Young Southeast Asians defy challenges with economic optimism (January 15, 2025, South China Morning Post)
An unexpected wave of optimism is rippling through the university halls of Southeast Asia, as a recent survey reveals that the overwhelming majority of students feel confident about their economic futures, despite deep-rooted concerns about corruption, inequality and territorial disputes.
Turning landlocked challenges into opportunities (November 26, 2024, United Nations Development Program)
Turkmenistan is bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Iran and Azerbaijan, and the Caspian Sea. With four neighbouring countries landlocked themselves, and with Iran and Afghanistan facing volatile political dynamics and international sanctions, Turkmenistan’s position presents unique challenges.
How Artificial Intelligence Will Affect Asia’s Economies (January 5, 2025, IMF Blog)
Asia-Pacific’s economies are likely to experience labor market shifts because of artificial intelligence, with advanced economies being affected more. About half of all jobs in the region’s advanced economies are exposed to AI; however, there are also more jobs in the region’s advanced economies that can be complemented by AI. AI may widen inequality, but policymakers can counteract this with more effective social safety nets, reskilling programs, and regulations to promote ethical use of the technology
Is TikTok pushing Taiwan’s young people closer to China? (January 17, 2025, Financial Times)
The students had to choose the best survival strategy for a small country facing a powerful neighbour — prevent war at all costs, or deter through strength? The exam paper mentioned Russia’s assault on Ukraine, but the unspoken parallels with China’s threat to their own country were obvious.
Turkmenistan: The World’s Most Mysterious Country (January 8, 2025, Tripzilla)
Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Turkmenistan feels like it belongs in an alternate universe. From its gleaming marble capital to its bizarre rules and grandiose monuments, Turkmenistan promises an unforgettable journey into the unusual. If you’re someone who loves exploring the offbeat and peculiar, then buckle up because Turkmenistan might just be the adventure you’re looking for.
What is ‘waste colonialism’ and why has Thailand banned imports of plastic? (January 14, 2025, Al Jazeera)
China had taken in nearly half of the world’s plastic waste since 1992 until it imposed an import ban in 2018, shifting the market significantly. Thailand has become the latest country to take on the global plastic waste crisis by banning imports of plastic waste.
Lunar New Year Celebrations Across Asia (January 16, 2025, Hospibuz)
Discover the vibrant traditions and festivities of Lunar New Year celebrations across Asia. Explore cultural insights, events, and unique customs that unite communities.
Bahrain’s top 20 historical landmarks (January 15, 2025, Time Out)
As you’d expect for a country famed for its archaeological sites, ancient traditions and local culture rooted in deep history, there are numerous historical landmarks in Bahrain. But there are many other historical landmarks in Bahrain worth knowing about. Some you will have come across in everyday life; others will need a specific visit to be planned.
Charity reports on secret worship in parts of Ukraine (January 10, 2025, Church Times)
Christians are being forced to worship in secret in parts of Ukraine occupied by Russia, as persecution of those who are not members of the Moscow-affiliated Orthodox Church intensifies
How are Christians persecuted in Qatar? (June 13, 2024, Open Doors UK)
Qatar is increasingly using advanced technology to monitor both citizens and immigrants. Believers from a Muslim background usually keep their faith secret. Anybody suspected of being a Christian, particularly a Qatari or someone from a Muslim-majority country, can face discrimination, harassment and police monitoring.
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Joann Pittman
Joann Pittman is Vice President of Partnership and China Engagement and editor of ZGBriefs. Prior to joining ChinaSource, Joann spent 28 years working in China, as an English teacher, language student, program director, and cross-cultural trainer for organizations and businesses engaged in China. She has also taught Chinese at the University …View Full Bio
Blessing Asia
In October-2022 more than 500 Christian leaders from across Asia gathered in Thailand for the Asia 2022 Congress, sponsored by the Lausanne Movement and various partnering organizations. I had the opportunity to participate in the Congress virtually and was mightily blessed. From Bible exposition to K-pop worship, and through seminars and workshops, the participants were encouraged by the stories of what God is doing in countries all over Asia. Clearly, God is on the move.
A beautiful vision was portrayed in a video of the popular worship song The Blessing, featuring singers from all over Asia. Here it is:
Many of the sessions have already been posted on their website and to their YouTube channel.
One that I found particularly helpful considering all that is going on in China was a presentation titled Church and State Relationship in Asia Today. You can see the video here.
I encourage you to spend some time on their website; there are fantastic resources for understanding God’s work in Asia today.
Original link: https://www.chinasource.org/resource-library/blog-entries/blessing-asia/
Image credit: Andrea Brucker, via Unsplash
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