December 2009

UK scientists combat spread of malariaAudio

Updated 31/12/2009 11:48:49

Scientists in the United Kingdom have discovered a way to combat the spread of malaria.. by meddling in the sex lives of mosquitos that carry the disease. Australian researchers say the novel discovery has unlocked a whole new way of reducing mosquito populations.

Tension building between big miners and ChinaAudio

Updated 31/12/2009 11:48:49

There's more tension on the horizon between the world's big miners and China.
The China Iron & Steel Association says it expects the big iron ore producers to demand price rises of up to one third next year.

Thai Army clears camp of HmongAudio

Updated 31/12/2009 11:48:49

Thailand has completed the job of sending 4,500 Hmong asylum seekers back to Laos, despite international condemnation. United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon says he regrets the deportations. The UN's refugee agency was repeatedly denied permission by the Thai Government to assess the Hmong's refugee claims. A number of countries including Australia had already agreed to take some who had been found to have genuine claims for asylum.

Tributes for former Indonesian PresidentAudio

Updated 31/12/2009 11:48:50

Nuim Khaiyath from Radio Australia's Indonesia Service knew Gus Dur both professionally and as a friend.

British cabinet documents releasedAudio

Updated 31/12/2009 11:48:50

British Cabinet documents released after 30 years have revealed that the then British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher was so concerned about a public backlash to resettling Vietnamese refugees in Britain that she wanted to buy an island somewhere in Asia on which to house them.

Death of former Indonesian President Abdurrahman WahidAudio

Updated 31/12/2009 11:48:50

Former Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid has died in a Jakarta hospital after a long illness. He was 69. Wahid, or Gus Dur as he was widely known, had been in hospital for the past week.

North Korea detains US human rights activistAudio

Updated 30/12/2009 10:43:15

North Korea's official news agency has confirmed that it's detained a United States citizen who crossed illegally into the country last Thursday. Christian Human Rights activist Robert Park walked across the frozen Tumen River from China into North Korea, saying before he left that he wanted to liberate the North Korean people.

Suicide bombing in Pakistan kills 30 peopleAudio

Updated 30/12/2009 10:43:15

The Pakistan government is blaming two extremist groups for a suicide bombing in the city of Karachi, which has killed at least 30 people and injured more than 60. It says the Tehreek-e-Taliban and the Lashkar-i-Jhangvi are responsible.

Reprimand for Hong Kong's chief executiveAudioTranscript

Updated 30/12/2009 10:43:12

Chinese leadership has served a large slap on the wrist to Hong Kong's chief executive Donald Tsang. At his annual duty visit to Beijing on Monday, Donald Tsang was told to handle political reform more appropriately and resolve "contradictions" in Hong Kong.

British man executed in China for drug smugglingAudio

Updated 30/12/2009 10:43:15

A British man with a history of mental health problems has been executed in China for drug smuggling, despite a desperate last minute please for clemency by the British government.

Tourism Australia tips decline in Indian student arrivalsAudio

Updated 30/12/2009 10:43:12

Tourism Australia is expecting a dramatic decline in the number of Indian students coming to Australia after the spate of violent attacks earlier this year.

Russian fighter planes sold to BurmaAudio

Updated 29/12/2009 09:38:15

While many countries in the West have imposed sanctions against Burma .. others are aggressively doing business with the military junta. Russia has signed a contract to deliver 20 MiG-29 fighter planes to Burma in a deal worth 570 million US dollars.

Iran cracks down on opposition supportersAudio

Updated 29/12/2009 09:38:16

Iran's hardline regime has launched a new crackdown against opposition supporters who've staged more violent protests against the government. Police arrested several reform activists - including former politicians and supporters of the opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi.

Skeletal remains believed to be former East Timor PM examinedAudio

Updated 29/12/2009 09:38:15

Australian police have reinvigorated their efforts to identify skeletal remains believed to be those of East Timor's first prime minister and revered independence leader Nicolau Lobato. The bones excavated in Dili have been stored in a Northern Territory police forensic centre for five years and will now be examined using new DNA extraction methods.

Safety audit of Philippine ferriesAudio

Updated 29/12/2009 09:38:16

Philippine authorities fear the death toll from two ferry tragedies could reach 50.

British man set for execution in ChinaAudio

Updated 29/12/2009 09:38:16

A British man is set to be executed in China later today after being found guilty of drug smuggling. The 53 year old man will become the first European in half a century to face the death sentence in China.

Thailand sends Hmong refugees back to LaosAudioTranscript

Updated 29/12/2009 09:38:16

Thailand yesterday began the process of removing more than four-thousand Hmong refugees back to their homeland in Laos. The forced relocation has prompted an outcry from human rights groups, and the United Nations has never been allowed access to the group to check their claims for refugee status.

Japanese PM's election promise stalls Guam TreatyAudio

Updated 28/12/2009 07:58:58

The US Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Insular Areas admitted to Pacific Beat that it was unlikely the 2014 deadline for the relocation of U-S troops from Japan's Okinawa to Guam would be met. It followed Japan's announcement that it wouldn't make a decision on the transfer until May next year.

Indian sex scandalAudio

Updated 28/12/2009 07:58:58

One of India's most important high-tech states has been thrown into turmoil by a sex scandal and threats of mass demonstrations.

US could impose financial sanctions on Burma's military regimeAudio

Updated 28/12/2009 07:58:58

If talks between the US and Burma fail to reach some consensus on democratic reforms targeted financial sanctions could be employed to make the military government listen.

Thailand prepares to repatriate Hmong asylum seekersAudio

Updated 28/12/2009 07:58:58

Reports have emerged that the Thai military's preparing to forcibly repatriate 4-thousand Hmong asylum seekers to Laos against their will. Human Rights Watch says armed forces are being mobilised for the expulsion which could take place today.

Questions over US airline securityAudio

Updated 28/12/2009 07:58:58

As the details continue to emerge about what could have been an horrific terror attack on Christmas Day in the United States, there are increasing questions about what went wrong with America's security procedures.

Visitors swarm to Australian tourist townsAudio

Updated 28/12/2009 07:58:57

It's that time of year when Australia's coastal towns are invaded by hundreds of visitors on holiday. Tourism is good for local economies but for some residents it can also be a source of resentment.

Poor report card for religious freedom in AsiaAudioTranscript

Updated 24/12/2009 11:06:39

Asia is one of the most religiously diverse regions in the world but a new study has found it also has some of the greatest restrictions on religious freedoms. The study by the Pew Centre in the United States looked at both government restraints and social hostilities towards religious groups.

Thai PM reflects on first year in officeAudioTranscript

Updated 24/12/2009 11:06:40

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva marked his government's first year in office by giving a special presentation broadcast live on TV and radio. The government says while the economy has turned the corner more work is still needed to end insurgent violence in the south and curb corruption.
Presenter: Ron Corben
Speakers: Panitan Wattanayagorn, Thai government spokesman; Kudeb Saikrajang, spokesman for Puea Thai Party; Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a political scientist at Chulalongkorn University

Many Aceh tsunami victims still awaiting homesAudioTranscript

Updated 24/12/2009 11:06:40

This Saturday marks five years since a deadly tsunami swept across coastlines in Asia and Africa, killing more than 250,000 people and displacing another one and a half million. The Indonesian province of Aceh was one of the hardest hit regions. There more than 160,000 people lost their lives. The international response to the disaster was unprecedented; with donors around the world pledging close to 7 billion dollars for the reconstruction effort in Indonesia alone. And with assistance from more than 100 international organisations, more than 140,000 homes were built in Aceh. But many remain empty, while at least 1,000 people are still living in supposedly temporary accommodation, waiting to be allocated a house.

Rights groups accuse Cambodia of forcing drug trialsAudio

Updated 24/12/2009 11:06:40

A controversial drug trial has just finished in Cambodia. The trial uses a little known Vietnamese drug which Cambodian authorities believe could cure drug addiction. But it's come under criticism by human rights groups. They've accused authorities of forcing drug users to take part in the trial at a Phnom Penh rehabilitation centre. Cambodian authorities insist that everyone involved volunteered.

Malaysia ordered to compensate wrongly detained activistsAudioTranscript

Updated 24/12/2009 11:06:40

The Malaysian High Court has awarded compensation to 29 activists who were wrongfully detained in Malaysia 13 years ago. The group were part of a regional conference, held in the Malaysian capital in 1996, to discuss East Timor's struggle for independence. The forum was attacked by 400 people led by the ruling UMNO party, and police arrested more than 100 people. Tian Chua organised the conference, and is one of the activists who the government has been ordered to pay compensation. He's now an opposition MP and says the High Court's decision is recognition the government's actions were an act of violence.

Economic crisis, climate change debate shape 2009Audio

Updated 24/12/2009 11:06:39

Commentators reflect on the issues that shaped the Asia Pacific region in 2009.

China to build oil pipeline from BurmaAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

China's National Petroleum Corporation has received exclusive rights to build and operate a crude oil pipeline from Burma to China.

Journalists under attack in Pakistan's northwestAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:02

Journalists have come under direct attack in Pakistan, after a suicide bomber blew himself up outside the Press Club in the volatile city of Peshawar. The city is already one of the most dangerous reporting beats in the world. There have been 75 suicide bombings so far this year in Pakistan. The Committee for the Protection of Journalists has condemned the latest attack and warned that local reporters are at high risk.

Australian scientists close to developing bionic eyeAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

Australian scientists developed the bionic ear or the cochlear implant and now they're a step closer to developing a bionic eye. Recent testing on cats has revealed that images transmitted from electrodes implanted in the animals' eyes are being registered by their brain. The scientist in charge says it means the completely blind could see movement and images again.

Violent clashes as Maoist strike cripples NepalAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

In Nepal, a national strike called by the former Maoist rebels has shut down much of the country. Clashes in the capital Kathmandu on Sunday, between protestors and police, reached the highest levels of violence in years. The Maoists, who led government until May this year, are demanding a return to power. Three years on from a groundbreaking peace accord, some fear a return to large-scale conflict is on the cards.

Australia moves offshore asylum detainees to mainlandAudio

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

There's news this morning that overcrowding at Australia's Christmas Island detention centre has forced the move of 30 Afghan youths to the mainland. They're unaccompanied minors, and are moving to a facility in Melbourne, waiting for their asylum claims to be determined. Christmas Island is near capacity, with temporary housing constructed in recent months. Opposition Immigration spokesman Scott Morrison says the Rudd Government should find alternative offshore processing facilities.

China urged to reprieve British man on death rowAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:02

The British Prime Minister has appealed to China for clemency for a British man facing the death penalty for drug smuggling next week. Akmal Shaikh, a 53-year-old father of five, was caught smuggling heroin into northwest China two years ago. His legal representatives have argued he was the victim of conmen who tricked him into carrying the drugs, promising him a career as a pop star. While the Chinese foreign ministry says the case has been handled according to Chinese law, human rights advocates are angry that his long history of mental illness was not taken into account during his trial.

Recall fears mar Hong Kong H1N1 vaccination effortsAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

Health authorities in Hong Kong have begun a mass swine-flu vaccination campaign, targeting groups most at risk of complications. But although the vaccines are free and officials promise they're safe, not everyone's taking up the offer.

Mixed response to Karzai's new cabinetAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

Afghanistan's new ministers-in-waiting are facing intense questioning as the country's parliament prepares to confirm or reject President Hamid Karzai's new cabinet. Mr Karzai has promised all members of his proposed cabinet will be held accountable as he fights corruption. But the line-up has been met with a mixed response.

Row over carols performance in Bethlehem churchAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

A prestigious choir from Cambridge has effectively been banned from performing on Christmas Eve at one of the world's most famous churches. The Palestinian Authority has told the singers they're not welcome in Bethlehem, where Christians believe Jesus was born. It's all part of an academic and cultural boycott against Israel.

Eruption imminent as thousands flee Philippines volcanoAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:02

Evacuation shelters near a rumbling volcano in the Central Philippines are filling up as more than 45,000 people flee their homes. Mount Mayon is spewing lava and more than a thousand tremors have been felt in the past 24 hours. Scientists say the tremors are a sign the volcano's eruption is imminent.

Stoning law reignites Indonesia's sharia debateAudioTranscript

Updated 23/12/2009 11:24:01

Lawmakers in the Indonesian province of Aceh recently passed a law which would allow for the stoning to death of adulterers. Supporters of the law say it is unlikely that it will ever be applied, but it is necessary as a deterrent to would be adulterers. Aceh was granted the right to implement Sharia law under an autonomy agreement, which ended a three decade separatist struggle. In recent years caning has been used as a punishment for Muslims caught gambling, drinking or sex outside of marriage. But the laws and punishments are unpopular and, many argue, increasingly at odds with Indonesia's national laws.

Presenter: Katie Hamann
Speakers: Moharriadi Syafari, Prosperous Justice Party member; Eva Zain, director, Aceh Human Rights NGO Coalition, Muslim Ibrahim, head of the Aceh Ulema's Council

China's Taiwan envoy greeted by protestsAudioTranscript

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:06

Thousands of people have been protesting against the arrival of China's envoy on cross-strait relations Chen Yunlin in Taiwan. He's on the island for a fourth meeting in more than a year with his counterpart, Chiang Pin-kung. The envoy has told journalists that relations between the two former rivals are moving in the right direction.... and he says they have been negotiating as equals.

Rise in Christmas salesAudioTranscript

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:06

Retail industries in a number of countries in the region are experiencing an increase in Christmas sales compared to last year.

Few clean hands as Pakistan corruption scandal intensifiesAudioTranscript

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:06

Political tension is increasing in Pakistan as several senior government ministers and thousands of officials face possible corruption charges. A Supreme Court decision to overturn special immunity has thrown the government into uncertainty. The Pakistani President Asif Ali Zaradari has dismissed demands to step down. But, opposition activists are warning they will stage mass protests if Mr Zardari fails to give up some of his powers.

Cyclone Laurence lashes West Australian coastAudio

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:05

Communities on Western Australia's north coast are recovering after a battering by Tropical Cyclone Laurence Monday night. Winds reached more than 200 kilometres an hour when the category five system reached land Monday. It's been downgraded to a Category 3 system and emergency crews have been assessing the damage.

Australian government to pursue emissions trading policyAudioTranscript

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:05

The Australian Government is facing an uphill battle to make its emissions trading scheme a reality. The Opposition leader Tony Abbott says the failure of the Copenhagen summit to come up with a binding agreement is vindication of his stance, to oppose the Government's plan. The Greens say the Government's only option is to do a deal with them to get the scheme through the Senate, and are demanding the Government make much deeper cuts to honour the Copenhagen Accord.

Separated Bangladeshi twins celebrate their third birthdaysAudio

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:05

Two young Bangladeshi girls are celebrating their third birthdays at their adoptive home, just five weeks after being separated in a 30-hour operation at Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital. Twins Krishna and Trishna were joined at the head and neurosurgeons gave them only a one in four chance of surviving with no damage to their brains.

Airlines try to shake decade of woesAudio

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:05

The director general of the International Air Transport Association, IATA, has called the past 10 years the aviation industry's Decennis Horribilis - an apt description for a decade in which airlines lost nearly $US50 billion. The forecast for next year is more of the same - losses amounting to $6b and a slow recovery.

Philippines on high alert for volcano eruptionAudioTranscript

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:06

The Philippine government has sent more troops to impose an expanded exclusion zone around the restive volcano, Mount Mayon.
Emergency authorities in the Central Philippines have raised the alert level in the area to four....and say a hazardous eruption could occur within the next few days.Mayon has been rumbling and throwing up ash, rocks and lava for about a week.

E-commerce booms in ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 22/12/2009 12:20:06

From the humble beginnings of personal online auction websites, e-commerce has taken off as one of the world's fastest growing industries. And the phenomenon has spilled over into China, where online sales have almost doubled over the past year.

World comes to terms with Copenhagen resultAudioTranscript

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:34

It's been described as "better than nothing", but the Copenhagen climate change summit has resulted in a non-binding agreement despite all the warnings that failure to produce a deal would spell disaster for the earth. The non-binding agreement, put together by the world's biggest emitters, set a commitment to limit global warming to two degrees Celsius, but no binding global emissions targets. It's also promised $US100 billion for poor nations most at risk from global warming, but no funding plan.

Australian Opposition says Copenhagen vindication for no ETSTranscript

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:34

In Australia, the Opposition says the Copenhagen summit was a comprehensive failure and vindication for its stance against the Government's Emissions Trading Scheme. It says Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's justification for an ETS has now been stripped away because of the worlds' failure to strike a binding deal. The Greens have also slammed the outcome.

Not all bad news from CopenhagenAudio

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:34

Some analysts are arguing there are substantial positives to come out of the Copenhagen climate change summit.

In turbulent times, Thailand's King remains belovedAudio

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:33

In Thailand, recent national celebrations marking King Bhumipol's birthday have been given an added poignancy by current concerns over the health of the 82 year old monarch. Ordinary Thais on the streets of Bangkok talk about the position of the monarchy in today's Thailand.

Uighur deportation sparks concernsAudioTranscript

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:33

The UN says it's "deeply disturbed" that Cambodia has deported a group of 20 Muslim Uighurs to China, where human rights workers say they could face torture and possibly execution.

Anti-fluoride campaigners sound warningAudio

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:32

In India, an estimated 75 million people suffer from fluorosis - the consequence of ingesting too much fluoride. It can lead to a crippling disease that affects young and old, and is often found in groundwater.

Ten years on, Macau reflects on developmentAudioTranscript

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:33

The former Portuguese enclave of Macau has marked the 10th anniversary of its return to Chinese rule. Chinese President Hu Jintao spoke of progress and success as he watched the swearing in of Macau's new chief executive Fernando Chui. But about 1,000 marched though the city's streets calling for more political freedom and government action on corruption. The gaming capital of the world's economic development has not come a cost.

Indian parliament in uproarAudio

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:33

Members of India's opposition parties last week staged raucous protests against skyrocketing inflation -- staging a walkout and forcing parliament to adjourn. Members of both houses of parliament attack the ruling Congress party over the soaring prices of food and essential commodities, and the protest action has spilled onto the streets.

Kangaroo plague costing Australian farmersAudio

Updated 21/12/2009 12:27:32

Graziers in western Queensland say a kangaroo plague is costing them tens of thousands of dollars a year. Recent good rains in some parts have seen kangaroos flock to those areas in huge numbers. But farmers say their ability to do anything about it is hampered by strict rules on culling.

Pakistan opposition demands PM resign after amnesty rulingAudioTranscript

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:39

Pakistan's main opposition party is calling for the resignation of President Asif Ali Zardari after the Supreme Court struck down an amnesty protecting him against corruption charges.

Chances of deal at Copenhagen fadingAudioTranscript

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:40

In Copenhagen the Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says he's still hopeful that an agreement can be reached.

Leaked UN document shows lack of goodwillAudio

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:40

Well, as we've already heard, the target some nations have been pushing at Copenhagen of keeping global temperature rises below one point five degrees is not likely to be met.

Island nations say survival threatenedAudioTranscript

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:40

Meanwhile, countries which are already seeing the effects of global warming, are making sure they're heard.

Insurgents hack dronesAudioTranscript

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:40

Insurgents in Iraq have managed to hack into the video feeds being transmitted from unmanned predator drones in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Climate conference may be extendedAudioTranscript

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:40

World leaders are arriving in Copenhagen, but with no deal on the table will their presence will make much difference to the outcome?

Indian activists push for euthanasiaAudio

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:39

Human rights activists in India want the Supreme Court to allow a severely disabled woman to die.

Malaysian Muslims and Catholics argue over use of 'Allah'Audio

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:38

A pitched battle is taking place in Malaysia's highest court over whether the word "Allah" can be used to describe God in Christian texts.

Charity brings music to Timorese childrenAudioTranscript

Updated 18/12/2009 11:41:38

Music has an important space in most of our lives and has the power to please, to inspire, to soothe and to comfort.

Volunteers build peace in Southern ThailandAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:30

In Thailand's southern provinces, where six years of a separatist insurgency, have claimed about 4,000 lives.

Two former Khmer Rouge leaders charged with genocideAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:32

The United Nations-backed warcrimes court in Cambodia has for the first time issued genocide charges against two former Khmer Rouge leaders.

Forest breakthrough at CopenhagenAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:30

Let's return to the Copenhagen Climate Talks where there is no sign of any consensus - or global deal - yet.

Deadlocks threaten deal at UN climate summitAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:33

Heads of state are arriving at the UN climate summit in Copenhagen, and exhausted negotiators are looking to them to break a series of deadlocks on finalising a new global climate deal.

Small islands cry for helpAudioTranscript

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:33

The small island states have used today's meeting to issue a final, desperate plea for help.

Papua activist killedAudioTranscript

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:33

In Indonesia, the killing of prominent Papuan rebel leader, Kelly Kwalik, has sparked protests, amid concerns that hopes of a peaceful settlement will be dashed between separatists in Papua province and the central government in Jakarta.

UN grants Oceanic Viking asylum seekers refugee statusAudioTranscript

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:32

A group of 78 Sri Lankan asylum seekers who spent much of last month refusing to leave an Australian customs ship moored off Indonesian waters, have all been granted refugee status by the United Nations.

Philippine eruption could last monthsAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:33

In the central Philippines, where thousands of villagers have been evacuated from their homes, as more lava poured out of Mount Mayon on Luzon island.

Australian economic growth slower than expectedAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:32

Australia's sense of comfort took a blow today with figures revealing slower-than-expected economic growth.

Hundreds arrested as Copenhagen faltersAudio

Updated 17/12/2009 11:26:33

We go first to the Danish capital where police have arrested more than 250 activists and used a makeshift jail in an old beer warehouse to detain them.

Taiwan fears China trade deal could cost jobsAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:25

Unions in Taiwan say they fear there could be huge job losses if a proposed free trade agreement is signed with mainland China.

Sudanese refugee becomes AFL star rookieAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:25

And of course, many asylum-seekers who were given a chance, have happily made Australia their new home and contributed to their new nation.

Australia accused of climate scepticism at CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:26

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has arrived in Copenhagen, for the talks aimed at saving the world from catastrophic climate change.

Thousands evacuated from Philippine volcano pathAudio

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:26

In the central Philippines, around 50,000 people are being evacuated from the area surrounding the Mayon volcano.

Authority warns Australian border under-policedAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 12:13:12

There are claims this morning that Australia's only international border is under-policed, and that foreigners are able to cross it without detection.

Delegate walkout costs valuable hours at UN summitAudio

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:26

Vital negotiating time was lost yesterday at the UN climate summit in Copenhagen, after African delegates walked out of the conference, angered at signs of weaking support for the Kyoto Protocol.

Leaking rig blamed for Indonesian ocean contaminationAudio

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:14

Scientists at the University of Indonesia say they've found oil contamination in water samples collected by fishermen in Indonesian sovereign waters which they believe may be from an oilrig leak off northwest Australia.

Australia warns Japan on whalingAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:15

The annual whale hunt is about to start in the Great Southern Ocean.

Asian economic recovery to continue: ADBAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:25

The better than expected performance of Asian economies should continue next year according the latest assessment by the Asian Development Bank.

Amnesty criticises Christmas Island detention centreAudioTranscript

Updated 16/12/2009 11:38:25

Australia's policy of detaining asylum-seekers on Christmas Island in the Indian ocean continues to generate controversy.

China has best and worst of climate policyAudioTranscript

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:49

Any agreement at Copenhagen will mean little, if it doesn't have the US and China on board.

Burma opium production continues to riseAudio

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:48

Burma has increased its opium production for the third year in a row.

African walkout at Copenhagen talksAudioTranscript

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:49

A rift has opened up at the Copenhageb climate summit between the world's poorer countries and those which produce most of the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Paradise image conceals Bali's problemsAudioTranscript

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:48

As a small island, Bali produces 5000 tons of rubbish each day, and fifteen percent of that rubbish is plastic.

Australian MP promotes North Korean engagementAudioTranscript

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:48

What can an Australian federal member of parliament learn from a taxpayer-funded trip to North Korea?

Report recommends deep cuts to nuclear arsenalAudio

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:49

A major new report out today recommends new measures aimed at containing nuclear weapons.

Cambodian opposition angered at Thai spy's pardonAudioTranscript

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:49

Cambodia's opposition has accused the government of undermining the country's monarch and of meddling in Thai politics, after the spying conviction of a Thai man was overturned.

Congress approves Afghan-Pakistan aid packageAudioTranscript

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:49

The US Congress has approved a giant spending bill that includes annual foreign aid packages and more money for Afghanistan and Pakistan.

'Gone With the Wind' celebrates 70 yearsAudio

Updated 15/12/2009 11:54:47

As the Christmas marketing campaigns for the latest crop of Hollywood blockbusters jostle for attention, the most popular film ever made is celebrating its 70th anniversary.

Asia needs continuing source of climate funds: PhilippinesAudioTranscript

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:32

At Copenhagen reports that three major issues remain unresolved - emissions reduction targets, financing for developing countries and compliance.

Election will test Cyprus peace processAudio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:31

Australia's longest serving foreign minister, Alexander Downer, is helping broker reunification in the case of one of the world's most intractable disputes the division of the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.

Tibetan PM in exile calls for greater Australian supportAudio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:32

The leader of Tibet's government in exile has urged Australia to lobby China towards granting Tibet regional autonomy.

Asian Development Bank urges Copenhagen dealAudio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:32

Funding for developing countries' climate mitigation remains one of the big issues at the conference.

Obama takes aim at US banksAudioTranscript

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:31

The US President Barack Obama has lashed out at some of America's biggest banks, calling them "fat cats".

Authorities struggle with Bali rabies outbreakAudio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:31

Australia is one of the few countries in the world that is free of the rabies virus.

Sainthood announcement tipped for Mary MacKillopAudio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:31

The imminent sainthood of Blessed Mary MacKillop, the 19th century champion of Australia's poor, is expected to be an early Christmas present for the nation's Catholics.

Protests as India creates 29th stateAudio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:32

India has a new 29th state - Telengana - carved out out of ten districts of Andhra Pradesh, taking with it the city of Hyderabad, which will become its new capital.

Australia accused of carbon accounting 'scam'Audio

Updated 14/12/2009 12:10:32

In Copenhagen, talks have reached an impasse at the UN Climate Change conference.

Volkswagen may seek merger with SuzukiAudio

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:51

Asia's car industry is in for a shake-up of major proportions if a deal between Germany's Volkswagen and Japan's Suzuki goes ahead.

US envoy fails to get nuclear commitments in NKoreaAudioTranscript

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:52

Stephen Bosworth, America's chief diplomat on North Korean affairs, visited North Korea this week to try and entice it back to negotiations with the U.S., South Korea, China, Japan and Russia - the six party talks - aimed at getting North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons.

US and China at odds in CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:52

The United States and China have been trading heated arguments at the United Nations Climate talks in Copenhagen.

Singapore mulls citizen testAudio

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:47

New immigrants to Singapore may one day have to pass a test before they are given citizenship.

Chinese top Australia's migrant intakeAudio

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:47

For the first time, China has topped the list of migrants moving to Australia.

World's parliamentarians petition UN on BurmaAudioTranscript

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:51

More than 440 members of parliament from 29 countries have petitioned the United Nations Security Council, calling for immediate action on Burma's persecution of political dissidents and appalling human rights record.

Developed countries not counting forest carbon lossAudioTranscript

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:52

While developing countries are trying to strike a deal on REDD developed nations are working on their own version known by the acronym LULUCF.

Copenhagen negotiators to seek REDD dealAudio

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:52

One of the big issues featuring at the Copenhagen negotiations involves whether, and how, forests can be used to offset the harm done by carbon emissions.

Australia to clarify rules on foreign investmentAudioTranscript

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:51

Australia has again moved to counter concern about its foreign investment rules, after a troubled year over Chinese state-owned investment proposals.

New Japanese Govt emphasises importance of whalingAudioTranscript

Updated 11/12/2009 12:41:51

In a massive blow to anti-whaling activists, Japan's new centre-left government has vowed to continue with its policy of scientific research whaling.

Red Cross: US troop surge will endanger civiliansAudioTranscript

Updated 10/12/2009 13:27:59

The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Stanley McChrystal, has thrown his full support behind President Obama's decision to send 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan, but a less optimistic view of Mr Obama's troop surge is offered by the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Concerns for Uighur Chinese in CambodiaAudio

Updated 10/12/2009 13:27:59

Chinese authorities have arrested 94 more people suspected of involvement in deadly ethnic riots in Xinjiang province earlier this year.

Island states cause Copenhagen riftAudioTranscript

Updated 10/12/2009 13:28:03

Barbados is one nation supporting the Alliance for Small Island States proposal for legally binding protocol that would force India and China to take emission commitments.

Split emerging over Tuvalu proposalAudioTranscript

Updated 10/12/2009 13:28:03

At the UN climate change summit in Copenhagen a split is emerging even within the developing world at the UN climate summit in Copenhagen.

Philippine authorities charge 24 with attempted rebellionAudio

Updated 10/12/2009 13:28:02

Philippine authorities in southern Maguindanao province have charged 24 people for attempted rebellion, after the massacre last month of 57 people.

Indonesians take to the streetsAudio

Updated 10/12/2009 13:28:03

Thousands of Indonesian's took the streets yesterday to mark world anti-corruption day.

Australian opposition accused of downgrading foreign aid commitmentAudioTranscript

Updated 10/12/2009 13:28:02

Australia's political opposition has been accused of downgrading its commitment to international aid, after new Liberal Party leader Tony Abbott dropped the position of parliamentary secretary for aid from his new line-up of shadow ministers. The opposition has denied that suggestion.

Displaced Sri Lankan Tamils 'still denied freedom of movement'AudioTranscript

Updated 10/12/2009 13:28:02

Sri Lanka says it won't bring charges against 11,000 former Tamil Tigers rebels it says were found among displaced civilians in the country's refugee camps.

Developing countries being squeezed out at CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

The sheer number of climate change meetings going on in Copenhagen is creating difficulties for developing countries.

Australia urged to press prominent Sri Lankan on 'war crimes'AudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

Six months after the Sri Lankan government won a civil war with the Tamil Tigers, allegations have surfaced of war crimes committed in the final months of the conflict.

Top US General confident Taliban will be curbedAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

In Afghanistan, the top US commander there says there's no magic formula for success, although he's confident that President Obama's commitment of more US troops will reverse the Taliban's momentum.

Research out-muscles testosterone mythsAudio

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:23

Testosterone has long been singled out as the cause of risk taking, bulging biceps and an insatiable sexual appetite.

Draft Copenhagen agreement leakedAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

The Copenhagen climate conference has been rocked by the leak of a draft final agreement.

Cost of borrowing money to rise because of GFCAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

Closer to home, and the head of the Reserve Bank has warned that Australians will pay more to borrow money because of new rules being imposed in response to the global financial crisis.

World weather mostly warming says new reportAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

As world leaders quarrel about how much money to spend on fighting climate change and leaked email distract participants at the Copenhagen conference, weather scientists have delivered yet another warning.

Japan approves stimulus package to maintain recoveryAudio

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

Japan has approved a huge new economic stimulus package, worth nearly $US275 billion US dollars, which include $US80 billion in direct spending.

World's faithful gather in MelbourneAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:23

Thousands of people from the world's faith communities have converged on the Australian city of Melbourne for the Parliament of World Religions.

Cambodia's pepper farmers get their champagne momentAudioTranscript

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

Black pepper is a staple spice across the world and has been for centuries, but those who grow it don't earn much for their efforts.

Militants blamed for second bombing in eastern PakistanAudio

Updated 09/12/2009 13:27:27

Pakistanis are counting the cost of their government's ongoing offensive against the Taliban - with three deadly bombings in the past two days.

Expert rejects new Balibo accountAudioTranscript

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

Gatot Purwanto' account is the first time a senior Indonesian has broken ranks with the official line that the five Australian-based journalists -- Greg Shackleton, Tony Stewart, Gary Cunningham, Brian Peters and Malcolm Rennie -- died accidentally in crossfire in the small town of Balibo.

Thai, Malaysian PMs unite to end southern Thai insurgencyAudio

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

The Prime Ministers of Thailand and Malaysia are preparing to make an unprecedented joint visit to southern Thailand.

Islamic banking looks to expand in AustraliaAudioTranscript

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

Malaysia's Islamic banking sector is looking to expand and it has its eyes on Australia.

US envoy prepares for North Korea talksAudioTranscript

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:17

President Obama's special envoy, Ambassador Stephen Bosworth, is preparing to travel to North Korea, after talks in Seoul on strategies to get the reclusive, Stalinist state to give up its nuclear ambitions.

Currency devaluation leaves North Koreans strugglingAudio

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:14

North Koreans are struggling to accommodate a decision by their central government to devalue the country's currency by a factor of 100.

Plight of Afghan women worseningAudio

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:14

As US President Obama agonises over an exit strategy for Afghanistan, the situation of the forgotten victims of the eight-year-long war continues to deteriorate.

Developing countries insulted by climate offerAudioTranscript

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

The Climate Conference in Copenhagen has opened with a declaration that the 12 days of negotiations represent an historic opportunity, but already divisions between delegates have emerged.

New account of Balibo eventsAudioTranscript

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

A former Indonesian soldier has come forward with new evidence about the killing of the Balibo five suggesting they were shot deliberately although not executed.

US agency says greenhouse gases will be regulatedAudioTranscript

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

In the United States, the Obama Administration has signalled it will regulate greenhouse gas emissions, even if Congress doesn't approve climate legislation.

Philippines dubs Ampatuan patriarch 'enemy of the state'Audio

Updated 08/12/2009 12:01:18

Government troops have clashed in the southern Philippines with forces loyal to the powerful Ampatuan family.

Taiwan elections show unease over China policyAudio

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:29

Taiwan observers say President Ma Ying-jeou has been sent a hint to slow down an aggressive push for improved ties with China, after voters in local elections delivered an encouraging result to the pro-independence opposition.

Copenhagen conference finally underwayAudioTranscript

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:30

One of the world's most talked about conferences is about to get underway in Denmark's capital, Copenhagen.

US insists no deadline on Afghanistan pull outAudioTranscript

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:30

The White House has sent its national security team out in force to convince its allies there are no mixed messages over its exit plan in Afghanistan.

Philippines imposes martial law in MaguindanaoAudio

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:29

Philippine President Gloria Arroyo has declared a state of martial law in the troubled southern province of Maguindanao, reportedly to stop a possible rebellion by a powerful Muslim clan.

Suicide bombers target Rawalpindi MosqueAudio

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:29

In Pakistan funerals have been held for the 40 victims who were killed during a deadly attack on a mosque near the army's headquarters in Rawalpindi.

UN rapporteur urges Australia to close detention facilityAudioTranscript

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:29

An independent United Nations expert has urged Australia to close its immigration detention facility on Christmas Island.

Ausaid criticised for poor coordinationAudio

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:29

Australia's Ambassador to Dili has moved to appease concerns from the East Timorese Government over reports he accused the government of wasting donor funds through corruption and inefficiency.

Missing genes identified as obesity triggerAudioTranscript

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:28

For years, obesity researchers have tried to work out whether it's the environment or genetics that causes some children to get fat.

Anwar puts faith in public not judiciaryAudioTranscript

Updated 07/12/2009 11:47:29

The Malaysian government has been accused of manipulating the judicial system for political reasons.

Indonesian journalists defy ban to screen BaliboAudio

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:19

Indonesia's Alliance of Independent Journalists has screened the controversial film Balibo in Jakarta.

Taiwan's opposition seeks government rebuke in local voteAudio

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:19

The people of Taiwan go to the polls this weekend to elect mayors, county chiefs and city councillors, in an exercise which observers say will determine Taiwan's political landscape.

Climate change pioneer talks down CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:18

The scientist who convinced the world that global warming was a looming danger says the planet would be better off, if next week's Copenhagen climate change summit ended in collapse.

Australia, Indonesia investigate climate change optionsAudioTranscript

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:16

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has returned from Washington to find his proposed climate change legislation in tatters.

Australia promotes Asia Pacific community planAudio

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:19

Australia is hoping to inject some fresh energy into its plan for its Asia Pacific Community when government officials, analysts and academics from over twenty countries meet in Sydney this morning, to air their views on the proposal.

Opposition leader meets Dalai LamaAudioTranscript

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:18

Australia's new Opposition leader, Tony Abbott has has plenty on his plate.

Indonesia shocked at Australia's ETS failureAudioTranscript

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:16

Indonesia is pushing for rich nations must make clear commitments to finance developing countries to fight global warming.

Developing countries look to rich to fund carbon cutsAudio

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:18

Pressure is mounting on both China and India to make strong commitments at Copenhagen.

Diversity can be source of strength for Asia PacificAudioTranscript

Updated 04/12/2009 14:26:19

Despite the sometimes lukewarm response from some of Australia's neighbours, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is pushing ahead with his grand regional vision.

Displaced Sri Lankan Tamils leave government campsAudio

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:43

Internally displaced Tamils are starting to return to their homes after Sri Lanka's government gave permission for them to leave government camps where they've been detained since the country's civil war ended six months ago.

Amputees face long road to rehabilitationAudio

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:41

Today is International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

Korean defector wins women's boxing titleAudio

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:41

It's often said that champions are born and that they rise to the top, no matter what.

Conference to promote Rudd's Asia Pacific communityAudioTranscript

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:43

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd this week takes another step to advance his vision of an Asia Pacific Community by the year 2020.

Carbon tax favoured to reduce emissions

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:43

The Australian Government says it will re-introduce its proposed Emissions trading legislation when Parliament returns after the summer break.

Concern for investment in Indonesia's mining sectorAudioTranscript

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:43

Indonesia's peak mining body has warned investment in the sector for 2009 could drop below one-billion dollars for the first time in five years because of stalled changes to legislation.

Booming Asian demand for broadband connectionsAudioTranscript

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:43

Booming Asian demand for broadband connections is helping to keep prices down in Australia.

Imelda Marcos to run for CongressAudio

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:43

In the Philippines the race for next year's national and local elections continues to generate controversy, with former first lady Imelda Marcos planning what she hopes will be a stunning political comback.

US troop increase in AfghanistanAudioTranscript

Updated 03/12/2009 13:07:44

Barack Obama has signalled that he's boosting U-S troops in Afghanistan to over 100-thousand for the first time in one last push for some kind of victory, setting July 2011 as the goal for the beginning of withdrawal.

Malaysian court's independence under questionAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:16

The High Court decision is set to further inflame political tensions in Malaysia.

Indonesia bans 'Balibo'Audio

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:16

Indonesia has decided to ban the Australian movie "Balibo" which dramatises events surrounding the killings of five Australian newsmen in 1975 - allegedly by the Indonesian military.

Human rights record in Indonesian province questionedAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:16

Indonesia's poorest province, Papua is once again in the spotlight over its human rights record. Amnesty International has called for an investigation into what it's described as unchecked human rights violations by Indonesian police.

New leader for Australian Liberal PartyAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:16

Australian Liberal Party M-Ps have voted out their leader Malcolm Turnbull over the divisive issue of climate change, but may have failed to find a unifying figure after days of bloodletting.

30,000 more American troops to be sent to AfghanistanAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:16

United States President Barack Obama will tell war-weary Americans tonight that he intends to send more than thirty thousand extra troops to Afghanistan.

Thinking about food primes muscles for actionAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:15

Japanese researchers have found that simply thinking about eating something sweet can cause your muscles to store energy.

Long road to CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:15

These days climate change is a daily fixture in the news media but when did the issue first enter the public arena?

Radio Australia celebrates 70 yearsAudio

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:11

Last night Radio Australia celebrated 70 years of being on the air with a party here at the Southbank studios of the ABC.

Mekong under threat from climate and damsAudioTranscript

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:15

The Mekong River is vital as a source of transport, irrigation and fisheries for the millions who live along its banks.

Trial date set for Malaysia's opposition leaderAudio

Updated 02/12/2009 13:34:16

Malaysia's opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has been ordered to stand trial for sodomy on January 25, as a court turned down his bid to have the charges dismissed.

Presenter: Sonja Heydeman
Speakers: Lawyer for Anwar Ibrahim, Sankaran Nair

Expect a non-binding global climate deal: UN envoyAudioTranscript

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:18

The United Nations' chief negotiator says the international climate change summit in Copenhagen will not be a "failure". Instead, he's still confident the conference will deliver an agreement, with ambitious targets from rich nations, and commitments to cut emissions growth by the developing world. But he says a legally binding treaty is unlikely to be delivered until June 2010.

Thai King limits public outings for birthday celebrationsAudioTranscript

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

Thailand's revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej will appear in public on Saturday at Bangkok's Grand Palace on his 82nd birthday. However palace officials say his traditional birthday eve address has been postponed indefinitely. King Bhumibol, the world's longest-reigning monarch, has been hospitalised since September 19th.

New Thai Airways boss seeks company liftoffAudio

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

The global economic crisis has affected the airline industry across the globe and the new boss of Thai Airways certainly has his work cut out for him.

Rudd, Obama hold talksAudio

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:18

As US President Barack Obama prepares to announce extra troops for Afghanistan, Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has held talks in Washington, renewing Canberra's military effort in Afghanistan. Mr Obama and Mr Rudd have also discussed climate change, ahead of next week's Copenhagen climate summit, as Mr Rudd waited for the result of a dramatic political spill in the Opposition leadership which would affect his emissions trading scheme.

Stimulus boost for Japanese budgetAudio

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

The Japanese government has announced plans to boost its budget for the financial year with a stimulus worth over $US30 billion.

Fighting bulge one 'man girdle' at a timeAudioTranscript

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

Men's underwear sales in Australia and the UK are up, largely thanks to body-shaping garments.

HIV discrimination an ongoing issueAudioTranscript

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

Today is World AIDS Day and a chance to take stock of the way the region is dealing with the epidemic.

EU leaders disappointed with China meetingAudioTranscript

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

European leaders meeting with their Chinese counterparts in Nanjing have come away disappointed on the issues of climate change and the currency. China's Premier Wen Jiabao easily fended off calls for a weaker yuan and stronger action on climate change.

US top education destination for ChineseAudio

Updated 01/12/2009 13:35:17

A survey of Chinese attitudes about Australian investment and education has been conducted by the Australian think tank the Lowy Institute.