Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Adult film actress Bonnie Blue to be deported from Bali

    Adult film actress Bonnie Blue to be deported from Bali

    Indonesian authorities have ordered the deportation of British adult content creator Tia Billinger, professionally known as Bonnie Blue, following a high-profile investigation into alleged pornography production in Bali. The 26-year-old Nottingham native was initially detained during a police raid on a production studio in the Pererenan area, where 34 individuals were questioned.

    Despite being cleared of violating Indonesia’s stringent anti-pornography laws—which carry penalties of up to 12 years imprisonment and $360,000 fines—Billinger faced deportation for immigration violations related to working on a tourist visa. She was convicted of a minor traffic offense and fined Rp 200,000 (approximately $12).

    The case highlighted Indonesia’s strict stance against pornographic material, particularly notable in predominantly Hindu Bali, which exists within the Muslim-majority nation. Immigration officials are considering blacklisting Billinger, potentially barring her re-entry indefinitely.

    Police investigations revealed that participants claimed to be producing an “entertainment-themed reality show” without creating indecent material. Authorities examined branded vehicles and hotel recordings but found no evidence of pornography or illegal distribution. However, four foreign nationals, including Billinger, were identified as having “dominant roles” and suspected of misusing stay permits for commercial content production.

    Badung Police Chief M Arif Batubara emphasized that all procedures were based on legal facts, with coordination between police, prosecutors, and immigration authorities to determine appropriate legal measures. Billinger’s controversial content history includes tours seeking “barely legal” participants and previous plans for ‘schoolies’ porn production that resulted in Australian visa cancellation.

  • Beijing reports childcare, elderly support progress during 14th Five-Year Plan period

    Beijing reports childcare, elderly support progress during 14th Five-Year Plan period

    Beijing municipal authorities have announced substantial advancements in social welfare infrastructure, marking significant progress in both elderly care and early childhood support systems during China’s 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

    At a Thursday press briefing, officials revealed the establishment of 152 community-based service centers specifically designed to assist senior citizens. These facilities provide comprehensive support including meal delivery services, daily living assistance, and specialized help with hospital visits. According to Yang Zhiwei, Vice-Director of the Beijing Civil Affairs Bureau, these services currently benefit approximately 2.07 million elderly residents, with 293,000 recipients being octogenarians or older.

    Concurrently, the city has made remarkable strides in early childhood education accessibility. Wei Xubin, Vice-Director of the Beijing Education Commission, reported that kindergarten enrollment capacity for children under three years old has expanded to accommodate 33,000 infants and toddlers. Notably, 26,000 of these young learners qualify for placement in public kindergartens with preferential tuition arrangements, substantially reducing financial barriers for families.

    The coordinated development of these parallel support systems demonstrates Beijing’s commitment to addressing demographic challenges through targeted social policy implementation. These initiatives represent critical components of the city’s broader strategy to enhance quality of life across generations while adapting to evolving population needs.

  • Video offers new evidence of Japan’s germ-warfare crimes in China

    Video offers new evidence of Japan’s germ-warfare crimes in China

    A chilling 38-minute video testimony from a former member of Japan’s notorious Unit 731 has been made public by the Exhibition Hall of Evidences of Crime Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army in Harbin, China. The footage, recorded in 1997 by Japanese scholar Fuyuko Nishisato and donated to the exhibition hall in 2019, features Tsuruo Nishijima, who served in the unit’s meteorological squad beginning in October 1938.

    The testimony provides unprecedented insight into the systematic nature of Japan’s biological warfare program during World War II. Contrary to conventional meteorological operations, Nishijima’s squad played an active role in human experimentation by measuring wind direction and speed to optimize the dispersal of bacterial agents during field tests.

    Nishijima confirmed the meteorological squad’s mandatory presence at all field experiments, including particularly disturbing ‘rainfall experiments’ where aircraft released bacterial cultures at extremely low altitudes. At testing sites in Anda city, Heilongjiang Province, aircraft descended to approximately 50 meters above ground level to spray biological agents on human subjects—referred to as ‘maruta’ or logs—who were tethered to wooden stakes. Each experiment involved approximately 30 victims spaced five meters apart.

    The testimony further reveals that after exposure, victims were transported in sealed trucks back to Unit 731 facilities where their symptoms and disease progression were meticulously documented over several days. Nishijima also described a fatal incident where a Japanese military doctor died after removing protective gear and becoming infected during an experiment, demonstrating the extreme virulence of the deployed biological agents.

    Additionally, the footage details the meteorological squad’s involvement in frostbite experiments conducted in temperatures ranging from -20°C to -35°C. Human subjects were forced to expose their bodies for five to ten minutes while researchers observed physiological responses, ostensibly to study warfare needs in frigid environments.

    Researchers at the exhibition hall emphasize that this perpetrator perspective testimony reconstructs the complete criminal chain of Unit 731 and provides irrefutable evidence that Japan’s biological warfare program represented a systematic, inhumane operation that constitutes an undeniable historical truth. Unit 731, established in Harbin as Japan’s primary biological and chemical warfare research base, conducted experiments that claimed at least 3,000 direct victims and resulted in over 300,000 deaths throughout China from deployed biological weapons.

  • China launches new internet satellite group

    China launches new internet satellite group

    China has successfully deployed another cluster of internet satellites into low Earth orbit, marking a significant advancement in its space-based communications infrastructure. The launch occurred at precisely 7:00 AM local time on Friday, December 12, 2025, from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan province.

    The Long March 12 carrier rocket executed a flawless ascent, transporting what has been identified as the 16th grouping of low-orbit internet satellites destined to enhance global connectivity capabilities. Mission controllers confirmed that all payloads successfully reached their designated orbital parameters following the morning launch operation.

    This deployment represents the continuing expansion of China’s sophisticated satellite network architecture, designed to provide comprehensive internet coverage across remote and underserved regions worldwide. The strategic placement of these assets in low Earth orbit enables reduced latency and enhanced bandwidth capacity compared to traditional geostationary systems.

    Space technology analysts note that this launch demonstrates China’s growing proficiency in rapid satellite deployment and orbital network management. The successful mission reinforces the country’s position as a leading force in space-based telecommunications infrastructure development, with potential implications for global digital inclusion initiatives and competitive dynamics in the satellite internet market.

    The Hainan commercial launch facility continues to establish itself as a pivotal hub for China’s space ambitions, having supported numerous successful missions throughout 2025. This latest achievement underscores the technical precision and operational reliability of China’s space launch capabilities.

  • China’s grain output tops 714 million tons in 2025

    China’s grain output tops 714 million tons in 2025

    China has set a new agricultural milestone with its grain production reaching an unprecedented 714.88 million metric tons in 2025, according to official data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on December 12. This achievement marks another consecutive year of bumper harvest for the world’s most populous nation, demonstrating remarkable resilience in agricultural productivity.

    The record output represents a 1.2 percent increase compared to 2024 figures, continuing a positive growth trajectory in China’s agricultural sector. This sustained expansion stems from dual factors: increased planting area and improved yield efficiency. Statistical analysis reveals that grain planting areas expanded for the sixth consecutive year, surpassing 119 million hectares, while output per unit area simultaneously grew by 1.1 percent year-on-year.

    NBS official Wei Fenghua highlighted the strategic measures underpinning this agricultural success. “The stable growth in acreage results from China’s comprehensive approach to arable land protection and quality enhancement,” Wei stated. The multifaceted strategy includes optimized planting structures, reclamation of abandoned farmland, and systematic improvements to agricultural infrastructure.

    Beyond domestic implications, this agricultural milestone carries significant global importance. The substantial harvest strengthens China’s capacity to stabilize international grain markets and contribute to worldwide food security initiatives. Domestically, the achievement provides crucial support for China’s economic recovery momentum and facilitates the transition toward high-quality development models.

    The record harvest establishes a solid foundation for advancing agricultural and rural modernization programs while accelerating comprehensive rural revitalization efforts. This agricultural success story emerges amid global food supply chain uncertainties and climate challenges, positioning China favorably in maintaining strategic food reserves and sustainable development pathways.

  • China proposes theme, priorities for 2026 APEC ‘China Year’

    China proposes theme, priorities for 2026 APEC ‘China Year’

    China has formally presented its strategic vision for the 2026 APEC host year, introducing ‘Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together’ as the central theme during the APEC Informal Senior Officials’ Meeting (ISOM) in Shenzhen. The December 12th announcement established three core priorities—openness, innovation, and cooperation—that will guide the forum’s agenda throughout China’s leadership tenure.

    The Shenzhen symposium and ISOM gathering, held from December 11th to 12th, represents China’s inaugural event as host of the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November 2026. The meeting also featured the official unveiling of the APEC 2026 logo, symbolizing the commencement of preparatory activities for what Chinese officials term the APEC ‘China Year.’

    As the world’s second-largest economy, China’s hosting of APEC comes at a pivotal moment for regional economic integration. The selected priorities reflect Beijing’s emphasis on creating sustainable development frameworks while addressing contemporary challenges through technological advancement and collaborative policy-making. The ‘openness’ component advocates for reduced trade barriers and enhanced market access, while ‘innovation’ focuses on digital transformation and green technologies. The ‘cooperation’ pillar emphasizes institutional coordination and multilateral problem-solving mechanisms.

    Shenzhen, the host city, represents a symbolic choice as both a technological hub and a testament to China’s economic modernization. The 2026 leadership role provides China with a platform to shape regional economic discourse amid evolving global supply chains and increasing geopolitical complexities. APEC members, representing approximately 60% of global GDP and 48% of international trade, will engage with China’s proposed framework through working groups and ministerial meetings throughout the hosting year.

  • Prada to launch $930 ‘Made in India’ Kolhapuri sandals after backlash

    Prada to launch $930 ‘Made in India’ Kolhapuri sandals after backlash

    In a significant reversal following accusations of cultural appropriation, Italian luxury giant Prada has established a formal manufacturing partnership with Indian artisans to produce Kolhapuri-inspired sandals. The agreement, signed during the Italy-India Business Forum 2025, commits to producing 2,000 pairs of sandals through collaborations with state-backed entities in Maharashtra and Karnataka.

    The limited-edition collection, branded as ‘Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals,’ represents a reconciliation between global luxury fashion and traditional Indian craftsmanship. Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada’s head of Corporate Social Responsibility, emphasized the hybrid approach: “We’ll merge the original manufacturer’s standard capabilities with our sophisticated manufacturing techniques.”

    Scheduled for global release in February 2026 through Prada’s online platform and 40 select stores worldwide, the sandals will carry a premium price tag of $939 (approximately £800 or 84,000 rupees) – a stark contrast to traditionally priced Kolhapuri sandals.

    The partnership includes substantial investment in artisan development, with approximately 200 Kolhapuri craftspeople receiving three years of specialized training in Italy. Additional technical training will be provided locally through LIDCOM, a Maharashtra state entity supporting leather industries. The Maharashtra government has committed financial assistance to support artisans throughout this five-year agreement, though officials express confidence in its long-term extension.

    This development follows June’s controversy when Prada showcased sandals bearing striking resemblance to traditional Kolhapuri designs without acknowledging their Indian origins. The subsequent backlash prompted the luxury brand to formally recognize the footwear’s cultural heritage and engage with local trade bodies, including the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture.

    Kolhapuri sandals, named after their city of origin in Maharashtra, represent a centuries-old craft tradition dating to the 12th century. Characterized by their durable leather construction, intricate braided patterns, and natural dye techniques, these handcrafted sandals have long been valued for their adaptability to India’s climate and their artisanal heritage.

  • Chinese hydrogen-powered drone sets longest distance flight record

    Chinese hydrogen-powered drone sets longest distance flight record

    China’s aerospace sector has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in unmanned aerial technology with its Tianmushan-1 hydrogen-powered drone setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance flight by a multirotor drone. The record-breaking flight of 188.605 kilometers was officially certified at the 7th Zhejiang International Intelligent Transportation Industry Expo in Hangzhou on December 11, 2025.

    Developed by the Tianmushan Laboratory under Beihang University, the advanced drone completed this historic flight on November 16th in Hangzhou, maintaining continuous operation for over four hours. The achievement was meticulously monitored in real-time and verified by Guinness World Records officials, who confirmed the drone’s propulsion system remained exceptionally stable throughout the entire journey with exemplary handling characteristics.

    The Tianmushan-1 represents a significant advancement in low-altitude economy technology, having successfully completed its maiden flight in August 2024 and entered production in April 2025. With a substantial 1,600 mm wheelbase and an empty weight of 19 kg, this zero-emission aircraft can carry payloads of up to 6 kg while delivering remarkable endurance capabilities.

    Technical specifications reveal even more impressive features: the drone can achieve up to 240 minutes of unloaded flight time, operate reliably in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 50°C, and perform Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) autonomous operations across 100-kilometer ranges.

    The practical applications for this technology span multiple sectors including high-speed ecological patrols, oil and gas pipeline surveys, renewable energy plant management, island resupply missions, urban traffic monitoring, and emergency response operations. This world record achievement underscores the substantial commercial potential of hydrogen-powered drone technology in transforming various industrial and logistical operations.

  • Highest passenger station along Qinghai-Xizang Railway opens

    Highest passenger station along Qinghai-Xizang Railway opens

    In a landmark development for high-altitude transportation, Drakmuk Railway Station commenced passenger operations on Thursday, establishing itself as the highest-elevation passenger station along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway corridor. Perched at 4,721 meters above sea level in the Tibetan Autonomous Region, this engineering marvel officially opened its doors to travelers at approximately 11:00 AM local time when over fifty passengers boarded the Z9817 service bound for regional capital Lhasa.

    The station, situated in Drakmuk town within Amdo County of Nagchu City, represents a significant infrastructure upgrade from its previous status as an unattended facility. This transformation directly addresses growing transportation demands and tourism development opportunities in the surrounding region, which boasts natural attractions including the formidable Tanggula Mountain Range.

    China Railway Qinghai-Tibet Group Co., Ltd., the line’s operator, anticipates the station will serve approximately 10,000 residents from twenty-five neighboring villages while simultaneously boosting local tourism infrastructure. The enhanced accessibility is expected to stimulate growth in hospitality sectors including catering and accommodation services throughout the Amdo County region.

    The inauguration marks another milestone in the region’s transportation evolution since the initial operational launch of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway in July 2006. That historic achievement ended Tibet’s era without railway connectivity by establishing a vital link between Lhasa and Xining, Qinghai Province’s capital city.

  • Trump plans to name lineup for peace board

    Trump plans to name lineup for peace board

    In a significant development toward Middle East stabilization, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed plans to unveil the composition of the Gaza Board of Peace early next year. The announcement came alongside Hamas’s unprecedented proposal to freeze weaponry in exchange for a lasting ceasefire arrangement.

    Speaking at an economic event within the White House’s Roosevelt Room on Wednesday, Trump indicated widespread international interest in participating on the peace board, established under a U.S.-drafted framework that currently maintains a fragile truce between Israel and Hamas militants. “The kings, the presidents, prime ministers—they all want to be on the Board of Peace,” Trump stated, characterizing the prospective body as “one of the most legendary boards ever.”

    The board’s mandate derives from a November 17 United Nations Security Council resolution that authorized the creation of a temporary International Stabilization Force for Gaza. This transitional administration is tasked with establishing frameworks and coordinating reconstruction funding for the devastated territory, operating until the Palestinian Authority completes necessary reforms to reassume control.

    Concurrent with these diplomatic movements, Hamas political leader Khaled Meshaal presented a modified disarmament proposal during a Wednesday interview. Rather than complete weapons surrender, Meshaal suggested “a freeze, or storage of weapons” to provide security guarantees against military escalation from Gaza. He expressed confidence that “with pragmatic American thinking,” such an arrangement could be negotiated with U.S. officials.

    The proposed weapons freeze emerges as the U.S.-brokered ceasefire, effective since October 10, remains precarious with daily allegations of violations from both sides. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently signaled the agreement’s impending transition to its second phase, with anticipated discussions with Trump later this month regarding subsequent steps.

    Despite diplomatic progress, tensions persist on the ground. Israeli police recently raided the United Nations Relief and Works Agency compound in East Jerusalem, prompting condemnation from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who demanded Israel uphold the inviolability of UN premises.

    International legal experts emphasize that protection of Palestinian detainees falls under the Fourth Geneva Convention concerning Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War. Hadi Rahmat Purnama, assistant professor of international law at Universitas Indonesia, noted that Israel as occupying power remains bound by international humanitarian and human rights law obligations regarding treatment of protected persons in occupied territories.