Showing 1 - 10 of 49
Funding the future
Asia focus, Nareerat Wiriyapong, Published on 18/07/2022
» Makhtar Diop is energetic, always eager to learn new things, and a humble leader. Since becoming managing director of the International Finance Corp (IFC) in March last year, the Senegalese economist has been actively exploring potential areas where the World Bank affiliate could expand as a financial backer, including the health sector, with a focus on Africa.
Year of Turbulence
Asia focus, Asia Focus Team, Published on 27/12/2021
» Pandemic drags on recovery: In the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, many Asian countries had enviable success, avoiding large-scale outbreaks and mass deaths. But the arrival of the more transmissible Delta variant this year and sluggish vaccine rollouts compounded by low availability sent cases surging. Combined with poor monitoring and easy movement among countries, often unofficially, Southeast Asia became a virus hotspot. The ballooning health crisis collided with churning political discontent in the case of Myanmar, Thailand and Malaysia. Economically, the new wave of infections, and attendant restrictions imposed to curb the spread, stalled recoveries. After nearly two years of strict border controls, many countries started to loosen up and live with Covid. But the rise of the Omicron variant now threatens to scuttle those tentative reopening plans and usher in a third year of economic anxiety.
Born to ride
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 20/12/2021
» One side of the room where I met Vimal Sumbly offered floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Bangkok's skyline, but it was what was on the opposite side that perfectly captured the adventurous spirit of the man who heads the Asia-Pacific business of the India-based motorcycle manufacturer Royal Enfield.
On the go again?
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 25/10/2021
» Winter is coming to the northern hemisphere, and people in North America and Europe normally flock to places that offer them a warm-weather break. It's the high season for tourism in many Asian countries, but one that will only happen in a world without Covid-19.
Care with passion
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 18/10/2021
» There is sometimes a moment in life that changes you forever. It can sometimes define the course of your life. Not many have experienced that lightbulb realisation, but Sigal Atzmon has.
Next in healthcare
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 06/09/2021
» Most Southeast Asian nations were praised last year for their swift response to Covid-19, but now they're scrambling to curb a more infectious Delta variant that is surging across the world.
Book a date
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 07/06/2021
» With a degree in English literature under his belt, John Brown never expected to become a businessman, let alone the CEO of one of the largest travel booking platforms in Asia, Agoda.
Vietnam reimagines tourism
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 10/05/2021
» Rich in history, vibrant in culture and cuisine, with striking landscapes from mountains in the North to beaches along the coast, Vietnam has become one of the favourite destinations in Southeast Asia.
Riding the dragon
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 19/04/2021
» The growing economic and political influence of China has challenged the powerful nations of the West, particularly the United States, to respond in new ways.
Powering connectivity
Asia focus, Pattama Kuentak, Published on 22/03/2021
» Moving to Southeast Asia in the middle of a global pandemic wasn't an easy decision. But you'll hear nothing but enthusiasm from Alper Turken, a Turkey-born and now Singapore-based technology executive, in keeping with his curiosity and eagerness to explore new things.