The origins of the ritual are linked to Hindu folklore, particularly a mythological marriage dispute. Two groups take part in the event. One group, including members from castes such as Golla and Kammara, throws cow dung in the name of Goddess Bhadrakali. The opposing group participates in honour of Lord Veerabhadraswamy.

Participants acknowledge the possibility of injuries but often express little concern, citing traditional beliefs about healing. The festival is traditionally held a day after Ugadi, which marks the first day of the Hindu calendar year.

Organisers officially counted 1,837 participants, falling short of the current record of 1,941 people set in 2017 at Lake Epecuén. Although no Guinness adjudicators were present, the event followed internal counting protocols supported by photographic and audiovisual documentation. Festival organiser Griselda Cuello said the final number may have been higher, noting that some people entered the water without wristbands and could not be counted.

Beyond the record attempt, the festival featured live music , DJ performances and food stalls, drawing locals and tourists alike. Organised by La Escuelita Cultural Space and Public Library with support from the local government, the event highlighted Mar Chiquita as a unique natural attraction and reinforced Miramar de Ansenuza’s growing profile as a destination for community-driven tourism initiatives.

Panama’s Supreme Court ruled that the long-standing concession allowing Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison subsidiary Panama Ports Company (PPC) to operate major terminals at the Balboa and Cristóbal ports near the Panama Canal was unconstitutional, citing irregularities in the contract and legal framework. President José Raúl Mulino said port operations will continue during a transition, with temporary management by another firm and plans for a new concession process. The decision is seen within the broader geopolitical context of US-China competition over control and influence in strategic infrastructure . China criticised the ruling and vowed to protect its companies’ rights, while Panama affirmed uninterrupted service at the canal’s logistics hubs.

Copa Airlines restores ticket sales between the United States and Venezuela

Copa Airlines announced it has resumed ticket sales for flights linking the United States and Venezuela via Panama, following a US government decision to reopen commercial airspace over Venezuela. The move allows passengers to purchase single itineraries such as Caracas–Panama–Miami with through check-in and simplified travel procedures. This restart follows previous suspensions of services to Venezuelan destinations, part of broader shifts in aviation ties in the region. Copa’s restored sales are expected to ease travel for travellers between the Americas and strengthen Panama’s role as a regional hub.

Panama hosts record-breaking International Economic Forum with 70 countries

The Foro Económico Internacional América Latina y el Caribe 2026, organised by CAF and the Government of Panama in Panama City, concluded with historic participation from more than 6,500 leaders, officials and decision-makers from 70 countries, including presidents, prime ministers, investors and Nobel economists. The event featured over 50 high-level panels and more than 400 bilateral meetings that addressed key regional challenges such as economic integration, sustainable development, energy transition and technological innovation. Attendees included the presidents of Panama, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala and Bolivia, as well as the prime minister of Jamaica and Chile’s president-elect. The forum consolidated Panama’s role as a regional hub for economic and policy dialogue, while fostering opportunities for cooperation and investment across Latin America and the Caribbean. Experts highlighted the strategic importance of collective action on globalisation pressures, infrastructure and climate priorities. The high turnout marks one of the largest gatherings of political and business leadership in the region in recent years.

Nuclear energy interest rises amid growing power demand

Officials and experts at a recent international forum highlighted growing regional interest in nuclear energy, including in Panama, as a complement to renewable sources to meet rising electricity demand and ensure energy security. The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that Panama, along with other Latin American countries, is exploring nuclear as a reliable energy option alongside solar and wind. Delegates noted that nuclear could support stable baseload power and help transition to low-emission energy systems as part of long-term planning. Multilateral financial institutions expressed willingness to back nuclear projects to enhance regional energy portfolios.

Rubén Blades to represent Panama at Pirineos Sur 2026 festival

Panamanian cultural icon Rubén Blades has been selected to represent Panama at the Pirineos Sur Festival 2026 in Spain, showcasing the nation’s music and artistic heritage on an international stage. The internationally renowned singer, songwriter and actor will perform as part of the festival’s diverse global lineup, bringing Latin American rhythms and storytelling to European audiences. This honour highlights Panama’s cultural exports and strengthens its visibility in global arts circuits, building cultural diplomacy alongside tourism and creative industry promotion. Event organisers and national arts officials celebrated the selection as a point of pride.

However, what many people do not realise is that Africa has been the historic and modern heartland of frankincense and myrrh production.

The biggest producers of these gems in Africa

Somalia

Somalia is the world’s largest producer of frankincense and is internationally known for high-quality varieties such as Boswellia sacra and Boswellia frereana. Harvested mainly in Puntland and Somaliland, Somali frankincense is still used in church incense, perfumery, and wellness products, especially during the Christmas season. According to Horn Frank , Somalia's frankincense market value is estimated at $504.5 million.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a major producer of both frankincense and myrrh. For centuries, Ethiopian Orthodox churches have burned frankincense during Christmas liturgies, making the resin both a cultural and spiritual staple. Much of the frankincense used in global religious ceremonies originates from Ethiopian dryland forests. Unfortunately, the West's desire for wellness is reported to be impacting Ethiopia's production negatively.

Until roughly two decades ago, frankincense was largely a niche product with demand concentrated in religious institutions. “The demand for frankincense was mostly from churches,” says Frans Bongers , professor of forest ecology and management at Wageningen University in the Netherlands.

That dynamic has shifted dramatically. Today, the ancient resin has entered global commercial markets, driven by growing interest in its purported health benefits and its adoption by the wellness industry, an industry valued at approximately $5.6 trillion annually.

As demand accelerates, supply chains are also changing. “Now big companies are buying up everything they can,” Bongers says. “Anything you can produce, there is a market.”

Kenya

Northern Kenya produces large quantities of myrrh from Commiphora species. Myrrh remains important not only in Christian tradition but also in African traditional medicine and modern cosmetics, with demand rising during festive and religious seasons. For generations, it has played a central role in traditional medicine , where it has been applied to support wound healing, relieve oral sores, ease pain from injuries and broken bones.

Frankincense and myrrh are not relics of the past. They are living products, still harvested by hand, still sustaining rural African livelihoods, and still carrying spiritual meaning thousands of years after the first Christmas.

It is worth remembering that two of the most sacred symbols of Christmas come from Africa’s soil as the world celebrates.

At a press conference held on June 10 in Accra, Houadjeto emphasised that FESTAC Africa 2025, slated for September 21 to 25, would serve as a cultural and economic bridge between Africa and the world.

“This is not just a festival,” she said. “It is a declaration that Africa is ready, not only to tell her own story but to define it.”

Scheduled under the theme “Harnessing Health, Culture, Trade, Climate Change , Gender Equity, and Tourism for Sustainable Economic Growth,” FESTAC Africa 2025 is expected to attract global attention and participation, bringing together artists, creatives, academics, and innovators from across Africa and the diaspora.

Houadjeto explained that cultural fusion is no longer a future concept, but it's happening now. “Intermarriages between the Global North and South are integrating our cultures,” she said. “We use FESTAC to amplify that fusion, from an African perspective,” she told GSW.

“Our fashion is worn everywhere. Our food is becoming global. I’ve seen international organisations and youth all over the world dancing to African music . What else do we need to see that the world is finally paying attention?”

She added that the continent is poised not only to participate but to lead in shaping the world’s cultural future.

"I know that the next shift is going to be Africa. So this is us trying to, you know, prepare our youth, prepare everybody," said Grace Mumo, CEO of FESTAC Africa.

The event will highlight not just the vibrancy of African culture but also its economic power, organisers disclosed.

“FESTAC is the platform where we own our voice,” said Houadjeto. “Our story is deep, and though we carry scars, those scars are strength. The world is finally ready to listen to Africa, and Africa is ready to speak.”

In Saudi Arabia, Eid al-Adha is synonymous with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, where millions gather in Mecca to 'stone the devil'.

Meanwhile, families across countries like Israel , Palestine, and Indonesia began the day with early prayers, followed by the ritual sacrifice of sheep, goats, or cows.

Damascus acknowledged the spirits of the departed loved ones as the gathered at graveyards to offer prayers.

In Iran, families queued at ram houses to follow through with the ritual sacrifice of sheep, goats, or cows.

Despite the destruction caused by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, worshippers gathered amid the rubble, their faith unshaken. In Pakistan, large crowds attended prayers and shared meals with neighbours.

In Mogadishu, Somalia, people came together for prayers and festive family meals, offering children moments of joy even amid security challenges .

While traditions vary from region to region, the day is marked by prayers, the sharing of food, and moments of community reflection.

Here is the rest of the world in pictures:

In downtown Homs, dozens of Syrians previously barred from celebrating the holiday are preparing to rejoice freely for the first time in 14 years.

On the evening of Wednesday, June 4, many Syrians crowded the bustling streets of Homs to shop for clothes, fireworks, and snacks in preparation for the upcoming holy celebrations.

Yasmine Al-Nimr, a mother of two who was previously displaced from the Al-Waer neighbourhood of Homs, told AFP, "This is the first Eid in 14 years that we've come to downtown Homs and strolled around Deblan Street and Hamra Street and the markets. It's the first time we feel like it's Eid in 14 years. We're hearing the Eid call to prayer in the streets; it finally feels like Eid in Homs. We haven't had an Eid since we fled Homs (during the war )." Adding "This is the first time I'm buying (Eid gifts) for my girls, who I brought with me from the liberated north, and I brought them here to Homs to buy them clothes. You wouldn't believe my happiness. You wouldn't believe how happy I am to be shopping for clothes in Homs.”

"Eid is different from last year and the years before. We've lived happy days since the liberation. The markets are different between Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, but even Eid al-Adha is different this year. Eid al-Fitr was nice. So we're hoping that there are good things to come. Happy Eid to everyone," Tamer Al-Sufi, a 59-year-old shop owner in Homs, also added.

Eid al-Adha, one of the two major Islamic festivals alongside Eid al-Fitr, is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijja , the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. The festivities typically continue for the next three days, known as the Days of Tashreeq.

The festival commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.

It will be marked from the evening of Thursday, June 5, to Friday, June 6, this year.

It will begin at the National Stadium and pass major city landmarks including Siam Discovery, Siam Paragon, and Wat Pathum Wanaram, before ending at the busy Ratchaprasong intersection.

Organised by the Thai government , Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), and local partners, the 2025 Bangkok Pride Parade aims to promote acceptance and equality for all.

A key highlight will be the unveiling of a 200-metre rainbow flag, the longest of its kind in Thailand.

“This parade is not just a celebration, it is a public statement that Bangkok stands for equal rights, space, and dignity for everyone,” BMA spokesperson Aekvarunyoo Amrapala was quoted as saying.

Pride Month is celebrated around the world every June, marking the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York, a turning point in the global movement for LGBTQ+ rights.

Bangkok Pride 2025 will feature five sections in the parade, each symbolising themes such as love, creativity, identity, and community.

The BMA said this year's march is particularly meaningful following the enforcement of Thailand’s Marriage Equality Law in January.

In addition to the parade, a three-day Pride Forum will run from May 30 to June 1, offering talks on human rights, health, the environment, and the economy.

The Bangkok Pride Awards will also be held on May 31 to honour those who have supported LGBTQ+ rights.

This year, Pride events will take place in more than 40 provinces across Thailand.

“I think that creating this type of activity, along with what we do at home to keep them calm, is very special for them,” Laura Chacon told the AFP, who attended the concert with her dog. “Especially an event like this, which helps them relax,” she said.

Vargas explained that "all the alpha [dogs] were barking, competing with each other, and as soon as we started with the first chords, the pets started to relax, to stay, some fell asleep, some were literally watching the concert, some came up to the stage and wanted to be there, so it was a nice, nice surprise."

The festival, known for its artistic and cultural showcases, embraced this one-of-a-kind musical experience to promote the well-being of pets through the power of sound.

Guyanese Arian Dahlia Richmond has been crowned Miss Global International 2024 at a pageant held in the Cayman Islands on October 13. Richmond triumphed over 18 contestants by showcasing her confidence and talent, earning multiple accolades including Best Interview, Best National Costume, Best Evening Gown, Best Talent, People’s Choice Award, Best Smile, and Miss Community Service.

Hundreds of students trained with important cybersecurity skills

Guyana’s National Data Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a two-day "Cyber Road Show" on October 16 and 17 in East Berbice-Corentyne. This initiative benefited over 450 students from eight local schools by providing essential cyber hygiene training aimed at enhancing awareness and promoting safe online practices among the youth.

Expansion of cancer screening efforts to include colon cancer

The Guyana Cancer Society (GCS) hosted its annual fundraiser on Saturday, October 19, highlighting the pressing need for cancer detection, particularly for colon cancer. Attended by significant health figures, including Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, the event aimed to raise funds for cancer awareness and early detection initiatives. Since its inception in 2022, the GCS has provided over 600 mammograms and is expanding its services to include colon cancer screenings, offering 10 free screenings this year. Additionally, the GCS is engaging in screenings for prostate cancer and HPV while advocating for a change in public perception regarding cancer. The organisation calls for increased collaboration with both government and private sectors to bolster cancer detection efforts in Guyana.

Programme for Hindu festival Diwali officially launched

Guyana officially launched its 2024 Diwali Programme, "Deep Jale," on Saturday, October 19, featuring an impressive light-up event to celebrate the victory of good over evil. Traffic management measures have been enacted, including road closures and diversions, to ensure the efficient flow of movement. Guyana is recognised for its substantial Hindu population alongside various other religions. The nation celebrates its cultural diversity through various festivities.

Guyana to benefit from climate mitigation initiative

Guyana is set to benefit from the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) initiated by the Inter-American Development Bank, which offers crucial funding and technical support aimed at enhancing weather forecasts and climate services across several Caribbean nations. In response to the ramifications of Hurricane Beryl on the region, SOFF will initially concentrate on vulnerable areas, beginning with Belize, which will receive an $800,000 grant. Other nations participating in this initiative include The Bahamas, Barbados, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, St Kitts-Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago.

In May, an explosion at a chemical factory in Maharashtra killed at least nine people and injured 64 others. More recently, in August, a fire at a pharmaceutical factory in Andhra Pradesh led to 17 deaths and left 34 others injured.

However, for many workers, there is no alternative employment. "There is no other job opportunity in the area," said 49-year-old Rajathi, who earns 800 rupees ($9.50) a day sealing explosives in colourful packaging. Despite her long hours, she hopes her children will not follow in her footsteps.

The factories operate under strict rules. Mobile phones and cigarette lighters are banned inside to reduce the risk of accidental ignition, AFP reports.

"I know there have been accidents in the factories before, but I need to work to eat," explained 29-year-old Sivaraj, a new recruit to the job.

Diwali , celebrated over five days, marks the darkest night of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik. This year, it falls on October 31, when homes will be lit with oil lamps and firecrackers will illuminate the sky. However, a growing awareness of the health risks associated with fireworks is leading to tighter restrictions.

On October 14, the Delhi government imposed a complete ban on the manufacturing, sale, storage, and use of all firecrackers until January 1, 2025. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) announced the ban as part of efforts to curb the severe air pollution that typically worsens around Diwali, particularly in the winter months.

Despite such bans, the use of firecrackers remains widespread during the celebrations. Enforcement has been inconsistent in the past, and many continue to flout the restrictions in the name of tradition.

Since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Hindu population has faced a series of targeted attacks in the Muslim-majority country.

However, Hindu devotees, amid the spate of attacks stepped out in large numbers on the culmination of the festival.

"We no longer feel any fear. Whatever concerns we had are now gone. There is nothing left to fear," said Kumar Mondal, a 50-year-old devotee, reflecting a sentiment of cautious relief among the celebrants.

For some, like 29-year-old music teacher Mitu Ghosh, initial fears remained. "We were celebrating the Puja with some apprehension, wondering what might happen at any moment. However, things are going well now. While there have been some incidents of vandalism that make us a bit sad, we are still celebrating the Puja," she said.

Jibon Chandra Pal, a 55-year-old Bangladeshi expatriate, shared a similar sentiment. "There was an incident in the Tanti Bazar neighbourhood in Dhaka on Friday, but it was a mugging, nothing too serious. The way we are celebrating now is what matters most," he said, noting that the anticipated violence did not occur.

Hindus make up approximately 8% of Bangladesh's 170 million population, translating to around 13 million people, making Hinduism the second-largest religion in the country after Islam.

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate, has been criticised for not doing enough to protect the Hindu minority. Reports suggest that hardline Islamist groups have gained increasing political influence and visibility since the fall of Hasina, raising concerns about the safety of the Hindu community.

Ethiopians have celebrated the annual Meskel festival to commemorate the discovery of the "True Cross" by Saint Helena in 326 AD. Celebrated on September 27, the festivities, held at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, attracted thousands of Orthodox believers. The festival is tied to a legend that a fragment of the True Cross has been preserved in Ethiopia since the 14th century at Gishen Debre Kerbe Mariam Monastery. Although Meskel symbolises interfaith unity and the change of seasons, tensions between religious groups have increased in recent years. The celebration is also influenced by Ethiopia's political climate and has shifted focus from military presence to tourism since being recognised as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013. Pilgrims also journey yearly to Gishen Debre Kerbe Mariam Monastery, underscoring the festival’s significance in Ethiopian culture, La Croix International reports.

IMF support

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a preliminary agreement to provide Ethiopia with a $3.4 billion extended credit facility over four years. Upon official approval, Ethiopia will receive an initial disbursement of approximately $345 million. This financial support aims to assist Ethiopia in implementing its economic reform program, which includes a market-based foreign exchange rate system initiated in July 2022. According to APA News , the IMF highlights that these reforms are contributing to macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth in the country.

Economic issues

Chinese investors, who have contributed approximately $5 billion to Ethiopia's economy through over 2,000 projects, are increasingly relocating to neighbouring countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania due to various challenges in Ethiopia. Capital Ethiopia reports that concerns have been raised by both the Chinese Embassy and local officials regarding the impact of this trend on Ethiopia's economic development, as Chinese enterprises have created around 610,000 jobs in the country. Key issues driving this shift include a security crisis, hard-currency shortages, and bureaucratic hurdles, particularly with the customs bureau.

Berlin Marathon

Ethiopian athletes dominated the Berlin Marathon, with Milkeza Mengesha winning the men's race in a personal best of 2:03:17, narrowly defeating Kenyan Sibrian Kotut. In the women's race, Tigist Ketema also emerged victorious, finishing in 2:16:42, which is the third-best marathon time in history. The women's podium was entirely Ethiopian, as Ketema surpassed competitors Mestawet Fikir and Bosenah Mulat by over two minutes. Notably, the marathon occurred just a month after the Olympic Games in Paris, leading some prominent athletes to skip the event, according to Daily Sports .

Recognition of educational programmes

Ethiopia is poised to officially recognise educational programmes for the first time, following two years of efforts by the Education Training Authority to establish accreditation procedures. This recognition allows institutions to operate under a quality assurance framework and encourages universities to seek program accreditation, Capital Ethiopia reports. Re-registration of educational institutions will occur in the first six months of the 2024/25 fiscal year. The initiative aims to enhance the quality and credibility of Ethiopian education, ultimately improving its appeal to students and fostering development. This represents a pivotal advancement in Ethiopia's education sector, facilitating alignment with local and global standards.

The vibrant fabric of Zambia's cultural landscape was prominently displayed during the 2024 National Arts Festival in Lusaka. Organised meticulously by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art and the Zambia National Arts Council, this festival served as a nexus for artistic expression, bringing together artists from various backgrounds. The News Diggers reports that through a series of captivating performances and fashion shows, this event underscored the emotional resonance of art while fostering a communal spirit, culminating in a celebration of creativity that reaffirmed the vital role of art in mirroring the nation's socio-cultural essence.

Google to build an AI centre

In a significant technological advancement, Google has announced the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence at the University of Zambia. This initiative comes after a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science. As articulated by Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati, this AI centre marks a pioneering effort as the first of its kind in Southern Africa, strategically situated at the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN). As reported by TechAfrica News , the primary objective of this centre is to empower young innovators, equipping them with the necessary tools to devise solutions for local challenges. Furthermore, ZAMREN's noteworthy achievement of connecting 150 institutions to high-speed internet is instrumental in broadening student access, thereby fostering an environment conducive to innovation.

Tanzania-Zambia Railway to be rejuvenated

The regional cooperation between China, Tanzania, and Zambia is set to rejuvenate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), which was initially established in the 1970s to enhance Zambia’s accessibility. This collaborative agreement, formalised during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, signals a public-private partnership aimed at the rehabilitation of this critical transport artery. According to Globely News , the revival of TAZARA is especially pertinent given Zambia's current financial challenges, as this renewed focus by China is also an effort to counterbalance the strategic movements surrounding the U.S.-backed Lobito Corridor project which connects Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic port. Concurrently, Tanzania is undertaking its railway network expansion, with aspirations to position Dar es Salaam as a pivotal trade hub in the region.

Huawei donates telecom towers

Huawei has donated equipment for 25 communication towers to enhance national communication services. The donation, including wireless and transmission technology power systems, was formalized during President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to China in September 2023 and solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science in June 2024. Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati announced that Zamtel will oversee the construction of these towers in remote areas with limited phone service access, as reported by Telecompaper .

De-dollarisation strategy in progress

Zambia's central bank is actively engaging in a de-dollarisation strategy to mitigate the depreciation of the kwacha, which has faced a staggering 22% decline against the dollar over the past year. Governor Denny Kalyalya disclosed that this initiative, first announced in June, is designed to curtail the use of foreign currency in local transactions, thereby augmenting the effectiveness of monetary policy. Bitcoinnews.com reports this plan, however, has encountered criticism as Zambia grapples with the challenges of recovering from a debt default coupled with an extensive power crisis that restricts electricity supply to households. Despite the limited usage of foreign currency in everyday transactions, certain sectors, notably real estate and automotive sales, continue to engage in dollar-based pricing. The central bank remains in consultation with various stakeholders, and a timeline for the implementation of this de-dollarisation strategy has yet to be established.

As part of the festival, palm-sized fireballs are made from rags drenched in gasoline. These fireballs are thrown by two teams made up of locals in what is termed a ‘battle’.

Locals who participate in the battle paint their faces and wear masks for the festival which is celebrated at the end of August each year.

“We play the game of fireballs here, it is a tradition in which we remember the eruption of the volcano. Our ancestors 102 years ago began to remember that eruption in which they had to flee from Nixapa where the settlements prior to Nejapa were, and we remember the life of these people, we remember what they lived, We remember life and what it is to move forward in the face of adversity. That's the main way we celebrate,” a local participant said.

The event saw locals parading on beds and lounging in their pyjamas as they participated in various cultural activities. “The day of laziness has always been a meeting place for families," said Pilar Corredales, Cultural Manager of Itagüi. "In the morning, there are activities for young people and children. It’s not just leisure for leisure’s sake; it’s about enjoying time with family and appreciating art and culture. That’s what it represents—family togetherness,” she told AFP.

For many participants, dressing in pyjamas was a key part of the fun. Melany Ramos, a nurse, joined in on this year’s celebration. "I was struck by the idea of coming in pyjamas, so I came as relaxed as possible with my friends," Ramos shared. "It caught my attention that everyone was doing their own thing. People came here to enjoy themselves, have a great time, and as the name says, be lazy."

The World Day of Laziness highlights the value of taking a break and spending quality time with loved ones bringing families together in a lighthearted environment, according to council member Luzangela Salazar.

"Participating in the day of laziness is the best because we see families and groups coming out with their pets, taking pictures, and simply having fun. Laziness, for us, is a day to relax and enjoy," she said.

A recent survey by Suan Dusit University shows that 71.22% of participants regard the Thai language as a key national symbol. According to Asean Now , the results of this survey reveal the significant national pride in the language. The survey was conducted in line with National Thai Language Day 2024.

Tiger population

In Thailand's Western Forest Complex, tiger numbers have increased by 250% over the past 15 years. This success is attributed to strong law enforcement and monitoring efforts, resulting in a significant recovery of tiger and prey populations. This positive outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of long-term conservation interventions, Newswise reported. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) played a key role in the monitoring and conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of robust monitoring systems in conservation interventions. This success story provides hope for the future of tiger populations.

Apple advert

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has thanked Apple for filming their latest ad in Thailand, believing it will boost the country's global appeal and tourism. However, the ad, the fifth in Apple's "Underdogs" series titled "OOO (Out of Office)," has faced backlash from Thai internet users who claim it portrays Thailand unfavourably. Critics argue that the ad's use of a sepia filter and depictions of outdated scenes, such as rundown airports and crowded buses, present an inaccurate and outdated view of the country, Asean Now reported. The controversy led Apple to disable comments on the ad's YouTube page, which had garnered 5.1 million views by July 28th.

Request for armed drones

The Thai Army released a white paper requesting armed drones, attack helicopters, tanks, and other equipment to defend against various threats. According to Phuket News , the army chief distributed the paper to inform the public of the army's development plans and potential challenges until 2027.

EDC Thailand

EDC Thailand will debut in 2025 at Phuket's Boat Avenue Lakefront. The festival has not announced its lineup yet, but tickets are available on the EDC Thailand website and social media channels. EDC has been held in various countries and its flagship Las Vegas festival was voted the No. 2 festival in the world, Dj Mag reported. Earlier this year, clubs in several Thai cities were granted a curfew extension until 4 AM. There were reports that Tomorrowland would host its debut festival in Thailand in 2026, but this was later denied by the festival.

It is a collage of over 125 ethnic groups speaking 123 languages, with Nepali as the official language. Hinduism predominates, with Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity also practised.

The country is dotted with natural wonders like Tilicho Lake, the world's highest lake at 4,919 metres, and is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the ancient city of Bhaktapur and the birthplace of Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, born in 563 BCE. The Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan National Park are also among its prized locations.

Cultural vibrancy is evident in Nepal's calendar as it is filled with over 50 festivals annually, including Tihar, Holi, and Dashain. Its cuisine is a delightful blend of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan influences, featuring staples like dal bhat, momos, and sel roti.

Nepal's wealth of natural resources, including water, hydropower, and minerals, has been a cornerstone of its development. Despite challenges, the nation has seen substantial progress, with a growing GDP and enhanced access to education and healthcare.

The Asian Development Bank forecasts a 3.6% growth in Nepal's economy at market prices for the fiscal year 2024, an uptick from the 1.9% growth estimated for FY2023.

Nepal's storied past dates back to the 4th century BC, reaching a significant milestone in 1768 with the unification under Prithvi Narayan Shah. The Shah dynasty's rule concluded in 2008 with the monarchy's dissolution. Presently, Nepal operates as a federal parliamentary republic, with a president serving as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government.

US Army soldier Korbein Schultz has been arrested on charges of selling sensitive military information, including documents detailing potential US actions regarding Taiwan. Schultz, an intelligence analyst, was also accused of conspiring to obtain and disclose military defence information and bribery of a public official. The 24-year-old was arrested at Fort Campbell, Tennessee, shortly after the indictment was released. “The men and women of the United States Armed Forces dedicate their lives to maintain our national security… Our laws protecting national defence information are critical to that mission and they must be enforced. Illegal dissemination of national defence information puts our country, our fellow citizens, members of our military and our allies at risk,” said US Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee Henry Leventis.

Rise of exports

Taiwan's exports increased by 1.3% in February, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth. The total reached US$31.43 billion, with The Taiwan Ministry of Finance citing AI as the main reason for the surge. However, electronic parts and machine tools exports declined, and metals, plastics, and chemical products experienced contractions. Despite the Lunar New Year holidays, imports fell 17.8%, leaving Taiwan with a positive trade balance of US$7.89 billion, Taiwan News reported.

Review of Indian workers MOU Labour rights advocacy groups in Taiwan on March 9 called for a substantive review of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Taipei and New Delhi on making India a source of migrant workers in Taiwan. The MOU, which could potentially recruit up to 100,000 Indian workers, has been met with backlash after Bloomberg reported in 2023 that it could recruit up to 100,000 workers, Focus Taiwan reports. The Taiwan International Workers' Association member Hsu Wei-tung called for the MOU to be subject to a substantive review, similar to economic treaties between Taiwan and other countries. According to Hsu, some lawmakers have called for a government-to-government (G2G) model for the recruitment of Indian workers, arguing that this could help Taiwan establish a G2G recruitment system and renounce the labour brokerage system. Taiwan's Labor Ministry plans to clarify its recruitment channels, including a G2G model, regarding Indian workers during future meetings with the Indian government, Focus Taiwan reported.

Food safety investigation

Taiwan's Control Yuan is investigating the country's food safety mechanism to protect public health following the discovery of toxic dyes in chilli powders. According to three Control Yuan members, the investigation will focus on the Asian nation’s existing inspection system and preventive measures to address public concerns. The government authority is looking into the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation's shortcomings and seeing whether any changes can be made, Focus Taiwan reports. The chilli powder case in the country led to the recall of several food products and temporary bans on chilli and curry powder in school lunches.  As of March 7, 127,089.2 kg of chilli powder and related goods have been taken off the shelves, according to Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration.

Taiwan Lantern Festival

The 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival has reached its peak crowds, with over 15 million total visitors. Along with an increase in visitors and 230 additional trains, the festival, which started on February 4, has also resulted in the establishment of a control centre and emergency response team at some Taiwan Railway offices to facilitate the movement of people and offer on-site support if needed, local media Liberty Times reports. The annual event hosted by the Tourism Bureau in Taiwan includes a Pokémon GO City Safari event area, with many Pokémon players entering the area at noon.

Out of a total of 341 dishes submitted, 28 dishes were disqualified for not meeting the Guinness requirements, according to official Guinness adjudicator Sonia Ushirogochi.

“As you know the minimum is 300. Today, we have 341 dishes that were submitted. However, we have some disqualifications, some of the dishes do not meet the guidelines. We have 28 dishes that do not meet the guidelines, so with a total of 313, we have a new Guinness World Record for most varieties of pork dishes on display,” Ushirogochi is quoted by the Philippine Star .

She presented the Guinness World Record certificate to the members of NatFed and also noted that each dish should weigh at least 3 kilos.

NatFed Chairman Chester Warren Tan also said that the Hog Festival will contribute to an increase in tourism by showcasing the nation's culinary heritage of providing pork dishes adding that the record will also encourage local hog farmers to expand hog production to increase the country's per capita consumption of pork, the Manila Times reported.

He added that NatFed wants to increase the per capita consumption of pork in the Southeast Asian country from 16 kg to 17 kg.

The Guinness record, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., will help raise awareness of African swine flu (ASF), which has affected the local hog population.

Pig production in the Philippines fell from a record high of 12.8 million in 2020 to 9.94 million in 2021 and 9.43 million in 2022, with small farmers most affected, Manila Times reports.

The festival is associated with the sun's rays and is marked on the 15 th of the Nepali month of Poush which is the 9 th month of both the Bengali calendar and the Nepali calendar.

The day is celebrated as a holiday with various events including rituals, dances, and cultural displays.

Participants gathered at the Tundikhel, a park in the centre of Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu to mark the event with colourful processions on December 31, 2023.

Sunday’s event is the festival's climax, which includes the cleansing of homes, prayers, visits, and family feasts.

Traditional attire donned by the crowd makes the festival even more enthralling.

According to local media outlet The Himalayan , Congress President and former Prime Minister, Sher Bahadur Deuba emphasized the importance of the occasion, to maintaining the culture of the people.

He also wished residents of the Tamu community good health, long life, and continued progress.

Here are some pictures below captured by Reuters