munir murder
Updated 10/06/2009 12:49:35
A leading human rights group in Indonesia says activists need more protection, now more than ever.
Chinese students head overseas to avoid intense competition
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:14
For more than 10 million Chinese high school graduates, the past two days have been a life-changing time.
Sri Lanka needs to move to post-conflict phase
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
Sri Lanka's conflict may be over, but the danger has not passed for many in the country, such as government critics, journalists and the thousands civilians displaced by the war.
Prominent Sri Lankan journalist attacked
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
In some parts of the world, media work can be decidedly dangerous.
Growing humanitarian crisis in the southern Philippines
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
The Philippine army has again increased its attacks on Muslim insurgents on the southern island of Mindanao, but while the Moro Islamic Liberation Front says it is retaliating, it also accuses the government of having created a growing humanitarian crisis.
Asian governments flu advice labelled 'immature'
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
The Victorian state government in Australia, says warnings in Singapore and Malaysia advising citizens to restrict travel to Melbourne, due to swine flu, is an "immature" approach.
Indian students rally over Sydney attack
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
Concerns about racial violence in the Indian community have flared up again with hundreds of Indian students gathering in Sydney's west overnight after another fight.
US Journalists get 12 years hard labour in NKorea
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
North Korea has sentenced two American journalists to 12 years in a labour camp on charges of illegally crossing the border and for unspecified 'grave crimes'.
Eleven killed in attack on Thai mosque
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:15
Gunmen have killed eleven people during evening prayers at a mosque in Southern Thailand.
Melbourne theatre company tries to crack Asian market
Updated 09/06/2009 11:59:14
In Australia it's always tough to get a musical off the ground.
Scepticism greets Suu Kyi trial in Rangoon
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:38
The trial of Burma's jailed democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been delayed yet again.
More political fallout as Rio rebuffs Chinalco
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:39
After months of pressure and speculation, Rio Tinto has pulled the plug on a 20-billion dollar deal with China's Chinalco. Rio will instead issue new shares to raise money to pay down its massive debt.
Gay pride on the march in conservative China
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:39
What's believed to be China's first ever gay pride festival is taking place in Shanghai.
Cambodia rejects US corruption claims
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:39
Cambodian officials admit corruption exists within Cambodia, but they say damning assessments made by the US embassy are biased and unfounded.
Australia pushes dairy case in Bali
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:39
Ministers and officials from 19 farm exporting countries plus the United States and India are meeting on the Indonesian island of Bali, to revive world trade talks, amid the global economic slump.
Prabowo says rights record no barrier to office
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:39
Campaigning for the presidential elections in Indonesia are in full swing - with president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono giving his campaign a green touch, by cycling from South to central Jakarta to commemorate International Environment Day on Sunday.
US looks for tough action on North Korea
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:39
The Obama administration is considering putting North Korea back on a list of countries deemed to be sponsors of terrorism.
Art proves recession proof in Singapore
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:37
Despite the worst recession in recent memory in Singapore the local Arts Festival is expecting a record-breaking year.
Calvinism influencing growing Chinese Christian community
Updated 08/06/2009 11:30:37
With the rapid growth in the number of conversions to Christianity in China, one church is proving to be particuklarly attractive to intellectuals and students - Calvinism.
First footage of Aussies in Afghan combat
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:31
Last night Barack Obama said the United States did not want to keep troops in Afghanistan and would gladly bring US forces home when the problem of violent extremists was eradicated.
Rio deal with Chinalco appears over
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:31
The largest corporate deal in Australian history looks to be dead.
Indian students plan more rallies against violent attacks
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:31
The organisers of student protests in Melbourne say they're planning more rallies to keep attention on the violence against international students, despite being urged by Victoria Police not to do so.
SBY warms Malaysia over warships
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:31
Malaysia has called for calm, amid reports that its warships entered oil-rich waters off north-eastern Borneo claimed by Indonesia.
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudyono has sent a stern warning, telling Malaysia to ensure its navy steers away from the disputed waters. Malaysia's military chief Abdul Aziz Zainal denies Malaysian warships entered the disputed zone, adding that he will visit Jakarta next week to discuss the issue.
Sri Lankan doctors placed on trial
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:32
A group of doctors who spoke out about civilian casualties in northern Sri Lanka is expected to be placed on trial.
Australian Defence Minister quits
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:32
As one of the Australian government's most senior ministers, Joel Fitzgibbon has overseen some important policy shifts in just over 18 months in office.
Mixed response in Indonesia to Obama speech
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:32
President Obama's outreach drew mixed responses in Indonesia, the country with the world's largest Muslim population.
Obama reaches out to Muslim world
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:32
The US President, Barack Obama has made a landmark speech in Cairo to the Arab and Muslim world apologising for the past mistakes of the West, challenging the Middle East to confront its own shortcomings, and promising a new relationship with the United States.
Chef gives rare insight into Kim Jong-il
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:28
Being a chef for an unpredictable dictator who sends thousands of his own people to gulags doesn't exactly sound like a dream job.
Lack of sponsorship hampers Everest trek
Updated 05/06/2009 14:07:31
Business leaders in Singapore are being made to re-think corporate social responsibility.
Victory Parade held in Sri Lanka
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:32
Sri Lanka's military has staged a victory parade in the capital Colombo to celebrate last month's defeat of the Tamil Tiger rebels.
Woman charged with defamation for hospital complaint
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:32
Indonesia's draconian defamation laws are under scrutiny today when a distraught mother of two young children faces court for complaining about her treatment at a hospital.
China switches off twitter ahead of anniversary
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:32
Blogs, internet forums, and social media sites, such as Twitter, have been switched off-line in China.
Democracy activists prepare for Tiananman vigil
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:32
It was 20 years ago today that the Chinese Army sent tanks into the centre of Beijing - Tiananman Square at the edge of the Forbidden City, to clear students who'd been protesting for greater democracy for several weeks.
China's struggle of memory against forgetting
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:29
The Communist authorities in China have maintained heavy security around Tiananmen Square, on the 20th anniversary of the brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protests.
Several hundred police, paramilitary and other security personnel are patrolling the square in the heart of Beijing. The Tiananmen anniversary is hugely sensitive for the central government in Beijing. No one really knows how many people were killed - under 300, according to Beijing figures, although Chinese Red Cross and western sources put the figure at between 1,000 and 3,000 civilian deaths. The United States wants China to account for those killed and missing. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says a China that has made enormous progress economically, and that is emerging to take its rightful place in global leadership, should examine openly the darker events of its past and provide a public accounting of those killed, detained or missing, both to learn and to heal.
Aussie soldiers angered over food
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:31
Australia's soldiers in Afghanistan are not happy.
First woman speaker for India's parliament
Updated 04/06/2009 13:04:31
India's parliament has elected its first woman speaker, who's also a member of the low-caste Dalit community.
Australian task force to tackle violence against Indian students
Updated 03/06/2009 16:10:59
The Australian government has established a high-level task force headed by its national security advisor, to counter the problem of violence against foreign students.
Inquest clears Thai security forces over Tak Bai deaths
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:04
A long-awaited inquest on the 2004 Tak Bai incident in southern Thailand has cleared security officials of misconduct.
US China agree to cooperate on economy measures
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:10
US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner has met with China's leaders in Beijing, amid concerns that their $US700 billion dollars held in US assets would hold their value.
Fiji looks to China for more trade boost
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:31
Fiji is hosting 40 Chinese officials and entrepeneurs the capital, Suva, in a bid to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
US army prepares for long haul in Aghanistan
Updated 03/06/2009 16:10:49
The US General who's been put in charge of the Afghanistan war says success in the seven-year-old conflict won't be quick or easy.
Pakistani court released man linked to Mumbai attacks
Updated 03/06/2009 16:10:54
A Pakistani court has ordered the release of the head of an Islamic charity accused of being a front for the Lashkar-e-Toiba.
North Korea's son set to take over North Korea
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:44
North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has signalled the anointment of his youngest son, Kim Jong-un, as heir to the ruling family dynasty.
Harvard Law report calls for UN action on Burma
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:40
A new report by the Harvard Law School has called on the UN Security Council to act against the military regime.
Indonesia offers to rent islands to climate change refugees
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:47
Indonesia's Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry is considering renting some of its islands to climate change refugees.
China prepares to mark 20 years since Tiananmen Square massacre
Updated 03/06/2009 16:11:35
In China, some people are gearing up for tomorrow's 20th anniversary of the protests in Tiananmen Square.
Indonesian media gripped by royal marriage saga
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:15
Tabloid TV in Jakarta has gone into overdrive after a teen Indonesian model fled an allegedly abusive marriage to a Malaysian Prince in a dramatic escape in Singapore, with the help of her mother.
Malaysia main Islamic party looks to the future
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:15
Malaysia's Islamic party PAS is at the political cross-roads - whether to return to its conservative roots, or to evolve into a more moderate organisation.
The issue may lead to a power struggle at the PAS annual general meeting this weekend, pitting hardline clerics against young moderates, who wish to re-brand the party.
General Motors subsidiaries in Asia look safe for now
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:15
The largest car maker in the United States, General Motors, is filing for bankruptcy protection, but its affiliated companies in Asia can breathe a sigh of relief for now - at this stage they aren't up for sale. But most can expect a tough year ahead.
Presenter: Karon Snowdon, finance correspondent
Speaker: John Bonnell, director of forecasting, JD Power, Asia Pacific
More and more people killed by old bombs in Vietnam
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:15
It's almost 35 years since the Vietnam War ended in 1975, but as the country continues to develop more and more people are dying from old bombs and other ordnance left over from that war. There have been great efforts to clear the ground of bombs, but because many of them were originally part of cluster bombs, which explode in mid-air and scatter over the ground, they are still being found where people live and work.
The rebuilding of Burma after Cyclone Nargis
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:16
A year after Cyclone Nargis devastated Burma's Irrawaddy delta, recovery continues as survivors work to rebuild livelihoods and communities hit hard by the storm. An estimated 138-thousand people were left dead or missing by the deadly storm.
Australia ponders US Uighur request
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:16
Australia is considering a United States request to accept up to 10 Chinese Uighurs detained in Guantanamo Bay. While the United States says the Muslims from China's western Xinjiang region no longer pose a threat to society, others disagree.
North Korean manoeuvrings continue to cause concern
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:16
Reports from Seoul say North Korea may soon test a missile capable of hitting the United States. Media reports say Pyongyang may also be preparing for skirmishes with the South around their disputed sea border, after it revoked the 1953 armistice last week.
Indian students voice concerns over Melbourne attacks
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:15
Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has tried to reassure the Indian government that this country is safe and that it welcomes its 90,000-strong overseas student population. His statements follow a protest by at least one thousand Indian students in Melbourne on Sunday night.
Burma's opposition preparing alternative roadmap for change
Updated 02/06/2009 12:02:15
Burma's opposition is preparing what it calls an "action plan for democratic transition" as alternative to the military junta's "road map" of planned elections in 2010. A spokesman for the movement says the latest trial of Aung San Suu Kyi has actually boosted the prospects of political reform.
Swat Valley offensive almost complete
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:10
Pakistan's military says the army's closing in on Taliban militants in the Swat Valley and the offensive could be over in two days.
New laws to tackle Thai corruption
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:09
Thailand, whose government officials and public servants are perceived as among the most corrupt in Asia, is hoping new anti-corruption legislation, due to come into effect later this year, will cast a wider net and curb practices which cost the country millions of dollars each year. The National Anti-Corruption Commission hopes the new laws will help to turn the tide on corruption in government.
Australian police crack child porn network
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:09
Fifteen Australian men have been arrested in connection to an internet video showing the rape of an eight-year old girl.
Singapore women still to break the glass ceiling
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:09
A new survey has shown that women in Singapore are having a tougher time moving up the corporate ladder, than their male colleagues.
Big dividends from China's engagement with Taiwan
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:09
Improving ties between mainland China and Taiwan seem to be paying dividends already.
Sri Lanka needs to learn from post tsunami mistakes
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:10
The war in Sri Lanka may be over, but the challenges have only begun for both the government and the Tamil community.
Student violence threatens education industry
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:10
Australia is scrambling to salvage its international education image, amid claims that a series of attacks on Indian students in several states are racially motivated.
Indian students protest over violent attacks
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:10
Indian students protesting in Melbourne have ended their sit-in outside the city's main train station.
Reports North Korea preparing for another launch
Updated 01/06/2009 12:10:10
South Korea says new spy satellite images show the communist North is preparing to again defy the world and is readying for the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile.
Indonesia compels disabled to wear signs
Updated 01/06/2009 10:50:11
Disabled pedestrians in Jakarta have it tough - it's hard enough for able-bodied citizens to move around, but for those with physical impairments it's much more difficult.
