Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Asia-Pacific scrambles amid oil shock

    Asia-Pacific scrambles amid oil shock

    The Asia-Pacific region faces mounting economic pressures as escalating conflict in the Middle East triggers significant oil market disruptions, forcing governments to implement emergency measures and households to reconsider traditional celebrations.

    Global energy markets have been thrown into turmoil since February 28th when joint U.S.-Israel military operations commenced against Iran. The subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane and production cuts announced by Gulf oil producers including Kuwait, the UAE, and Iraq sent crude prices surging past $120 per barrel on March 9th—marking the first breach of the $100 threshold since July 2022.

    This energy shock is reverberating across consumer economies throughout the region. In Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation, thousands are abandoning the annual ‘mudik’ tradition—the mass exodus of urban workers returning to their hometowns for Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Transportation ministry data indicates a nearly 2% decline in travelers, with approximately 143.9 million people opting out of the customary journey.

    Jakarta residents Nugrah Wisnu Adi, a computer repair shop owner, and Murniati, a vegetable vendor, exemplify this trend. Both have canceled their homecoming plans due to concerns about rising transportation costs and anticipated increases in basic commodity prices.

    According to Nawazish Mirza, Professor of Finance at Excelia Business School in France, “Fuel and transport costs roughly account for 10 to 15 percent of consumer price indices in several Asian economies. This means oil spikes quickly ripple through food distribution and manufacturing supply chains.”

    The International Energy Agency responded on March 11th by announcing the release of 400 million barrels from emergency reserves. Member nations Japan, South Korea, and Australia have initiated record strategic petroleum releases, with Japan deploying reserves equivalent to 45 days of domestic demand.

    Investment bank Nomura warns the region faces a “stagflationary shock”—a combination of high inflation and economic stagnation—with severity dependent on the duration of supply disruptions. The analysis reveals stark disparities in regional preparedness: Japan and South Korea maintain crude reserves covering 200 days of demand, while Indonesia possesses only a 25-day stockpile and the Philippines approximately 60 days.

    Governments across the region are implementing diverse countermeasures. Philippine government offices have adopted four-day work weeks, while Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam are promoting remote work arrangements. Malaysia has intensified anti-smuggling enforcement, and South Korea and Thailand have imposed domestic fuel price caps.

    Energy analysts highlight that the crisis may accelerate renewable energy adoption. Dinita Setyawati, senior analyst at energy policy think tank Ember, notes that prolonged volatility could “widen disparity between more developed Asia and emerging economies in the region.”

    The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) emphasizes that renewables offer a financially sustainable solution. Ramnath Iyer, IEEFA’s Sustainable Finance Lead for Asia, points to compelling economics: “The levelized cost of energy for solar and wind is only $40 per megawatt-hour, compared to approximately $130 for natural gas at current LNG prices.”

    As the region navigates this energy crisis, the collective response may ultimately determine whether current challenges become catalysts for accelerated energy transition or sources of prolonged economic hardship.

  • Free meal a lifeline for Yemen’s vulnerable

    Free meal a lifeline for Yemen’s vulnerable

    In the heart of Sanaa, Yemen, a modest community kitchen has become an indispensable source of sustenance for hundreds of vulnerable families grappling with extreme economic hardship. Each morning, long queues form as residents clutching plastic containers await their daily ration of prepared meals—a stark manifestation of one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

    Abdul Qader Khaled, a father of five, arrives early daily to secure nourishment for his family. “The anxiety of returning empty-handed haunts me,” he shares. “When the manager calls my name, it means my children won’t go hungry today.”

    The kitchen operates under the direction of Abu Badr al-Yamani, supported by dedicated volunteers and sustained through community donations. Despite limited resources, the facility prepares substantial quantities of food each day, serving approximately 500 families including the impoverished, ill, unemployed, and low-income households.

    Volunteers demonstrate remarkable commitment amidst challenging circumstances. Abu Zaid, one of the helpers, expresses profound fulfillment: “Witnessing children’s smiles as they receive these meals makes me forget all exhaustion.” Another volunteer, Yaser al-Absi, describes experiencing unparalleled tranquility when bringing joy to those in genuine need.

    This local initiative operates against the backdrop of a nation devastated by conflict since 2014. United Nations assessments indicate over 22 million Yemenis will require humanitarian assistance in 2026. Compounding these challenges, regional tensions stemming from Israeli-US operations against Iran threaten to exacerbate Yemen’s already fragile situation, according to political analyst Abdul Rahman Yahya.

    Despite expanding needs and growing recipient numbers, the kitchen’s volunteers remain determined to alleviate suffering through their daily distributions, providing not merely sustenance but also preserving dignity and hope within their community.

  • Remilitarization threatens region

    Remilitarization threatens region

    Japan is undergoing a profound transformation of its national security posture that experts warn represents a fundamental departure from its postwar pacifist principles. The administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has accelerated military expansion through multiple policy shifts, including revising arms export guidelines, deploying long-range missile systems, and pursuing constitutional amendments.

    According to defense analysts, Japan’s recent acquisition of U.S.-manufactured Tomahawk cruise missiles with a 1,600-kilometer strike capability signals a strategic pivot toward offensive military operations. This development coincides with the nation’s 14th consecutive annual defense budget increase, which has grown by over 60% in the past five years alone.

    International security researchers from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute document a 76% surge in Japanese arms imports between 2021-2025 compared to the previous five-year period, elevating Japan from the world’s 11th to 6th largest weapons importer.

    Professor Zhang Yulai of Nankai University’s Japan Institute asserts that these collective actions have effectively undermined Article 9 of Japan’s constitution, which formally renounces war and mandates exclusively defense-oriented policies. He warns that Tokyo’s current trajectory risks triggering regional arms races and compromising global stability.

    Meanwhile, economic experts highlight the unsustainable financial burden of military expansion. With government debt exceeding 200% of GDP for more than a decade and social security costs consuming over 30% of the national budget, massive defense spending increases threaten to destabilize Japan’s already fragile fiscal situation. Demographic challenges including a rapidly aging population and record-low birth rates further complicate long-term economic planning.

    Domestic opposition has emerged through public demonstrations, including a recent gathering of approximately 10,000 protesters in Tokyo who expressed concerns about missile deployments and relaxed arms export regulations. Many citizens fear that remilitarization could reverse decades of peaceful development and potentially repeat historical mistakes with devastating consequences.

  • Robots help to protect forests

    Robots help to protect forests

    Hubei province has entered a new era of ecological conservation through the strategic implementation of autonomous robotics in forestry management. The province’s pioneering remote control robot, specifically engineered for forest fire prevention, represents a significant technological advancement in combating wildfires.

    Operational in Jingshan city since November, this crawler-type machine demonstrates exceptional capabilities in navigating challenging terrains with slopes up to 60 degrees. Its engineering specifications include a 150-meter wireless control radius and high-strength steel cutting apparatus capable of processing trees measuring 15-20 centimeters in diameter. The equipment excels in creating critical firebreaks, clearing emergency access routes, and removing hazardous burning vegetation with unprecedented efficiency.

    Chen Yong, Fire Prevention Division Director at Hubei Taizi Mountain Forestry Management Bureau, emphasized the transformative impact: ‘This innovation triples operational efficiency while fundamentally enhancing worker safety through remote operation capabilities. The machine operates continuously for eight hours, eliminating direct human exposure to dangerous fire conditions.’

    The technology addresses historical challenges in the Taizi Mountain region, where complex topography and extensive forest coverage previously hampered emergency response efforts. Traditional manual methods, which required personnel to dig firebreaks with basic tools near active flames, have been replaced by robotic solutions that significantly reduce response times and life-threatening risks.

    Beyond immediate fire prevention applications, the robots support year-round forestry management including land reclamation, undergrowth clearance, and forest maintenance operations. Hubei authorities are implementing comprehensive training programs in collaboration with manufacturers to ensure optimal utilization of the technology.

    This robotic deployment forms part of Hubei’s broader digital ecosystem upgrade, which includes 128 strategically placed drone hangars in the Wuhan Donghu High-Tech Development Zone achieving complete aerial coverage. The integrated system combines satellite remote sensing, ground video surveillance, and AI-powered monitoring platforms with approximately 85% identification accuracy, all supported by human verification protocols according to Tao Huan, Drone Project Director at the zone’s urban operation management center.

  • Kabul says 400 killed; Islamabad rejects claim

    Kabul says 400 killed; Islamabad rejects claim

    A devastating airstrike targeted the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul late Monday night, resulting in what Afghan officials describe as catastrophic casualties. According to Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesman for the Afghan government, the attack killed approximately 400 people and injured 250 others, with numbers potentially rising as rescue operations continue.

    The facility, a 2,000-bed rehabilitation center established in 2016, was largely destroyed in the assault that triggered a massive fire. Emergency teams are working to control the blaze and recover victims from the rubble. The hospital was known for providing comprehensive drug addiction treatment and vocational training programs including tailoring and carpentry to help patients reintegrate into society.

    Pakistan’s government has categorically denied targeting the medical facility, asserting through its Ministry of Information and Broadcasting that its security forces conducted precision strikes against military installations and terrorist support infrastructure in Kabul and Nangarhar. The ministry claimed the operations were carefully executed to avoid collateral damage and accused Afghanistan of misrepresenting facts to conceal “illegitimate support to cross-border terrorism.”

    The incident has drawn international concern, with Richard Bennett, UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, expressing dismay at the reported civilian casualties. He urged all parties to de-escalate tensions, exercise restraint, and respect international law protecting civilians and medical facilities.

    This deadly event marks a significant escalation in ongoing border tensions between the neighboring nations that have intensified since clashes erupted along their shared frontier late last month. Both sides have reported numerous casualties in recent weeks.

    China has called for calm, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian encouraging both nations to engage in direct talks and work toward an immediate ceasefire during a press briefing on Tuesday.

  • China and Vietnam hold joint free clinics on border

    China and Vietnam hold joint free clinics on border

    In a significant demonstration of cross-border cooperation, Chinese and Vietnamese military forces conducted simultaneous free medical clinics along their shared frontier on Tuesday. The event, part of the 10th China-Vietnam Border Defense Friendship Exchange, provided healthcare services to over 1,700 local residents from both nations.

    The medical initiative unfolded concurrently in Dongxing city within China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Hoanh Mo commune in Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province. For approximately four hours, military physicians from both countries worked side-by-side at 16 medical stations established at a square outside Dongxing’s gymnasium facility.

    The comprehensive medical services encompassed more than ten specialized departments including cardiology, rehabilitation therapy, traditional Chinese medicine, and ultrasound examinations. A contingent of 80 military medical professionals from both nations participated in the humanitarian effort, delivering care across 1,707 patient consultations.

    Among the beneficiaries was Vu Thi Chin, a 53-year-old Vietnamese merchant who frequently traverses between Dongxing and Vietnam’s Mong Cai for border commerce. Following gallbladder surgery, she sought cardiac health guidance and dietary recommendations from Chinese military doctors. Vu expressed profound appreciation for the medical assistance, noting the physicians demonstrated exceptional skill and patience in addressing her health concerns.

    Chinese rehabilitation specialist Wang Li described his participation as an honor, emphasizing that supporting border communities aligned with military service principles. The collaboration additionally provided a platform for medical professionals from both militaries to exchange clinical insights and treatment methodologies for prevalent health conditions.

    This medical diplomacy initiative precedes scheduled joint naval operations in the Beibu Gulf, marking the 40th such coordinated patrol between Chinese and Vietnamese forces. Vietnamese frigates Tran Hung Dao and Ly Thai To have docked in Guangxi’s Fangchenggang city to join Chinese vessels CNS Hengyang and Enshi for these maneuvers.

    The upcoming naval exercises will incorporate formation maneuvering, joint escort operations, anti-piracy simulations, and search-and-rescue missions. This year holds particular significance as it commemorates the 20th anniversary of Sino-Vietnamese joint naval patrols in the Beibu Gulf—a mechanism that has evolved into a crucial platform for military diplomacy between the neighboring nations.

    According to statements from China’s People’s Liberation Army South China Sea Fleet, these cooperative efforts substantially contribute to enhancing mutual trust, deepening bilateral cooperation, and collectively maintaining regional peace and security stability.

  • Bookstore fosters love for Tibetan language among kids

    Bookstore fosters love for Tibetan language among kids

    In the heart of Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, an extraordinary cultural initiative is transforming early childhood education through the power of storytelling. Nornor Children’s Bookstore, established by visionary educator Tashi Tsering, has emerged as a vital hub for preserving Tibetan linguistic heritage among the region’s youngest generation.

    What began as an online storytelling platform in 2017 has evolved into a comprehensive cultural center specializing in Tibetan-language picture books and interactive reading programs. The bookstore’s innovative approach combines trilingual education—integrating Tibetan, Mandarin, and English—with creative handicraft activities that stimulate cognitive development and cultural engagement.

    The institution serves multiple functions: as a bookstore offering over 50 original Tibetan-language publications, a daycare facility for children aged 1-3, and a weekend cultural center that attracts families across Lhasa. For approximately 69 yuan ($10) per two-hour session, children participate in professionally guided reading programs that have demonstrated measurable impacts on confidence and language acquisition.

    Despite operating at a financial loss for eight years, the project has expanded beyond Lhasa through library partnerships in neighboring counties. The team has produced more than 200 free audiobooks and collaborates with translators and authors from Tibetan communities across Qinghai and other regions. Their publications have gained recognition in educational institutions as far as Beijing and Shanghai.

    The bookstore faces contemporary challenges, including some younger Tibetan parents’ decreasing familiarity with written Tibetan. Yet its cultural impact remains profound, with former participants reporting sustained academic advantages and stronger cultural connections. Future initiatives include developing interactive point-reading audiobooks, Tibetan alphabet blocks, and expanded cultural programming for traditional festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year).

    Supported by Tashi Tsering’s wife Tsomo through her café business and online outreach, this grassroots movement represents a significant investment in cultural preservation—proving that stories can bridge generations while nurturing both language skills and cultural identity.

  • Designer passes down culture with leather masterpieces

    Designer passes down culture with leather masterpieces

    Lin Chun-i, a Taiwanese leather artisan with over two decades of mainland experience, has pioneered a unique fusion of traditional intangible cultural heritage techniques with contemporary leather craftsmanship. Establishing his workshop in Guangzhou’s Liwanhu Park in 1993, Lin recognized the city’s exceptional advantages for creative enterprises, citing its comprehensive supply networks and diverse market opportunities.

    Driven by his textile trade family background and artistic training in Taiwan, Lin embarked on extensive journeys across Guizhou, Hunan, and Guangxi to study endangered craft techniques. His collection now incorporates Dong and Tujia brocades alongside Taroko weaving and Bunun embroidery from Taiwan, transforming these cultural expressions into premium leather bags, apparel, and accessories.

    Lin’s approach transcends technical mastery, focusing on cultural integration and preservation. “Ethnic embroidery patterns function as cultural repositories,” he explained, “particularly for communities without written traditions.” His dedication was demonstrated when he mastered the complex Tujia brocade weaving technique in merely four days, astonishing local craftsmen who anticipated a month-long learning process.

    Beyond preservation, Lin has created sustainable economic opportunities, providing employment for hundreds of female embroiderers in Gansu province. His manufacturing philosophy prioritizes handmade craftsmanship over machine efficiency, with over 50% of production completed manually. “True cultural inheritance means enabling artisans to transform skills into livelihoods, not replacing them with machines,” Lin emphasized.

    His contributions were formally recognized in September 2025 when Huaihua city government honored him as an “intangible cultural heritage promotion ambassador.” Additionally, Lin serves as visiting professor at seven universities and operates the symbolically named 1576 Traditional Arts Center, representing the combined coastline measurements of Taiwan and associated islands. The center hosted nearly 40 student groups from Taiwan last year, offering hands-on dyeing and embroidery experiences to foster cultural connection among youth.

    Lin remains committed to his dual role as entrepreneur and cultural custodian, asserting: “It is my responsibility to ensure these heritage techniques reach future generations.”

  • Flailing support casts doubt on Iran campaign legitimacy

    Flailing support casts doubt on Iran campaign legitimacy

    The United States and Israel’s military campaign against Iran is confronting a severe crisis of legitimacy as key Western allies publicly refuse to participate in Middle Eastern operations, according to geopolitical analysts. The strategic rift emerged when European powers including Spain, Germany, Portugal and the European Union collectively rejected Washington’s request for a joint military mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz—a critical waterway Iran has closed to “enemies and those supporting their aggression.”

    This unprecedented refusal creates both logistical challenges and diplomatic isolation for American operations. Arsenio Dominguez of the UN’s International Maritime Organization cautioned that even military escorts cannot guarantee safe passage through the volatile strait, which facilitates approximately 20% of global energy shipments.

    Abdolreza Alami, director of the Asia West East Centre in Kuala Lumpur, noted that traditional allies now characterize the conflict as “a war of choice rather than collective defense.” This positioning has left Washington bearing sole responsibility for securing vital maritime routes while facing asymmetrical pressures without shared financial or military burden.

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reinforced Tehran’s defensive stance in communications with French President Emmanuel Macron, asserting that “defending against invasion is a natural right” and demanding cessation of regional base usage against Iran. The president called for international condemnation of what he termed “Zionist-American invasion” while vowing Iran “will not surrender to bullies.”

    Analysts suggest the Western consensus fracture provides Tehran strategic advantage, enabling framing of retaliatory actions as legitimate self-defense against unilateral aggression. Iran’s apparent objective extends beyond inflicting economic damage to persuading allies to pressure Washington toward de-escalation.

    Meanwhile, regional violence escalated dramatically as Israel confirmed eliminating two senior Iranian security officials—Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani and Basij volunteer force commander Gholamreza Soleimani—in overnight strikes. If verified, Larijani’s assassination would represent the highest-profile target since Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s recent slaying.

    Simultaneously, Baghdad’s fortified Green Zone endured attacks targeting the US embassy and diplomatic residences, while ceasefire negotiations between US representatives and Hamas in Cairo were overshadowed by regional hostilities. Hamas warned it may withdraw from Gaza ceasefire agreements if Israel maintains security restrictions imposed during the Iran conflict.

  • Indian eateries reel under acute cooking gas crunch

    Indian eateries reel under acute cooking gas crunch

    India’s culinary landscape faces unprecedented challenges as commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortages, triggered by escalating Middle East tensions, force widespread operational changes across the hospitality sector. The crisis has particularly impacted urban centers including Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi, where restaurateurs are implementing emergency measures to maintain operations.

    In Kolkata, restaurant owner Chhanda Chakraborty has transitioned from traditional LPG stoves to induction cooktops and coal-fired tandoors. “Several establishments have eliminated tea and dosa from their menus, opting instead for rice-lentils, sandwiches, and cold beverages,” Chakraborty noted, highlighting how eateries are streamlining offerings to conserve limited fuel resources.

    The supply chain disruption stems from India’s significant dependence on imported LPG, with approximately 62% of the nation’s 31.3 million metric tons annual consumption sourced externally. Critical shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 85-90% of Persian Gulf imports, have experienced severe disruptions due to ongoing US-Israeli conflicts with Iran.

    Professor Swaran Singh of Jawaharlal Nehru University explains: “The hospitality industry’s heavy reliance on LPG coincides with usage by power plants, fertilizer facilities, and urban gas networks. Current tensions have created substantial delays, supply interruptions, and price escalations in LPG imports.”

    Industry associations in major metropolitan areas report suspension rates reaching 20% of food establishments in Mumbai and Kolkata. Many smaller operations, particularly roadside vendors serving millions daily, face imminent closure without immediate supply restoration.

    Government response includes multi-faceted strategies: prioritizing household LPG allocation, negotiating safe passage for Indian-flagged vessels through conflict zones, and directing oil refineries to maximize LPG production. However, economists like Abhirup Sarkar warn that prolonged disruption could establish a “new normal” with significant economic ramifications across multiple sectors.

    While Iran permits limited Indian shipments on case-by-case approvals, industry experts anticipate no rapid resolution until regional conflicts subside, leaving India’s food service industry navigating uncertain operational terrain.