Dear ST reader,
Where were you on Dec 26, 2004? On that day, giant ocean waves devastated Indonesia’s Aceh province, killing more than 160,000 people. Aqil Hamzah and Wahyudi Soeriaatmadja revisit the disaster zone 20 years on to see how the residents have rebuilt their lives.
In Malaysia, Azril Annuar interviews a former member of the Global Ikhwan group, who sheds light on the practices of the cult, including its teachings and patterns of abuse.
A South Korean politician has been nicknamed “Thor”, after the Marvel superhero, following a botched martial law declaration. Wendy Teo writes about how National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, now touted as a possible presidential candidate, has won the hearts of many people with his calm leadership in a fractured legislature.
Over the last 70 years, Japan has contributed significantly to Asia’s infrastructure building via its via its Official Development Assistance programme. Walter Sim explores the challenges for Japan as it seeks to continue using this benevolent foreign policy tool amid fiscal strain.
Scars remain for Aceh tsunami
Whistle-blower reveals life inside Malaysia’s Global Ikhwan group
China improves vocational education
More on China’s employment situation:
Workers in China brace themselves for fresh wave of pay cuts
Educated young Chinese turn to tour guiding as job market wavers
What’s behind India’s rise as a superpower in chess
More countries courting middle-class Indian travellers
Insta-worthy stores, cosy spaces delight book lovers in Kuala Lumpur
