Clerics to coal miners: the decline of Indonesia’s Islamic civil society

On International Women’s Day, the global focus was on progress and equality, but in Balochistan, Pakistan, women protested for the safe recovery of forcibly disappeared loved ones. Amid conflict and state violence, Baloch women have become the face of a human rights struggle, facing marginalization and little support from mainstream feminist movements. Labeled as "half-widows" and "half-orphans," these women navigate uncertainty, fight for justice, and carry the weight of their community's struggle, showcasing resilience and...

On March 2, soldiers from the Myanmar military carried out a deadly sweep through a central village known for supporting anti-junta forces, killing 11 civilians, most of whom were elderly and unable to flee. The victims were shot by soldiers from the 101st Infantry Division Headquarters and three other battalions, leading to the destruction of nearby villages and displacement of thousands of people. The military's brutal actions in central areas have escalated in response to...

In response to concerns about the ethical use of AI tools, new courses will be introduced to teach students how to utilize generative AI tools responsibly. Teachers with a background in STEM disciplines will be selected to advance AI education in the city. Chinese lawmakers have expressed the need for increased regulation to prevent the misuse of AI technology, citing concerns about discriminatory algorithms, privacy violations, and weak data security. Full Article

In a poignant retrospective, 19 photographers revisit their enduring images of the coronavirus pandemic five years after it became a global threat, capturing the fear, uncertainty, and human resilience experienced during the crisis. From Hong Kong to Italy to the United States, the photographs transport us to a time of lockdowns, isolation, and loss, while also highlighting moments of connection and survival. These powerful images serve as a reminder of the collective experience of living...

Japanese shipowner MOL is acquiring LBC Tank Terminals for $1.72bn, expanding its presence in chemical storage in Europe and the US. LBC operates seven terminals with a total capacity of 3m cu m, including facilities for rail and truck transport. With previous acquisitions, MOL now has one of the largest chemical tanker fleets globally. Full Article

Zachary Lim, a media industry veteran, has been named head of IPG Mediabrands Singapore following his departure from Wavemaker. Reporting to Leigh Terry, CEO of IPG Mediabrands APAC, Lim will lead UM and Initiative agencies, bringing his expertise in integrated marketing and agency leadership to the role. His appointment comes after the exits of James Smyllie and Kasper Aakerlund, with Terry expressing confidence in Lim's ability to drive client success and elevate operations in Singapore....