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Harbinger Tribune
Insight Asia
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Hong Kong
November 2, 2026
Afghan Opium Output Jumps Fivefold Despite Taliban Ban
Asia

Afghan Opium Output Jumps Fivefold Despite Taliban Ban

Elliot Wrentham

C5+1 Nations Chart Shared Course in Samarkand
Geopolitics

C5+1 Nations Chart Shared Course in Samarkand

Elliot Wrentham

Salt and Survival in the Mekong Delta
Asia

Salt and Survival in the Mekong Delta

Desmond Wrenfield

Harbinger Tribune – Insight Asia

Asia

Afghan Opium Output Jumps Fivefold Despite Taliban Ban

Afghan Opium Output Jumps Fivefold Despite Taliban Ban

Opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan has risen fivefold in a year, according to a UN survey, as impoverished farmers adopt concealment tactics to evade Taliban enforcement of its 2022 ban on narcotics. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime warned that without alternative livelihoods, sustaining reductions in illicit cultivation will remain extremely difficult.

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Elliot Wrentham
October 30, 2026
Phuket Travel Guide - Beaches, Routes, Island Access
Asia

Phuket Travel Guide - Beaches, Routes, Island Access

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and a gateway to Andaman Sea islands, offering a mix of bustling beach towns, serene coves, and easy transport links for sho…

April 23, 2026
Street Food in Siem Reap - Top Snacks and Where to Eat Safely
Asia

Street Food in Siem Reap - Top Snacks and Where to Eat Safely

It's a practical guide to Siem Reap's top street snacks and safe eating spots, combining vendor recommendations, hygiene tips, and local favorites for confident…

April 23, 2026
US-Philippines Defense Treaty Turns 75
Geopolitics

US-Philippines Defense Treaty Turns 75

The United States has marked the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines, reaffirming its commitment to the alliance and to a fr…

Tribune | Asia
August 30, 2026
Asia

Cambodia Builds Stronger Institutions for the Future

Across Cambodia, a quiet but meaningful transformation is taking shape within the corridors of government and in the eve…

Culture

Thai Culture Guide - Temples, Monks, Etiquette Rules

Temples in Thailand are focal points of spiritual life, featuring ornate architecture, gilded Buddha images, and communa…

Thai Culture Guide - Temples, Monks, Etiquette Rules
Malaysian Batik Art - Techniques, Markets, and Cultural Value
Culture

Malaysian Batik Art - Techniques, Markets, and Cultural Value

Most Malaysian batik is recognized for its vibrant colors, fluid floral motifs, and a preference for hand-painted techniques that set it apart from other Southeast Asian traditions. Techniques in Mala…

Bangkok Street Food Guide - Yaowarat Dining Spots
Culinary

Bangkok Street Food Guide - Yaowarat Dining Spots

India's DRI Nets 15.59 kg of Drugs in Three Operations
Politics

India's DRI Nets 15.59 kg of Drugs in Three Operations

Elliot Wrentham
Colombo Food Markets Guide - Street Food, Dining
Culinary

Colombo Food Markets Guide - Street Food, Dining

Thai Culture Guide - Temples, Monks, Etiquette Rules
Culture

Thai Culture Guide - Temples, Monks, Etiquette Rules

Temples in Thailand are focal points of spiritual life, featuring ornate archite…

Malaysian Batik Art - Techniques, Markets, and Cultural Value
Culture

Malaysian Batik Art - Techniques, Markets, and Cultural Value

Most Malaysian batik is recognized for its vibrant colors, fluid floral motifs, …

Bangkok Street Food Guide - Yaowarat Dining Spots
Culinary

Bangkok Street Food Guide - Yaowarat Dining Spots

StreetFood in Yaowarat pulses with neon-lit stalls and a mix of Chinese-Thai fla…

India's DRI Nets 15.59 kg of Drugs in Three Operations
Politics

India's DRI Nets 15.59 kg of Drugs in Three Operations

India's Directorate of Revenue Intelligence seized a combined 15.59 kg of amphet…

Colombo Food Markets Guide - Street Food, Dining
Culinary

Colombo Food Markets Guide - Street Food, Dining

Food scenes in Colombo brim with aromatic street stalls, bustling markets, and m…

Science

Nasa’s new space telescope will tackle some of the universe’s biggest mysteries

The Nancy Grace Roman telescope will probe dark energy and discover exoplanets.…

Nasa’s new space telescope will tackle some of the universe’s biggest mysteries
Health

Do we really need 10,000 steps a day?

The infamous 10,000 steps per day recommendation didn’t come from a research laboratory.…

Do we really need 10,000 steps a day?

Asia

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Dhaka City Travel - Key Landmarks and Must-Visit Neighborhoods

Dhaka City Travel - Key Landmarks and Must-Visit Neighborhoods

Just a few hours after arrival, visitors feel the pulse of Dhaka, Bangladesh's fast-growing capital where history and modern life meet. The city blends Mughal-era sites, colonial architecture, and contemporary skyscrapers. Crowded streets, colorful m

Jeju Island Travel Guide - Flights, Routes, Key Sites

Jeju Island Travel Guide - Flights, Routes, Key Sites

Many travelers head to Jeju Island for dramatic volcanic scenery, sandy beaches, and compact size that makes island-hopping easy within a few days. Major airlines operate frequent flights from Seoul's Gimpo and Incheon airports to Jeju International

Jakarta City Travel - Landmarks, Museums, and Urban Highlights

Jakarta City Travel - Landmarks, Museums, and Urban Highlights

It's Jakarta's rich heritage, from the National Monument and Kota Tua to leading museums and dynamic urban districts, that shapes practical travel planning and highlights must-see sites for first-time and repeat visitors. Iconic Landmarks and Histori

Living With the Monsoon: How Tropical Asia Adapts

Living With the Monsoon: How Tropical Asia Adapts

Across tropical Asia, monsoon seasons shape everything from architecture and agriculture to daily routines and infrastructure planning. Communities throughout the region have developed layered strategies — both ancient and modern — to manage life under some of the world's heaviest rainfall.

Politics

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Philippines Embraces Digital Governance Revolution

Philippines Embraces Digital Governance Revolution

The Philippines is experiencing a remarkable transformation in how citizens interact with government services, as digital governance initiatives reshape the landscape of public administration across the archipelago. This technological revolution represents a fundamental shift toward more accessible,

Philippines Modernizes Governance for a New Era

Across the Philippine archipelago, a quiet but meaningful transformation is taking shape. Political institutions long characterized by centralized structures and bureaucratic inertia are increasingly giving way to more agile, transparent, and citizen-centered systems of governance. This shift reflects a broader national ambition: to align the machinery of the state with the expectations of a younger, more digitally connected population.

Bangladesh Reshapes Governance for a New Era

Bangladesh is entering a period of deliberate institutional renewal, as policymakers, civil society actors, and local governance bodies work in concert to build a more responsive and accountable political architecture. The momentum behind these changes reflects a broader regional trend in South Asia, where younger democracies are increasingly investing in the structural foundations that sustain good governance over the long term.

Nepal's Diaspora: Shaping Politics from Abroad

Nepal's Diaspora: Shaping Politics from Abroad

Nepal's diaspora community represents one of South Asia's most significant transnational populations, with millions of citizens working and residing across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America. This dispersed population exerts m

Economy

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This history of currencies suggests the US dollar’s dominance may fade – but it will happen slowly

This history of currencies suggests the US dollar’s dominance may fade – but it will happen slowly

The US dollar is said to benefit from ‘exorbitant privilege’ in international trade. But history shows that may not last.

Microfinance was supposed to save Asia’s poor. Why has it failed to live up to its promise?

Microfinance was supposed to save Asia’s poor. Why has it failed to live up to its promise?

For the poorest households in Asia, even small loans can lead to expensive debt traps.

Women Driving Cambodia's Garment Sector Forward

Women Driving Cambodia's Garment Sector Forward

Women constitute the backbone of Cambodia's garment manufacturing industry, representing the majority of factory workers and an expanding cohort of entrepreneurs and managers. Their economic participation shapes not only household incomes across the

Bangladesh's Garment Sector Adapts to Shifting Regional Trade Dynamics

Bangladesh's Garment Sector Adapts to Shifting Regional Trade Dynamics

Bangladesh's garment industry stands at a critical inflection point as regional trade patterns evolve and supply chain strategies shift across Asia. The sector, which employs millions and anchors the nation's export economy, faces both structural pre

Business

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India Bets on SCI to Anchor Its Maritime Rise

India Bets on SCI to Anchor Its Maritime Rise

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has called on the Shipping Corporation of India to spearhead the country's push toward self-reliant shipbuilding and maritime capacity, framing the state-owned enterprise as central to India's ambitions under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. SCI, which began operations in 1961 with 19 vessels, now operates a fleet of 58 ships totalling 5.26 million deadweight tonnage.

TopMediai Expands AI Music Studio End-to-End

TopMediai Expands AI Music Studio End-to-End

Hong Kong-based TopMediai has upgraded its AI Music Creation Studio to connect song generation with cover production, language adaptation, music video creation, and release artwork in a single workflow. The update is designed to keep the full range of post-production tasks tied to the original track rather than scattered across separate tools.

WIPO Appoints Thailand's Princess Sirivannavari as Ambassador for Fashion and Design

WIPO Appoints Thailand's Princess Sirivannavari as Ambassador for Fashion and Design

The World Intellectual Property Organization has appointed Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya of Thailand as its Ambassador for Fashion and Design, citing her 541 IP assets and her work connecting Thai artisans with global markets. The appointment, announced in Geneva on 28 May 2026, underscores Thailand's growing ambitions as a creative economy and its royal family's long engagement with intellectual property.

Geopolitics

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US-Philippines Defense Treaty Turns 75

US-Philippines Defense Treaty Turns 75

The United States has marked the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines, reaffirming its commitment to the alliance and to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The milestone coincides with the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic relations.

Taiwan Presses for UN Inclusion on Multiple Fronts

Taiwan Presses for UN Inclusion on Multiple Fronts

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively pursuing inclusion in United Nations processes and broadening its multilateral engagement, framing the effort as a matter of representation for its 23 million people. The ministry's outreach spans international health, trade, and diplomatic frameworks across a wide range of partner countries and institutions.

North Korea grows stronger as South Korea reckons with fading US support

North Korea grows stronger as South Korea reckons with fading US support

South Korea continues push for peace with the north, as Pyongyang’s military strength grows.

Xi, Putin and Modi looking in different directions as Shanghai Cooperation Organisation marks 25th anniversary

Xi, Putin and Modi looking in different directions as Shanghai Cooperation Organisation marks 25th anniversary

Despite representing a quarter of the globe, the bloc has never managed to present a unified worldview.

Travel

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Thailand Travel Guide - Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai

Thailand Travel Guide - Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai

Over 20 million visitors flock to Thailand annually, attracted by bustling cities, sun-drenched islands and centuries of cultural heritage. This guide highlights Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai with practical tips on attractions, food and timing to he

Cox’s Bazar Beach Guide - Top Attractions and Activities in Bangladesh

Cox’s Bazar Beach Guide - Top Attractions and Activities in Bangladesh

Most visitors to Bangladesh head straight to Cox's Bazar for its 120-kilometre unbroken sandy beach, a dramatic shoreline that runs from Himchari to Inani and beyond. The wide, gently sloping beach invites long walks, spectacular sunsets, and people-

Taiwan Travel Guide - Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung Routes

Taiwan Travel Guide - Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung Routes

Taiwan offers a compact, efficient route network connecting Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, ideal for a one- to two-week trip. Taipei serves as the main international gateway with attractions such as Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, Ximending

Gobi Desert Tours Mongolia - Routes, Camps, and Travel Tips

Gobi Desert Tours Mongolia - Routes, Camps, and Travel Tips

Desert tours in Mongolia showcase the vast Gobi, red cliffs, sweeping dunes, and warm nomadic hospitality that attract adventurers worldwide. Tour options range from day trips around Dalanzadgad to multi-day overland journeys that visit iconic sites

Culinary

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Taipei Night Markets Guide - Shilin, Raohe Food Spots

Taipei Night Markets Guide - Shilin, Raohe Food Spots

Food stalls line Taipei's night markets, creating a lively feast of scents, sounds, and sticky-sweet sauces that draw locals and visitors every evening. Shilin and Raohe stand out for different reasons: Shilin for its size and variety, Raohe for its

Pakistan Food Guide - Biryani, Nihari, Street Dishes

Pakistan Food Guide - Biryani, Nihari, Street Dishes

Over the centuries Pakistani cuisine has absorbed Persian, Central Asian, Mughal and regional South Asian influences, producing richly spiced dishes and distinct regional styles. Regional ingredients include basmati rice, ghee, yogurt, a variety of c

Street Food in Yangon - Top Snacks and Safe Eating Spots

Street Food in Yangon - Top Snacks and Safe Eating Spots

It's easy to fall for Yangon's street-food culture, where aromatic broths, smoky grills, and bright salads line narrow lanes from dawn to late night. The city feeds locals and visitors with affordable, flavor-forward dishes that highlight fish, chick

Street Food in Delhi - Top Snacks and Safe Eating Locations

Street Food in Delhi - Top Snacks and Safe Eating Locations

Street food in Delhi presents authoritative guidance on top snacks and vetted safe eating locations, highlighting chaat, kebabs, parathas and practical hygiene tips for confident street-side dining. Iconic Savory Delights of the Capital The Art of Ch

Health

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Feeling the burn? It’s not lactic acid

Feeling the burn? It’s not lactic acid

The myth that lactic acid causes the ‘burn’ we feel during exercise is actually a long-lasting misunderstanding.

Do we really need 10,000 steps a day?

Do we really need 10,000 steps a day?

The infamous 10,000 steps per day recommendation didn’t come from a research laboratory.

Autism and ADHD: people need support before diagnosis, but getting one can change their lives

Autism and ADHD: people need support before diagnosis, but getting one can change their lives

An autism or ADHD diagnosis can transform how people understand themselves. But better mental health support is needed both before and after diagnosis.

I love my skincare routine. Do I have a body image problem?

I love my skincare routine. Do I have a body image problem?

Spending time on skincare can be enjoyable, creative and soothing. But sometimes this self-care can be concerning. Could it be ‘cosmeticorexia’?

Culture

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Cambodian Handicrafts - Famous Arts, Markets, and Cultural Significance

Cambodian Handicrafts - Famous Arts, Markets, and Cultural Significance

Cambodia sustains rich handicraft traditions-silk weaving, silverwork, woodcarving-and bustling markets like Siem Reap Night Market, showcasing artisan skills and Khmer cultural identity. Masterpieces of Cambodian Craftsmanship Artisans in provincial

Soap fans to decide winners at inaugural Maggie Awards

Soap fans to decide winners at inaugural Maggie Awards

Soap Opera Magazine has announced nominees for the first annual Maggie Awards, a fully fan-voted honours program spanning 13 categories across all five American daytime dramas. Winners will be announced October 1, 2026, with voting open on the publication's Facebook page through September 28.

Malaysian Batik Art - Techniques, Markets, and Cultural Value

Malaysian Batik Art - Techniques, Markets, and Cultural Value

Most Malaysian batik is recognized for its vibrant colors, fluid floral motifs, and a preference for hand-painted techniques that set it apart from other Southeast Asian traditions. Techniques in Malaysian batik range from hand-drawn batik tulis to s

Sindhi Culture Guide - Ajrak, Music, Heritage Traditions

Sindhi Culture Guide - Ajrak, Music, Heritage Traditions

With roots stretching back over a thousand years, Sindhi culture blends Sufi spirituality, artisanal craft, and communal customs that shape daily life across Sindh and its diasporas. Ajrak serves as a visual emblem of Sindhi identity, a deep indigo a

Lifestyle

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Flip-Flops and Function: Footwear in the Tropics

Flip-Flops and Function: Footwear in the Tropics

Across tropical Asia, the humble flip-flop has become far more than casual footwear — it reflects climate, culture, and practical necessity. Correspondents examine why comfort-first footwear choices are deeply embedded in daily life across the region.

Cold Brews and Chilled Teas Cool Asia's Warming Cities

Cold Brews and Chilled Teas Cool Asia's Warming Cities

Across Asia's sweltering urban centers, iced coffee and tea have evolved from simple refreshments into culturally embedded rituals. Their rising popularity reflects both climatic pressures and shifting consumer habits across the region.

Street Food Across Asia: Culture Served on the Curb

Street Food Across Asia: Culture Served on the Curb

From Bangkok's night bazaars to Taipei's lantern-lit alleys, street food across Asia functions as far more than a convenient meal. Researchers and urban planners increasingly recognize it as a vehicle for cultural memory, economic mobility, and community life.

From Dawn Carts to Night Markets: SE Asia's Street Food

From Dawn Carts to Night Markets: SE Asia's Street Food

Across Southeast Asia, street food vendors form the backbone of daily eating habits, serving millions of people at all hours of the day. From steaming noodle soups at dawn to grilled skewers under fluorescent night-market lights, the street stall is a culinary institution.

Science

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Nasa’s new space telescope will tackle some of the universe’s biggest mysteries

Nasa’s new space telescope will tackle some of the universe’s biggest mysteries

The Nancy Grace Roman telescope will probe dark energy and discover exoplanets.

NASA-JAXA Mission Captures Pulsar Feeding on Star's Wind

NASA-JAXA Mission Captures Pulsar Feeding on Star's Wind

Using the joint NASA-JAXA XRISM observatory, astronomers have for the first time directly observed a giant star's stellar wind being captured by a companion pulsar, fuelling powerful X-ray flares. The findings, published in Science Advances, centre on the binary system BP Crucis, located about 13,000 light-years from Earth.

Butterflies are on the move as the planet warms: new research

Butterflies are on the move as the planet warms: new research

Conservation cannot only protect habitats where species once lived – it must include the places where they will relocate in a warming world.

India's virologists convene to sharpen pandemic readiness

India's virologists convene to sharpen pandemic readiness

The 9th Molecular Virology Meeting concluded in New Delhi on 18 September 2026, drawing around 200 clinicians, researchers and students to discuss viral biology and the translation of virology research into vaccines, diagnostics and public-health tools. A high-level panel examined how India can build a stronger national virology innovation and preparedness ecosystem in line with the government's BioE3 policy and Viksit Bharat vision.