China’s Ministry of Education announced on Monday that a staggering 3.43 million candidates have registered for the 2026 national postgraduate entrance exam, marking a significant milestone in the country’s academic landscape. The exam, scheduled for December 20 and 21, 2026, is a critical gateway for students aspiring to advance their education in various disciplines. This record-breaking number reflects the growing emphasis on higher education and the competitive nature of China’s academic system. The Ministry highlighted the importance of the exam in shaping the future workforce and fostering innovation. The announcement also underscores the government’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and addressing the increasing demand for advanced degrees. As the exam date approaches, candidates are expected to intensify their preparations, with many seeking additional resources and support to enhance their chances of success.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Dharmendra passes away aged 89 after long battle; last rites underway: Media reports
The Indian film industry has lost one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away at the age of 89 after a prolonged battle with illness. The veteran actor, celebrated for his contributions to Bollywood, breathed his last at his residence, surrounded by his family. Media reports indicate that an ambulance was seen departing from his home under tight security, as preparations for his final rites began at the Pawan Hans Cremation Centre. His wife, Hema Malini, and daughter, Esha Deol, were present to bid their final farewells. The news has sent shockwaves across the nation, with Bollywood director Karan Johar describing it as the ‘end of an era.’ Earlier this month, Dharmendra was hospitalized due to breathlessness, prompting visits from several prominent actors. Although he showed signs of recovery and was discharged for home treatment, false reports of his death circulated on November 12, causing confusion and distress. His family urged the media to respect their privacy and refrain from spreading misinformation. Tributes have poured in from across the industry, with many recalling his unparalleled legacy in Indian cinema.
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A landmark moment for UAE golf as Ahmad Skaik steps into the professional ranks
The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) announced on Monday that Ahmad Skaik, the UAE’s top amateur golfer, has officially turned professional, marking a historic milestone for the sport in the country. Skaik, 28, concluded his amateur career with a stellar performance at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) in Dubai, finishing 13th in a world-class field. His transition to the professional ranks is seen as a significant step forward for UAE golf, reflecting the nation’s growing investment in player development. Skaik’s amateur career was distinguished by numerous achievements, including a gold medal at the 2025 GCC Golf Championship in Saudi Arabia, where he set a record-breaking 18-under total. He has also represented the UAE in major international team events and consistently ranked highly in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR). Known for his professionalism and humility, Skaik has become a role model for aspiring Emirati golfers. He will make his professional debut on the MENA Golf Tour at the PGA Aroeira Challenge in Portugal, followed by the Asian Tour Qualifying School in Thailand. Skaik expressed his readiness for this new chapter, emphasizing the support he has received from his family, the EGF, and the UAE golfing community. General Abdulla Alhashmi of the EGF praised Skaik’s journey, highlighting his impact on inspiring the next generation of golfers. The MENA Golf Tour, with its competitive prize funds and Official World Golf Ranking points, offers a promising platform for Skaik’s professional aspirations.
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China aims to cover key industrial emitters in carbon market by 2027
China is accelerating its green transition by planning to integrate all major industrial emitters into its national carbon market by 2027. This ambitious initiative, led by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), aims to leverage market mechanisms to drive significant reductions in carbon emissions. The expansion aligns with the Communist Party of China Central Committee’s recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), which emphasizes broadening the scope of the China Carbon Emission Trade Exchange to include additional sectors. Preparatory work is already underway to incorporate industries such as chemicals, petrochemicals, civil aviation, and paper manufacturing. Meanwhile, sectors like steel, cement, and aluminum smelting, which joined the market in March 2025, have received their quota allocation plans for 2024 and 2025. Key emitters in these industries must meet their 2024 compliance obligations by the end of this year, with 2025 quotas pre-allocated in the first half of 2026 and compliance due by year-end. Xia Yingxian, an MEE official, highlighted that this expansion will enforce emission reduction responsibilities and spur investment in low-carbon technologies. The ministry plans a phased approach, adding new industries only when they meet stringent data and emissions standards, ensuring the market’s effectiveness in achieving China’s climate goals.
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Alonso laments dropped points after Bellingham rescues Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham emerged as the savior in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Elche on Sunday, securing a crucial point that kept Madrid atop La Liga by a narrow margin. Despite the late equalizer, manager Xabi Alonso expressed frustration over dropped points, acknowledging the team’s struggles against a resilient mid-table opponent. The match saw Madrid twice come from behind, with Bellingham’s close-range finish in the dying minutes ensuring a share of the spoils. Meanwhile, second-place Barcelona narrowed the gap at the top with a dominant 4-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, intensifying the title race. Alonso’s tactical decisions, including starting Rodrygo Goes and Trent Alexander-Arnold, drew attention, though the latter’s defensive lapse contributed to Elche’s opening goal. Elche, buoyed by their recent strong performances, tested Madrid throughout the match, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois making key saves. The game was not without controversy, as Elche’s coach Eder Sarabia criticized a collision involving Vinicius Junior and goalkeeper Inaki Pena, which preceded Bellingham’s equalizer. Despite the draw, Madrid’s resilience and Bellingham’s clutch performance underscored their determination to maintain their league lead.
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Hiker returns phone lost on remote trail for three years
In an extraordinary tale of serendipity, a mobile phone lost three years ago in the remote wilderness of Xinjiang has been returned to its rightful owner in Guangdong. The device, misplaced during a hiking expedition in July 2022, was discovered by a hiker surnamed Guo this July while trekking the same route. Despite the SIM card being deactivated and initial social media searches yielding no results, Guo’s persistence paid off when he traced the owner through a residential access card attached to the phone. The owner, a woman surnamed Qiu from Huizhou, was stunned to receive a message from her property management confirming the discovery. ‘It feels so unreal,’ Qiu remarked, expressing her disbelief and gratitude. The phone, which holds significant sentimental value, had endured the harsh elements of the Xinjiang wilderness before its remarkable journey back to its owner.
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Boosting exports: MATRADE connects global buyers with Malaysian suppliers
The Malaysian building materials industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s construction sector, continues to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth. In 2024, Malaysian exports of building materials reached an impressive Dh49.21 billion, solidifying the country’s reputation as a global supplier of high-quality products. To further bolster this sector, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has been actively participating in the BIG 5 Dubai, the region’s premier construction industry exhibition. This event serves as a vital platform for Malaysian companies to showcase their capabilities and connect with international buyers. This year, MATRADE is facilitating the participation of 10 Malaysian companies, highlighting their expertise in supplying top-tier building materials. The UAE and Saudi Arabia remain key markets for Malaysian exports, driven by robust construction activities, smart city initiatives, and the adoption of green building standards. Malaysian companies are showcasing a diverse range of products, including floor and wall tiles, stone veneer, ventilation systems, and eco-friendly building solutions. Sustainability is a growing focus in Malaysia’s construction sector, with manufacturers increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices and innovative technologies. This aligns with global trends, including the UAE’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which emphasizes sustainable construction methods. MATRADE is also organizing business matching sessions during the event to foster potential joint ventures and procurement opportunities. The BIG 5 Global, held from November 24 to 27 in Dubai, is a critical event for Malaysian companies to accelerate their growth and expand their presence in the MENA region.
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Jennifer Lopez dazzles in Manish Malhotra saree at Indian wedding
International music icon Jennifer Lopez brought her signature glamour and energy to Udaipur, India, over the weekend, headlining the wedding reception of Netra Mantena and Vamsi Gadiraju. The multi-talented performer dazzled guests with a high-octane show, delivering renditions of her global hits, including ‘Waiting for Tonight,’ ‘Play,’ ‘Save Me Tonight,’ ‘On the Floor,’ and ‘Get Right.’ Her electrifying performance, paired with her captivating dance moves, created an unforgettable atmosphere of celebration and entertainment.
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Dubai: 8-day New Year’s Eve celebrations announced for the first time
Dubai is set to redefine New Year’s Eve celebrations with an unprecedented eight-day festival, announced by Emaar on November 24, 2025. For the first time, the festivities will extend beyond the traditional countdown, running from December 31 to January 7. The heart of the celebrations will be Downtown Dubai, transformed into a sprawling multi-point stage featuring synchronized shows across the Burj Khalifa lake, Dubai Mall promenade, and the iconic tower’s façade. The event promises to be a visual and sensory feast, with live performances, fireworks, light and laser displays, and cutting-edge technology. While the broader celebrations will be free and open to the public, premium front-row access at Burj Park will require ticketed entry. Tickets, priced at Dh997.5 for adults and Dh577.5 for children aged 5–12, are available online. The event will also feature a grand parade showcasing Dubai’s culture through larger-than-life floats, performers, and puppets. Emaar has teased that the full performance lineup remains a surprise, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees.
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China launches international program to advance ‘artificial sun’ research
China has inaugurated an international science program dedicated to advancing fusion burning plasma research, marking a significant step in global scientific collaboration. The program, launched in Hefei, the capital of East China’s Anhui province, was initiated by the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Plasma Physics. It aims to provide scientists worldwide with access to several major fusion research platforms, including the state-of-the-art Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak facility in Hefei. This initiative underscores China’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in the pursuit of clean and sustainable energy solutions through nuclear fusion, often referred to as the ‘artificial sun.’ The program is expected to accelerate breakthroughs in fusion technology, which could revolutionize energy production by mimicking the processes that power the sun. By opening its research facilities to global experts, China is positioning itself as a leader in the field of fusion energy, which holds the potential to address global energy challenges and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.