Showing 51 - 60 of 85
Tackling the hunger challenge
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 20/07/2020
» The economic and health impacts of the extended Covid-19 outbreak are most worrisome for communities in countries across Asia. Lockdowns and economic recession are expected to lead to a major loss of income among the working poor and low-income families.
Trading up
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 06/07/2020
» The Covid-19 pandemic has set off a wave of destruction in the global economy and it could be years before full health is restored. Global merchandise trade could fall by as much as 32% this year under the worst-case scenario outlined by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in April.
Make the recovery green
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 29/06/2020
» Southeast Asia has been relatively successful compared to other regions in handling the spread of Covid-19, with Vietnam a world leader. Despite a long border with China and a population of 97 million, Vietnam has recorded just 352 infections and not a single death, thanks to aggressive, targeted testing and a centralised quarantine system.
Far too early for normal
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 11/05/2020
» As a regular user of public transport, I have to admit feeling uncomfortable getting on a slightly crowded public bus in the evening when leaving work. But seeing much larger crowds trying to barge into the subway convinced me that there's no other choice for me to get home.
Covid-19 fight needs clarity
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 30/03/2020
» The number of Covid-19 cases doesn't seem to slowing down anywhere except for China where the new coronavirus originated. But while the domestic outbreak seems to have been brought under control, imported cases had soared to 595 as of Friday, raising fears of a second wave and prompting Beijing to bar all foreign travellers.
Winning the war on plastic
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 13/01/2020
» Asia is picking up the pace in tackling the plastic crisis. In Bangladesh, the High Court last Monday ordered the government to ban single-use plastics in coastal areas and in hotels and restaurants in one year. It also ordered the government to strictly enforce the ban on polyethylene -- the main ingredient in many plastic bags -- under the existing law.
New Zealand draws nearer
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 21/10/2019
» New Zealand is making a major effort to forge closer ties with Asean and the rest Asia, pinning its hopes on a conclusion to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), as world trade is being disrupted by US-China tensions, the country's trade minister says.
Ride-hailing needs practical rules
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 07/10/2019
» I do not own a car. In fact, I don't even drive, so I rely totally on public transport -- buses, taxis, motorcycle taxis (if needed) and mass-transit trains -- to commute around Bangkok. I rarely use ride-hailing apps, although many of my friends find the service more convenient than regular taxis and they like the promotions.
Sunny outlook
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 23/09/2019
» The recent inauguration of a 420-megawatt solar power facility -- the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia -- has underscored Vietnam's renewable energy potential and is attracting more investment from abroad into the sector.
Place a bet on gambling reform
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 26/08/2019
» Last week we saw some interesting developments in the gambling industries of two Southeast Asian nations that have become increasingly allied with China. While I am personally opposed to gambling and casinos, I respect the right of a country to allow them if it feels they will help the economy. But it's an industry that must be managed well in order to avoid negative effects.