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United Nations climate change negotiations are typically drawn-out affairs and this year’s meeting in Dubai, The United Arab Emirates, was no exception. In an unprecedented move, nations called for a transition away from fossil fuels after the two-week talks were extended by a day. David Fogarty writes about how The UAE Consensus forged at COP28 may not be perfect but is a much-needed reset of global climate action. 

In Japan, woes are piling up for the Osaka World Expo 2025 with preparations way behind schedule and declining public support. Meanwhile, Singapore will be among the first countries to start building its pavilion for the event. Walter Sim reports.

A month from Taiwan’s presidential polls, Yip Wai Yee looks at the vice-presidential candidates and how they might reflect a greater commitment to gender equality. 

From muay thai to mango sticky rice, Thai culture is being pitched by the new government to promote the country’s soft power. Analysts tell Tan Tam Mei that it will take a lot more for Thailand to gain influence and credibility in the geopolitical sphere.

As the Israel-Hamas war rages, Jonathan Eyal writes about how the oil-rich nations of the Gulf are playing a bigger role in diplomatic efforts to end the bloodshed.

On a lighter note, an Indonesian coffee wave has been brewing in Singapore. Hariz Baharudin reports on how these chains are upbeat about their prospects amid stiff competition.

The UAE Consensus

For the first time, a United Nations climate conference has directly referred to fossil fuels in a decision text, overcoming nearly three decades of resistance by the fossil fuel industry.

More on COP28: 

Mission possible? COP28 targets tripling of global renewable energy capacity

The scientists who track the world’s rapidly diminishing carbon budget

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida reshuffles Cabinet

The clear-out came amid a deepening political fund-raising scandal.

More on this:

Two years into the job, is the writing on the wall for Japan’s PM Kishida?

Tighter rules for international students in Australia

The new measures, which aim to stop foreigners from going to Australia to work, are unlikely to affect Singapore students who mainly attend high-ranking universities with strict application procedures.

More on the migration boom in Australia:

Historic migration boom in Australia helps to fill jobs but adds to housing pressures

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un picks successor

“Morning Star General” Kim Ju Ae, said to be 10 or 11 in 2023, has made a total of 19 public appearances since November 2022.

More on the heir apparent:

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s daughter seen wearing $2,500 Christian Dior jacket

North Korea leader Kim, with daughter in tow, leads drills ‘simulating nuclear counter-attack’

Xi Jinping visits Vietnam

Vietnam appears to have played down the geopolitical aspects of its relationship with China, while emphasising the economic opportunities. 

More on this:

China’s investments to Vietnam boom as Xi visits Hanoi, US spending down

Ivy League universities face backlash

They came off as callous and insensitive during a recent congressional hearing on anti-Semitism.

More on this:

Harvard chief feels the heat as US tests free speech in anti-Semitism row

Indonesian coffee wave brewing in Singapore

Have you tried Kenangan Coffee or Fore Coffee?

More on this: 

Coffee chain Spinelli to close all outlets in Singapore: BT

The Bottom Line: Is coffee good or bad for health?

Shaolin’s gongfu monks draw fans online

While these warrior monks have broadened the reach of Shaolin, some question if it is fitting for them to embrace the Internet, and whether Shaolin is more secular than spiritual.

More on Chinese influencers:

Eyebrow pencil and socks gaffes: Pitfalls await, but Chinese live streamers raring to go

Meet China's elderly influencers cashing in on Internet