Asia Pacific

Dr. Chen Weinong, a plastic surgeon in Taiwan, performed a vasectomy on himself as a "gift" to his wife. Specializing in eyelid, nose, and breast augmentation procedures, he previously worked with burn patients before opening his own clinic in Taipei. Chen shared a video of the procedure on social media, garnering over 4 million views, as he explained his decision based on his and his wife's ages. Full Article

Swyn Evans is the managing director of Zeno Singapore, known for her dynamic leadership in the communications industry. With a background in financial PR and notable achievements at global consultancies, Evans has driven remarkable business results at Zeno, securing new clients and revenue growth. Her strategic vision, hands-on approach, and commitment to team welfare and diversity make her a standout candidate for Campaign Asia-Pacific's 40 Under 40 list. Full Article

The start of 2025 has been filled with geopolitical turmoil, social media chaos, and AI advancements, resembling a Tintin and Captain Haddock meme. Despite the whirlwind, the Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Snake, symbolizing wisdom and transformation. Campaign Asia-Pacific is taking a short break on January 29th and 30th to recharge, returning on the 31st to tackle the year ahead with renewed energy. Gong xi fa cai! Full Article

Myanmar faces increased uncertainty in 2025 as an insurrection attempts to reverse a coup d'état from four years prior, leading to escalating violence. The junta, known as the State Administration Council (SAC), is losing territory, further destabilizing the situation. Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of the SAC, is portrayed as a controversial figure in this tumultuous time. Full Article

Authorities in Hanoi, Vietnam plan to increase traffic fines by 1.5 to 2 times in an effort to reduce accidents and congestion, targeting violations such as ignoring signs and drunk driving. Despite criticism from motorists who find the fines excessive, the government is enforcing the new rules to prevent social unrest, with individuals facing charges for online complaints. The city aims to improve traffic safety by penalizing repeat offenders who fail to follow road laws, resulting in some positive changes in traffic behavior since the regulations were implemented. Full Article

Vietnam's motorbike drivers traditionally disregarded traffic rules, leading to high road fatality rates. A new law with increased fines aims to promote safety and order on the chaotic streets, causing controversy among citizens who feel oppressed and exploited by the strict regulations. The crackdown on traffic violations has resulted in disrupted flow, increased congestion, and financial hardships for many lower-income individuals reliant on efficient transportation. Full Article

Chinese police have detained a key suspect, surnamed Yan, in human trafficking cases linked to cyberscam networks along the Myanmar-Thailand border, including the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing. Yan was extradited to China with Thai assistance and is under investigation. China is working with Mekong nations to combat online scam syndicates and establish a coordination center in Bangkok to combat call center gangs in Myanmar and Cambodia. Full Article

Australian stocks linked to artificial intelligence experienced a sharp decline due to concerns about a new low-cost AI model from Chinese startup DeepSeek challenging current market leaders. Appen and Brainchip shares dropped significantly, with the technology sub-index also down. DeepSeek's new AI assistant surpassed U.S. rival ChatGPT in downloads, causing a global tech stock crash, with Nvidia losing a record $592.7 billion in market capitalization. Data centre landlords in Australia, including Goodman Group and NEXTDC, also saw declines as fears of reduced infrastructure spending emerged. Analysts anticipate increased demand for data centers with advanced capabilities due to DeepSeek's model, leading...

In Laos, on July 14, 2024, the narrator visits Ajan Mala's office at a Public Health School and participates in a collective cleaning session with students and teachers at a student dorm. The practice of collective cleaning, known as ǭkhǣngngān, is a routine activity in Laos, involving physical labor and teamwork, with specific tasks assigned by senior staff members and participation expected from all members of the institution. This organized labor is documented in government news publications and on social media, highlighting the importance of communal cleaning in public spaces in Laos. Full Article

Fuji TV's chairman and president resigned due to a sexual misconduct allegation against former TV personality Masahiro Nakai, sparking public and industry backlash. Advertisers, including major brands like Nissan and Toyota, withdrew sponsorships after learning that Fuji TV knew of the allegations for six months but did not disclose them, leading to calls for reforms and a need to rebuild trust with viewers and sponsors from both the government and shareholders. Full Article