Field Notes

Field Notes from Istanbul

‘Axis of Resistance’: How useful have proxies like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis been to Iran?

Houthi fighters march during a campaign to mobilise more fighters amid an offensive against Saudi-backed government troops, in Sana’a, Yemen, on Sept 10.

Field Notes from Kuching

In Sarawak, trust can matter as much as the halal logo

Guests of Rumah Intunie Ak Jiram in Nyato Atas, Lubok Antu, Sarawak, enjoying their lunch prepared by the host on Aug 18.

Field Notes from Tokyo

Japan’s beaches are emptying out – and vanishing

Japan’s Otake Coast Hokota Swimming Beach in June 2024 when it was closed. Sand erosion has stripped away layers of sand on the beach, exposing rocks that used to lie below.

Field Notes from Taipei

Taiwan throttles mobile internet speeds in defence drill

The Taiwanese government deliberately slowed mobile internet speeds to simulate communication disruption during the annual Han Kuang war games on Aug 13.

Field Notes from Tokyo

How innovation is saving Japan’s vending machine empire

An employee stocks an empty vending machine in Tokyo on July 22.

Field Notes from Malaysia

Why hit film Dear You struck a chord with Chinese Malaysians over roots and dual identity

After watching Dear You for the fifth time, Malaysian Goh Choon Piow reflected on his decision to give up his Chinese citizenship in the 1960s.

Field Notes from Seoul

What inflation? South Koreans continue to queue for ginseng chicken soup in peak summer

Queues at the popular Tosokchon Samgyetang restaurant in Seoul started forming even before it opened at 10am on July 15, the first of the three hottest days of summer in South Korea.

Field Notes from Johor Bahru

Days before Johor voted, one viral Malay phrase already hinted at BN’s landslide win

A catchphrase has indicated public support for Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who contested the Machap seat during the Johor state election.

Field Notes from Malaysia

When durian prices crash, Malaysia throws parties

For many Malaysians, this durian season, a feast costs less than a cafe lunch.

Field Notes from Seoul

S. Korea’s early World Cup exit sparks anger and calls for football governance reforms

The deep disappointment has cast a spotlight on entrenched problems relating to the governance of one of South Korea’s most popular sports.

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.