CNA Correspondent

Indonesia's declining birth rate and growing economy are just some reasons why more people are looking to own pets. But when these furry companions fall ill, finding medical treatment can be a challenge. Mobile vets are soon being launched in the capital to deal with the shortfall. Correspondent Nivell Raya tells Teresa Tang what impact the service could have on public health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this insightful discussion, Saksith Saiyasombut, a Bangkok correspondent for CNA, examines the seismic shifts in Thai politics following Thaksin Shinawatra's one-year jail sentence. He delves into the emotional court scenes that contrasted Thaksin's calmness with his daughter's distress. The conversation highlights Thaksin's complex legacy, the uncertain political landscape, and the implications of a new interim government amid growing instability. Can Thailand find political stability again, or are more upheavals on the horizon?

Eighty years after the end of World War II, China commemorated the day with a grand military parade, right after hosting a high-profile regional gathering, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. With leaders from Russia, North Korea and two dozen other nations in attendance, the parade showcased China’s growing military prowess. Genevieve Woo speaks to China correspondents Olivia Siong and Tan Si Hui to decode what’s behind the pomp and pageantry of the mega-event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Japan retreated from occupied lands after its surrender in World War II, a large group of Japanese citizens was painfully repatriated to a land they didn’t identify as home. They are the wansei, those who were born in Taiwan during the 50 years of colonisation. Genevieve Woo speaks to Michiyo Ishida and Victoria Jen about their quest to meet the surviving wansei and others whose lives were changed during this period of history. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One BTS concert has the power to inject hundreds of millions of dollars into the South Korean economy. It's that star power that businesses are banking on as the K-pop sensation regroups after a military service hiatus. Teresa Tang speaks to Lim Yun Suk about the economic potential of the band's return. Credit: TikTok/@Marilynbooth786See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deborah Wong, CNA's correspondent based in Shenzhen, dives into the complex dynamics of China's Greater Bay Area, a booming economic hub of over 87 million people. She discusses the region's vital role in the country's growth strategy while also highlighting the struggles faced by places like Hengtin Island, where economic development lags. Wong also explores the impact of rising educational demand in Hong Kong on housing markets and Macau's evolving identity as it seeks to diversify away from gaming, painting a vivid picture of the area's future.

Deborah Elms, a trade expert at the Heinrich Foundation, and Leong Wai Kit, a speaker specializing in U.S.-ASEAN relations, dive into the complexities of global trade under U.S. tariffs. They explore why countries still engage with the U.S. despite high levies, drawing parallels to historical trade policies like the Smoot-Hawley Act. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by businesses amidst inflation and uncertainty, as well as strategies ASEAN countries are adopting for economic integration in this shifting trade landscape.

Amid a ceasefire agreement, those living along the Thai-Cambodian border are expressing cautious optimism on whether peace will last. Teresa Tang speaks to CNA correspondents Jack Board and Leong Wai Kit as they cover developments on the ground.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's landfills will be full by 2050. Officials are weighing their options as advocates push for better compost and recycling systems in the country. CNA correspondent Rashvin Bedi digs into the problem with Teresa Tang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thailand and Cambodia have a long-standing agreement to resolve border issues bilaterally. But on Jul 24, simmering tensions boiled over when troops on both sides exchanged fire, with reports of several civilian casualties. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called on the United Nations Security Council to intervene. But who will lay down arms first to begin a diplomatic solution? Genevieve Woo speaks with CNA correspondent Saksith Saiyasombut on this special episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.