Biden fires grand finale chip war salvo at China – Asia Times

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The Biden administration announced a deal exploration into Chinese tradition semiconductors, which generally refer to 28 millimeter or higher chips, to defend America’s chip-making business. &nbsp,

According to a fact sheet released by the White House on Monday ( December 23 ), the Office of the US Trade Representative will launch a Section 301 investigation to examine the People’s Republic of China ( PRC )’s ( PRC ) plan to target foundational semiconductors or mature node chips for dominance and the impact on the US economy. &nbsp,

The USTR probe will protect Chinese semiconductors integrated as components into upstream products for vital industries like defense, mechanical, medical devices, aerospace, telecommunications, and power generation and the electric grid. &nbsp,

It will also examine whether the impact of China’s actions, policies, and methods on the production of silicone carbide materials ( or other chips used as inputs to semiconductor fabrication ) contributes to any unjustifiableness, discrimination, or burden or restraint on US commerce.

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the Biden-Harris Administration’s official, praised the investigation as” a powerful tool for standing up for American workers and firms, strengthening the resilience of important supply stores, and supporting unmatched investment in this sector.”

The Biden presidency was reportedly preparing to investigate China’s identity cards, according to a December 16 article in The New York Times. According to the report, the investigation does take at least six months to complete, so the incoming Trump leadership will be in charge of making that decision.

The USTR’s upcoming tradition chip sensor was criticized by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MC) on Monday.

Through the Device and Science Act, a MoC director claimed that the US part has given its chip business “heavy incentives.” The US accuses China of having so-called non-market techniques and exaggerates the risk of the Chinese chip industry, noting that its businesses account for nearly half of the global chip industry.

Washington should take into account the fact that American chips are imported from China much more than American chips are.

” The Biden administration wants to create a fine net to contain China’s chip sector”, Lai Jiaqi, a columnist at Guancha.cn, said in a recent article. &nbsp,

” In the past, the US government’s curbs against China’s chip industry were focusing on the ban of the shipment of advanced US chips”, Lai said. China is gradually increasing its investments in the production of its own mature chips as the US tightens its regulations.

According to the author, it’s unlikely that there will be an oversupply of Chinese mature chips in the next two to three years, according to a report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies ( CSIS), a think tank based in Washington.

Overcapacity concerns

The three reasons why overcapacity concerns are either exaggerated or misunderstood as coming from China are described in the CSIS report:

  1. The purpose of Chinese companies expanding their capacity is to primarily supply domestic demand. China still imports the majority of its domestic semiconductor consumption requirements.
  2. Domestic demand in China is still high and will increase significantly through 2030. Domestic chip capacity will be able to meet about 90 % of domestic demand by 2030, compared to 37 % in 2020, assuming all of the previously announced factories in China are finished and operational by 2030.
  3. For some consumer electronics applications, Chinese foundries ‘ products are becoming more expensive, but they are still far less reliable for end-use applications like cars. Foreign companies will continue to dominate the Chinese market.

The White House announced on Monday that it would strengthen federal supply chain security in addition to looking into Chinese legacy chips by forbidding executive federal agencies from purchasing or obtaining products or services that include chips from specific Chinese factories and other relevant entities. &nbsp,

Additionally, it added that it will work with its international partners to improve cooperation in semiconductor supply chains and address shared concerns about China’s alleged unfair practices.

CHIPS for America

The Biden administration has introduced a number of new measures to combat China’s chip sector ahead of Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20.

Following two previous rounds in October 2021 and 2022, the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security ( BIS ) released a third package of chip export regulations against China on December 2. &nbsp,

Additionally, the BIS added 140 Chinese chip manufacturers and suppliers to its” Entity List,” as well as new export controls for 24 different types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, three different software tools for creating or producing semiconductors, and high-bandwidth memory ( HBM ) chips. &nbsp,

To determine the best ways to encourage government contractors, especially those with commercial IT products and services, to increase their use of domestically produced chips, the US Office of Management and Budget ( OMB) released a Request for Information ( RFI ) on December 10.

The White House released its first-ever Quadrennial Supply Chain Review on December 19 to provide an in-depth analysis of the nation’s crucial supply chains, recommendations for improvement over the past four years, and recommendations for further improvements to US resilience in the future. &nbsp,

Additionally, US President Biden has accelerated the pace of funding qualified chipmakers for the construction of foundries. &nbsp,

According to the government, the CHIPS for America initiative has so far provided over US$ 26 billion in incentives to boost domestic production of semiconductors and their supply chains. It said this made America home to all five of the world’s leading-edge logic and memory providers, while no other economy has more than two. &nbsp,

‘ A fool’s errand’

Four Chinese industry organizations demanded their members not to purchase American legacy semiconductors due to” safety” concerns after the US announced new export controls to prohibit the shipping of high-end US chips to China on December 2. &nbsp,

The Internet Society of China, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, the China Association of Communications Enterprises, and the China Association of Semiconductor Industry Association are just a few of the industry groups. &nbsp,

Concluding the Biden administration’s four-year efforts to boost the US chip sector, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told the Wall Street Journal on December 21 that” trying to hold China back is a fool’s errand”.

She claimed that China’s export controls were only” speed bumps” and could not slow China’s development of its own semiconductor capabilities. She claimed that the only way for the US to win the chip war is to out-innovate China and stay ahead of it. &nbsp,

Liu Lanxun, a military columnist from Hubei, claimed that Raimondo finally admitted at the conclusion of her term that the US chip ban against China is a waste of time. However, he claimed that because China is also investing heavily in its chip industry, the US might not always succeed in the end.

Yong Jian contributes to Asia Times. He is a Chinese journalist who specializes in Chinese technology, economy and politics.

Read more about the anti-US chips campaign by China-based business groups.

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‘Trumpflation’ already wreaking havoc on Bank of Japan – Asia Times

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Before it even arrives, the Bank of Japan has a very common feud with Donald Trump’s 2.0 White House.

Tokyo is now putting the brakes on the following Trump presidency, which will take place in four weeks. Governor Kazuo Ueda is leading Asia’s second-largest business toward the total unfamiliar at BOJ office in Tokyo, where it is more evident.

Certainly, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba may dispute this classification. However, Ueda is securely in the driver’s seat with approval levels in the 20s and his ruling Liberal Democratic Party rarely hanging on to power.

The issue is figuring out when Trump will visit the White House on January 20. Door No. 1 is contextual Trump, ready to negotiate a “grand deal” business cope with China and perhaps others. Door No. Second: a” Tax Man” period that sparks trade wars that no one has seen before.

This doubt explains why Ueda’s plan board kept rates unchanged next year. And why it’s probably not even a question to consider a price trek for January. The BOJ stated in a speech last week that “uncertainty persists regarding the country’s economy and rates.”

Local problems are bad much. Team Ishiba is scrambling to implement innovative fiscal stimulus to boost domestic demand as Chinese growth declines. Not exactly a good place for the BOJ to raise prices.

China’s economic downturn is its own conundrum. Tokyo is deeply alarmed by the recession that Asia’s biggest sector exports. For years, Japan was accused of generating more challenges than development. Then it’s China, by much Japan’s leading export market.

India fears about the mix of Trump’s affected trade conflict and domestic plans to arrest millions of illegal immigrant workers. The great possibilities this will make what industry observers have coined” Trumpflation” has Ueda’s BOJ in a spin.

That includes legislators from European Central Bank Governor Christine Lagarde to Bank of Korea Governor Rhee Chang-yong.

” In Japan, industrial production likely fell 3 % in November from October”, says Stefan Angrick, an economist at Moody’s Analytics. ” Business forecasts for November have looked bad, with companies pointing to falling production across machinery, autos and technology”.

The bigger issue is income. The enthusiasm over the previous year’s wage negotiations for the spring has long since waned. The union workers ‘ biggest increases in 33 years didn’t stop the virtuous cycle of inflated salaries and increased use that many had hoped for. As 2024 begins, inflation-adjusted give is smooth.

Chinese CEOs could be prevented from raising pay in the coming year by competing concerns about China’s decline and Trump’s bombardment of tariffs. This danger is making the BOJ’s price increase timeline more challenging.

Previously, economists thought a December price climb was a done deal. Finally, a group of BOJ officials stepped up to the microphone to announce that there would be no tightening. Though” Trump business” challenges weren’t highlighted particularly, they were written between the lines in bold font.

With the Trump threat to impose$ 60 transfer taxes on Chinese goods, Japan would be at the middle of the collateral damage area. Any significant decline in the biggest customer for Japan had destroy it in 2025.

Japan Inc concerns, also, that Trump may teach his tariffs its approach. Trump has refused Ishiba’s noted many demands for a pre-inauguration meet. Due to this, Japan is concerned that Trump doesn’t view Ishiba as a crucial mate in the same way that he did Shinzo Abe, the prime minister for 2020.

And that the 100 % taxes Trump plans for Mexico-made trucks might remain aimed next at Toyota, Honda and Nissan. That may hinder the former two businesses ‘ efforts to combine to raise global market share.

For Ueda’s BOJ, dread must be the experience of the time. Ueda dragged his legs on raising prices to 0.2 %, where it is now, in the 15 weeks after taking the helm in April 2023. Despite robust economic growth and the favorable environment for higher Asian rates, this is true.

Having squandered that window of opportunity, Ueda today finds himself on the defense. With Ishiba’s gathering on the run, social pressure against price hikes is definitely mounting. The LDP’s current reliance on criticism party help to hold onto power is not all that helpful.

On the other side, there’s a real danger of” Trumpflation” that lingers back Japan’s manner. As Trump introduces laws that appear to be sure to increase global sales pressures, the threat has been brought up by economists, including Nobel prize Paul Krugman.

Trump’s taxes “would lead to a significant increase in consumer prices in the US.” We estimate that the proposed tariff increases would increase core PCE prices by 0.9 % if implemented using our rule of thumb, which states that every 1[percentage point ] increase in the effective tariff rate would raise core PCE prices by 0.1 %.

Or even more if Trump makes good on capturing millions of undocumented workers, thereby tightening US workers markets even more.

The author of” The Contest for Japan’s Economic Future,” Richard Katz, claims that domestic price trends, along with Trumpflation and a weaker yen, are putting the BOJ at a disadvantage. The BOJ is therefore holding off until more proof is available.

Ueda’s plan board “faces a dilemma”, Katz says. Objectives of higher prices in Japan typically lead to the BOJ raising interest rates. That would not only filter the level gap, but also help to counteract the yen’s yen’s upward pressure, and also help to combat inflation.

Katz continues, adding that” for the most part, the weaker yen and other components have been reducing true wages and, consequently, customer paying for the past five years. That prevents economic development, and the BOJ must maintain low interest rates to maintain afloat the business.

Katz adds that it’s even more concerning how and when Trump may put the laws he campaigned and won on into practice.

It’s unclear whether the benefits in minimum wage increases that employers granted this year will be repeated following year on the local Japan entrance. Because of the magnitude of imported inflation, it’s unclear whether minimum increases will result in higher real wages.

All of this is putting pressure on the renminbi. Last year, Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato said he was “deeply” concerned about the dollar’s new fall.

Katz argues that the BOJ’s entire prices plan depends on maintaining minimum wage increases at 3 % annually in the hopes that this will result in increases in real income. It will take many months to see the 2025 fiscal pay picture. Therefore, at least for this month, the BOJ is adopting a wait-and-see attitude”.

Daisuke Karakama, general business analyst at Mizuho Bank, says” I’m not certain if yen failure may be contained until March”. He adds that there’s” no assurance” the yen didn’t break through 160 to the money by January.

Trump Japan may encounter this in January, but there is no guarantee. And the degree of the” Trumpflation” that might follow.

Following William Pesek on X at @WilliamPesek

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YouTube populists driving South Korea’s political instability – Asia Times

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In the past three weeks, South Korea has experienced a brief period of military rules, its abrupt reform, and Yoon Suk Yeol’s senate.

One underrated driver of the current crisis is the increase of YouTube-based agitators, activists and influencers, who both profit from and power a new brand of populism. South Korea has a severe impact, but the pattern is widespread.

An exceedingly online electorate

In South Korea’s 2022 poll, Yoon trailed his opposition for much of the plan. His intense populist policies attracted some help, but he appeared to be going to fail.

Then he discovered a novel district: a group of passionate young people who are passionate about abolition of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. These protestors used platforms like YouTube and others to transmit their ideas.

This demographic, in addition to traditional liberal voters, allowed Yoon to get a close election and retain control of South Korea’s most potent social position. The female department was then formally overthrown, and he claimed architectural discrimination was” a thing of the past.”

Yoon issued arrest warrants for a number of his alleged political competitors after gaining strength. Among these was Kim Eo-Jun, a vital and aggressive YouTube blogger, and a controversial populist find tied to progressive politics. Kim’s regular videos send millions of active followers reports, guest appearances, and sleazy commentary.

We’ve come to terms with the notion that social media platforms influencing political processes by promoting specific content and spreading reports and analysis. However, the rising social acclaim of platform actors like Kim suggests that the impact is becoming more clear.

Populist systems

Social media platforms give access to a wide range of news and media producers, from established newspapers to separate commentators at the most extremes of the social spectrum. However, not all of the information gets similar interest.

Research indicates that fake news receives more loves and interactions than factual information, at least in South Korea. ” Real information” tends to collect dislikes and scorn.

More recent research from South Korea indicates that people may contempt political decisions or groups on platforms to find out conspiracy theories. Customers are also infamously primary against issues like women’s rights.

South Korea is just one of these issues. International trends exist in populist and controversial news and analysis.

Traditional news media’s reputation is declining, in part because of concerns that it is associated with prominent and elite figures. These concerns are frequently confirmed by social media influencers who are attempting to get the new view leaders.

Online celebrities are fantastic tools for populist politicians. They have personal contacts with their viewers, tend to suggest straightforward solutions, and often resist responsibilities and fact-checking.

Platforms are frequently more likely to persuade viewers to watch controversial and perhaps radical content, eroding otherwise more balanced content.

Nevertheless, these polarising numbers are not alone in these areas. Native editors and outsiders are adapting to systems while maintaining accuracy of information.

On YouTube, past major journalists, such as Australia’s Michael West and the British Phil Edwards, have amassed followings while blending private and informal articles with more standard journalism.

Non-journalists, such as Money &amp, Macro and the English Tom Nicholas, have expanded their control through adopting some main editorial techniques. With the help of their numerous viewers, they create articles that investigates, explores, and explains current affairs reports and evaluation.

These YouTube news influencers demonstrate how literary content can help the new news media ecosystem and draw huge audiences without relying on nationalist and polarizing content.

” Newsfluencers” producing news on systems, such as YouTube, tailor their information to the norms of the websites.

Newsfluencers and the upcoming

Newsmakers frequently shoot in casual settings rather than conventional models, and they establish a friendly rapport with their viewers. They utilize “authenticity”, going out of their approach to “avoid looking like smooth business media”.

Their many revenue channels include ads, sponsors, product and, most importantly, primary audience contributions. These efforts may be made through members or through third-party programs like Patreon and Substack.

Even major media outlets have begun to follow YouTuber guidelines, including ABC from Australia. The current matters radio If You’re Listening, for instance, significantly outperforms traditional written material because of its everyday style and focus on giving the visitors what it wants while being produced under the canopy of the national presenter.

YouTube channels in South Korea like VoiceOfSeoul use avenue reporting, casual talk-show panels, and investigative reporting to combine road coverage. Video and breaking news styles are combined on OhMyTV, which includes links for individual donations and sponsorships.

Legacy advertising like KBS maintains a strong following through TV and site websites like Naver at the same time. KBS’s traditional format, but, struggles to maintain viewership on these extremely popular platforms, where these innovative journalists have succeeded.

On YouTube and other related websites, there is a distinct place for news. But, it will need to adjust. The moment may be nearing when program journalism is essential for democracy, as the North Korean experience demonstrates.

Timothy Koskie is doctoral researcher, School of Media and Communications, University of Sydney and Christopher James Hall is PhD Researcher, Centre for Media Transition, University of Technology Sydney

The Conversation has republished this essay under a Creative Commons license. Read the original post.

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‘God’s gifts’: Why this Indonesian man rescues abandoned babies from jungles, rental flats and highways

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According to Birhan, the higher rate of child dumping in Indonesia is largely attributable to the country’s strict abortion laws and the lack of comprehensive sexual education. &nbsp,

In Indonesia, even the world’s most populous Muslim country, abortion is improper except in cases of health crises and murder. &nbsp,

According to a report from the National Population and Family Planning Agency, there are 2.4 million abortion situations in the nation each year, and up to 700, 000 of these cases involve youth, or about 30 % of them. &nbsp,

Irrespective of their marital status, Burhan also provides a safe haven for abandoned children and assists people who are experiencing unwanted pregnancy and mental health issues. Together with his devoted group, he makes sure these women are kept informed and given until the day they are due. &nbsp,

He claimed that many of these women’s families reject them because they are frequently willing to take care of the children. &nbsp,

” We want to gain the baby to the mother but people usually express shame, saying things like’ while we accept the mother, we do not take the child'”, said Burhan, who was first featured in a series on common soldiers on CNA’s Bahasa Indonesia site. &nbsp,

A person who has worked to address waste disposal issues in a town in West Java state as well as an dog lover who has been looking out for stray animals are other stories in the series. &nbsp,Continue Reading

Mosti unveils Startup ASEAN, bridging ecosystem gaps across region

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  • Empower companies, connect innovators, and develop a growing ecosystem
  • Startup-friendly policies, improve ecosystem readiness, generate effective collaboration

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cradle with Chang Lih Kang, minister of Science, Technology and Innovation at the soft launch of Startup ASEAN.

The Soft Launch of Startup ASEAN, a platform that aims to position ASEAN members as key players in the global startup landscape, was announced by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation ( MOSTI ) and Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd. The program was officiated by Chang Lih Kang, secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation, during the Malaysia-China Summit 2024 held next week

Startup ASEAN is inviting companies and habitat lovers from all ASEAN nations to meet the system forward of its official release in Q2 2025. Companies can now register their attention at website. startup-asean. nonprofit and be part of the state’s second jump in innovation.

Cradle has been given the task of leading the ASEAN Startup Initiative ( ASI) within the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite as Malaysia prepares to take office of ASEAN in 2025. This initiative highlights Malaysia’s commitment to bolstering the regional startup ecosystem, aligning with the nation’s Priority Economic Deliverables ( PEDs ) 2025 for Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).

The program aims to promote startup-friendly policies, promote habitat preparation among ASEAN member states, and encourage meaningful collaborations to foster regional synergies and partnerships.

The second program under the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite is a program curated by a work force from all 10 ASEAN Member States: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Chang Lih Kang, Minister of MOSTI, emphasised,” Business ASEAN is designed to encourage and promote science, engineering, and innovation within the ASEAN startup ecosystem, serving as a gateway to the vivid ASEAN startup community. Through this program, we aim to empower companies, connect entrepreneurs, and develop a growing ecosystem that drives provincial growth and innovation”.

Describing Startup ASEAN as more than just a digital system, Chang added,” It is a testament to our collective responsibility to nurturing creativity, strengthening engagement, and building a solid foundation for modern advancement”.

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cradle, said,” As Malaysia’s primary level company for the company habitat, Cradle is pleased to direct Startup ASEAN. This system serves as a catalyst for regional cooperation and creativity, enabling startups to grow and promote sustainable economic growth in the area.

Through a phased approach, he said Cradle will introduce dynamic programmes, including regional hackathons targeting deep tech sectors such as Artificial Intelligence ( AI), sustainability, and climate tech. Also, the Startup ASEAN Summit in 2019 will highlight regional innovation and open up new markets for startups.

” The establishment of Startup ASEAN under Malaysia’s Chairmanship is a significant step in strengthening the region’s vibrant startup ecosystem, which currently boasts over 11, 000 startups and an ecosystem value of US$ 131.2 billion ( RM589.1 billion ). With ASEAN’s GDP projected to reach US$ 4.5 trillion ( RM20.2 trillion ) by 2030, the region remains a dynamic hub for innovation, offering vast opportunities for companies and investors alike”, said Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General for ASEAN Economic Community.

” Startup ASEAN may be essential in connecting tech companies across the region, empowering members, enriching the ecosystem, and bridging ASEAN’s local and global network with the complete support of all 10 associate state”, said Dr Kanchana Wanichkorn, Director of Sectoral Development Directorate for ASEAN Economic Community.

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Every home deserves access to clean water

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Every home deserves access to clean water

Heineken Malaysia Berhad ( Heineken Malaysia ) has long been a devoted supporter of neighborhood communities and has made a strong contribution to empowerment and development. The brewer has spent over 30 years promoting different groups, and he continues to promote significant change in Malaysia by funding initiatives aimed at raising the standard of living for those in need. &nbsp,

Fostering group resilience

Heineken Cares is a program run by Heineken Malaysia that is geared toward improving areas in need and in line with its Brew a Better World 2030 strategy to promote positive effect and help create a brighter, more green coming up. &nbsp,

Food aid and essential care items were first distributed at the top of the epidemic in 2021 to help famine-stricken areas and crisis patients.

The baker responded to the call for immediate humanitarian assistance for the Sabah communities when devastating storms struck the towns of Kota Belud, Penampang, and Papar. Heineken Cares collaborated with local television station KupiKupi FM to provide necessary food items to occupants who had lost their means of livelihood.

In 2022, the program switched from providing short-term food assistance to launching group farming initiatives that supported longer-term capacity building for local communities.

Partnership with Sokong

Heineken Cares 2023, a group effect program aimed at strengthening community endurance in the face of changing social and economic problems, was co-sponsored by Heineken Malaysia and Sokong by Malaysiakini in December 2023. Through the program, five companion organisations- Hopes Malaysia, Hope Place Kuching, Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia, Ferris Wheel Organisation, and Yellow House KL- were selected to employ projects in the areas of foodstuff security, community farming, as well as access to clean water and green electricity.

Every home deserves access to clean waterRenuka Indrarajah ( pic ), Corporate Affairs &amp, Legal director of Heineken Malaysia, shared,” We recognise that meaningful change happens through collaboration. By working hand-in-hand with our partners and populations, we are able to make a profound impact on underrepresented communities. By investing in green group efforts, we go beyond addressing the urgent needs of the community, it paves the way to build resilient neighborhoods”.

Hopes Malaysia- making a lasting change

One of the NGO colleagues working with Heineken Malaysia is Kota Kinabalu-based Hopes Malaysia, which works with the poor rural area in Sabah. The organization, which was established in 2016, aims to give these societies the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty.

Remote Sabah populations are plagued by a typical issue: lack of reliable water sources and access to public water sources. Farmers who rely on uneven rainwater and hill streams for their livelihoods find this problem especially challenging. Hopes Malaysia recognized this need and took action to improve water systems and give producers a reliable water source.

Hopes Malaysia’s first enterprise was the Gravity Water Project, through which they properly constructed seven gravity-fed water methods, including 30km of pipes. These systems deliver clean water to remote villages in Kota Belud, positively impacting over 8, 000 rural residents. Additionally, the team empowered local farmers by providing training to maintain and repair the water systems, ensuring a reliable water supply for future generations. &nbsp,

Every home deserves access to clean water

Farmers in the Kota Belud villages have since successfully grown a variety of local fruits and vegetables, enabling them to sell their produce and generate a steady income to help support their families for the long term. &nbsp,

Hopes Malaysia also made a contribution by teaching rural farmers how to raise fish and poultry to provide nutritious meals for their families. The community is now able to sustainably harvest 70 kg of fish per month and collect 60 chicken eggs every day, helping them continue to support their livelihoods.

Heineken Cares x Hopes Malaysia

Heineken Malaysia’s partnership with Hopes Malaysia started in 2021 through the Heineken Cares programme during the Covid-19 pandemic. More than 240 families and care centers received fresh food aid from farmers from the Kota Belud project through this initiative. In addition, the collaboration helped farmers by increasing their monthly incomes by up to 50 % during the difficult time.

The” Sustainable Gravity Water Project for Food Security Collaboration” project was started in Kota Belud in 2023 to assist the remote and impoverished Kampung Pinolobuh. The project, which was carried out in collaboration with Heineken Cares, aimed to upgrade the village’s gravity-fed water system to provide clean water and promote sustainable farming to improve long-term food security. The village’s piping was installed by the community at a 5 km uphill natural water source.

Every home deserves access to clean water

Families have successfully grown leafy vegetables for their own consumption thanks to a reliable water supply for their farms and the knowledge, tools, and skills acquired through workshops and community training. Surplus harvests are sold locally at Hopes Malaysia’s Gerai Tamu Kita vegetable stall and the Kota Belud community.

Next-phase plans

Hopes Malaysia is currently focusing on repairing and reconstructing the degraded decades-old gravity water system in rural Kampung Nagarai Tuguson in Kota Belud, with the assistance of Heineken Malaysia and Sokong, through Heineken Cares 2024.

Every home deserves access to clean water

More than 40 underprivileged families will have access to clean water at home by the start of 2025 through this collaborative initiative. An empowered community with the skills, knowledge and tools for lasting benefits”, said Aaron Bosuang, public relations executive for Hopes Malaysia.

This would give families more opportunities to work toward better futures where all of their fundamental needs are met.

” This is yet another step for sustainable development because many rural neighborhood families still lack basic necessities like clean water. Hopes Malaysia will continue to work hard to sustainably assist Sabah’s rural population in breaking the vicious cycle of rural poverty, he added.

Every home deserves access to clean water

Transformed lives: Voices of beneficiaries&nbsp,Every home deserves access to clean water

” It is a great accomplishment for me to be a part of the Kampung Kiau Taburi gravity water project led by Hopes Malaysia and Heineken Malaysia,” said one project manager. All the hard work needed for this project is worth it because of the daily effects it has had on my family and community. Stefban ( pic ), leader of the Kampung Kiau Taburi community project,” We used to be a village that struggled and fought for clean water every day.”

” I started my journey with Hopes Malaysia as a project beneficiary during the Covid-19 pandemic. My family was able to survive that difficult time thanks to the sustainable initiatives. Because of those projects, our lives are better. My wife and I currently work for Hopes Malaysia to directly aid rural Kota Belud communities, bringing about positive change for all involved. Efandi, a former beneficiary of Hopes Malaysia’s ground team, and former beneficiary,” I hope for a sustainable future where all Sabah families can have the basic needs to improve their lives.”

Every home deserves access to clean waterMy top priority is to make my family’s life better. I volunteered during the Kampung Kiau Taburi project, and am very thankful for the results of our community’s efforts. I used to wait for water every day and wait for it to arrive, but now I can use it whenever I need it at home to cook for my family, wash my kids ‘ clothes, or wash our clothes. I don’t have to worry about our water finishing. We can use this clean water for years to come”, Malim ( pic ), Kampung Kiau Taburi beneficiary

How you can make a lasting difference

Heineken Malaysia continues to collaborate with Sokong to help the efforts of Hopes Malaysia in the new phase of its Heineken Cares initiative in keeping with its commitment to community support.

You can also contribute to Hopes Malaysia’s efforts to improve the lives of rural Sabahans who are underrepresented. By contributing via the Sokong platform, you can do this. For every RM10 donated, Heineken Malaysia will add RM40 to amplify the impact of your support. Join this meaningful cause today by visiting https ://sokong .org/campaigns/heineken-cares-2024.

To learn more about Heineken Malaysia’s sustainability efforts, visit Heineken Malaysia’s official website or SPARK Foundation’s official website.

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Philippines says to acquire US Typhon missile system

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Since Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos took company in 2022, Manila and Washington, who have long-standing agreement friends, have expanded their participation in the area of defense and begun retaliating against Beijing’s says to the South China Sea. China quickly blasted the acquisition of the program as a “provocative and dangerousContinue Reading

Singapore’s ISD warns of spillover effects on region from terror groups exploiting Syria’s instability, says ‘fluid situation bears watching’

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The ISD cautioned against those who intend to use military assault in Singapore or elsewhere. &nbsp,

It was responding to CNA’s question last week regarding whether criminal organizations could use the present situation in Syria to spread their wings, including in Southeast Asia and Singapore. &nbsp,

The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS ) rebels seized control of Damascus and other significant Syrian cities on December 7. After nightfall, reports emerged Assad had fled the country for Russia.

The ending of Syria’s 13-year issue, which claimed over 580, 000 lives and displaced 12 million people, came with the fall of Assad. &nbsp,

Units claims to still have connections to any criminal system, but the UN Security Council and many other nations have continued to label it a terrorist organization.

In the midst of Assad’s impeachment, experts told CNA Southeast Asian regulators must be vigilant.

However, some experts believe that Southeast Asia’s current threat of a new wave of fanaticism is comparatively lower.

The ISD warned that it would take legal action against those who intend to use military force in Singapore or elsewhere.

” We will not hesitate to take strong activities against any person who supports, promotes, tries or makes arrangements to engage in military crime, be it in Singapore or overseas”, a spokesperson said. &nbsp,

In the past, the ISD has detained radicalized Singapore who intended to travel to Syria and participate in armed conflict. &nbsp,

In October, a 17-year-old Taiwanese student was arrested less than a quarter before his plan to carry out a terror attack in Singapore’s strongholds. Additionally, the youth intended to use military violence and journey to Syria to meet the Islamic State. &nbsp,

Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam reported in July that two Singaporeans had received limitations requests for supporting violence and armed assault. After Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, they radicalized.

The youngest person ever to receive a restriction order under the Internal Security Act ( ISA ) was a 14-year-old boy, and the other a 33-year-old woman who worked as a manager for a statutory board.

An 18-year-old Singaporean IS follower was detained in December 2022 after considering attacking priorities, including an army tent and a grave at a mosque in Singapore, in February of last year, according to the ISD, who was detained in that regard. The pupil had likewise intended to travel globally, including to Syria, to participate in military assault. &nbsp,

Two additional youth who the student’s student’s student’s online contacts were also given ISA orders for terrorism-related activities.

The ISD urged the general public to stay alert for signs that their neighbors may have resented radicalization and report them to the government. Islamist views that are posted or shared on social media, support or admiration for terrorists or criminal organizations, and the use of violence are potential indicators of radicalization.

Anyone who knows or suspects that a person has been radicalised should contact ISD’s hotline at 1800 2626 473 ( 1800-2626-ISD ), the spokesperson added.

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Long, hard road to de-weaponizing Syria’s economy – Asia Times

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The Arab government’s fall on December 8, 2024 marked a turning point for the Middle East. It is still unclear how the insurgent alliance, which is a diverse group of political and ideological organizations supported by local powers, quickly overpowered government forces.

However, it is obvious that the government’s downfall has been largely caused by the frequent social and economic decay, which has worsened every aspect of Arab life over the past 13 years.

The humanitarian crises that displaced the majority of Syria’s people and destroyed the government’s system also contributed to this deterioration as well as the weaponization of regional and global supply chains through economic restrictions.

Since 2011, numerous tides of sanctions have been imposed on Syria, aimed at draining state money and causing harm to nearly all of the nation’s economic and social activities. The outcomes of the steps were a general deindustrialization and a serious decline in the economy.

It’s still unclear whether Syria, a country of corporate global importance, is on the verge of lasting peace or will experience another prolonged period of instability.

The origins of turmoil

When the Arab Revolution started in 2011, Syria was on a fairly good financial trajectory. Poverty was at about 8 % and the middle class formed about 60 % of the community.

But, economical developments were mostly concentrated in urban facilities, while remote areas — home to most Syrians — lacked social and economic system.

The most attractive business activities in Syria were dominated by government elites, despite the growth of small and medium-sized businesses. Common institutions were rife with corruption and government.

This disparity led to anger, and the rural community eventually emerged as a driving force behind the start of the Arab Revolution. In the end, a series of events that culminated in a difficult international proxy war were the product of the revolution.

On both sides, some people were imprisoned or disappeared, and many others fled to neighboring states or sought shelter in Europe.

The position gotten worse as the battle wore on. In 2024, the United Nations described the Palestinian issue as “one of the country’s most complex situations”. Hundreds of thousands of Syrians feared losing their lives in locations all over the world.

Syria’s economic decline

Since 2011, Syria’s GDP has fallen by 87 %, its currency has lost more than 99 % of its value, and its inflation rate has soared above 300 % on basic consumer goods.

Arab corporations have fully been disconnected from regional and global supply chains as a result of the deteriorating economic and social problems in Syria, which have been made worse by increasingly strict restrictions. The majority of companies had to close, and just a small number were able to do so in neighboring nations.

Businesses that were able to succeed have turned into zombie companies, meaning they are no longer commercially viable but are being kept alive by using alternative sources, such as government subsidies.

Improper economic activity flourished, there were uncovered supply chains, and corruption was deeply entrenched within common organizations.

Rebel partnership rule

In the midst of the Arab government’s collapse, experts — though positive — remain wary about the country’s future.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS), a former branch of al-Qaida and the principal force in the rebel coalition, is the new ruler in Damascus. Units used to be competent to govern Idlib, a city in northwest Syria, but it now relys on Turkish assistance to provide simple services to its citizens.

Detractors argued the Units authorities in Idlib was “dictatorial” and “authoritarian” enough to flash rally earlier this year. Units requested on December 9 that the Idlib state, which is made up entirely of HTS unionists, continue to rule Syria until March 2025. Beyond that day, the organization has never made any changes.

Idlib, a remote, traditional province in Idlib, is a vastly different thing from managing a complicated nation like Syria. However, despite growing concerns about HTS’s one-party interim state, the party is likely to capitalise on the government’s pleasure at the death of Assad’s regime and the end of 13 years of civil war to create short-term political stability.

Another opposition groups, some with violent histories, appear to support HTS’s short-term program, seeking to discuss their role in the new political arrangement. However, early indications suggest Units, while adopting diverse speech, continues to adhere to an totalitarian and authoritarian style of governance.

Challenges ahead

HTS’s key backers, Turkey and Qatar, will likely provide financial aid and funds to boost public opinion in the short term. However, long-term political stability in Syria hinges on sustained public support, which is deeply tied to the country’s economic situation. The new rulers in Damascus must tackle the difficult task of reviving the economy.

The de-weaponization of regional and global supply chains, which includes more than removing Syria’s economic sanctions, is a necessary prerequisite for the revival of the country’s economy. It requires revitalizing small and medium-sized businesses and rebuilding public organizations that can support regional and global supply chains.

Small and medium-sized businesses and the middle class have been destroyed over the course of 13 years of civil war, which is easier said than done. Public and private organizations in Syria have already gone through the zombification process, relying heavily on aid to survive.

Zombie firms typically exhibit sub-optimal production performance, low innovation and a negative impact on economic activity. In this context, it’s likely that local organizations are unable to participate in and/or strengthen regional and global value chains. Establishing a robust innovation ecosystem and effective domestic supply chain governance will be necessary to restore these capabilities.

Early signs point to HTS’s desire to rule both social and economic activities in favor of its loyalists. Such an approach risks recreating an Islamic version of Assad’s economic governance, long characterized by a state-directed economy, capital controls and cronyism. Important regional players, Arab nations, and international players have already expressed concerns about working with Syria’s economy under the new Islamic regime.

Throughout the past 13 years, the Assad regime emphasized a winner-takes-all approach — a stance that HTS appears now to adopt. HTS has no choice but to abandon such a mindset in order to revive the Syrian economy and de-weaponize supply chains. Otherwise, the new ruler in Damascus will soon face the same challenges that led to the previous regime’s collapse.

Hassan Wafai is associate professor, Faculty of Management, Royal Roads University

This article was republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Trump tariffs as confrontation, deterrence and art of the deal – Asia Times

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The next day Donald Trump was US senator, he entered trade war with China and Europe. But despite his bombast and taxes, the US trade deficit did not improve.

In fact, it deteriorated from US$ 195 billion in the first quarter of 2017 to$ 260 billion in the same period of 2021.

A number of selected items were subject to the Trump tariffs, which were set at a maximum of 25 %. However, his current strategy seems to be that the US will impose tariffs of 10 % or 20 % on the majority of imported goods. Taxes in Canada and Mexico could be 25 %, and tariffs on Chinese goods could be 60 %.

This revision appears to be drastically different from the previous one. What are the potential cases for the US, the UK, and the world economy then?

Situation 1: Fight

Taking the president-elect’s expression to the email, if Trump stands his ground on across-the-board taxes one effect may be that the US market faces higher costs because of more expensive goods. The desire for US-produced goods may rise, which will probably result in higher domestic wages and a spiraling inflationary trend.

It is not difficult to imagine the US market accelerating. But, there are also opposing causes. Higher taxes and significant US investment are likely to cause the money to rise, resulting in imports becoming less expensive at the frontier before tariffs are imposed. This may eat away at prices.

The common sector’s claim of massive layoffs may also lessen the strain on the job market. Technology advancement, such as the press for autonomous vehicles, might also have an impact.

Lastly, easing environmental laws in the energy industry and potential serenity with Russia and perhaps even the Middle East could increase energy prices.

Scenario 2: The art of the bargain

Donald Trump’s interpersonal elections are well-known. This translates to being unburdened by the foreign regulations that have guided global industry since the Second World War.

This trend is further heightened by the election of Scott Bessent as treasury secretary. In his thoughts, taxes are a” sanctions resource” in wider political and economic game.

In trade for a wide range of possible concessions, the US good dangles somewhat attractive terms to get its business in a good scenario for potential trade relations with the rest of the world. These might include more options for US investment or exports, as well as a stronger political position and significant US investment.

Nevertheless, supply chains could undergo significant restructuring, with imports from the most effective nations being replaced by less efficient ones. This may lower the US’s trade deficit with China while reducing its trade imbalance with the EU, UK, Mexico, and Canada.

May these agreements been extended to China, and likely China accept them? is a looming question. If not, it is possible to see two economical alliances, one centered on China and the other centered on the US.

Scenario 3: Punishment

In a second – undoubtedly doubtful situation, the Chinese government may recognize US demands to adjust their bilateral deal imbalance in the belief that the moment is not yet right to challenge US supremacy.

Maintaining an export-led development design, building power, breaking into international markets and only sitting out the Trump administration may be China’s best plan. The Chinese authorities would have to consent to larger and more quickly purchased American-made goods and services than the previous arrangement between the Trump and Xi governments.

chess pieces and us and chinese currency
China will have to carefully consider its second step. Pla2na/Shutterstock

But what about the UK and Europe? UK export to the US may face a 20 % tariff, reducing profits and impacting on those British suppliers exporting goods the US buys, like medicine or equipment, for example. The UK will have to decide whether to fight and impose levies on US products. And if so, at what levels?

The UK’s objectives are not in conflict with the US, but what will happen then will depend on the demands the Trump administration makes. In the event that regional trade blocs emerge as a result of various nations ‘ hostile actions, there is already talk about whether the UK should choose the US or the EU.

Although there will be a significant difference, the consequences may be comparable for the EU. The EU as a whole has a similar-sized business to the US and its own business plan. The EU and US are thus strongly motivated to launch retribution and a business battle.

The UK may find it more difficult if the EU decides to proceed in that direction. In this situation, the English may later need to choose a part. It would have to decide between its unique partnership with the US and a more decline in trade with the EU, which is its closest marketplace. Or it would have to choose to become more politically and economically connected to the EU.

Unfortunately, when countries close their borders to business, they are also – apparently mistakenly – readying themselves for fight.

Agelos Delis is senior teacher in finance, Aston University and Sami Bensassi is audience in trade and development finance, University of Birmingham

This content was republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original content.

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