June 2008
India plans Statue of Liberty 'rival'
Updated 30/06/2008 19:55:16
The government of the Indian state of Maharashtra plans to build a statue off the Mumbai coast to rival New York's Statue of Liberty. The statue will be of the Maratha warrior king Shivaji, considered a hero in Maharashtra for his defiance of Mughal and British forces. However, the decision to build the statue has not been without controversy.
Vietnam hopes to lure overseas scientists home
Updated 30/06/2008 19:55:16
Vietnam has announced a multi-million dollar program aimed at luring trained Vietnamese scientists living abroad back home. The Ministry of Education and Training says it hopes to target some 300,000 Vietnamese graduates and post-graduates, living in countries like Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom. It's promising "favourable working conditions" and a plan to overhaul teaching programs at Vietnamese institutions to bring them up to international standards.
Questions over East Timor's budget review
Updated 30/06/2008 19:55:16
Questions are being asked about a proposal to massively increase government spending in East Timor. A mid-year review has recommended that parliament approve a doubling of the state budget for this year. Dili says it needs to set up an Economic Stabilisation Fund to manage public anger over rising food and fuel prices. Critics say the extra spending is irresponsible.
New pre-trial hearing at Khmer Rouge Tribunal
Updated 30/06/2008 19:55:16
Cambodia, where it's an important day for prosecutors at the Khmer Rouge Tribunal, with the pre-trial hearing due to get under way of 'Brother No. 3' Ieng Sary. However, the tribunal expects to open its first public trial in September, with Tuol Sleng prison chief Kaing Khek Ieu, commonly known as "Duch" in the dock.
Australian official in Fiji receives third death threat
Updated 30/06/2008 19:55:17
Australia has agreed to let Fiji's interim government, fill two key diplomatic positions, in response to what it says is a move towards democracy. Foreign Minister Stephen Smith says Australia has accepted Fiji to appoint an acting High Commissioner to serve in Canberra, and a Consul General in Sydney. But Mr Smith says Australia has no intention to lift contentious travel bans on Fiji's government and military figures, and has expressed doubt over the island nation's commitment to holding elections next year. Mr Smith's comments came as it emerged Australia's High Commissioner in Fiji had received a third death threat in two months.
Khmer Temple sparks debate
Updated 26/06/2008 20:41:02
A 900 year old Khmer temple on the border of Thailand and Cambodia has become a central issue in this week's no confidence debate faced by the government of the Thai Prime Minister. The Thai government has sided with Cambodia over its sole registration with the United Nations Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization UNESCO.
US considers aid to Pakistan
Updated 26/06/2008 20:41:02
The United States is considering a new aid strategy for Pakistan that will triple unconditional non-security aid to 1.5 billion US dollars annually. However security funding would be tied directly to counter terrorism performance. The plan to link security aid to results, aims to push the Pakistani military to finally crush Al-Qaeda and Taliban groups, believed to be based along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
Inadequate security across the region's borders has also reinforced the ongoing problem in tackling Afghanistan's thriving opium trade.
ETIMOR: Accused woman fears for life, seeks refuge in Australia
Updated 26/06/2008 20:41:02
East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta says he's considering taking the job of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. President Ramos Horta, who was critically wounded in an attack at his house in the capital Dili, has acknowledged he's considering the position but is torn between the post and a sense of duty to his country. Meanwhile, the woman accused by President Jose Ramos-Horta of fostering rebel resistance in the country says she fears for her life. Angelita Pires was the girlfriend of rebel leader Alfredo Reinado who was killed by security forces during an attack on President Ramos Horta in February. Ms Pires is under investigation for her alleged role in the protracted guerrilla operation by Reinado who led a group of disaffected former soldiers demanding reinstatement into the military. Her family is asking Australia to provide safe haven.
Japan grapples with 'monster parents'
Updated 26/06/2008 20:41:02
There's been a strange twist on the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. One Japanese school, desperate to avoid upsetting pushy parents, staged a play of the Disney classic with 25 Snow Whites, no dwarfs, and no wicked stepmother. All the parents wanted their child to get the star role, and they're part of a trend in Japan dubbed "monster parents".
PNG Fuzzy Wuzzies still waiting recognition
Updated 26/06/2008 20:41:02
Papua New Guineans known as Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels who helped Australian soldiers during the Second World War, are still waiting for official recognition from Australia. PNG historian, Maclaren Hiari says the current move by Tasmanian Liberal Senator Guy Barnett for official recognition, gives the surviving Fuzzy Wuzzies some hope. Mr Hiari says a formal commitment by the Australian and PNG governments in 1992 to recognise the Fuzzy Wuzzies has never been honoured.
Fiji's proposed Peoples Charter struggling to gain support
Updated 25/06/2008 19:41:42
Fiji's National Council for Building a Better Fiji, is struggling to gain support for the proposed People's Charter. The People's Charter is being proposed by Fiji's interim government as a way of removing race based politics in Fiji. The national council is the body with job of implementing the proposed changes and getting Fiji's diverse public on board. But the idea is losing support even amongst those who originally backed it.
East Timor takes Australia to task over education aid
Updated 25/06/2008 19:41:42
East Timor's president Jose Ramos Horta has called on Australia to be much more generous in providing access for East Timorese to work and study in Australia, describing Canberra's current stand as "embarrassing". He says he is disappointed with Australia's efforts, which are lagging far behind that of Portugal, the United States and even Cuba.
Indonesian poll pro Sharia Law
Updated 25/06/2008 19:41:42
A Roy Morgan Research poll has revealed the majority of Indonesians would like to see the introduction of Sharia Law. The poll of 8 thousand people found that 52 per cent preferred some type of Islamic legal code in the world's most populous muslim country.
China moves to build vocational city
Updated 25/06/2008 19:41:42
China is custom-building an entire city as one big vocational training centre. A third of the city of Yongchuan's population is already involved in education, either as students or teachers. The planned co-development of a city and education system is unique in China.
WHO targets link between climate change and health
Updated 25/06/2008 19:41:42
The UN World Health Day this year took climate change as its main theme, and the issue also dominated the recent World Health Assembly. The Assembly sets the research agenda for the World Health Organisation, which now has a packed year ahead studying the impact of climate change on health, and helping poorer countries cope with it all.
Fiji blames Australian New Zealand for Forum suspension
Updated 24/06/2008 20:03:49
Fiji's interim government has suspended its work with the Pacific Forum Working Group. The forum had been working with Fiji's military leaders with a view to restoring democracy, but Suva now says travel bans imposed by Australia and New Zealand are hampering election preparations. The decision's been taken while a European Union delegation is in Fiji, assessing progress on returning to democratic rule. Interim government spokesman, Neumi Leweni says the regime has pulled out of talks with the Pacific Forum Working Group with immediate effect:
Food shortages could topple new Nepal government: WFP
Updated 24/06/2008 20:03:49
Nepal remains in political limbo after the Maoists pulled out of the interim government at the weekend, demanding Prime Minister Girija Koirala's resignation. Three weeks after abolishing the monarchy, the two most powerful political parties - Mr Koirala's Nepali Congress party and the Maoists - have failed to reach a powersharing deal. But the UN's World Food Program warns, the yet-to-be-formed government could be toppled by food riots unless there's rapid action to address severe shortages.
Pakistan govt to appeal Sharif election ban
Updated 24/06/2008 20:03:50
It's been another day of twists and turns in Pakistani politics, with former prime minister Nawaz Sharif saying he won't appeal a decision by the Lahore High Court, banning him from standing in elections, but his coalition partners in government saying they will. The Lahore court ruled Mr Sharif to be ineligble due to a previous conviction over the 1999 hijacking of a plane carrying Pervez Musharraf - who at that time was head of the army. The alleged hijacking ultimately led to General Musharraf ousting Mr Sharif and taking power. Today, Mr Sharif said he wouldn't take the election ban to the Supreme Court, which is stacked with new judges appointed by the President.
170 nations begin global waste talks
Updated 24/06/2008 20:03:49
Indonesia is hosting a major meeting of waste disposal experts from more than 170 countries, looking at how to handle the mountains of rubbish produced by an increasingly throw-away global society. Broken computers, old mobile phones, toxic chemicals - even used condoms - pose an increasing challenge. As well as how to get rid of legitimate garbage, the Basel Convention meeting in Bali is also looking at illegal waste exporting.
Iron ore price hike to feed inflation
Updated 24/06/2008 20:03:49
The share price of China's largest steel maker, Baosteel tumbled after it announced it will pay almost double for iron ore this year. Baosteel shares fell by almost 8 percent, against a rising trend in the market index on Tuesday. The price of iron ore supplied by Anglo-Australian miner Rio Tinto will jump on average by 85 per cent after tough negotiations wound up this week. The increased price is expected to flow onto the other major supplier, BHP-Billiton and is certain to contribute to rising inflation in both China and Australia.
Cambodia urged to outlaw tobacco ads
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:24
A Cambodian NGO has been honoured by the World Health Organisation for its work on tobacco control. But the WHO also wants Cambodia to honour an obligation to outlaw cigarette ads by 2010.
South Koreans unimpressed by revamped beef deal
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:24
Over the weekend protests continued in South Korea over the US beef import deal despite the government announcing it has secured extra health safeguards from Washington. Local news agencies say the new health guidelines could take effect as early as Wednesday.
Tibetans told 'not to watch torch relay'
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:23
Security was tight in Tibet on the weekend, as the Olympic torch passed through and reports of police patrolling in riot gear also showed that Lhasa is not a normal city. Indeed, human rights and lobby groups have spoken of a "climate of fear" in Tibet, as the plateau remains sealed off to foreigners and the Chinese government emphasizes "political education" to ensure stability. The International Campaign for Tibet also speaks of torture and disappearances.
Indian minister fails to secure Australian uranium
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:24
The Australian Foreign Minister, Stephen Smith and his counterpart Pranab Mukherjee have announced a new Australia-India Roundtable after a meeting in Canberra today. But the Indian foreign minister is going home without shifting Australia's refusal to supply New Delhi with uranium.
China seeks economic growth and cleaner environment
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:23
China's rapid economic growth has often been at the expense of the environment. New regulations are trying to undo some of the damage and prevent further degradation. Authorities in the south-west regions of Sichuan and Chongching plan to build economic powerhouses while protecting the environment at the same time.
China hikes petrol prices
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:23
China's millions of car owners face sharply higher energy prices sparking widespread complaints about the cost of living. It's the latest Asian nation to curb energy subsidies by hiking retail petrol and diesel prices by as much as 18 percent.
Thai Senate questions PM Samak
Updated 23/06/2008 19:28:24
Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej got a grilling today from the Senate, as thousands of protestors and supporters of the People's Alliance for Democracy blockaded his office for a fourth day, demanding he step down. The Senate debate comes ahead of a no-confidence vote in the lower house due to be taken on Thursday. But Mr Samak's overwhelming majority means he's expected to easily survive the vote, and analysts have dismissed today's questioning in the Senate as a ploy.
Deposed PM says doubt over Fiji regime's intentions
Updated 20/06/2008 20:08:03
Fiji's ousted prime minister Laisenia Qarase says he's extremely disappointed at Commodore Bainimarama's criticism of the Fiji-Forum Joint Working Group. The interim prime minister says the Forum Group has met 30 times and has still not managed to chart a way forward to democratic rule. Commodore Bainimarama's comments now cast doubt on the regime's intention to continue working with the joint forum working group. Mr Qarase says the comments call into question the regime's ability to keep a promise, and will cause the regional and international communities to lose faith in Fiji's ability as a leader. Mr Qarase met with a visiting European Union delegation today to explain the process which he thinks may help the country return to democratic rule.
Corruption ringtone a hit in Indonesia
Updated 20/06/2008 20:08:03
Indonesian's have been captivated by unfolding corruption case literally played out in the court room and now lounge rooms and street corners across the archipelago. The secretly taped conversations between a glamorous Indonesian businesswoman and senior prosecutors from the Attorney General's office, implicating them in a massive bribery scandal, have become something of a hit in recent days with ordinary Indonesians using the recording as a mobile phone ring-tone.
Indonesian arrest could spell end to military immunity
Updated 20/06/2008 20:08:03
Indonesian police have arrested a former top military and intelligence officer as a suspect in the murder of a prominent activist four years ago. Muchdi Purwopranjono has been charged with the murder of Munir Thalib, who died of arsenic poisoning. Purwopranjono was a major general in the military and became Deputy Chief of the State Intelligence Agency, known as BIN. His name has been routinely linked with Pollycarpus Priyanto, who was jailed for 20 years in January for the murder of Munir.
Hindu groups angry over 'Love Guru'
Updated 20/06/2008 20:08:02
Hindu groups in the US are protesting against a new Hollywood film they believe makes a mockery of their faith. 'Love Guru', comes out in US cinemas today, and several Hindu groups are outraged they were not given a preview screening as promised by Paramount Pictures.
Surge in elderly suicides in Japan
Updated 20/06/2008 20:08:02
The number of suicides in Japan rose to a near record in 2007 amid a sharp jump in elderly people killing themselves.
Birdflu 'entrenched' in several Asian nations
Updated 19/06/2008 20:18:27
A top WHO official says global readiness for a birdflu pandemic has improved, following an extraordinary international response to the potential threat. Meantime Australia has developed and approved a vaccine for the lethal H5N1 virus. But the WHO warns that birdflu remains entrenched in poultry in several Asian countries - including Indonesia, increasing the possibility of a mutation that could infect humans more easily.
China, US expand progress in latest talks
Updated 19/06/2008 20:18:27
China and the United States have made progress in their economic engagement with the signing of several important agreements in Washington. The cabinet level talks wound up with deals to expand cooperation in energy security, environmental sustainability and climate change. The two nations will also begin negotiations on an investment treaty. US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson says the agreements will help address some of the most important challenges facing the world today.
Taliban attracting growing number of recruits
Updated 19/06/2008 20:18:27
NATO and Afghan forces say they've cleared out Taliban militants who'd dug in to the outskirts of the southern city of Kandahar, after an intense two-day operation. The provincial governor Assadullah Khalid says hundreds of militants were killed or wounded, and says many of the casualties were Pakistani nationals. But analysts say the Taliban continue to attract a growing number of new recruits.
New underwater volcanoes found in sea off Fiji
Updated 19/06/2008 20:18:26
Mining companies are trying work out how to retrieve minerals being spewed into the ocean by two underwater volcanoes north east of Fiji. The volcanoes were discovered by Australian scientists who were mapping the ocean floor. They're releasing smoke containing lead, zinc, copper and gold.
Port Moresby Stock Exchange posts new record highs
Updated 19/06/2008 20:18:27
The Port Moresby stock exchange has been posting new record highs again this week, breaking through the seven-thousand point barrier and surging on upwards. The latest jumps mean the Port Moresby exchange has gained 27 percent this year, defying international trends which have seen many of the world's big exchanges sustain heavy losses.
Clearing the remnants of war in Nepal
Updated 18/06/2008 19:48:18
Landmines and other explosives left over from Nepal's decade-long civil war are being cleared and already there's been a drop in casualties.
Indonesian children put in care to access education
Updated 18/06/2008 19:48:18
A report into Indonesian childcare institutions has found that as many as half a million children are living in privately run children's homes because their parents cannot afford to send them to school.
Selecting new Bougainville leader 'will take time'
Updated 18/06/2008 19:48:18
As mourning for Bougainville's president Joseph Kabui is nearing completion the province's leaders are now turning their attention to a possible successor to Mr Kabui. The Bougainville Executive Council will meet next week where the subject is likely to be discussed. The process is expected to be lengthy and could require changes in the constitution.
Malaysian PM to face no-confidence vote
Updated 18/06/2008 19:48:18
A small party in Malaysia's ruling 14-party coalition is planning a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi next Monday. Mr Badawi's already under pressure to resign over dramatic rises in the cost of living. The Sabah Progressive Party or SAPP holds just two seats in Malaysia's 222-seat parliament. But after the huge losses suffered by Mr Badawi's ruling coalition in elections three months ago, around a third of the remaining seats are held by legislators from the eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak.
Labour shortages in Cambodia's garment industry
Updated 18/06/2008 19:48:18
The rising cost of living is changing the make-up of communities and cities worldwide, and in Cambodia, it's forcing garment workers out of the capital Phnom Penh. Manufacturers are planning to shift production to the provinces, although unions say the real problem is low pay.
Warnings Japan's workforce dwindling
Updated 17/06/2008 20:16:43
Japan is destined to lose 70 percent of it's workforce in the next forty years thanks to an aging population and a dwindling birth rate. The ruling party is floating the idea of a drastic increase in the number of migrants.
Changing Beijing's bike culture
Updated 17/06/2008 20:16:35
More than one thousand new cars hit the roads in Beijing every day. Yet for many owning a car is still considered a luxury.
Most people still ride Bicycles and they're being exposed to more and more pollution every day.
Chinese human rights worker disappears
Updated 17/06/2008 20:18:20
Chinese authorities have refused to release any details of a human rights activist who disappeared earlier this month.
Huang Qui maintains a website which details citizen disputes and human rights issues.
Military on alert as Philippine kidnap deadline expires
Updated 17/06/2008 20:18:25
Philippine security forces are on stand-by for a possible rescue mission after the ransom deadline for the release of two television journalists held captive by the Abu Sayaf militants expired.
Sri Lanka insists SAARC summit will go ahead
Updated 17/06/2008 20:18:09
The insurgent violence in Sri Lanka continues but the Government is confident it can successfully host the eight-nation South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation summit in August.
Industrial unrest worsens in South Korea
Updated 17/06/2008 20:18:15
In South Korea, industrial unrest continues to worsen with more unions threatening to walk off the job in protest against government policies, especially Seoul's beef import deal with the US.
India takes the lead in designing green
Updated 16/06/2008 20:16:55
Sustainable development and design is being considered across the globe in a bid to curb the impact big cities have on climate changes. And it seems India, home to some of the world's biggest cities, is taking the lead.
Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan worsen
Updated 16/06/2008 20:16:55
Pakistan has stoked tensions with Afghanistan, summoning the Afghan envoy and vowing to defend its sovereignty after President Hamid Karzai threatened cross-border attacks on militants.
Floods the latest disaster in China, 57 dead
Updated 16/06/2008 20:17:12
The official death toll from the latest disaster to hit China stands at 57. One month after the Sichuan earthquake killed 70-thousand people, torrential rains have caused record floods in the south.
Japan and China secure gas deal
Updated 16/06/2008 20:17:18
Japan and China have finally signed a landmark deal to jointly develop gas fields in disputed areas in the East China sea.
The deal is being seen as a sign of warming relations between Beijing and Tokyo.
Russia makes power play in Asia Pacific
Updated 16/06/2008 20:21:22
A new report released today says Russia is making an aggressive campaign to reposition itself in the Asia Pacific region.
EC concerned over rights abuse in Sri Lanka
Updated 13/06/2008 20:07:06
The European Commission says it will withold development aid funding to Sri Lanka, until the government addresses concerns about its poor human rights record.
Petty corruption draining Asian growth
Updated 13/06/2008 20:07:06
A major United Nations report says so-called "petty corruption" is draining economic growth across Asia, and perpetuating regional poverty. The UN Development Programme report was launched in Jakarta by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
Australia, Indonesia sign forest carbon partnership
Updated 13/06/2008 20:07:06
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has used his first formal visit to Jakarta to announce a Forest Carbon Partnership, which he signed today with Indonesian President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. But there were stumbles from both leaders at a press conference held to announce the new climate change initiative.
Dispute holds up UNESCO temple listing
Updated 13/06/2008 20:07:05
With just one month to go before Cambodia submits an application for World Heritage listing for another of its magnificent temples, an ongoing border dispute with Thailand threatens to undermine the process.
Laos opening up to foreign investment
Updated 13/06/2008 20:07:05
The World Bank says Laos is opening up it's doors to increased foreign investment, and they hope Singapore will be able to play a lead role. A delegation from the World Bank met Singapore Government representatives this week in a bid to move the country from a socialist economy to a free market.
George W Bush defends his handling of Iraq war
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:25
U-S President George W Bush and the German Chancellor Angela Merkel have warned Iran that it will face further sanctions unless it stops enriching uranium.
Australian PM defends claims he snubbed Japan
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:25
Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, has pointedly defended himself against claims he snubbed Japan by not visiting the country earlier.
China and Tawain to begin talks after 10 year gap
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:26
Negotiators from Taiwan have arrived in China to resume formal talks after a gap of almost 10 years.
Aung San Suu Kyi described as national security threat
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:26
Burma's military junta has lashed out at detained pro-democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, calling her a threat to national security.
Nepal's deposed king leaves palace
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:26
Nepal's former king Gyanendra has left his main palace in Kathmandu to live as a commoner in a former hunting lodge on the outskirts of the capital.
The ruling Maoists abolished the monarchy last month, replacing it with a republic.
Vietnamese doctors help Cambodian polio children
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:25
A group of Vietnamese doctors is mounting a six-day volunteer mission on Saturday to help Cambodian children suffering from polio.
Top China banking official under investigation
Updated 12/06/2008 01:23:25
A vice president at the China Development Bank is under investigation for suspected violation of securities rules.
Chinese aid money to Pacific going up
Updated 12/06/2008 21:01:38
A new report has shown a massive increase in the amount of money China has promised in development aid to the South Pacific. The research was done by the Australian based, Lowy Institute for International Policy, and the paper is titled, "The Dragon Looks South."
Fiji Air may close due to rising oil prices
Updated 12/06/2008 21:01:39
Airlines have been having a rough time of things with the jump in oil prices; this week Cathay Pacific shares dropped by around five percent after another record barrel price was set last Friday. The gap between profits and what's being spent on fuel is also narrowing, and now Air Fiji says it's close to being driven out of business. The announcement follows the Fijian government's recent decision to launch an inquiry into the operations of the country's international carrier Air Pacific.
North Korea 'on brink' of serious famine
Updated 12/06/2008 21:01:39
A human rights group based in Seoul, has released a video containing testimonies of highly influencial North Koreans in an effort to highlight the urgent need for food aid to be flown into the county. The group says from evidence gathered, North Korea is on the brink of a famine. The last famine in the 1990s killed as many as 3 million people.
Australian PM heads for Indonesian talks
Updated 12/06/2008 21:01:39
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is travelling to Indonesia tonight, after an extended visit to Japan. Mr Rudd's talks with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will be part of his first state visit to the Indonesian capital. He'll build on a rapport established six months ago when both men attended the UN climate meeting in Bali, and on the warmer ties established by Mr Rudd's predecessor John Howard. Friday's talks are expected to cover security, trade and climate change.
Minimum wage back on Hong Kong agenda
Updated 12/06/2008 21:01:38
Hong Kong is once again considering introducing a minimum wage, with draft legislation due to be debated later this year.
Former Vietnam prime minister dies
Updated 11/06/2008 19:37:13
A former prime minister of Vietnam, Vo Van Kiet, has died of pneumonia in Singapore at the age of 85. During his years in the Politburo in the 1980s, and as prime minister from 1991 to 1997, he was considered a major force behind the economic reforms that helped pull Vietnam back from poverty and hunger. Vo Van Kiet also strengthened foreign ties with countries like the US and Singapore.
Boost to Chinese investment in Australia
Updated 11/06/2008 19:37:13
China's financial regulator has added Australia to a list of approved destinations for investment by authorised Chinese funds. The ruling means Chinese banks can invest in Australian shares and managed funds, from a fund pool of about $US50 billion. Analysts say the move will help drain excess liquidity from the Chinese economy, coinciding with other moves by Beijing to curb inflation.
Burma still struggling 40 days after cyclone
Updated 11/06/2008 19:37:13
Hundreds of thousands of people remain in desperate need in Burma, nearly five weeks after Cyclone Nargis devastated the southern delta region. Two weeks ago UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said he'd been given assurances by Rangoon that all foreign aid workers would be allowed in. But the military government has kept tight controls on the movement of foreign aid, leaving grassroots workers doing their best to fill the gaps.
Indian film firm snares top Hollywood stars
Updated 11/06/2008 19:37:12
India has made a major entry into the Hollywood motion picture industry, after an Indian film mogul tied up deals with some of Tinsel Town's leading celebrities.
Legal setback for Thai villagers fighting 'pollution firm'
Updated 11/06/2008 19:37:12
In Thailand a group of ethnic Karen villagers fighting for compensation for lead pollution of a vital river source by a mining company, have faced a fresh setback in their legal battle. In recent days the Pollution Control Department has moved to appeal a court decision awarding compensation to the villagers.
State funeral for PNG peacemaker Joseph Kabiu
Updated 10/06/2008 03:23:30
A state funeral will be held in Papua New Guinea's capital Port Moresby today for Joseph Kabui, the man who helped bring peace to Bougainville.
Indonesian sect members fear reprisal attacks
Updated 10/06/2008 19:50:34
Indonesian liberals say a quasi-ban on the country's minority Ahmadiyya sect will give hardline Muslims a green light to pressure Jakarta for other concessions. On Monday President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's government issued a decree restricting the sect's activities, after days of demonstrations by supporters of the Islamic Defenders' Front, and an attack on a religious tolerance rally 10 days ago. The decree means Indonesia's 200,000 Ahmadis face arrest if they spread "interpretations and activities" which "deviate" from orthodox teachings. Many Ahmaddis now say they're frightened to leave their homes, and are worried Jakarta's ruling will encourage violence against them.
India lends support to ending nuclear arms race
Updated 10/06/2008 19:50:34
A day after Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced plans to create a new commission aimed at ending the nuclear arms race, his Indian counterpart's also expressed interest in a world free of nuclear weapons. But Manmohan Singh's comments come at a time when nuclear-capable India is seeking to push ahead with nuclear power, to meet the demands of its domestic economy.
South Korean cabinet offers resignation
Updated 10/06/2008 19:50:34
The entire South Korean cabinet has offered its resign to President Lee Myung-Bak, after weeks of public uproar over a decision to resume US beef imports. American beef was banned from South Korea five years ago after an outbreak of mad cow disease in the States, and there were widespread street protests when the government sought to reverse that ban two months ago as part of a free trade deal with Washington. Now the cabinet's offered to step down. News reports suggest President Lee will accept some of their resignations, and replace several ministers involved in the beef import deal.
State funeral for Bougainville president
Updated 10/06/2008 19:50:34
Papua New Guinea has held a state funeral in its capital, Port Moresby, for Joseph Kabui, the man who helped bring peace to Bougainville. Mr Kabui was the first president of the autonomous Bougainville provincial government, after 16 years of seccessionist violence which left over 10,000 people dead. He died of heart failure on Saturday aged 54, and today around 500 people turned out to pay their respects.
Inflation 'will cause living standards to fall'
Updated 10/06/2008 19:50:34
A respected economist has warned high oil prices will cause a fall in living standards in many advanced nations. Professor of Economics at Carnegie Mellon University, Marvin Goodfriend worked for more than 20 years in the United States Central Bank, the Federal Reserve, and he is in Australia for meetings with business groups and Reserve Bank and Treasury officials.
Australia braces for higher food prices
Updated 09/06/2008 19:55:21
Economists have warned consumers to brace themselves for even higher food prices. With many economists now predicting oil is on its way to $US200 a barrel, it's not just petrol which will go up. Here in Australia, the cost of fruit and vegetables, clothing and electrical goods are all expected to rise. Nevertheless, some economists believe there are some benefits in higher oil costs for the Australian economy.
Newspaper publisher arrested in Cambodia
Updated 09/06/2008 19:55:22
Cambodia's human rights group Licadho says the publisher of a newspaper known to support the main opposition Sam Rainsy Party is in custody after his surprise arrest on Sunday. Dam Sith publishes the newspaper Moneakseka Khmer, or
Presenter: Corinne Podger
Speaker: Licadho spokeswoman Kek Galabru
Lawyers begin anti-Musharraf 'long march'
Updated 09/06/2008 19:55:22
In Pakistan, thousands of lawyers have rallied in Karachi, the starting point of a planned "long march" against President Pervez Musharraf. The lawyers say they'll hold rallies in major cities in the coming days, ahead of a major demonstration in the capital Islamabad on Thursday. The march comes as Pakistan's ruling coalition seeks to put constitutional amendments through parliament which would significantly reduce President Musharraf's remaining powers.
Australian PM calls for end to nuclear arms race
Updated 09/06/2008 19:55:22
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has used a visit to the Japanese city of Hiroshima to launch a new foreign policy initiatitive, aimed at curbing the spread of nuclear weapons. In 1945 an American atomic bomb destroyed much of Hiroshima, killing an estimated 140,000 people. After visiting the city today, Mr Rudd said he would set up a new international commission to focus on non-proliferation and disarmament.
Timor launches controversial biofuel project
Updated 09/06/2008 19:55:21
The East Timorese government says it's launched negotiations with a mystery foreign company to set up biofuel plantations and a processing plant.
Six UN helicopters to fly deep into Burma's Irrawaddy region
Updated 09/06/2008 23:51:30
Six U-N helicopters have been allowed to fly deep into Burma's devastated Irrawaddy Delta region, delivering desperately needed supplies to hungry and homeless cyclone survivors.
A spokesman for the UN's World Food Programme says five of the helicopters arrived in Burma's main city Rangoon on Saturday, and all of them have been allowed to join one chopper that arrived earlier.
Fiji's embassy in US to stop Canadian company over fish labelling
Updated 09/06/2008 23:51:35
Fiji's Embassy in the United States has moved to stop a Canadian company from using the country's name in labelling tinned fish.
Jakarta restricts activities of minority sect Ahmadiyaa.
Updated 09/06/2008 23:51:40
Indonesia's Government has issued a decree severely restricting the activities of the minorty Islamic sect Ahmadiyaa.
Australian PM pays tribute to Kyoto for climate change policy
Updated 09/06/2008 23:51:45
The Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, has paid tribute to the Japanese city of Kyoto for its role in dealing with climate change policy.
Malaysia to determine the sovereignity of 100 islands
Updated 09/06/2008 23:51:30
Malaysia plans to determine the sovereignty of 100 islands around the country after an international court handed neighbouring Singapore a strategic islet.
The International Court of Justice last month affirmed Singapore's sovereignty over the island, triggering fears that more unoccupied islands could be up for grabs.
Foreign Minister Rais Yatim says there are about 100 islands and formations in the country which need to be mapped and have their status determined.
Cambodian street children at risk from recycling industry
Updated 06/06/2008 20:48:53
To Cambodia now, where thousands of street children are being put at risk by the recycling industry. Authorities report a sharp rise in the number children who scavenge through rubbish piles on the street to find items they can sell to recycling organisations.
Thai efforts to combat human trafficking recognised
Updated 06/06/2008 20:48:53
Efforts in Thailand and Cambodia to combat human trafficking has been recognised in the US State Department's Trafficking in Persons Report released this week.
Cambodia has even moved from a watch list to a Tier 2 alongside Thailand.
Malaysia defends fuel hike
Updated 06/06/2008 20:48:53
In the face of public anger and street protests, a Malaysian minister has defended the country's 41 percent fuel price hike.
CHINA: Tibet and security main concerns for Bejing Games
Updated 06/06/2008 20:48:52
With two months to go before the opening of the Olympic Games, the Beijing Organising Committee says it's ready to welcome contestants and visitors. Beijing believes the Sichuan earthquake will not have an impact on visitor numbers and says its focus is on security.
Pacific leaders address World Food Crisis meeting
Updated 06/06/2008 20:48:53
The three day world food crisis meeting, held in Rome this week, has attracted pledges of over eight billion US dollars in assistance and development aid. Pacific leaders spoke during this conference of world leaders.
Fiji and PNG named in US human trafficking report
Updated 05/06/2008 19:48:54
The US State Department issues its annual report on human trafficking, with Fiji and Papua New Guinea this year in the worst of company.
Australia rejects quota for Burmese asylum-seekers
Updated 05/06/2008 19:49:00
Thailand is playing host to thousands of Burmese asylum-seekers awaiting resettlement in third countries but Australia has ruled a similar offer.
Australia calls for EU-style regional group for Asia-Pacific
Updated 05/06/2008 19:49:04
Australia has called on Asia-Pacific countries to form a European Union-style grouping that he says will enhance regional security and prosperity.
Southern Indian state recognises transgender as seperate sex
Updated 05/06/2008 19:48:50
In India, the southern state of Tamil Nadu has become the country's first to recognise transgender people as a separate sex.
Vietnam's economic outlook downgraded
Updated 05/06/2008 19:48:50
Vietnam's extraordinary economic growth is finally showing signs of a slow down, with three major economic ratings agencies cutting Vietnam's key economic outlook from positive to negative.
Clinton supports US pacific territories right to vote in November
Updated 04/06/2008 19:31:18
Hillary Clinton says she wants islanders living in the US territories of American Samoa and Guam to have the right to vote in the US election.
Indonesians welcome Obama victory
Updated 04/06/2008 19:31:28
Barack Obama's nomination has generated excitment in Indonesia. He lived in Indonesia as a child and that connection has seen many dub him the Indonesian candidate.
Tiananmen massacre still taboo 19 years on
Updated 04/06/2008 19:31:13
China has stepped up security in central Beijing, as relatives of victims of the Tiananmen Square massacre today marked nineteen years since the pro-democracy protests.
Jakarta cracks down on hardline Muslims
Updated 04/06/2008 19:31:13
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is coming under strong pressure to act against Muslim radicals after a peaceful religious rally on the weekend turned violent, leaving scores injured.
Barack Obama and US foreign policy on Asia
Updated 04/06/2008 19:31:40
US Senator Barack Obama has secured the Democratic nomination for the US presidency. But many say he's lack of foreign policy experience may be the clincher on polling day in November. We discuss his agenda on Asia.
Khmer Rouge history to be taught in schools
Updated 03/06/2008 20:17:33
Cambodia's government has approved plans to allow the history of the Khmer Rouge to be taught in schools.
Taliban blamed for Pakistan's Danish embassy attack
Updated 03/06/2008 20:17:51
Paksitan officials have accused local Taliban militants of carrying out Monday's suicide attack on the Danish embassy. The attack comes as the newly elected Government finalises a controversial peace deal with Pakistan's Taliban leader.
Scabies rampant in Fiji
Updated 03/06/2008 20:17:25
New research in Fiji has shown more than 20-percent of the population is affected by the highly contagious skin disease Scabies.
East Timor faces obstacles to get to Olympics
Updated 03/06/2008 20:17:25
The head of East Timor's Olympic Committee is now in Beijing, as the country does its best to prepare athletes for the August Games. But East Timor faces some serious obstacles, including shortages of money, facilities and equipment.
Foreign companies criticised for not donating enough to China
Updated 03/06/2008 20:39:44
There seems to be no donor fatigue as billions of dollars worth of aid pour in from around the world for last month's China quake victims. But local Chinese websites and blogs have criticised foreign companies for not donating enough.
Satellite images to help predict quake aftershocks
Updated 03/06/2008 20:39:44
Australian experts are helping Chinese authorities analyse satellite images which could be used in the future to predict aftershocks and save lives.
Malaysia's ruling party looks to revitalise its appeal
Updated 02/06/2008 19:30:47
Malaysia's main political party UMNO is meeting this week to look for ways to revitalise its appeal. It comes as Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi faces a challenge to his leadership and grapples with threats of defections to the opposition.
Political instability in Thailand sparks coup rumour
Updated 02/06/2008 19:30:51
A tense weekend stand-off between riot police and anti-government protesters in Bangkok has rekindled fears of politicial instability in Thailand with talk of another military coup.
Protests escalate in South Korea over US beef imports
Updated 02/06/2008 19:30:55
There's been more clashes and more arrests in Seoul as anti U-S beef protestors continue to take to the streets. The protests escalated after Seoul agreed to lift its intermittent ban on American beef imports.
China bans ultra-thin plastic bags
Updated 02/06/2008 19:30:43
The Chinese government has imposed a ban on ultra-thin plastic bags in a bid to reduce pollution and litter in time for the olympic games. It's also forcing retailers to charge customers for regular plastic bags, in an effort to reduce consumption.
Scientists warn PNG running out of forests
Updated 02/06/2008 19:30:43
Papua New Guinea is running out of forests. That's the dire assessment delivered by a group of scientists taking a 30 year snapshot of what's left.
