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An in-depth portrait of Asia today, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization.
2013
In this episode of Asia Insight we investigate the viscous circle of gun violence in the Philippines
In Bhutan, there is a traditional belief, which stems from Tibetan Buddhism, that people with disabilities are suffering karmic retribution from past lives. Although attitudes are slowly changing there is still a lot of stigma attached, with many parents going as far as hiding their disabled children away at home.
This episode of Asia Insight follows a social business that has been trying to improve the lives of Chinese farmers for the past 20 years
With more than 70% of young South Koreans going on to further education, the country is facing a chronic shortage of manual workers in its medium and small sized factories. Seeking to resolve this problem, 10 years ago, the government instigated the Employment Permit System whereby it has opened its doors to foreign workers. Although South Korea has achieved much international acclaim for this policy, there may be negative consequences for some of the country's domestic workers.
Indonesia has the largest Muslim population of any country, but for many years, many schools of Islam have stigmatized Indonesia's transgender people, known as Waria. However, in recent years, Waria have started asserting their rights, and some religious leaders are now showing increasing acceptance. We report from Indonesia where Waria are demanding greater participation in the community, and look at how society itself is gradually becoming more tolerant.
In Kyrgyzstan, a small country in Central Asia, the institution of marriage is troubled by the serious social problem of "bride kidnapping". Women are abducted and forced to marry men they have never met. A traditional practice of Kyrgyzstan's formerly nomadic people, during the Soviet years and since independence the custom has taken on a criminal character. It leaves deep scars in its victims, and 2012 saw a series of kidnapping-related suicides.
A succession of population policies - first encouraging childbirth and then enforcing one-child families - has brought on one of China's most pressing problems, its ever growing aging population. Adequate laws, support systems and care centers have yet to be developed and the country is facing a major crisis. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts of private enterprises and caring individuals who are trying to give the senior citizens of China the support and respect they need.
Cambodia is going through a dramatic transformation, with its GDP jumping three-fold over the past 10 years, thanks to heavy foreign investment. Prolonged internal conflict in the 1970's however, saw thousands of innocent lives perish and created deep scars for this ancient empire. Now, a new generation is finally emerging, who aim to make Cambodia a proud nation once again. This episode of Asia Insight follows the dreams and hopes of 4 young Cambodians who are active in the fields of politics, economics and culture.
2012
An in-depth portrait of Asia today, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization
2016
In 2013, one of the most powerful storms ever recorded struck the Philippines, killing more than 6,000 people and destroying some 1 million homes. Typhoon Haiyan was soon followed by a social scourge; human traffickers moved in to the affected areas to prey on disaster victims. A government task force is combating the traffickers, who are using ever more cunning methods. We go to the front lines to investigate the new menace facing typhoon-hit areas.
2014
Air pollution in Mongolia's capital, Ulan Bator, is among the world's worst. A thick haze often envelops the city, reducing visibility to just 20 meters. The main problem is smoke from coal-burning stoves. The number of such stoves has increased as more migrants move to the city in search of work. City officials are now trying to tackle the problem by convincing people to replace their old stoves. In this episode, we look at the battle to bring clear skies back to Ulan Bator.
As most parts of Shanghai become more modernized, one district retains its pre-war landscape. TianZi Fang, which used to be a French settlement before World War II, maintains an international feel. Its old-fashioned narrow alleyways are filled with shops and restaurants owned by foreigners, making the districta popular tourist spot that attracts 3 million visitors a year. This cultural melting pot has seen some friction between multinationals who run the stores on the ground floors and local Chinese residents living on the second and third floors of those buildings. This episode ofAsia Insight follows the localChinese residents and the foreign community.
500-year-old Vietnamese Nha Nhac court music was recently recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and is undergoing a revival. Including Nha Nhac, there are currently 12 World Cultural Heritage Sites and Intangible Cultural Heritages recognized by UNESCO. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the efforts of the Vietnamese people as they passionately strive to revive their heritage and culture.
When Hong Kong was returned to mainland China from the U.K. in 1997, it was promised 50 years of autonomy and different political, judicial and economic systems than mainland China. This gave freedom of speech to mainland writers as well because they could publish banned material in Hong Kong. But as the Chinese economy grows, and gains stronger ties with Hong Kong, writers publishing in Hong Kong have been receiving various forms of pressure. Some writers have even been detained after their works have been published. Others have had emails checked and phone calls bugged. This episode of Asia Insight followed many Hong Kong and mainland-based writers and publishers fighting to protect their freedom in a changing region.
More and more people from rural areas are moving to the slum district of Mongolia's capital, in search of a better life. Migrant children are often forced to give up school and work collecting garbage to support their families. This episode of Asia Insight depicts their lives and the dedication of a former slum dweller who is now helping to get them back to school.
A new group of writers is capturing the hearts of young readers these days. The so-called "80's writers" are those born in the 1980s. These writers and their readers have a different perspective on their country compared with older generations because they were born after the enforcement of the one-child policy and amid China's rapid economic growth. As the rest of the nation looks down on their literature as mere pop culture, these writers depict the realities and feelings of their generation. This episode of Asia Insight followed several prominent "80's writers" and their readers.
About one third of population of Indonesia lacks access to electricity, especially in rural areas. A social entrepreneur has started cooperative projects that involve residents in building and managing their own small-scale hydropower plants. The projects have raised living standards, enabled villagers to launch new businesses and given them a much-needed route out of poverty.
Nepal is developing the use of alternative energy sources such as biogas and solar power due to a chronic electricity shortage that has plagued the nation. The government has instigated a long-term comprehensive solution to exploit the rich water resources from the surrounding Himalayas and has plans to become a major energy supplier in the future. This episode follows the efforts of the energy-hungry Nepalese as they search for ways to power their lives.
The number of college graduates has been increasing steadily in China. But the nation known as "the world's factory" needs manual laborers. Managers are needed only a handful. This is making it extremely difficult for college graduates to find their dream job. To help these fresh grads, one apartment complex in Zhejiang Province, allows young job seekers to stay at low cost and offers career advice. This episode of Asia Insight follows the job-hunting efforts of several tenants staying at this so-called "job-hunting inn" as they deal with challenges of a tough job environment in China today.
2012 is the year of the dragon. This is triggering a baby boom in China. More than 17 million babies are expected to be born this year, an increase of 1 million compared to last year. Would-be parents believe that giving birth during this auspicious period will bring good fortune and happiness to them and their babies. Businesses are taking advantage by offering unique events and services such as live-in nannies who are considered an essential part of the baby's first month of development. This episode of Asia Insight follows the lives of several couples in the midst of the year of the dragon baby boom.
Dance has always been an integral part of Philippine culture and Filipinos love to dance. Now it is being used as a way to rehabilitate inmates serving time in prison. Being part of a dance troupe gives inmates a sense of belonging and accomplishment with authorities reporting that regular dance sessions contribute to their better physical and mental health and also improves discipline. With special permission to film inside these prison communities we focus on this unique rehabilitation program through the lives of several current and former inmates.
In Guangzhou, a group of university students have formed a choir and are singing about their discontent with society. But what would normally be considered a mild form of protest in most countries could be a radical social movement in China. Following pressure after their first performance last year students are divided on whether to be more assertive or milder in the tone of their lyrics for their next show. In this episode of Asia Insight we focus on the Guangzhou Complaints Choir as they prepare for their second ever performance, ending with them boldly attempting to raise awareness by singing out in the streets of Guangzhou.
South East Asia's Golden Triangle used to be notoriously known as the world's largest opium producing region. For some time now authorities have been trying to halt the cultivation and trade of this deadly narcotic. The Thai royal family went as far as taking the initiative to start a program to provide technical support and financial incentives to encourage farmers to switch from opium to coffee growing. But although such bold steps are admirable, the trafficking of illicit substances continues. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the ongoing battle against drugs and the changes taking place across the region.
Some 80% of students now go on to college in South Korea, but many graduates are struggling to land jobs. To alleviate the problem, the government is implementing programs to help budding entrepreneurs. Some universities have even started offering courses related to launching new businesses. This episode of Asia Insight follows several young entrepreneurs as they strive to realize their dreams.
The free market economy continues to grow vigorously in China but at the cost of traditional values. In cities, residents feel a sense of indifference to each other as greed and materialism takes over. In a bid to revive ethical behavior and promote good deeds, a new movement called the Good Deeds Banks has emerged. The bank allows members to save up good deeds as if they were deposits with the points they accumulate entitling them to various discounts and services. This episode of Asia Insight follows a Good Deeds Banks founder and its members.
Thailand is increasingly accepting into society transgender women or "ladyboys" as they are commonly known around the country. One school has created separate washrooms for transgender students because nearly 20% of its male population is considered "third gender." In northeastern Thailand a transgender entrepreneur was recently elected as a local council member. In a bold, historic move, a Thai airline company became the first to hire transgender flight attendants. In this episode of Asia Insight we follow several transgender women as they remain true to their identities and strive to affirm their role in Thai society.
In the Greater Mekong Subregion, the bordering countries of China, Thailand, Laos Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar are working hard to stimulate and increase trade. Asia Insight will devote three episodes to measures implemented by nations as they battle for economic control. The first episode focuses on China and its efforts to build infrastructure, develop a massive trade center, and train entrepreneurs. We also highlight the growing trade between China and Myanmar and the lives of local workers endeavoring to realize their hopes and aspirations.
In the Greater Mekong Subregion, the bordering countries of China, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar are working hard to stimulate and increase trade. Asia Insight will devote three episodes to measures implemented by nations as they battle for economic control. This second episode focuses on Laos, a lowly populated, agricultural nation landlocked by five other countries. We look at how the country is going through a rapid transformation as it becomes more developed with increasing foreign investment and government initiatives.
In this program in the Greater Mekong Subregion series, we focus on the economic strategies of Cambodia. We highlight the country's endeavors to develop infrastructure and construct special economic zones as it attempts to make the transition from its recent dark history into a bright new era.
These days, more and more Korean kids are setting their sights on becoming pro golfers. There are now over 3000 young golfers, from elementary school to high school students-double the number of just ten years ago. In this episode, we tell Kim Hyo-joo's story: how her devoted father helped her achieve her dreams, and reveal the hard training she is undergoing now as she prepares to turn pro.
Traveling handymen, who live and work from their vans, travel from town to town to fix leaking roofs and ceilings when called upon. This used to be a common profession in China about 20 years ago but as the country gets more developed and homes become better built, the need for such services is decreasing. But these traveling migrants from poor rural areas still prefer this nomadic lifestyle and feel it pays better than farming or factory work. This episode follows the lives of China's traveling handymen as they struggle through a summer of scarce work.
In the Philippines, brightly coloured housing complexes are springing up all over the country. This is due to the efforts of a non-governmental organization that is providing slum dwellers with new homes in a bid to help them rebuild their lives and pull them out of poverty. In this unique project, residents are given responsibility for helping build their own homes and for managing their own communities. This episode of Asia Insight follows the NGO's efforts and the lives of slum dwellers turned homeowners as they take the first steps toward a better life.
10 years after gaining independence from Indonesia, East Timor is slowly rebuilding itself but basic infrastructure is still largely unestablished. A severe shortage of doctors and nurses is resulting in alarmingly high mortality rates for infants and pregnant women. To try and alleviate this, the East Timorese government has been offering mobile health check-ups nationwide since 2008. Some villagers support these efforts by serving as volunteers. They go door to door to check on the health of women and children, and encourage them to get examinations at the mobile health clinics. This episode of Asia Insight follows the endeavours of the mobile health workers and volunteers and depicts some of the difficulties facing this young nation.
In the Philippines in recent years, merchant seaman has been gaining popularity as a profession among young people, adding to the thousands of Filipino workers already working overseas. This is good news for the rest of the world, which depends on Filipino sailors to keep the global shipping industry afloat. Filipino sailors now make up one-third of all maritime workers worldwide as youngsters in advanced shipping nations shy away from the occupation. This episode of Asia Insight highlights one of the many maritime schools in the Philippines and focuses on the life of a young cadet who has dreams of becoming a ship captain.
A social enterprise in Vietnam is giving deprived children the opportunity to become professional chefs. It offers them free culinary training, accommodation and ultimately a route out of poverty. The organization is developing a business model in which profit from the youngsters' work is invested into efforts to help them rebuild their lives. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the group's endeavors 10 years after its founding.
The Kingdom of Thailand has managed to get through recent economic crises and continue to enjoy steady growth. But with the country facing a chronic labor shortage, workers from neighboring Myanmar have been flooding into the country to take on low-paid, unclean and hazardous jobs, which most Thais prefer to avoid. These migrant workers put up with discrimination, deportation threats and mistreatment by employers on a daily basis. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the struggles of the Myanmarese migrant workers in Thailand and the efforts being made to support them.
Singapore faces a declining birth rate that could threaten the stability of the nation.
In recent years, Taiwan has been attracting more and more immigrants from Hong Kong. Affordable housing is just one benefit the region has to offer, and the number of residency applications has greatly increased, particularly from applicants in their 30's and 40's. What is it that convinces Hong Kong citizens at the height of their careers to relocate their entire families? We look at the motivations for this bold change, and the challenges they face in the process.
Chongqin in Southwest China is famous for its delicious hot pot dish, full of rich and spicy ingredients. The profit margin for vendors, however, is relatively small, leading to the use of dubious ingredients ranging from waste oil to deceptively fresh looking meat. In October 2015, the government implemented a tough revision to the country's food safety law holding all parties involved in food production and sales legally responsible. Hot pot restaurants and street vendors have been forced to clean up their act with some taking innovative approaches. We tell the story of several hot pot businesses as they try to adapt to the new regulations.
In the harsh Mongolian winter, temperatures can reach 40℃ below zero, an impossible climate for cultivating fruits and vegetables. To meet the growing demand from consumers for fresh domestically grown produce, the government recently initiated a winter-greenhouse scheme to support farmers who want to grow all year round. We follow the tentative efforts of the Mongolian farmers who are hoping to benefit from this innovative project.
Within the bustling activity and prosperous economy of Beijing, China's young men are facing a new challenge: solitude. Men born during the "one-child policy" have been raised with such singular attention that they find themselves lacking understanding of the female heart, and unable to find a spouse. Women, meanwhile, are putting an emphasis on their careers, with less incentive to settle down. A new market is springing up to impart social skills to this young generation of men. In this episode, we take a look at the hurdles faced by China's generation of only children when facing marriage.
Boracay, a small island in the Philippines, is experiencing a boom in tourism thanks to the reputation of its White Beach as one of the most beautiful seashores in all of Asia. However, its growing popularity has been accompanied by a major problem: The natural coral that is a key to maintaining the white sands is being rapidly diminished by factors such as the resulting pollution. We follow a group of scientists and residents literally fighting the tide for the sake of Boracay's natural environment.
Asian city state Singapore is facing a severe shortage of… graveyards. The country stretches only 42 km from east to west, and 23 km from north to south, but has a population of 5.5 million. Since achieving independence in 1965, the Singapore government has drastically reduced the number of graveyards from over 200 to just 60. Historical villages, farming communities, and graveyards have all been demolished to make way for social infrastructure aimed at driving economic growth. In 1998, a new government policy was introduced to limit use of burial plots to a maximum of 15 years. Now, over 80% of Singaporeans choose cremation. As part of its efforts to promote cremation, the government has been setting up state-run columbaria to house the ashes of the dead, but super-luxurious, private facilities have also emerged, and the field is taking off. Discover the many unique aspects of graves, government, and progress in the city state of Singapore.
Singapore focused early on the economic benefits of medical tourism. Today it welcomes 700,000 foreign patients every year. In 2014, a new medical facility was built here that is integrated with a five-star hotel. It can provide world-class, cutting-edge medical equipment and hospital meals prepared by top hotel chefs in a unique premium offering. Now in 2016, the Singapore government has announced massive investment into the medical industry and it continues to gather top talent from around the world. Research facilities centered around the Biopolis complex employ around 5,000 researchers. They do R&D on medicine and vaccines, but also examine areas like nutrition specifically for the Asian physique. Join us to explore the various strategies Singapore is using to become the medical hub of Asia.
Competition for employment in China among university graduates is becoming fierce as many vie for placements at leading corporations. Some, however, are seeking different paths with less focus on social status and job security. We follow the lives of 3 graduates who are contributing to the environment and culture, as they attempt to pave the way for a new generation of entrepreneurs.
Economic development in China has seen a growth in the tourism business. In 2015 alone, roughly 120 million Chinese traveled overseas from mainland China and ranked as the highest spending tourists in the world for the 4th consecutive year. However, many countries require that Chinese tourists meet certain conditions before entry visas are issued and it is travel agencies that assist tourists in the obtaining of these visas. In this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at the Shanghai branch of Spring Tours, one of China's largest travel agencies.
In the 1960's, Cambodia was a peaceful and prosperous country; various forms of art flourished, and more than 300 domestic movies were made during this decade. With the rise of the Pol Pot regime in the 1970's, the country was thrown into turmoil and much cultural heritage was lost. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts to restore movies from Cambodia's Golden Age of Cinema, in the hope of creating a new culture for the future.
In Thailand, there are currently nearly 5,000 companies producing Muslim-friendly Halal products and the government is pushing to expand production to boost export earnings.
In March of 2015, the word "Internet Plus" first came into use in China, encouraging new economic development by seamlessly integrating financial services into the internet. Cottage industries sprung up almost immediately as both consumers and entrepreneurs responded hungrily to the opportunity. Join us as we take a look at the diverse uses of Internet Plus, and the flexibility it has delivered to the lives of Chinese people.
The commercial city of Ho Chi Minh, the largest in Vietnam, the source of new cultural trends. There is a man known as "King" for producing fashion models.
Each weekend, hundreds of people gather in public locations in Shanghai to exchange financial speculation in what is known as the "street stock salon". The so-called forecasters lack formal certification, but their energetic predictions draw countless onlookers, many of whom are seeking to recover from China's massive stock market crash of 2015.
Around a fifth of Mongolia's population is employed part-time or full-time in livestock farming and it is also the world's 2nd largest producer of raw cashmere, responsible for 40% of the global output. In spite of Mongolia's abundance of raw cashmere, it suffers from a shortage of facilities to manufacture products for sale.
In recent years a new term has been popularized among the youth of South Korea: "abandoned generation". New graduates face harsh odds competing for coveted positions at large firms, in a society where their social station is intrinsically linked to the size of their employer. Suicides among youth are especially high, and those who are not among the chosen few to attain elite positions are treated as failures. This episode follows the young men and women of South Korea who toe the line between success and failure.
As the opening day nears for Shanghai Disneyland, the first Disney theme park in mainland China, a wave of excitement grips the country's avid fans. This interest in what was until recently an agricultural zone on the outskirts of the city has translated into a major windfall for local landowners, who see the value of their plots increased several times over. Those that give up their land are granted sudden wealth. Meanwhile, ambitious entrepreneurs adapt in their own way, staking their fortunes on the success of the park. This episode looks into the opportunities, challenges, and troubles accompanying Disney's long-awaited arrival in Shanghai.
Indonesia's capital city, Jakarta is said to be the most congested city in the world. Although it has a population of around 10 million, it still lacks an adequate public transport system. Motorbikes are the quickest way to get around and this has led to a helpful new innovation: a smartphone application through which customers can conveniently book motorbike taxis.
Residents of China raised in the one-child policy generation are now giving birth to a new generation, which they hope will be even more successful than their own.
Near the heart of South Korean capital Seoul, is Seongmisan Maeul - a community network in the national spotlight. Made up of 6,000 families, the community is notable for a range of restaurants, stores and other businesses co-funded by residents. Members of the network discuss their community's day-to-day needs, and work together to realize the ideas and proposals they come up with. This scheme began in 1994 when 25 dual-income couples decided to co-fund a childcare center to give their kids the best start in life. Now, some 22 years later, there are over 70 resident-led businesses and groups, and even a school that formulates its own curriculum.
In the shadow of rapid economic development, the use of illegal drugs has become a serious social issue in China. In fact, the number of recreational drug users apprehended in 2015 rose by 20% in just 1 year to 1.06 million. Professional social workers assist these addicts in their reintegration into society, although encouraging former users to stay away from drugs can be a difficult process. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts of social workers aiming to get former drug users back on track.
South Korea is famous as a hotspot for the beauty industry, and the number of children using cosmetics is soaring. Research shows that over half of female junior and senior high school students have used makeup, with 70% of them starting at junior high, and the trend even having spread to elementary schools.
In China, a country known for its restrictions on media, a new wave of ambitious young men and women is bucking the trend as "Wang Hong", or internet stars. Using video streaming to engage viewers directly, the best among them earning recognition and revenue gained from gifts sent by their devoted fans. At the same time, they struggle to gain acceptance from the older generation. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the aspirations of internet-based creators as they appear on the international scene.
One civic group based in Myanmar's capital Yangon provides a unique form of social service. The Free Funeral Service Society (FFSS) carries out memorial services for any family too poor to afford one. They also run free health clinics, offer vocational training, and provide disaster support.
The biggest city in the Russian Far East, Vladivostok, gave birth to a new opera and ballet theater in October 2013. The very first International Mariinsky Far East Festival was held at this theater during the summer of 2016, and Valery Gergiev served as the festival's artistic director. The world's top class artists, along with the young artists at the theater gave performances for 12 days. We followed these dedicated artists who are given a rare opportunity to perform on the big stage, as well as the citizens for whom this festival was something very special.
As China experiences ongoing economic decline, housing costs in Beijing now surpass those of New York and according to an April 2016 announcement from the UK's Global Cities Business Alliance, they are now the most expensive in the world. The rise in prices has made it difficult for migrants in particular to purchase their own homes and many people are moving to the suburbs in search of affordable properties. However, there is a serious imbalance between cost and value. On this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at ever-spiraling housing costs in Beijing.
In June 2016, Russia's parliament enacted a remarkable new policy: The Far East One Hectare Law grants all Russian citizens the right - free of charge - to one hectare of land in the vast, undeveloped Far East. The law, a pet policy of President Vladimir Putin, is aimed at reversing population decline and promoting economic development. This program looks at how people - young and old - are responding to this unprecedented offer.
It is a little known fact that Singapore has had a long battle in delivering sufficient water to its citizens. Using state of the art technology, the country is deeply committed to achieving its goal of an independent water supply. One such innovation is NEWater, which uses wastewater from homes and factories and is transformed into water pure enough to drink. It already accounts for 30% of the water used and there are hopes that by 2060, this figure will rise to 55%. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow Singapore's efforts to save precious water and secure an independent domestic water supply.
Chongqing, located by the Yangtze River, was once densely packed with rows of shops, connected by streets too narrow for cars to travel. Deliveries were performed largely by Bang Bangs: laborers carrying heavy wares with their poles. But now that urban redevelopment has moved populations and provided greater accessibility, the Bang Bangs are fading from the marketplace, and those who struggle on are faced with harsh working conditions and a lack of jobs. In this episode, we feature the men who proudly carry on their shoulders the last traces of a dying legacy.
The Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh has a culture strongly affected by its Chinese residents, who comprise a sixth of its population. In recent years, the Chinese population has expanded markedly as investors seek opportunities in the city's real estate or garment industries. However, for each success story, there are several more failures, as well as the complications left in their wake. To ease Chinese investors into the unique business environment of Phnom Penh and reduce the risk of failure, business consultants and committees have sprung up all over the city. In this episode, we take a look at the complex and deepening role of Chinese business in Cambodia.
Tofu is a staple of Indonesian cuisine. Over 80,000 companies nationwide make it. Most are family-run. Wastewater from the process is a major environmental problem. It's dumped into rivers, polluting them with organic matter. The Indonesian government has created a system that uses bacteria to dissolve the pollutants and produce methane, which is sold to local households. We look at a pilot project that has huge community support.
The number of Chinese immigrants to Laos increases daily, with men and women who struggled to succeed in the quickly developing country seeking new lives for themselves. More than wealth or opportunity, they wish to begin anew in a country where life moves at a slower pace, without any the stress of their homeland. Around them grow new communities and groups, reflecting the unique presence they bring to Laos. In this episode, we follow the Chinese people who have traveled to Laos in search of a better quality of life, free from the hustle and bustle of their homeland.
Nepal is a landlocked country situated at the southern end of the Himalayas. The centrally situated Kathmandu Valley is the country's most densely populated area. On April 25, 2015, the region was hit by a major earthquake. The tremor damaged many buildings, including over hundred World Heritage monuments which date back centuries. An NPO called the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust or KVPT has taken up the challenge of restoring damaged sites to their former glory. On this episode, we follow the efforts of the people of Nepal to reconstruct their rich cultural heritage.
In certain hotels in Beijing, diverse crowds of men and women from all age groups and birthplaces gather each day. The sole point they share in common is that they seek to make their names by auditioning for movies and television roles. In particular, the rising genre of online movies has gained attention from these hopefuls. Such locations attract not just aspiring actors, but directors, production staff and investors as well. However, all are aware that the line between fortune and failure is a fine one in this unpredictable field. In this episode, we follow Beijing's "audition hotels", and how they reflect a booming new genre of Chinese media.
Across Vietnam, inspired by Japanese manga, dedicated young locals are striving to promote comic culture. At the forefront of these activities is Comicola (short for "comic online alliance"), a firm that posts the work of aspiring manga artists online, before crowdfunding the publishing costs from fans. In the 2 years since the group's founding, it has already released the work of 17 up-and-coming talents. But not only does a perception remain in Vietnam of comics as kids' reading material, there are also significant regulatory hurdles that must be cleared to secure permission for publication. We follow this passionate group of creatives striving to change the perception of manga in Vietnam.
Cambodia's economy is booming thanks in part to a burgeoning garment industry. Business people from other countries have opened factories in areas surrounding the capital, Phnom Penh. Many Cambodians are abandoning rural life for factory jobs and the increased economic opportunity they offer. But the process has not been smooth. Workers are demanding higher pay and other concessions from management. Factory owners are being forced to reexamine their image of Cambodia as a low-wage alternative to China.
A look at the amount of families in Nepal who cannot afford to send their children into school.
Following the lives of those who lived through the devastating typhoon that hit the Philippines in November 2013.
In spite of rapid economic growth in Mongolia's capital, Ulan Bator, the gap between rich and poor is widening with insufficient employment for former nomads flocking to the city. Many children choose to leave their poverty stricken homes and around 400 live on the city streets, enduring sub-zero conditions during the winter.
PM2.5 - tiny particulate matter - is the main cause of the air pollution currently plaguing China. The air quality in Beijing is reaching critical levels and it seems that China is paying the price for its voracious economic development. With the health of Beijing's residents at risk, in this episode we take a look at how authorities, scientists, the business sectors and locals are dealing with this issue.
Although strong economic growth is taking place in Cambodia's capital city, rural Cambodia - home to 80% of the country's population - remains impoverished. In order to raise the standard of living there, the government has turned its attention to the production of processed rice - otherwise known as white gold.
Chinese New Year is traditionally a time for people in China to spend time with their families. Migrants living and working in major cities typically return en masse to their hometowns. But the number of people who choose not to go home is increasing. Some remain in the cities to work and earn extra money. Others are hesitant to spend time with their families. This episode looks at migrants who decide to stay put, and what it means for a time-honored Chinese custom.
The Cambodian fashion industry could be about to bloom. Until recently, overseas brands and trends have been all the rage but some youngsters are beginning to develop their own styles and seek careers as designers. Many of their designs maintain a Cambodian flair and are starting to gain attention in international fashion circles. In this episode, we follow a young designer as he struggles to prepare for his first ever collection and other players in Cambodia's budding fashion world.
South Korea is home to a growing legion of lonely men. They are fathers whose wives and kids have gone overseas so the children can receive an international education. Goose fathers juggle the burden of providing for their families while dealing with the stress of living all alone. Such sacrifices cause some men to become depressed. In this episode, we talk to several goose fathers who have given up the comforts of family life in the hope of giving their children a bright future.
For 20 years, not a single commercial film was made in the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Now, a group of young filmmakers is turning things around. They are short on funds and equipment, and government censors curb their creative freedom. But they make up for such limitations with passion and drive. In this episode, we follow the founders of Lao New Wave Cinema, a film production company that is charting a new path in a socialist country and inspiring the next generation.
In deprived Filipino districts, it's common for children to record poor attendances after starting school and some drop out altogether. Even though children have the right for free education in the Philippines, many parents simply can't afford to pay for uniforms and study materials. Some kids end up helping to support their families by going out to work. An innovative mobile school project has emerged which aims to reduce the number of children who've abandoned their schooling. Through visiting poor neighborhoods with books and study materials stacked on to pushcarts, they are providing kids with hope for the future.
Over 26,000 North Koreans have now defected to South Korea. Seoul has many measures in place to resettle these defectors, as it considers their acceptance into South Korean society as one way to unify the Korean peninsula. Despite these measures, defectors often face hurdles in the South, and because of this, many have been trying to move on to other countries in recent years. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the North Koreans who fled from their homes and are struggling to integrate into their new communities.
During the Vietnam War, vast amounts of defoliant were released by the US military in order to destroy the tropical forests that concealed guerilla fighters. The dioxins contained in the defoliant destroyed foliage and soil, creating toxic hotspots and areas where only grass can grow even today. In this episode, we follow the 40-year campaign of Dr. Quy to restore the Vietnamese rainforests to their former glory.
Singapore had actively encouraged immigration and foreign investment over the past few decades in a bid to trigger economic growth. On the assumption that the nation's only resource was its labor force, various measures were put in place to bring in more workers. Including people with permanent residency, almost 40% of the small nation state's people are now foreign nationals. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the discord caused by Singapore's immigration policy almost half a century after its independence.
In impoverished areas of the Philippines, many households cannot afford electricity and don't use their lights. As the homes are so densely packed, they block sunlight and remain in darkness even during the day. Illac Diaz is a social entrepreneur who is striving to help those in this situation by promoting the use of an ingenious method of lighting using plastic bottles. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on his project and the lives of those who struggle to find adequate sources of lighting in the Philippines.
In China, roughly 100,000 children are abandoned by their parents each year. Many suffer from illness or disability. Shanghai is one of the first Chinese cities to address the issue with one hospital taking in more than 500 unwanted children over the past 9 years. There has also been an increase in so-called baby hatches as there are concerns over infants left in life-threatening environments. This episode of Asia Insight follows some of the people at the frontline in protecting China's abandoned children.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and with its rich oil resources, it is also the most affluent emirate. TV dramas produced here are already popular throughout the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf Region and they focus on everyday life in the emirate, including such taboo subjects as trouble with domestic staff. In this week's episode, we take a look at the TV drama industry in Abu Dhabi.
Rural farming villages in China are faced with a multitude of problems including poverty, environmental destruction and depopulation caused by villagers migrating to cities. A local artist is tackling these issues at a grass roots level through projects which aim at restoring villages based on traditional construction designs and eco-friendly values. Through such efforts, his NGO hopes to help attract more tourists to rural parts and bring locals back. This episode of Asia Insight follows his group's work to revitalize villages all over China.
Qatar is a small country in the Middle East with a population of 2 million people. Although it is blessed with natural resources such as oil and natural gas, the government realizes that one day these resources will be exhausted. It has started, therefore, to invest vast amounts of money in other sectors, including the world of sports.
The Cambodian norry is an improvised rail vehicle, which carries passengers and cargo from rural to urban areas using unused railroad tracks. They have long been a vital way for Cambodians to get around, especially in rural parts where infrastructure is very basic. Now, amidst brisk economic growth, roads are being built and a plan is being implemented to revive the rail system and reopen neglected lines. The norry is gradually becoming obsolete but one operator is determined to continue his business. In this episode, we follow his efforts to survive in the rapidly changing Cambodia.
In South Korea, approximately 10,000 children are born to single mothers who never married every year, and in the 50 years between 1956 and 2006 around 100,000 infants were adopted away from the country. Due to the strong influence of Confucianism, having a child out of wedlock has long been a taboo and traditionally frowned upon by South Koreans. Unwed single mothers are often disowned by their families and have nowhere to go. Several years ago, a group of unwed mothers decided to take action and founded an organization to share their experiences and seek understanding and support.
As Hong Kong's economy steadily merges with mainland China following its handover from British colonial rule 17 years ago, Beijing's influence over the city continues to strengthen. But demands for universal suffrage are growing as the Hong Kong public becomes increasingly concerned about Beijing's approach, after being promised a large degree of autonomy under the One Country Two Systems policy. On July 1, the day of the handover's 17th anniversary, tens of thousands of people marched across the city to demand democratic elections and express their opposition at Beijing's tightening control. In this episode, we follow some of the young activists and people at the frontline of protests who fear for Hong Kong's future.
More and more South Koreans who want to get married are finding it increasingly difficult to find a partner. The issue is particularly serious among men, where the average age of marriage is 32, the highest figure in Asia. In recent years, many singles have been turning to unconventional methods and depending on matchmakers for help. These go-betweens range from a Buddhist priest to an agency that introduces North Korean defectors. In this episode, we follow some of the single men in South Korea who are finding a partner and report on the country's changing face of matchmaking.
Some young Chinese photographers are starting to gain worldwide attention for their distinctive and edgy portrayals of modern China. Their work depicts the anxieties and struggles of a repressed youth and is normally censored from being distributed in mainstream markets. The only way for these photographers to get their work out into the world is by using the internet for self-promotion and publishing books overseas. In this episode, we follow a new generation of Chinese photographers who painstakingly capture the reality of modern China.
Laos is a landlocked country on the Indochina Peninsula and one of the poorest countries within ASEAN. However, its economy has been expanding at roughly 8% annually over the last 5 years creating larger numbers of affluent people. These consumers are concerned about their health and are prepared to pay around 20% more to purchase organic vegetables. With its long-standing tradition of natural cultivation, Laos is suited to organic agriculture because much of the land has not been contaminated with agrochemicals.
Nights in Manila, the Philippine capital, have been undergoing a lot of change recently with dozens of factories located in the suburbs now running 24 hours a day. The round-the-clock operations have benefitted many, as late night eateries and taxis who cater to factory workers all try to get a piece of the pie. As production increases and local services prosper, the Filipino capital's economy continues to flourish. This episode follows the residents of Manila, who are working through the night for a brighter future.
Sex trafficking in Nepal is a serious concern with thousands of females from rural parts being regularly forced into prostitution. An estimated 10,000 women and girls are smuggled across the porous Nepal to India border each year. Some are able to escape or are fortunate enough to be rescued, but even after they return to Nepal, they are shunned by society, and face misunderstanding and prejudice. Shelter and counseling is being provided, however, by an NGO run by former victims. In this episode, we follow Nepal's sex trafficking survivors - women who are trying to rebuild their lives and fighting discrimination.
Rapid economic expansion in China has brought about changes in the lifestyles of its citizens. More people work later and dine later, resulting in increased numbers of diners. Guijie Street is Beijing's largest gourmet restaurant district. More than 100 eateries and bars line the 700-meter street. Young people from all over China flock here to find jobs in the catering trade. The streets also bustle with unlicensed vendors. This small area actually reflects trends in modern day China. On this episode of "Asia Insight" we take a look at 24 hours in Beijing's major gourmet town.
Puppetry is a vital part of Laotian theatrical tradition, and for many years, it was a very popular form of entertainment. As time past, however, fewer people have learned the craft, resulting in an art in decline. The puppet theater troupe, Kabong Lao, is trying to revive the art form with an innovative and fresh approach. They use everyday objects from rice containers to washing machine hoses to invent a unique style of puppetry combined with live theater. Their performances are fantastical but they also contain spiritual or social messages that connect strongly with the people. In the episode, we follow the theater troupe that is using creative ways to keep puppetry alive in Laos.
The Republic of Korea has long been known as a homogenous country, but due to struggles with a labor shortage and an aging society, the nation has been actively allowing foreigners to work and settle in the country since early 2000. It even went as far as taking the step to revise laws to allow foreign nationals to become South Korean citizens.
In Cambodia, many garment factories have been forced to shut down temporarily and some have even gone under altogether. This was triggered by strikes for higher wages that escalated into large-scale demonstrations in which there were more than 40 injuries and deaths. News of the unrest quickly spread and overseas clients cut back on orders, sensing risk and instability with their Cambodian manufacturers.
With a population of 1.2 million, East Timor is one of the poorest countries in Asia. In a male dominated society, women find it difficult to have their voices heard. However, due to strains on household incomes, women are now taking their first tentative steps forward in business. With the help of a Japanese NGO, women in agricultural areas are working together to develop various homegrown produce.
July 1, 2014 heralded the 17th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China after British rule. A mass pro-democracy protest involving 500,000 people was held. 10 days earlier residents had voted in an unofficial referendum calling for democratic elections when selecting Hong Kong's chief executive. Although the referendum was a success, Beijing announced a new system whereby candidates would be nominated by an approval committee.
The small, yet affluent city-state of Singapore, on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Occupying an area of just 710 square kilometers, the population already exceeds 5.4 million and is expected to grow even further due to migration from overseas. Only 1% of the country's land is used for agriculture, making Singapore dependent upon imports for 90% of its food.
Tibet was once among the world's most isolated places. Its main city, Lhasa, was a center of traditional culture and Tibetan Buddhism. But in recent years, development by the Chinese government has brought waves of construction - and Han Chinese workers. The region is being transformed with highways, shopping malls, hotels, and a way of life that threatens to wipe out customs that have been handed down for centuries.
Fine Cambodian silk has a proud tradition dating back over a thousand years and historically women have been entrusted with the task of weaving it. However, ever since the Cambodian Civil War, the plight of many Cambodian women has been harsh. With no education, many struggled to find jobs. One Cambodian woman has set about tackling this issue through the establishment of a silk workshop that not only trains the women in weaving skills but also educates them in basic writing and arithmetic. In this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at how education and a good working environment can create a better life for women in Cambodia.
Disputes over poor medical treatment between doctors and patients, stemming from chronic overcrowding, the high cost of healthcare, and a lack of doctor-to-patient communication, have become a growing issue in China, with tens of thousands of cases reported over the past 3 years alone. The problem has become so bad that the government decided to create a system where third-party mediators stand between doctors and patients to conduct investigations.
In November 2013, Typhoon Haiyan devastated the central Philippines with the city of Tacloban and nearby areas suffering the worst damage. The disaster left more than 2,700 of Tacloban's population dead or missing and completely destroyed more than 40,000 homes. In this episode, we visit Tacloban one year on and follow several farmers and fishermen as they strive to rebuild their lives.
The Irrawaddy dolphins, which inhabit the Mekong River in Cambodia, are an endangered species that are bringing economic benefits to local people through eco-tourism. In this episode, we follow the villagers of Kampi, and see how they have turned their conservation efforts into a lucrative homegrown industry, which is now beginning to blossom in other parts.
Now that China is wealthier, an increasing number of university graduates dream of starting their own businesses. The Chinese government is also forging ahead with a scheme it hopes will enable 800,000 college students to start their own enterprises by 2017. However, the road to success can be rocky. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow 2 young entrepreneurs at the opposite end of the spectrum. One is a top university graduate who owns a successful noodle shop, while the other encounters a serious lack of investor interest in his products.
2015
A social entrepreneur in the Philippines is engineering a grassroots revolution in the retail industry. His group is working with small neighborhood shops known as sari-sari stores. These vendors supply millions of Filipinos with their daily essentials. Most sari-sari operators are women trying to supplement family incomes, but they often struggle to make a profit. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the group's trainers as they help the shopkeepers turn their businesses around - and leverage the power of networking.
In impoverished areas of the Philippines, many households cannot afford electricity and don't use their lights. As the homes are so densely packed, they block sunlight and remain in darkness even during the day. Illac Diaz is a social entrepreneur who is striving to help those in this situation by promoting the use of an ingenious method of lighting using plastic bottles. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on his project and the lives of those who struggle to find adequate sources of lighting in the Philippines.
Thailand's CO2 emissions have reached a staggering 310 million tons per year, mostly due to heavy traffic in urban areas and smog-spewing factories. At the 2014 COP20 climate change conference in Peru, the country boldly announced its plans to reduce CO2 emissions by between 7% and 20% before 2020, in line with its ambitions of becoming the industrial center of Asia. Many companies have already begun following the government's lead, by investing in modern facilities and switching to new fuels and materials. Members of the public are also doing their part with some people making products from waste that would otherwise be incinerated. In this episode, we follow Thailand's efforts on the frontline of greenhouse gas reduction.
Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and is famous as the world's most densely populated city. More and more international companies are making inroads into the market in pursuit of cheap labour and although the country is experiencing rapid economic growth - an average of 6% every year - Bangladesh still remains one of the poorest nations in Asia. Dhaka's port bustles with migrants coming in from rural areas in search of work. Outside the city, however, life is hard with not enough farming work to go round. But with increased construction in the city, the demand for brick exceeds the supply. Is this a chance for the people of Bangladesh to escape poverty and look forward to a life of more abundance?
On December 26, 2004, a massive 9.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, triggering an enormous tsunami. About 220,000 people died and missing in 14 countries. Aceh, a province in the north of Sumatra, was very close to the epicentre. The dead and missing there numbered 170,000, and over 400,000 people lost their homes. Mr. Lukman sold precious metals in Banda Aceh. When the tsunami hit, Lukman's wife Susilowati was visiting her parents' home; her husband was in their store. When Mr. Lukman finally reached their village hours later, their home had vanished, and their 3 children were nowhere to be found. 10 years later, Mr. Lukman and his wife are still haunted by memories of their children, crying as they remember them. The people of Aceh agree that the biggest change since the tsunami is the arrival of peace.
Laos has enjoyed constant economic growth averaging over 7.5% over the past 10 years. This has created new jobs and a demand for various types of workers, resulting in an influx of tens of thousands of migrants from neighboring Vietnam. Many Vietnamese see Laos' rapid growth as a golden opportunity for success, especially with the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community and the region's economic integration expected later this year. We follow several Vietnamese migrants in Laos as they search for wealth and prosperity.
Bhutan is still one of the world's Least Developed Countries and many people in rural areas only own one pair of shoes and cannot afford to replace them when they are worn out. With the support of many volunteers, shoe-repair-shop owner, Dawa Dakpa, has been collecting, cleaning and repairing old shoes and distributing them all over the country free of charge. His goal is to make sure that everyone in the country will never have to go without proper footwear. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow his tireless efforts to achieve this.
China's one-child policy has contributed to a rapid greying of the population. This has led to an increase in senile dementia, a condition in which memory and thinking skills decline so severely, that the ability to perform everyday activities becomes extremely difficult. Many elderly citizens have started wandering off and going missing with some disappearing altogether. Volunteer groups and the government have started taking action, in a bid to locate and reunite such seniors with their families. In this episode, we follow China's efforts to find its missing aging citizens.
Indonesia is home to 240 million people, 90% of whom are Muslim. Right now, Islamic fashion is very much in vogue, especially among the younger generation. Shopping malls in the capital city of Jakarta have more and more shops selling clothing and accessories, while websites specializing in Islamic fashion are enjoying big success. This program takes a close look at the work and life of Ria Miranda, and investigates the reasons why Islamic fashion is enjoying such a burst of popularity in Indonesia and beyond.
Kung Fu or Chinese martial arts have become a way for many youngsters from rural parts of China to escape from poverty. They enter academies in and around the mythical Shaolin Temple and train in a severe environment, miles away from their families and homes. Graduates typically go on to become police officers, military personnel, bodyguards or even movie actors. In this episode, we follow one 14-year-old trainee who is fighting for his dream of joining China's special police force and one day supporting his parents.
As its economy develops, the women of Papua New Guinea are becoming more enterprising and starting to play a wider role in society. The government feels that women are central to the country's future and have begun providing financial assistance to help females get started in business. The ventures women undertake are diverse, ranging from coffin decoration to hotel ownership. In this episode, we follow the female entrepreneurs of Papua New Guinea, as they forge new roads ahead.
By 2016, more than 14% of Singapore's population will be over the age of 65 and with a birthrate of just 1.19%, there is an urgent need to create a new social system to cope with this ageing society. Both government schemes and private sector investment are being put into place to create new opportunities for the elderly. On this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at how Singapore is challenging its aging society.
Bright orange bicycles have become an increasingly common sight in Taiwan's biggest city, Taipei. They're all part of YouBike, the public bike sharing system introduced by the city's Department of Transportation to combat traffic congestion, global warming and energy issues. There are now around 6,000 bikes in service, with over 160 rental stations. Since its official launch in 2012, YouBike users have continued to climb. The total number of rentals has exceeded 40 million in just over 2 years. That translates to 11 users per bike per day - far more than user numbers in France and the U.K. where bike sharing systems have long been in operation. What's behind Taipei's success? We examine the efforts and initiatives of the city's transportation department and the company contracted to run the service - Taiwan's largest bicycle manufacturer. We'll also reveal the diverse ways in which the public has embraced the service.
China is known all over the world for its counterfeit goods, with millions of tourists taking home fake products from the country as souvenirs every year. But, as the nation's reputation for phony merchandise continues to grow, some people are standing up against unscrupulous vendors and are trying to make a change. In this episode, we follow China's Counterfeit Hunters in their quest to protect consumers and raise the quality of products made in China.
40 years after the Vietnam War, a painful legacy of the jungle fighting continues to inflict suffering. The toxic defoliant Agent Orange - sprayed by the US and South Vietnamese forces - damaged the minds and bodies of civilians and soldiers. The Vietnamese government acknowledges at least 300,000 victims. With 3rd and 4th generations being affected, that figure keeps growing. In this episode, we follow the Dao family as it struggles to survive a war that never ends.
Vietnam has emerged as one of the most gay-friendly nations in Southeast Asia after recently ending a ban on same-sex marriage. In a country, which used to treat homosexuality as a sin on par with crime and prostitution, it's a significant change of direction. Gay-friendly businesses are becoming less taboo and new enterprises targeting homosexuals are beginning to emerge. They range from wedding planners to hotels and restaurants. In this episode, we look at the changing attitudes towards gay people in Vietnam as the country begins to embrace its homosexual population.
An old film reel is uncovered. Shot by a Japanese news agency, it shows a village in North Vietnam sending its young men off to war. Who are they? What were they thinking as they left for the battlefield? The undocumented footage offers no clues - except a possible timeframe: It was taken sometime around 1971. 40 years after the end of the Vietnam War, our Asia Insight crew set out to find the young men in the film.
Da Nang, Vietnam is located directly between the capital of Hanoi and the economic metropolis of Ho Chi Minh. The city has long prospered as a trading base between the east and west and thanks to the opening of the East West Economic Corridor, a road that cuts through Southeast Asia from Vietnam, Laos, Thailand to Myanmar, Da Nang has undergone a dramatic economic transformation. It now has the potential to become one of the largest distribution base in Southeast Asia. On this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at how these new developments are benefiting the business people of Da Nang.
Phalla Neang has been teaching young people with visual and hearing impairments in Cambodia for over 20 years. She began her work in a Thai refugee camp after fleeing Cambodia's Pol Pot regime in the late 1970's. She's known as the mother of education for disabled children, and is the head teacher of several schools run by a foundation that offers disabled youngsters an inclusive education program. We follow her in her tireless efforts to provide a quality and fair education.
English language education for students from overseas is now a huge industry in the Philippines. In Cebu City, the country's 2nd largest metropolis, there are currently more than 200 schools with thousands of young students enrolled from all over Asia. Parents of Southeast Asian students in particular are attracted to the low fees. They also feel that as their home countries become richer, their children will have more opportunities to work abroad in an English speaking environment. Our crew follows the fortunes of a young Vietnamese student and a popular teacher.
The Dordoi Bazaar in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek is Eurasia's largest. It is a key way-stop on the route by which Chinese products travel to Russia and Central Asia. But the bazaar faces major change, as Kyrgyzstan joins the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) led by Russia. Before, import and export taxes were very low, and the intermediary trade of the bazaar blossomed. Having joined the EEU, however, import tariffs on Chinese products are expected to soar, which will have a massive impact on sales. Merchants are troubled, with some choosing to downsize their business, or close up shop altogether. As China's "One Belt, One Road" strategy unfolds, and the country turns its attention to Central Asia, small landlocked Kyrgyzstan is stuck between 2 giants. By looking at the Dordoi Bazaar, we'll examine the pressures faced by merchants throughout Kyrgyzstan.
The small, yet affluent city-state of Singapore, on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Occupying an area of just 710 square kilometers, the population already exceeds 5.4 million and is expected to grow even further due to migration from overseas. Only 1% of the country's land is used for agriculture, making Singapore dependent upon imports for 90% of its food. To combat this problem, businessmen have come together with the government to develop new and inventive agricultural techniques. Such innovations include rooftop farms in the city, and indoor greenhouses and vertical farming in more rural areas. In this episode of "Asia Insight", we follow the progress of new agricultural innovations in the urban state of Singapore.
The Central Asian Republic of Kazakhstan is seeing an unending stream of 'legally' abandoned children. As many as 2,000 infants are relinquished every year in accordance with a family law that seems to reflect the nation's socialist history. The number is particularly high in the capital of Astana where large-scale development is attracting people from the regions coming in search of work. Many babies resulting from encounters between such men and women end up being legally abandoned. The program delves into this troubling social problem by looking at a children's home for "relinquished" infants and a mothers' home for solo mothers who have decided to keep their babies.
Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, recently expressed concerns over a culture of vulgarity that was taking root in the country. This led to self-regulations by certain industries - the most noticeable being the sudden ban of models at the Shanghai auto show, which had a reputation for using scantily dressed females. This move tarnished the image of modeling in China altogether and many girls found themselves out of work. In this episode, we follow a model, an agent and an auto show PR Director who are trying to restore and change people's perceptions of modeling in China.
A social entrepreneur in the Philippines is engineering a grassroots revolution in the retail industry. His group is working with small neighborhood shops known as sari-sari stores. These vendors supply millions of Filipinos with their daily essentials. Most sari-sari operators are women trying to supplement family incomes, but they often struggle to make a profit. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the group's trainers as they help the shopkeepers turn their businesses around - and leverage the power of networking.
In September 2014, the world witnessed Hong Kong's so-called "Umbrella Revolution", named after the umbrellas pro-democracy marchers used to protect themselves from tear gas, after they occupied central areas and brought Hong Kong to a virtual standstill. Students and citizens called out for "true universal suffrage" but not a single one of their demands were ever met. In this episode, we catch up with some of the Umbrella Revolution's key players, and hear what they feel about the future of Hong Kong.
China's one-child policy has contributed to a rapid greying of the population. This has led to an increase in senile dementia, a condition in which memory and thinking skills decline so severely, that the ability to perform everyday activities becomes extremely difficult. Many elderly citizens have started wandering off and going missing with some disappearing altogether. Volunteer groups and the government have started taking action, in a bid to locate and reunite such seniors with their families. In this episode, we follow China's efforts to find its missing aging citizens.
The Tibetan Mastiff became known as the "Dog of God" in China during the height of a craze to have them as pets, and there was once a time when one could be sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars. But now that the fad has died down and owners realize these big dogs require special care, many are being abandoned or neglected. In this episode, we follow an animal rights group at the frontline of rescuing Tibetan Mastiffs and meet several breeders who have different reasons for breeding.
The National Pediatric Hospital of Cambodia in Phnom Penh has been offering nutritious free meals to its patients, thanks to the support of a Japanese NGO. Although Cambodia has 8 national hospitals, it is the only one to offer such a service at this time. In general, there is still little knowledge in the country regarding the links between a healthy diet and quick recovery from illness, and in this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the pediatric hospital's efforts to raise awareness regarding pediatric nutrition.
Rapid economic expansion in China has brought about changes in the lifestyles of its citizens. More people work later and dine later, resulting in increased numbers of diners. Guijie Street is Beijing's largest gourmet restaurant district. More than 100 eateries and bars line the 700-meter street. Young people from all over China flock here to find jobs in the catering trade. The streets also bustle with unlicensed vendors. This small area actually reflects trends in modern day China. On this episode of "Asia Insight" we take a look at 24 hours in Beijing's major gourmet town.
The Republic of Korea has long been known as a homogenous country, but due to struggles with a labor shortage and an aging society, the nation has been actively allowing foreigners to work and settle in the country since early 2000. It even went as far as taking the step to revise laws to allow foreign nationals to become South Korean citizens. Many see such policies as a positive move for the country's future but others strongly oppose them. This episode of Asia Insight shows how South Korea is gearing up for change to become a multi-cultural society.
Thailand's CO2 emissions have reached a staggering 310 million tons per year, mostly due to heavy traffic in urban areas and smog-spewing factories. At the 2014 COP20 climate change conference in Peru, the country boldly announced its plans to reduce CO2 emissions by between 7% and 20% before 2020, in line with its ambitions of becoming the industrial center of Asia. Many companies have already begun following the government's lead, by investing in modern facilities and switching to new fuels and materials. Members of the public are also doing their part with some people making products from waste that would otherwise be incinerated. In this episode, we follow Thailand's efforts on the frontline of greenhouse gas reduction.
China has a long and proud tradition of acrobatics, but as the country becomes wealthier, fewer youngsters are choosing acrobatics as a career. We follow a group of students from Africa as they train with hopes of becoming top acrobats one day.
Being one of the most undeveloped countries in Asia, Laos still lacks adequate medical services in rural areas, and the mortality rate for pregnant women is ranked bottom among all the ASEAN member nations. We follow a Laotian midwife in her tireless efforts to change peoples' thinking and provide care to mothers and their newborn babies.
As the world pays more attention to China as an economic superpower, more and more people are moving to the country to study the arts and culture - ancient philosophies and ways of living that have developed over thousands of years. We follow 3 men based in Shanghai from Spain, Switzerland and Greece to try answering these questions.
Tibet was once among the world's most isolated places. Its main city, Lhasa, was a center of traditional culture and Tibetan Buddhism. But in recent years, development by the Chinese government has brought waves of construction. This episode of Asia Insight takes a look at the ways some people are benefiting from Tibet's development boom, while others are simply trying to hang on.
Over the past few decades, millions of people from rural China have flooded to the cities in search of wealth. We focus on several lonely children and an elderly volunteer who tries to ensure their well-being.
Laos is a landlocked country on the Indochina Peninsula and one of the poorest countries within ASEAN. On this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts to promote organic farming in the hope of putting Laos on the economic map in Asia.
An in-depth portrait of Asia today, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization.
The One Belt, One Road (OBOR) economic policy links the commercial city of Yiwu, Zhejiang Province, to all the way to Spain by train. This episode follows the gradual changes occurring now.
An in-depth portrait of Asia today, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization.
Ever since China's underground music and art culture started to really emerge in the 1980's, artists have had to release their work while maintaining a delicate relationship with authorities. Even today, the government still cracks down on what they consider vulgar culture. We follow a contemporary artist, a rock musician and a filmmaker as they search for ways to express themselves in modern-day China.
An in-depth portrait of Asia, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization
Streaming availability information not available
2019
For nearly half a century starting in 1962, Myanmar was under military rule. Criticism of the government was brutally suppressed. Political satire was the one of only voices citizens had to call for democracy. One person leading the satirical movement is Pan Thee. Political satire was once permitted in the country under the Burmese monarchy, but military rule turned even traditional satire into a target, forcing Pan Thee to flee abroad to continue his work. Even after the change in government of 2016, the army wields enormous political power in Myanmar. Pan Thee has returned home and is helping young performers make the call for true democracy. How have comedians used satire to drive a political movement? Trace Myanmar's route to democracy through laughter.
China's western city of Chengdu is one of the nation's larger cities, but retains a uniquely low-key atmosphere that has made it a destination for those seeking a different way of life than in Beijing or Shanghai. In particular, its vibrant music and art scene encourages self-exploration by creating an environment of diverse genres without the pressure of productivity or commercial success. In this episode, we examine the motivations behind the new youth culture of Chengdu.
Yiwu City became well known in the 2000's for its array of wholesale goods, and its reputation continued to grow as quality improved with China's economic growth. Now it serves not just as a center of Chinese goods, but the best the world has to offer as foreign sellers open their own shops in the area. In an atmosphere like an international trade show, merchants make bold ventures to bring together new connections and opportunities.
Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent was once an oasis along the Silk Road. Today, local fashion workshop Bibi Hanum is creating items that use the patterns and crafts of ikat, a traditional woven fabric. Workshop founder and designer Muhayo Aliyeva works with the rural artisans who have kept the technique alive. She creates modern dresses and accessories as a way to convey the beauty of ikat to a wider audience. Aliyeva hopes to not only conserve traditional crafts, but to also increase female employment through her workshop and partners' studios. Follow Aliyeva as she works alongside local women to revive the traditions of the Silk Road.
KOLs, an abbreviation for "Key Opinion Leaders," are a growing presence in Chinese advertising, video bloggers, and promoters who connect new consumers with products by using the strength of their personal recommendations. Their influence has been so great that the Chinese government built an entire industrial village for bloggers on the outskirts of Wuhan City. In this episode we meet the men and women who generate hundreds of millions of dollars and immeasurable support with the strength of their opinions.
South Korea is a country known worldwide for the intense competition among youth in the job market. Unemployment among young people hit a high in 2014, with little signs of improvement, motivating them to seek new strategies in pursuing their future. Some aspire to become civil servants, while others start their own companies or look for work abroad. In this episode, we speak with the young South Koreans who are attempting to find their own solutions in a job market where conventional methods have failed them.
Domestic happiness in Tajikistan, Central Asia, once meant an arranged marriage and children. But in recent years, the custom is on the decline. One key factor is the massive rise in migrant workers, forced to move away to Russia because their own country has no industry. 40% of working-age Tajiks now work abroad. This makes it difficult for men to find a bride, and many wives end up abandoned when their husbands return alone to their jobs and lives abroad. Explore how marriage and labor are changing in Tajikistan.
In 2010, the term "Shen Nu" entered use as a negative label for Chinese women in their mid-20s or older who remained unmarried. A decade later, the first wave of so-called "Shen Nu" approaches middle age. Whether due to the expectations for career or family that were influenced by this era of prosperity, women in China who have not yet found a spouse are often subjected to scrutiny from friends and family. In this episode, we meet the women who contemplate marriage while striving to live with a sense of individuality.
Although it has been known for generations in the west, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has just entered public awareness in China over the last decade. To help young people on the spectrum more actively engage with society, Cao Xiaoxia opened the Angel Salon in Shanghai, where youth with ASD can take part in activities such as serving coffee in a café setting, as well as performing and enjoying music. These pastimes are both educational and therapeutic, allowing the young people to open up and become more comfortable with social interaction.
70% of Laos was once covered in forests home to many elephants. People kept them as pets and used them to carry cargo and passengers, co-existing successfully. But starting in the 1960's, logging and illegal poaching for ivory soared and the elephant population has since dropped to just 800. The Elephant Conservation Center in Sainyabuli, northeastern Laos, is home to 29 elephants, all survivors of severe overwork in the logging industry. The center, led by Frenchman Sebastien Duffillot, runs a breeding program with the eventual goal of returning the elephants to the wild. Join Sebastien and his team as they work to protect the Asian elephant from extinction.
Over the past decade, Harmony Home, an NPO led by Nicole Yang, has offered refuge to more than 500 pregnant migrant workers and their children. The law in Taiwan prohibits employers from firing pregnant workers. Even so, fear of deportation leads many women to secretly give birth -- putting themselves and their babies in danger. Answering the call to help this vulnerable group of people, Harmony Home's support ranges from prenatal checkups to postnatal care. Yang has made it her mission to help raise and protect the children until their mothers can return to their homelands. In this episode, we follow the efforts of the NPO working in the shadows of Taiwanese society to help migrant mothers and their children.
The election of President Duterte has seen increased police action to arrest those involved with sales and possession of illegal drugs in the Philippines. However, this "war on drugs" leaves behind an escalating body count of poor citizens who are killed supposedly resisting arrest. Freelance photographer Raffy Lerma has made it his mission to interview and photograph bereaved families, to show the nation the price of this purported justice. In this episode, we accompany Lerma to meet the families who have been swept into an urban war.
Neon signs are the sparkling jewels that light up the Hong Kong night sky. Signs for restaurants, shops, and hotels once jostled for space above sidewalks to create a unique cityscape. But in recent years, older signs are being removed out of fear they might fall. They've been replaced by cheaper and simpler LEDs, and up to 90% of the city's neon has vanished. Craftsman Wu Chi-kai has spent 35 years making these signs and now works with a preservation society to hold workshops and tours aimed at caring for the neon signs that remain.
In recent years, marathons held all over China have emerged as a new way to local regions to gather revenue. Contestants come not just from within China, but all over the world. In particular, African runners from countries like Ethiopia and Kenya are strong contenders. But the road to success is a rocky one: The contestants pay their own travel costs and an agent's fee. If they can't get the cash prize for a top-3 finish, they're likely to end up in debt. In this episode, we run with these African contestants aiming for prizes in China.
Cambodia's fast-growing economy has led to a construction boom that is drawing workers to Phnom Penh and other cities in search of jobs. However, the mass migration to urban areas has resulted in many farmers giving up agricultural work and abandoning farms. Aiming to restore pride and prosperity to rural areas, agricultural scientist Yang Saing Koma trains farmers how to grow organic food. Mixing modern and traditional methods, he shows how growing pesticide-free fruits and vegetables can put more cash in farmers pockets, while also meeting consumer demand for fresher and safer produce. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow Koma's efforts to improve lives in rural Cambodia.
The Irrawaddy River (also known as the Ayeyawady River) in Myanmar in the only place in the world where humans and dolphins fish side by side. Today, this unique tradition is in danger. Myanmar's economy has undergone rapid growth, and the river has become polluted, sending the dolphin population and their food sources into decline. Only 20 fishermen with the knowledge of this traditional fishing method remain. We follow seasoned fisherman Maung Lay as he works alongside the dolphins, and learn about the initiatives looking to preserve them.
With a growing gap between rural and urban incomes, residents of China's farming communities have been steadily moving to the big cities, leading to widespread rural decline. Seeking to stem this tide are a new breed of local entrepreneurs - young, educated farmers turning to new technology and marketing methods in an effort to work smarter, and bring new efficiency to the produce business.
Fighting, racing, soccer, shooting: esports, or competitive gaming, is taking the world by storm. With around 130 million potential competitors, the industry is expected to be worth 3 billion US dollars within the next few years. In Hong Kong, partnerships between the public and private sector are looking to expand the scope of esports and turn the city into a local hub. One start-up has partnered with the government to build one of Asia's biggest dedicated esports facility, while one of Hong Kong's biggest conglomerates has begun hosting an esports event, even creating their own professional team. Meanwhile one private investor has opened an esports coaching school. Explore the world of professional gaming in Hong Kong.
The ancient city of Bagan in central Myanmar was registered as a World Heritage Site in July 2019. The religious city is home to some 3,000 Buddhist pagodas and temples -- and now, a new clothing brand: "Cotton Bagan" is attracting attention from foreign visitors and local customers alike. 22-year-old Pyay Soe Hein founded the brand 2 years ago. The company uses locally grown cotton, woven, cut, and sewn by local artisans. He hopes to promote and encourage the country's textile industry by providing 100% Myanmar-made clothes. Discover how a young entrepreneur and his partners are making waves in this new market.
In July of 2018, a new theater group was formed in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou. The subject of their performances is their own audience: Through improvisational theater, they express personal experiences suggested by the audience members, helping to give voices to the struggles of average people. However, they hit a major setback when a show was halted by the police, after which almost no theater would consent to renting them space. Now the group pushes on to find a new place in their home city, where they work to increase understanding and empathy among both loyal fans and new audience members.
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, is home to the Center for Disability Research and Capacity Development (DRD), an NGO led by Vo Thi Hoang Yen. As well as providing university scholarships and support for job-searching, Yen and her 13 staff are developing a digital map with detailed accessibility information for locations around Vietnam. Many people in Vietnam believe that people with disabilities are being punished for transgressions in a past life, leaving them marginalized and unable to find work. By encouraging Vietnam's disabled population to become independent, Yen and the DRD are looking to change Vietnam's attitude towards disability.
China's Yangtze River has seen a decline in species due to pollution and overfishing, which the government responded to with a ban on industrial fishing. Although intended to improve the local environment, this measure had the side effect of taking away the livelihoods of the fishermen living around the river. Now, desperately seeking the means to support their families, some of the fishermen have begun utilizing their knowledge through conservationist work to preserve vulnerable species such as the finless porpoises of the Yangtze River.
In recent years, Hong Kong has seen an increase in demonstrations such as the Umbrella Movement, which protest the degree of control China wields over the region. Many of those involved in the movements or simply seeking a better way of life have chosen to relocate to Taiwan, which can protect their human rights with a democratic government. Despite their pride as Hongkongers, the new immigrants leave careers behind to hopefully gain freedom that will extend to their children's generation.
As bookstores around the world continue to dwindle in number among declining sales of physical books, Taiwan has been hit particularly hard: In 2012, two-thirds of all regions there lacked bookstores. But thanks to a government policy promoting small retailers, so-called "community bookstores" have begun to sprout up. Some include literary salons or cafes, while other have special concepts like trading local produce for books. All are places where paper books bring about new communication between people.
Surabaya, a city in Indonesia, runs a bus service that doesn't cost money to use. Instead, the fare is paid in plastic bottles. The goal is to promote waste reduction and recycling. 20 years ago, the city streets were overflowing with garbage, so the local government took action. They introduced a system to transform everyday kitchen waste into compost. They set up waste banks, where people can sell recyclables. We take a look at the incredible success of Surabaya's eco-friendly initiatives.
Just like in any other country, Chinese youth dream of becoming famous actors, and many chase their dreams to Hengdian, a town that serves as a center of movie filming in the country. The jobs that await the vast majority are "extras," nonspeaking roles for just dollars a day, and barely enough to put food on the table. In this episode, we meet the thespians who have moved hundreds of miles only to be faced with the conflict of either abandoning their dream, or soldiering on as wordless members of the masses.
Thailand has a reputation as a haven for transgender people. But the reality is that many continue to experience discrimination, forcing them to hide their sexual identities. Determined to change this situation, transgender people are taking action. Making use of the Gender Equality Act of 2015, they are winning access to jobs previously closed to them, along with the right to wear clothes that match their sexual identity. In this episode, we hear from transgender people standing up to discrimination in a changing society.
Indonesia has lost around 30% of its forest coverage in the last 50 years, in part due to illegal logging. Since 2004, environmental NGO Telapak has worked with rainforest residents to curb this destruction. Locals have set up cooperatives to manage, fell and sell their own trees as part of a community logging initiative, providing a stable income that's higher than what illegal logging can pay. There are now 10 cooperatives around Indonesia totaling 7,000 members. We visit a 1,500-strong cooperative in central Java to discover how local forestry initiatives are helping residents protect the environment and earn a living.
Since the early 2000's, a new pastime has skyrocketed in popularity among China's elderly, becoming a social phenomenon. Known there as "plaza dancing," those who gather in town squares for social dancing do so for various reasons, whether to gain a brief respite from caring for infirm parents, or to reclaim the dreams of their youth. Indeed, the square dance has put a new spring in the step of senior citizens across China.
2021
Often called the "Island of gods," Bali in Indonesia has long drawn visitors from all over the world. But the tourism industry has suffered a massive blow from the coronavirus pandemic, with huge numbers unemployed. Many have been forced to return to rural villages and try their hand at farming to make ends meet. One mayor is working to revitalize agriculture and retain some of their newly returned residents. Another entrepreneur is designing an app to improve farmers' incomes. Explore how the people of Bali are using farming to overcome their economic dependence on tourism and make it through the pandemic.
With a Christian population of over 90%, the Philippines is known for its lengthy and elaborate Christmas celebrations, which are ingrained into local culture. But at this time when families give thanks, there was seemingly little to celebrate at the end of 2020, after countless livelihoods and dreams had been suddenly erased by the novel coronavirus pandemic. This episode follows one Filipino family banding together and hoping to reclaim their dreams after a difficult year.
In November 2020, one of Thailand's biggest festivals, the Surin Elephant Round-Up, took place -- despite the coronavirus pandemic. The event went ahead thanks largely to the passion of an ethnic tribe of elephant handlers. With a history of living with elephants that dates back centuries, the Kui people today depend heavily on income from tourism -- a livelihood that is now in danger of disappearing. We follow the people taking on new challenges in a long-running fight to preserve their culture.
China is one of the few nations experiencing economic growth among COVID-19. But the swift pace of real estate development has led to a strange phenomenon all over the country: "Ghost castles," apartments where building has halted. Hopeful residents are unable to live in the unfinished apartments, all while stuck in deep debt. A group of artists has begun creating art based on the buildings in order to draw attention to the plight. In this episode, we examine this issue faced by modern China.
In July 2020, a second wave of COVID-19 hit the city of Da Nang, Vietnam. A team from Hanoi's Bach Mai hospital who survived lockdown in the first wave came to support their colleagues and share their expertise on preventing in-house infections. But with far fewer resources, staff and equipment, it's a tough battle. To prepare for the worst-case scenario, they transform a local sports stadium into a field hospital. Follow the hard work of the medical team as they fight a multi-front battle.
Seoul's district of Daerim-dong is home to a large number of ethnic Korean-Chinese residents. Ethnic Korean-Chinese are the descendants of Koreans who moved to China generations ago. Some seek new lives in South Korea, but much of what they find is hard labor with no job security. Even worse is the prejudice faced from South Koreans, and the recent threat of COVID-19. This episode follows the Korean-Chinese people grappling with their own roots in their ancestorial homeland.
The Nam Theun 2 Dam sits atop the Nakai Plateau in eastern Laos. Most of the power it produces is sold to Thailand, but a percentage of profits is earmarked for nature conservation and for improving the lives of locals. The region is a treasure trove of plant and animal life, so the government has forbidden locals from hunting or logging. Those who have lost their livelihoods are now pinning their hopes on an income from eco-tourism. The residents of one village have had their lives turned upside down by the mega-dam. What can be done to both conserve the environment and improve locals' quality of life?
In South Korea, use of YouTube is more popular than ever, and elderly YouTubers are gaining fame thanks to their accumulated skills and personalities. In particular, they attract viewers with their soothing outlooks on life. The local government has begun holding workshops encouraging senior citizens to create YouTube content with the intent of providing the elderly with a new hobby. For the successful it can become a new source of income, leading to business opportunities for them.
East Malaysian Borneo is known for its many indigenous peoples, with the northern state of Sabah said to be home to 42 minority groups, comprising half its population. Living as one with nature, these tribes have created unique clothing and crafts. Traditions are preserved by tribes in remote regions, but urbanization and modernization have caused much to be nearly forgotten. Now, the residents of North Borneo reexamine their roots so that they may be carried on by future generations.
Once considered a niche sport in China, baseball has gained popularity in the nation ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. Former Chinese national team captain Sun Lingfeng sees this as a chance to help disadvantaged youth, recruiting children from impoverished regions to his team, the Angels, which also provides them with education and housing. Skilled sports players receive priority in university applications, so Sun hopes that baseball will bring new opportunities to the children's lives.
Indonesia has been hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic in South-East Asia. Its economy has taken a massive blow, and many are struggling to put food on the table. As government support is widely criticized as ineffective, people have come together to provide mutual aid under the banner of Gotong Royong. The phrase means "carrying together" in Javanese and its spirit can be found across the country. Meet the women and volunteers working hard to support their neighbors.
The Looksaikongdin Gym sits on a canal in the Minburi district in the outskirts of Bangkok. The owner, Nopparit, is a devout Muslim who has taught his 14 children the art of Muay Thai fighting to improve their lives and keep them away from drugs. Five daughters have won Muay Thai championships and 4 sons have held boxing titles, earning national fame as the "Big Muay Thai Family." Aida (18) in the 51kg weight category and her sister Duangdawnoi (23) in the 48kg category continue fighting with the support of their family as uncertainty resulting from the pandemic threatens their plans for future fights.
South Korea is known for the intense competitive stress placed on young residents of cities, leading to suicide rates that increase yearly. To counteract this problem, an educational program known as "Don't Worry Village" was founded in the southern port city of Mokpo. It gives emotionally fatigued young people new courage and a chance for self-reflection, encouraging a fresh start in their lives. It has also helped the local community, which is affected by an aging and decreasing population.
While migrant workers helped build Shenzhen into the third largest urban economy in China, many find themselves left behind by the prosperity, instead ending up exhausted and homeless. Yi Xiong is a volunteer who is a migrant himself, and spends time outside of work looking for local migrants who have been rendered homeless. He offers them warm meals, helps them find jobs, and encourages them to make the often difficult choice to return to families in their hometowns and start their lives anew.
In South Korea, due to traditional Confucian values, families tend to have a patriarchal structure. A 2020 study indicated that women in double-income households perform 3 times the chores that men do. In response to these conditions, support has grown toward women who choose to remain unmarried. This episode introduces unmarried women in a range of professions promoting their lifestyles through various careers and living situations, changing the notion of family in South Korean society.
In 2020, South Korea's food delivery industry turned over around 15 billion US dollars - 70% more than the year before. Around half of the country's population of 52 million people use at least one of more than a dozen local food delivery apps. App companies are trying everything they can to stand out from the competition, from speedy deliveries for customers who don't want to wait a second longer than necessary, to services that allow you to track your order's exact location in real time. One company is even employing delivery robots! Explore how South Korea's delivery services are evolving in the midst of the global pandemic.
Rudong County was called the birthplace of China's one-child policy, implementing it 10 years before the rest of the nation. Now, the youth that once participated in the policy have reached old age, and many are destitute, unable to count on financial assistance from one son or daughter. Despite the solitude these senior citizens endure and the end of the policy, the now middle-aged adults born in that era are reluctant to have more than one child, worsening the stagnant population growth.
A medical team, led by heart surgeon and expert Bundan Boldsaikhan, visits rural towns and villages in search of children with heart problems. Pandemic restrictions have made access to treatment all but impossible for some families, and their children's conditions are worsening. The team seeks them out and brings them to an Ulaanbaatar hospital for surgery. If the families are in difficult circumstances, donations from companies and individuals cover the cost of travel, surgery and the hospital stay.
Against the backdrop of the ever-growing Chinese economy, a new movement known as "lying flat" has gained attention from young people all over the nation. It means rejecting social status by working only enough to survive, and thus giving up on home ownership or marriage, which proponents of the lifestyle feel are already unattainable due to class differences. Against condemnation by the government and pressure from aging parents, these youth choose to stand up for themselves by lying flat.
In settlements on the outskirts of Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar, some 800,000 people - many day laborers from rural Mongolia and former nomads - live permanently in traditional ger tents. Most live in poverty, and crime and violence are an everyday affair. Cases of child neglect and abuse are common. NGO "Clang of the Hammer" aims to help such children, running shelter "Magic Mongolia" where counsellors and social workers care for children around the clock. Meet the NGO's leader and his dedicated team.
Xiaoliuqiu is a small island in the south of Taiwan surrounded by a beautiful sea with coral reefs, also known as "Sea Turtle Island." However, the rising number of tourists has created massive amounts of plastic waste, posing a major threat to the local environment. In order to restore the natural beauty of the island, divers, innkeepers, shopkeepers and other residents are working together to turn the tide. We follow the efforts of a small island that has initiated a number of novel projects in pursuit of zero plastic waste.
After 26 years, Hong Kong's biggest pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily, closed in June 2021. The paper was dedicated to freedom of speech, including government criticism, and was so influential that reporters were barred from covering news in mainland China. The reason given for its shutdown was that it violated the National Security Law passed in June 2020. Founder Jimmy Lai and several executives had already been arrested. The 1997 handover from the UK to China guaranteed Hong Kong 50 years of autonomy under the "one country, two systems" principle. Instead, Hong Kong is undergoing major political changes. We meet the reporters who lost their jobs, and follow the new ways they are finding to examine their city's future.
The graying Chinese population has surpassed 260 million, while care facilities and welfare systems still remain undeveloped. Among this environment, many senior citizens search for new spouses. More than 200 of them gather every Sunday for matchmaking events in the Beijing park known as the Temple of Heaven. This episode introduces the elderly citizens who, having lived through a turbulent era, now seek their last life partners despite the challenges faced by an aging Chinese society.
Drastic redevelopment has changed the face of Shanghai's historic Hongkou district, but nestled in an alleyway lies a unique folk opera house that represents one of the last of its kind. The Huai Opera performed here, as well as actors, musicians and audience alike, originally hail from the rural Subei region of Jiangsu Province. Troupe leader even provides on-site food and lodging for her aging performers and audience members, but when city authorities declare the building unsafe, residents are given just 1 month to leave the premises and find a new way of life.
Street art in Thailand has gained attention, and nowhere more so than Bangkok's central Chaloemla Park, where people of all skill levels can receive permission to paint on the walls. Young artists and tourists gather to admire the art, and then spread it all over the country. Prominent street artists have worked since before the recent popularity of the medium in order to depict the changes occurring in Thai society. In this episode, we meet the artists painting a generation onto city walls.
In August 2021, the Taliban took control of Afghanistan for the first time in 20 years. Many have become refugees both within and outside their country, while others feel more secure than they did under the previous government. Meanwhile, an extreme interpretation of Islam's teachings is closing doors on female education and threatening women's place in society. One member of Afghanistan's women's soccer team is seeking a way to leave the country in order to continue playing. Western nations have frozen Afghan assets, driving the country's economy to the brink, while the pandemic and droughts spark fears of a devastating famine. We visit the Afghan capital of Kabul one month after the Taliban's return to report on the ongoing turmoil.
In recent months, new residents have flooded to Beixiazhu Village in Zhejiang Province to be involved with livestreaming e-commerce, a growing industry that offers opportunities for anyone to potentially get rich quick. Many aspiring streamers include single mothers, the uneducated or others facing obstacles to conventional full-time employment. Industries have grown around the phenomenon, with schools offering intensive training courses to hopefuls willing to do whatever it takes to make a sale.
High on the slopes of the Himalayas, in one region of Nepal known as "Little Japan," the number of men and women who travel to Japan to work has caused severe depopulation. In Tokari Village, one woman raises her grandchildren alone. Combined with the fatigue from farm work, the stress of each day brings her to tears. In this episode, we follow a family seeking a modest life of happiness over the course of 2 years as they contend with the challenges of global immigration.
2022
In July 2021, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam saw an explosion of new COVID-19 cases. A medical team of 1,500 traveled from capital Hanoi to help, including over 800 student nurses. With few locals vaccinated, the students carried out tests across the city, urging positive patients to quarantine. They recorded footage of their experiences on the front lines of this battle as they discovered the realities of life as a medical professional through 2 months working in a city in lockdown.
The island of Bali, Indonesia suffered a massive blow to its tourism industry during the pandemic, and many were left unemployed. To get by, some people decided to use their cooking skills or management experience to set up their own businesses. Sendok Kreatif (The Creative Spoon) is a group of restaurant consultants, chefs and other experts who provide free guidance on product development and marketing. Their efforts have helped put some 10 small firms on the map. As the future of the tourism industry remains cloudy, we follow the people turning to entrepreneurship to make ends meet.
During the Vietnam War, Laos was bombed heavily by US military forces. An estimated 80 million unexploded bombs remained, leading to over 50,000 casualties in the decades since. The Laos government provides free treatment and rehabilitation to survivors, but many are unaware that this support exists. In 2019, a rural support NGO teamed up with the Laos Centre for Medical Rehabilitation. The NGO uses its network to help find survivors and bring them to the center, and accompanies doctors to rural villages to provide treatment and rehab. Discover how the survivors of these explosions are being supported in Laos.
Photographer Rat Puanrak runs a feeding site on Thailand's Phuket Island that has become a sanctuary for migrating Himalayan Vultures. These imposing birds of prey face the threat of extinction from dwindling food supplies and agricultural chemicals. In this program, we follow the tireless efforts of Rat - and his widening support network of researchers, veterinarians and volunteers - as they work to protect an endangered species.
Since the one-child policy ended in 2016, demand for fertility treatment in China has grown. Residents of rural areas travel to cities to receive treatment, staying at lodgings in districts that people call "child-seeking towns." Their reasons for treatment are diverse: Some hope for a second child or a son now that the policy has been abolished, while others feel compelled by the culture of their villages. This episode follows a year in the life of families seeking to bring a new child into the world.
As Vietnam enjoys rapid economic growth, one community on Hanoi's Red River has been left behind. The "Floating Village" is a series of homes on the water that uses drums as floats. Many residents have no official papers and are unable to find permanent work or receive government aid. A rise in COVID-19 cases in the summer of 2021 left them in desperate straits. We follow 2 out-of-work families and the community's leader as they work to survive the pandemic.
Accompanying its growing economy, the pharmaceutical industry in China is expanding at a brisk pace. New medicines require participants in clinical trials to ensure that they are safe and effective for human use. These trials held in cities like Beijing pay richly by local standards, granting repeat participants and their recruiters newfound financial freedom. This episode examines China's pharmaceutical industry and the effect its testing system has on people from various walks of life.
Theaters and comedy clubs in the Philippines have been hit particularly hard by pandemic lockdowns. Entertainment group Comedy Manila is holding free and paid online events through social media and conferencing apps. The 50 members include 1 local superstar with over 800,000 followers on social media, alongside newcomers working regular jobs to make ends meet. Meet the entertainers and fans determined to beat back the pandemic through laughter.
In the forests of southern Laos is a national preserve for the endangered Eld's deer. The deer are famous for their large, beautiful antlers with crescent curves. Although they once roamed from India to China, poaching and deforestation have led to their extinction in many countries. They were believed to have vanished from Laos 50 years ago, but were rediscovered in 2008. The government has led conservation efforts ever since, and the preserve is changing the lives of locals who depended on the forest for survival. Discover how the government is looking to protect the deer while improving the lives of locals.
Mt. Kinabalu, with an elevation of 4,095 meters, is a majestic presence in Malaysian North Borneo, and a World Heritage Site. But from 2020, tourism has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some indigenous people see a connection with the 2015 earthquake, believing both to be due to divine wrath. In this episode, we meet the residents of this region who live while respecting the sanctity of nature, and seek new ways to sustain themselves.
Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, many Chinese officials and citizens have made remarks supporting Russia's actions, but the opinions held by some people differ greatly. Filmmakers throughout the country create short films opposing the invasion, and young people in Yunnan collect messages from Chinese citizens to be translated and conveyed to show sympathy to those suffering in the war.
Young South Koreans are building breweries to make makgeolli, soju and other traditional alcohol. Hangang Brewery, established in 2018, sells a wildly popular makgeolli that uses 100% Seoul-grown rice with no sweeteners. One former owner-chef closed his restaurant to focus on brewing makgeolli, while 4 entrepreneurs launched an online business selling regional alcohol paired with labels designed by young artists. Traditional alcohol is no longer just a fun pastime, but a form of self-expression for the young people shaping a new culture.
Durian, a sweet, intense-smelling fruit, is known as the King of Fruit in Thailand. Nonthaburi Province is home to a traditional farming method passed down from generation to generation to cultivate top-quality durians. Top varieties can cost several hundred dollars each. However, in 2011, record flooding hit the area, destroying many farms and livelihoods. Adding to farmers' woes, the absence of successors and urban development is pushing them toward an unprecedented existential crisis. We follow 2 farmers who continue to protect their fields and pass on their durian heritage.
As most of the world adapts to life with the virus during the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, China continues its strictly enforced Zero-COVID Policy with frequent lockdowns. Although the country's infection rate is among the lowest in the world, the thorough policy carries major drawbacks: Countless workers are suddenly separated from their jobs, causing great personal and economic hardship. In this episode, we speak to the people in Beijing who pay a high price under the policy.
As a platform of his campaign, newly elected President Yoon Suk-yeol pledged to disband the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, a government organization that furthers women's rights. His statement courted controversy, sparking a discussion as to which gender truly encounters discrimination: Although women are expected to fulfill traditional motherly roles, men lose 2 working years to mandatory military service. This episode examines the gender debate that divides South Korean society and politics.
The Hunza Valley in northeastern Pakistan is a region of extraordinary beauty and serenity. Bibi Amina, one of Hunza's first female carpenters, first took up her tools here 13 years ago. Pakistan is a Muslim country, and many believe strongly in male superiority. It's considered shameful for a woman to work outside the home, and some men in Hunza could not accept a woman taking up a "man's job" like carpentry. Amina faced significant criticism, with some even calling for her work to be burned to the ground. But she has continued to work to make ends meet, earning recognition from her male peers. She is now part of a group of female carpenters, all striving for financial independence. Meet the extraordinary women of Hunza.
South Korea holds the world's 10th highest GDP, and yet its welfare budget for disabled people is just 0.6% of this, less than one third the average of other OECD countries. In response, disabled citizens have taken to subway stations to demonstrate for their rights, especially freedom of movement. Less than 30% of South Korea's buses are wheelchair-accessible, and some of its stations lack elevators. This episode chronicles the country's disabled populace who rally for social change.
The town of Poipet lies in northwest Cambodia, by the border with Thailand. It's home to 3 special economic zones that have attracted manufacturers from around Asia and the West. Just 3 and a half hours by car to Bangkok, labor costs are two-thirds lower than in Thailand, and the government is offering special tax cuts. It's an attractive proposition for many firms, and workers have been drawn to Poipet's buoyant growth. However, not everyone is reaping the economic benefits – the wealth gap between factory staff and other locals is widening. Explore the border town of Poipet, and its dreams of becoming a growth hub for Southeast Asia.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand's once vibrant tourism industry shut down completely, preventing visitors from entering from overseas. Although access has now resumed, hotel occupancy rates are still less than half their previous levels. In order to survive, local hotels and businesses used the off season to develop new tours and plans that highlight environmental preservation and sustainability. In this episode, we take part in the projects bringing new potential to tourism in Thailand.
Over burning sands in summer and snowy plains of minus 30 degrees Celsius in winter: One medical team is traversing Mongolia to examine and operate on rural children with heart defects for free. Top heart surgeon Dr. Boldsaikhan launched the project in June 2020, saving some 200 children a year with funding from corporate and private donations. But as he fights his own battle with stage four stomach cancer, he is also focused on training his mentee Dr. Khashchuluun to ensure the project will survive. Follow these extraordinary doctors and their team through a year of hard work.
In Vietnam, the economy is on the rise, and so are the number of serious traffic accidents. A shortage of ambulances and paramedics results in victims dying on the streets. In response to this situation, FAS Angel, a civilian emergency rescue team, is training young volunteers to administer first aid at accident sites in Hanoi. We go on patrol with the group as they race to save lives in their mission to "never abandon anyone."
The Bantar Gebang waste site lies outside Indonesia's capital of Jakarta. Over 7,000 tons of trash is brought here each day, and its status as one of Asia's largest dumps is infamous. Weekend school BGBJ (The Seeds of Bantar Gebang) provides free classes to poor children who live in the neighborhood. Local Resa Boenard opened the school 18 years ago to provide hope for the children's futures. But when the government decides to expand the waste site, the school is ordered to leave. Follow Resa and her students over the course of a year.
In August 2022, torrential rains damaged homes across South Korea, with those living in semi-basement homes hit especially hard. In response, the Seoul government announced that to preserve safety, semi-basements would be eliminated, but they have yet to provide any effective alternatives. Additionally, low-income residents of the city find themselves unable to move due to rising rent. In this episode, we follow the plight of Seoul's semi-basement residents.
At just 5,800 strong, Tuvans are Mongolia's smallest ethnic minority. Nomads who live in the high plains of Mongolia's west, their language was outlawed under socialist rule and their existence officially denied. Five years ago, Galtaikhuu set out to support his fellow Tuvans by stoking a new industry: cheese from yak milk. Strongly influenced by his father, a novelist who wrote under earlier oppression, Galtaikhuu is also finding other ways to ensure his people survive. Discover how the first Tuvan brand cheese is shaping a new future.
The 2011 nuclear meltdown in Fukushima Prefecture forced many people to evacuate for years. While many locals have not returned even after decontamination, the number of residents moving in from other areas of the country has shown an increase. They come to towns in the region sensing new opportunities. One man opened a brewery serving unique beverages, while another came to support the community. Original residents who endured the disaster welcome these new contributions as they work together for the future of their towns.
The Philippines closed schools for two and a half years during the pandemic. After fully reopening in November 2022, it became clear that many students had fallen behind. The decline in English proficiency – the country's second official language – is particularly serious, impacting performance in science, math and other subjects that use English. During the closures, classes were held remotely, largely depending on large volumes of printed worksheets for solo study and leaving any students who got stuck without anyone to assist them. Two teachers have started holding free classes for reading and writing aimed at students struggling with English. Discover how educators in the Philippines are working to regain what was lost during the pandemic.
2020
In May 2019, the Taiwanese government became the first in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. Some 2,500 couples have officially tied the knot in the 6 months following. Chi Chia-wei (61) has spent over 30 years campaigning for marriage equality. In 1986, Chi became the first person in Taiwan to come out publicly. He pushed the government to legalize same-sex marriage, fighting and winning a case in 2017 claiming that the current situation was unconstitutional. The government was forced to legalize same-sex marriage, but organized opposition from Christians and social conservatives resulted in a law under which same-sex married couples still do not have the same rights as heterosexual couples. We explore the history of marriage equality in Taiwan, and the issues it still faces.
Once a prosperous coal mining city, China's northeastern city of Hegang boasted double-digit economic growth for over a decade. But now, among diminished demand for coal, residents who staked their lives on the industry are finding it hard to make ends meet. Social problems such as shoplifting and alcoholism are on the rise. Despite the difficulty of finding new work, the citizens of Hegang continue to seek a light at the end of the tunnel.
Pinit, a successful Thai businessman and sports celebrity, turned his life upside down when he decided, at the age of 45, to become a woman -- Pauline. Her book, "Too Tight Shoes" speaks about her experience coming to terms with, and finally embracing, her gender identity. Pauline's journey to becoming a woman involved many painful decisions, including parting with her wife and daughter. She also strove to win the understanding of her parents. Eventually, she found a way to rebuild a family life, helping her ex-wife to run a restaurant. In this program, we follow a transgender woman's search for her true identity and her efforts to hold on to the people she loved.
In January of 2020, the Taiwanese presidential election was held for the first time in 4 years. With the constant media coverage of the event both on television and the internet, Taiwan faced a new threat not seen in years past: the misinformation known as "fake news." Due to the high use of social media in Taiwan, false information can spread before anyone has a chance to disprove it, influencing the opinions of voters. To counteract this effect, groups of checkers now work swiftly to verify information as it airs, utilizing technology to protect Taiwan's journalistic integrity and discredit fake news.
In 2017, the militant group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) was all but defeated by international forces in Syria. Its membership had included over 40,000 people from 110 different countries, and their repatriation became a major issue. In 2019, Kazakhstan became one of the first countries to begin repatriating its citizens. It has now returned over 600 people to Kazakh soil. The male fighters remain imprisoned, while women and children undergo counseling and training at rehabilitation centers near their homes. Hear about how these women came to join ISIL, their life in ISIL - controlled territory, and how they feel now they have returned.
Each year, a handful of North Korean citizens leave their past lives behind in hopes of gaining freedom as defectors to South Korea. Until recently, social foundations have existed to support the transition of these defectors into a new society. But under the Moon administration, such organizations have seen their funding slashed, and the government has even willingly repatriated some defectors to almost certain death. Without sufficient financial or social support, North Korean defectors band together to survive as hard lives grow even harder. In recent years, the South Korean government has reduced funding to support defectors from North Korea. Those who risk their lives to find freedom now face prejudice and life below the poverty line.
In the shadow of Thailand's rapid economic growth is the district of Klong Toey, one of nearly 2,000 slums in Bangkok. Klong Toey is home to more than 80,000 residents, whose average income is half that of the typical Bangkok household. Some make their living as resellers, supporting their families by purchasing from local shops and selling elsewhere. While they manage to make ends meet, improving their lives enough to transcend this daily cycle is a daunting task.
The city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, has over 2,500 years of history. Today, Samarkand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its status as a "cultural crossroads." Beginning in 2018, a national tourism policy brought about a sharp rise in foreign visitors, sparking widespread development and infrastructural changes. Locals are hopeful about the economic potential of increased tourism, but worried about the rapid transformation of their city, while UNESCO has asked the government to reconsider its plans. Explore the challenges Samarkand faces as it navigates a tourism boom.
In April of 2019, Japan introduced a new visa status, the Specified Skilled Worker, intended to encourage foreign laborers to boost Japan's dwindling workforce. In theory, the system appears to be a fine proposal both for young Filipinos eager to send money home, and Japanese industries hoping for new workers. In practice, however, bureaucratic complications between the 2 nations mean that making use of the system isn't as easy as it should be.
In a district of Beijing frequented by young people, a new kind of business opened its doors: At the Smash Room, customers pay for the right to destroy bottles, mannequins, furniture, or any number of other objects. But for many, the fleeting moment of destruction is no game: It's a way of dealing with personal problems that have no outlet in modern society.
Although South Korea completed its national pension system in 1999, late enrollment and other issues caused many seniors to be left without adequate financial aid. Now, some of those elderly men and women have resorted to gathering recyclable cardboard just to put food on the table. With cardboard prices dropping, a full day of foraging may not even provide an hour's pay at minimum wage, and the senior citizens are faced with a bleak future in their twilight years.
The Yangon Film School, established in 2005, pioneered film education in Myanmar. Its students have made over 200 documentaries, winning a number of awards at domestic and international film festivals. Fees for the three-year course are covered by the school itself, and 12 students are accepted for each grade, half of them ethnic minorities. Under the guidance of 10 teachers from Myanmar and abroad, the students use film to tell stories of street dancers in Yangon, anonymous democracy fighters and conflict-ridden border regions. Following Myanmar's shift towards democracy in 2011, these young filmmakers are on the ground documenting their country's transformation.
Shenzhen, in Guangdong Province, is the center of China's IT industry. With a number of novel coronavirus infectees second only to Hubei, its businesses endured a lockdown that was lifted at the end of February. One businessman who operates amusement parks in the province faces a harsh struggle for financial survival. Unable to liquidate his assets and grappling with cancellations from investors, his business is just one of many in Shenzhen that have been destabilized by the virus.
COVID-19 rages around the world and Thailand is no exception. In recent weeks, infections have dropped below 10 new cases on most days, but people continue to lose jobs. An estimated 10 million will be unemployed if economic restrictions continue. To support the needy, monks at a temple near Bangkok are running a major food distribution program. This documentary follows their activities and the people they are helping, including the family of a taxi driver put out of work by the pandemic.
Winphe is a popular satirical cartoonist in Yangon, Myanmar. He's drawn over 1,500 works exploring political and everyday issues from the perspective of ordinary citizens. During nearly 50 years of military rule, newspapers were censored and the work of satirists was suppressed. The censorship ended with the government's 2011 step towards democracy, but some cartoonists say that not everything can be freely criticized, with arrests still being made. Explore Myanmar today through the work of Winphe and his satirist colleagues.
Claiming tens of thousands of lives and infecting millions of people worldwide, the damage caused by the current novel coronavirus pandemic is widespread and seemingly never-ending. Most countries have experienced lockdowns and the closing of borders, and the economic impact of COVID-19 on parts of East Asia and South Asia, in particular, is expected to be severe. In this episode of Asia Insight, we catch up with previous interviewees in the Philippines, Mongolia and China to find out how they are faring and gauge their hopes and fears for the future.
The coronavirus pandemic has infected over ten million and killed hundreds of thousands around the world, and a true solution remains out of sight. Most countries have banned international travel and taken massive hits to their economies. Many in Asia have found their jobs and income cut off. This time on Asia Insight, we revisit several business owners we met previously in China, Mongolia, Taiwan and Cambodia to see how the pandemic has affected them. Explore their unique visions and strategies for the future.
Claiming tens of thousands of lives and infecting millions worldwide, the damage caused by the current pandemic is widespread and seemingly never-ending. Most countries have experienced lockdowns and the closing of borders, and the economic impact of COVID-19 on parts of East Asia and South Asia, in particular, is expected to be severe. In this episode of Asia Insight, we catch up with artists previously interviewed in Vietnam and South Korea where swift action has kept infection low. How has the pandemic affected them and what are their unique ideas and strategies for the future?
In regions of Malaysian North Borneo such as the city of Kota Kinabalu, which is otherwise known as a classy tourist destination, illegal slums dot the map. Cobbled together above the waters, the dwellings are home to the "stateless," people who due to their lack of identifying documents effectively belong to no country. Many fled insurgence in the Philippines, and have lived in North Borneo for decades, relying on the support of NGOs to feed their families. Now, with the government enacting a lockdown in order to contain the coronavirus, their very survival is at risk.
South Korea has succeeded in minimizing infections during the pandemic while also paying great attention to mental healthcare for the elderly. The country has the highest suicide rates of any developed nation - particularly among old people. The pandemic has made basic support systems impossible to maintain and many fear another rise in deaths. Meet the people finding new ways to help, and discover how monitoring systems and potted plants are being used to support the many elderly people who live alone in Seoul.
The coronavirus pandemic is damaging the apparel industry in Guangzhou, China, as people and goods are barred entry. With orders from overseas clients almost completely eliminated, lack of demand affects people in every position: Jobless workers fight over cheap day labor, factory owners can barely turn a profit and inns struggle to stay afloat among the economic shockwave caused by the virus.
Several months after the lockdown ended in April 2020, store owners in Wuhan, China turn to a flea market app in order to pay living costs among an economy fundamentally changed by the coronavirus. Many sell their goods at a major loss, others offer unusual services, or go so far as to sell their pets in order to somehow get by. Though the government has reported an improved GDP, the outlook among residents of Wuhan remains a bleak one.
Vietnam is considered a success case in the fight against COVID-19, having kept infections to a minimum. But in late March, the country's biggest medical facility saw a large cluster of cases, and in an unprecedented move, Bach Mai Hospital was put into total lockdown. 700 severely ill patients and around 2,000 medical staff stayed on site, with all movement closely monitored. They tell their extraordinary stories from the 15-day lockdown of Vietnam's largest hospital.
COVID-19 is forcing many South Koreans to shop online, increasing the number of online purchases by 30% in 2020. However, the delivery drivers who bear this burden lack job security or basic labor rights. Drivers are responsible for providing their own vehicles, but pay for each delivery is meager, pushing many to severe overwork in order to replace the income lost to the pandemic. This episode depicts the harsh work environment these drivers suffer.
Wuhan was the epicenter of the novel coronavirus. Now, it's home to a new art exhibition depicting the fear of infection and gratitude to those who kept the city safe. Behind the exhibition is young Wuhan artist Yang Qian. When lockdown began on January 23, 2020, she laid down her brushes and spent around 4 months delivering supplies to hospitals and care homes as a volunteer. Aware that she could become infected at any moment, she filmed her daily life and posted on social media. Follow the tireless volunteer work of this artist during Wuhan's long lockdown.
Mongolian marathon runner Munkhzaya Bayartsogt (26) is a rising star. She broke national records with her very first race at age 19 and has broken 9 more records and won countless international contests since. But the current pandemic has left her in dire straits, as funding has dropped to just 20% of its usual amount. She can't find anywhere to train, and she's even having trouble feeding herself, leading to malnutrition that is affecting her athletic condition. Yet with her family behind her, Munkhzaya continues to run.
Thailand had relied heavily on foreign tourists, but the coronavirus forced it to close its borders in April, costing many their livelihoods. Some sought out new business opportunities, or continued working for a fraction of their former incomes. Others adjust their workstyle to focus on local customers. Among the compromised tourism industry, a multitude of people now seek new solutions.
Manufacturers in Hong Kong cherish their "Made in Hong Kong" brand, viewing the label as a mark of quality when delivering their products to the world. But due to countermeasures imposed by the United States towards strengthening Chinese control over Hong Kong, the local businesses will be required to mark their exports as "Made in China." Any competitive advantage they might have had is eliminated as they are caught between the growing tensions of 2 nations.
Online bartering has become a massive trend in the Philippines. Many people have lost work because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, and exchanging goods is a way to procure basic necessities. The movement has begun with Bacolod-based lawyer Jocelle Batapa Sigue, who started an online barter community with just 10 members back in May 2020. She sets rules, such as no cash transactions, and in-person exchanges only, as a way to promote a system of mutual assistance. Today over a million people across the Philippines are bartering online. Explore how Filipinos are using this new system to make it through the pandemic.
The Altai mountains in western Mongolia are home to many folk music traditions. Although traditional Mongolian arts have been swept away by modernization in many regions, this area has carefully maintained them as part of a nomadic lifestyle. From the world-famous Khoomei throat singing to the ikhel, from which all Mongolian string instruments are said to have evolved, this region is a historic treasure trove of the musical arts. 12 years ago, a 1,300-year-old wooden instrument was discovered in a cave burial in the region, with markings that prove the long association between local nomads and music. Discover how locals are keeping ancient arts alive today and continuing to worship nature through song and music.
Thailand was the first country outside of China to detect cases of COVID-19. However, with less than 4,000 infections and 60 deaths as of the end of November, the measures they have taken are drawing global attention. The unsung heroes behind the scenes are the 1.2 million Health Volunteers who work closely with the local community, doing everything from distributing masks to monitoring those who may be infected. We find out who they are and why they are so devoted to defeating the virus.
The inland province of Guizhou had once been ranked among China's most impoverished, but change was shown by completion of a huge housing complex there 5 years ago. Now young entrepreneurs are staking their dreams on the region, drawn by the affordable housing costs and convenient infrastructure. From internet business CEOs to school owners, a wave of creative young men and women undeterred by the pandemic are seeking out new opportunities in Guizhou.
2023
The Thailand Institute of Justice is using street food carts as a form of social experiment that attempts to help former prisoners rehabilitate into society. In the program, they take a seminar on cooking and business, and are provided with a food cart and startup money. Support team leader Thanachai Sundaravej gets to know each of the participants, and gives them advice considering each of their unique circumstances. In this episode, we get to know the people who seek a new chance through street food.
In the Philippines, where natural disasters and poverty are a continuing issue, people depend on their barangays for help and assistance. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, carrying out various services, from health and welfare to disaster management. In Manila's Chinatown, community ties are especially close due to a history of persecution of people of Chinese descent under Spanish rule. We focus on one barangay's community bonding in the lead-up to Christmas.
Thailand's Muay Thai boxing is a powerful martial art in which fighters strike with their arms and legs. Gambling on the sport has been common, leading to corruption such as fixed bouts. To regain trust in the sport, the Royal Thai Army forbade gambling in the most prominent stadium, which it operates. Promoters attempt to generate interest through means such as music performances and women's matches, but along with fighters, they grapple with the prospect of holding the yearly stadium anniversary show while keeping gambling out of the ring.
The livelihoods of fishermen residing in Malaysia's Penang State are being placed at risk by a plan to construct enormous artificial islands with a total area of 1,800 hectares. Having worked in these waters for generations, the local fishermen are concerned about the intrusion into one of the country's most productive fishing sites for shrimp. Meanwhile, other fishermen work to preserve mangrove forests in the Penang area. In this episode, we voyage alongside the Malaysian fishermen who seek to continue living and working in harmony with the environment.
In just 20 years, Thailand's senior population has doubled in size. Many seniors find themselves isolated at home, while others suffer from stress, depression and other mental health issues. One new initiative is looking to prevent age-related issues and encourage social integration: Schools for seniors, aimed at those over sixty. Classes cover social media, fraud awareness and practical career training. Explore how "senior school" has given many isolated elderly people a new lease on life.
Spurred by a series of deadly accidents during the zero-COVID policy, young people in China have begun to express their political objections with blank white paper, symbolizing the people's inability to criticize the government. The gesture spread across China, with protestors holding large gatherings speaking out against the government in over 20 cities nationwide. This episode shares the voices of young protestors who took part in the demonstration in Shanghai.
Japan is the home of manga. With over 140 manga magazines, it's produced countless international hits. A Tokyo NPO runs several share houses for young artists who hope to make a mark as manga creators. Those aged 18-35 who are seriously pursuing the profession may live in these homes. Some offer direct guidance from professionals and over 120 artists in these share houses have since made their professional debut. Meet the young people chasing their dreams over their three-year residence.
The waters of Tokyo Bay once teemed with life. But Japan's economic rise saw coastal areas reclaimed and water quality undermined, and catches soon plummeted. Today, fishermen are working hard to restore the region's environment and marine resources. Conger eel fishers use equipment that allow fry to escape, while others are farming oysters on tidal flats as an alternative to diminished seaweed and asari clam harvests. A group of 300 fishermen have imposed strict rules upon themselves in order to protect and grow the splendid alfonsino population. Meet the passionate people working to shape a more sustainable future.
After 3 years under the Zero-COVID Policy, movement restrictions in China have been removed, allowing migrant workers in major cities to travel home to visit their families. Train lines like the K-134 running from Shenzhen are now accessible, creating a rush of prospective passengers hoping to make it home in time for the Chinese New Year. Some have had their professions disrupted by the pandemic, while others have discovered new opportunities. All of them compete for a limited number of seats on the train, as we ride alongside the workers attempting the long trip home.
As political tensions run high between Taiwan and mainland China, inspections are being carried out of 100,000 emergency air-raid shelters, which have been mandatory in the construction of large buildings since 1971. Local leaders prepare the shelters and attempt to motivate citizens in the district to take part in evacuation drills, despite attitudes of complacency or aggression that have recently emerged. In this episode, we unearth the shelters that stand waiting to protect the residents of Taiwan.
Under the one country, two systems principle, Hong Kong had been allowed a right to free speech. But after protest rallies there called for democratization in 2019, the National Security Law was passed to clamp down on anti-government activities, and many activists were arrested and imprisoned. As the political face of Hong Kong changes with each passing day, young residents feel a sense of unease about whether they should remain in Hong Kong, and what the future there may bring.
One-third of all food produced worldwide is wasted. Determined to do better, Taichung City in Taiwan enacted an ordinance on food banks in 2016. Under this framework, municipal food banks collect food nearing expiration and donate it to those in need; refrigerators in public markets allow unused food to make it into the hands of social welfare organizations; and a facility producing bio-powered electricity for 800 households has also been built. At the same time, the private sector is expanding its activities to eliminate waste. We look at the Taichung City-led effort to reduce food waste.
Bangladesh is one of Asia's poorest countries and suffering some of the worst effects of climate change. Cyclones, floods and other disasters have led millions to lose their homes and become climate migrants. Those migrating to major cities such as Dhaka struggle to find work, while even rural towns are seeing their populations explode. Infrastructure is failing and local governments are struggling to find solutions. But new projects are seeking a way forward.
Under China's One-Child Policy, maternity benefits had been confined only to married couples, excluding mothers of children born out of wedlock. In recent years, major cities have revised this policy to combat population decline, prompting more people to apply for the benefits. However, as preexisting social discrimination against unwed mothers still remains, many face an uphill battle in actually attaining these rights that should be due to all women.
Mongolia's nomads are raising an increasing number of cashmere goats. The goats' soft undercoats provide the raw wool for luxury cashmere fabric, and is an important cash income. But this rise has also triggered serious environmental problems. Because goats pull grass out by the roots when grazing, nearly 80% of Mongolia's land is threatened by desertification. We follow the NPOs, companies and nomads working to restore the plains, and realize a higher standard of living.
Due to limited options available in their home country, many Nepali workers travel to locations such as the Middle East and Malaysia to send home funds that support the lives and education of their families. However, the work conditions they find waiting for them are often harsh, and many sustain kidney damage. Some even lose their lives, leaving families to support themselves. In this episode, we speak to the workers who face these conditions for the good of their families.
Three months after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit Turkey, 2.5 million people are still displaced. One of the hardest-hit areas is Iskenderun, Hatay Province, where sleeper trains in a corner of the station are functioning as temporary shelters. In this episode, we focus on some of the people - more than 100 at last count - who still call these carriages home. We hear from a couple who lost their home, a woman struggling to overcome trauma with her husband's support, and a child who can't face going back to school.
In October 2022, a tragedy took place at an Indonesian soccer stadium, taking the lives of 135 people. After the match, fans stormed the pitch. Security forces fired large amounts of tear gas in response. The resulting panic caused a fatal stampede. Bereaved families criticize the unnecessary escalation of the authorities, as they fight to uncover the truth behind the tragedy. Others seek to improve relations between rival supporters and transform Indonesia's often violent soccer culture.
Bangladesh is well known as an international garment producer, with 4.2 million people employed by the industry, many working in factories to sew apparel for overseas brands. But in 2013, the nation was shocked by an accident in which the collapse of an illegally expanded building holding several factories claimed more than 1,100 lives. The incident drew worldwide criticism and caused safety regulations to be imposed. Now caught between strict regulations, rising costs and the constant demand for lower prices from overseas buyers, factory owners and their employees find it hard to earn a living.
The Banpo Labor Market located in the city of Xi'an was once known as a prime location for recruiting laborers. Now, almost all those who gather to find work are in their 50s or 60s. But to prevent construction site accidents, some major cities are passing ordinances that forbid the employment of people 60 or older. Migrant workers who need to sustain themselves accept jobs out of contract, and disputes are frequent. In this episode, we meet the workers who once fueled China's economic growth, but are now being left in the dust.
For generations, Pakistan's Wakhi people have herded each summer in Pamir, a high-altitude grassland that is vital to raising the livestock upon which they depend. The difficult trek there along winding mountain paths was once a summer ritual for families, but the tradition has changed since more people are deciding to keep their children in school instead. In this episode, we travel with the Wakhi people on a journey at risk of being lost to time.
Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar is home to the country's only art school that accepts students with disabilities. Currently, 13 of its 50 students have intellectual or physical disabilities. One graduate is now a professional artist who has enjoyed success in the US and Japan. Accessibility remains a challenge in Mongolia, and there are few educational and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Many live isolated from society. By teaching students of all abilities side by side, the school has become a source of hope for many students and their families. As the school approaches its 30th anniversary, meet the students chasing their artistic dreams, and the principal and teachers who guide them.
Chinese business founders who succeeded in manufacturing during the country's economic growth have reached retirement age. Now taking the helm from them are the "factory inheritors," their sons and daughters who have benefited from opportunities such as studying abroad. However, the conditions they face in China's manufacturing industry are far different than what they had studied, as they grapple with post-pandemic economic stagnancy that threatens to grow even worse. In this episode, we meet the young people who have inherited a battle for business survival.
Taiwanese was the language of everyday life in Taiwan until the KMT Party under Chiang Kai-shek came to power in 1949. Then martial law was enforced, the use of Taiwanese was banned, and Mandarin Chinese became the dominant language. Today, Taiwanese is spoken and read mostly by elderly people. But as concerns grow about the loss of linguistic heritage, and against a backdrop of political tension with the mainland, young people in particular are seeking to bring back Taiwanese. A social media star, young mothers and nature guides are among the people we meet who are reexamining their identity through the medium of the Taiwanese language.
In October 2020, the National Bank of Cambodia became the first central bank in Asia to launch a digital currency. With the US dollar representing 90% of the cash circulating in the country, the bank decided to promote use of domestic currency through technology. Three years on, digital payments are a common sight in urban areas – a huge change for the once cash-focused economy. Now, the bank has turned its sights to rural Cambodia. What will the changes mean for the lives of rural residents?
To combat a declining fertility rate, in recent years the government of South Korea has offered increased financial aid to parents who apply for leave from work. Although guaranteed paternity leave by law, many fathers discover that upon returning to work, they face overt harassment such as lack of promotions, or more subtle interference. In response, support groups aspire to create a legal framework that protects working fathers, and to change society's perception of them.
In 2005, Cambodia's first alternative school, Tiny Toones, was opened in Phnom Penh. In addition to general subjects, it adds courses on rap and dance into the mix. It was founded by a Cambodian man raised in the United States, who discovered a new purpose imparting his unique knowledge to young people. Most of the students come from impoverished backgrounds, and some enroll after dropping out of the public school system, or fleeing a turbulent family life. The school even provides dormitories to students if needed. In this episode, we meet the staff and children who have created a new place to belong through their shared love of hip-hop.
The Philippines' growing economy and population have led to a rise in trash, and it has become a serious social issue. Over half of this trash is food waste, and one woman hopes to use it to improve the lives of poor families. Lorilyn Daquioag uses microbes from the forest to break down food waste and produce a liquid solution that makes top-quality organic fertilizer. By distributing this for free to poor neighborhoods, she can track its efficacy on vegetables and flowers. The plan is to grow delicious, healthy vegetables for locals, and eventually produce a surplus to be sold at the market. Follow Lorilyn as she takes on the two-fold challenge of waste and poverty with a single solution.
Treasure Hill is a community and artist village run by the city of Taipei since 2010. Originally a settlement built by retired soldiers and immigrants, the buildings were deemed illegal and unsafe, and condemned to demolition. Twenty years of demonstrations and activism by locals persuaded the city to preserve the area, and it was turned into an "artist village" with studios and exhibition spaces. 22 artists from Taiwan and abroad live alongside ordinary residents. Meet the locals working hard to preserve the community's history.
With an unemployment rate of over 20% among people under age 25, mass layoffs in China have affected the careers of young people. In response, many have decided to take their futures into their own hands and open stalls as street vendors. Although they may earn less than before, they can work without fear of suddenly losing their jobs, and some see vending as a chance for networking or study in preparation for other work. In this episode, we gather along with the young people seeking out stability amidst an uncertain future.
Balaknama is an Indian newspaper written and edited entirely by underprivileged children, focusing on news from their own neighborhoods. The paper is available in both Hindi and English, and 8,000 copies are printed monthly. Stories range from fires and kidnappings to the inspiring account of a child recovering from drug addiction. We follow the 17-year-old chief editor, 16-year-old reporter and a 13-year-old rookie as they document the world they live in and work for a better future.
The rise of the internet has made the Philippines into a hub for dubbing international movies, TV shows, and cartoons into English. Meet the Filipino voice actors taking on the global market.
A school in Mae Sot, Thailand, located just across the border with Myanmar, shelters immigrant children of all ages, providing education to many who face the effects of poverty or the civil war.
2026
After a military coup d'etat in Myanmar, a growing number of citizens have rushed to the Chinese border city of Ruili, struggling to rebuild their lives as they hope for the day when peace returns.
Fifty years after the end of the Vietnam War, many people still search for family separated in the chaos. YouTuber Tuan Vy uses his channel to track down clues and reunite loved ones.
Large-scale development in Hong Kong's northern area is building a high-tech industrial base, boosting the economy and jobs. Though mainlanders hold high expectations, some locals face eviction.
Government-approved online casinos have provided a major source of national revenue in the Philippines, but their availability has brought a crisis where citizens develop severe gambling addictions.
Thailand is experiencing an unprecedent boom in pet ownership, and pet-friendly hotels, movie theaters, and other facilities are on the rise. We explore how this is affecting local life.
A population imbalance has occurred in China where men outnumber women, and men in farming villages face difficulties when trying to marry, with expectations from women such as a condominium and car.
South Korea's Jeju Island is home to the free-diving women fishers called "Haenyeo." As their numbers dwindle due to aging, a new generation attempts to carry on the culture in their own way.
Many Chinese families choose educational migration to Chiang Mai to enroll their children in international schools, avoiding intense academic pressure and giving new options for their futures.
In Taiwan, traditional puppet theater is enjoying a resurgence, capturing the hearts of young fans, and finding new audiences through video and social media.
As Myanmar's civil war drags on, some soldiers are defecting, unhappy with the military's violent oppression of civilians. They are joining the fight for democracy from the country's border regions.
Bangladesh has held its first general election since antigovernment protests in which 1,400 protestors were killed. We join young voters who carry on the will of those who lost their lives.
2017
Suicide in South Korea is a serious and widespread problem with the country having the highest suicide rate for an OECD member state. One in three persons who commit suicide are over the age of 65. Most of these elderly individuals have no job and live separately from their families. The Seongbuk district in Seoul has been taking a progressive approach to work on elderly suicide prevention since 2010. In this episode, we take a look at how the local government office and resident volunteers are working together to save lives.
2018
After the fall of the Pol Pot regime, Chi Phat Village became known as a center of illegal poaching and logging as its residents grew desperate among the declining economy. One day, an NGO offered them an unexpected option: Poachers could give up their hunt and instead turn their knowledge of the trails to guiding tourists. In this episode, we travel alongside the men working to revitalize their village in a new industry that has allowed visitors and residents alike to gain a newfound appreciation for man's harmony with nature.
Depopulation of rural areas has become a serious issue in China, where economic growth has led the vast majority of youth to migrate to urban eras. Homes and fields that had supported families for generations are now falling into disrepair, with only a handful of villagers left to maintain them. Although the younger generation shows no signs of returning, outside groups are instead finding creative uses for the rustic area: Artists have recently established studios in the village, inspired by the rich history and nature that abound there. In this episode, we explore the current state of China's rural farming villages, and the movements that are bringing new life to them.
In recent years, China's divorce rate has suddenly risen due to a number of factors, including social and economic changes as well as complex family values. The leading reason for divorce is said to be infidelity, with some viewing affairs as a sort of status symbol. In response, new services have emerged to preserve the sanctity of marriage. Marriage investigators now act as negotiators, hired to discourage affairs or help couples rediscover the happiness they once knew. In this episode, we explore the diverse new methods that Chinese citizens use in their pursuit of marital bliss.
In 2016, education in the Philippines underwent a dramatic overhaul. A new high school system was introduced, extending the period of basic public education by 2 years. However, many students have been forced to abandon their studies midway due to financial restraints. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on a groundbreaking new educational system in the Philippines, aiming to achieve a brighter future for its young people.
In the 1990's, Japan's anime was regarded in China as a media for children, and only the most eager fans knew of performance activities such as cosplay. But now, after cosplay of Chinese content underwent government promotion and regulation as a unique form of culture, the practice of dressing up as characters from manga and anime is flourishing, and entire companies have grown around it, combining cosplay with performance arts such as stage plays or dance. In this episode, we take a look at how what was originally Japan's popular culture has given rise to unique art and business in China.
The Kingdom of Cambodia is located on the Indochina Peninsula and approximately 80% of the population lives in rural areas. In the 1960's, the country thrived as a major producer and exporter of rice. However, the country was plunged into a long period of turmoil in the 1970's and the once abundant country was left in ruins. One man, Dr. Yang Saing Koma, has come across a revolutionary new way to cultivate rice and has devoted the past 20 years to restoring prosperity to Cambodia's rural areas. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow his dedicated efforts to create a new golden age for the agriculture of Cambodia.
Shenzhen is a city located in Guangdong Province, just across the bay from Hong Kong. Referred to as "China's Silicon Valley", it has increasingly gained an identity as an ideal location for entrepreneurs and engineers in the electronics sector, who come to the city seeking to make their ideas into the reality of a new career or an impressive livelihood. Around these creators spring even more new services catering to their intense lifestyles. But in this young, bustling city, it is only the best and brightest who can make their way. In this episode, we follow a day of activity in the city where dreams are realized, Shenzhen.
Sri Lanka: this island nation, often called "the pearl of the Indian Ocean", with its year-round beaches, endless nature and 8 designated World Heritage Sites, is an irresistible spot for travelers. After the end of the Sri Lankan Civil War in 2009, foreign tourists quadrupled in the space of 7 years, and the young people of Sri Lanka are working hard to take advantage of the opportunities this new tourism boom offers. We follow students at a 100-year old hotel's tourism school as they strive to become first-rate hotel employees, and visit a group of men looking to strike it rich by offering unique sightseeing tours on the chaotic Sri Lankan streets. This time on Asia Insight: the youth of Sri Lanka and their tourism dreams.
With the rise of digital media in China, the market for brick-and-mortar bookstores is on the decline. However, amidst skepticism from his peers, one man in Guanzhou City opened a bookstore where customers are actually encouraged to read before they buy, or simply read. The store has garnered great attention from investors and customers alike. It promotes literacy among people of every class and background, and holds seminars and events around a variety of topics. In this episode, we follow one man who has fought the economic tide to provide a gathering place for all kinds of book-lovers.
Known as the "Hawaii of China", the popular resort island of Hainan has drawn attention for creating a new model for farming villages. Boxue, a village with 300 residents, succeeded in branding its main crop of lychees in 2014 and doubled local incomes. Some farmers even earn more than the average Shanghai business worker! Chen Tongkui, aged 36, led the change. He was the first in the village to graduate university. After quitting his job as a newspaper journalist to return to his hometown, Chen set up an online retail system to sell lychees and financed agricultural events through crowdfunding. Explore how one man is leading local residents to reshape and revitalize the village with his new ideas.
Family structures are undergoing a rapid change in modern China. More and more grandparents are finding themselves pressured to leave their homes in the country to look after their grandchildren in the cities. They are known as the "Lao piao zu". And they dedicate themselves to child-rearing for many years in an unfamiliar environment where they have no friends. However, this can put unnecessary stress on the elderly people leading to a sense of isolation, sometimes resulting in mental illness. We take a look at changing values in China and the steps being taken to encourage China's caring grandparents.
In the east of Indonesia is a unique clinic known as the "Garbage Clinic". The clinic encourages local people from impoverished areas to bring recyclable trash to the clinic which they can deliver in exchange for free medical consultations. The clinic opened in 2013, at the instigation of Dr. Gamal Albinsaid (27), who not only encouraged his colleagues to take part but also gathered corporate donations. Approximately 10% of Indonesia's population lives in poverty. While medical insurance is available, it is not very widespread and coverage amongst underprivileged people is rare. 4 years after opening the clinic, the number of registered residents has exceeded 250. Dr. Albinsaid has also set up a system that allows patients with serious conditions to receive treatment at nearby major hospital. He plans to open another clinic later this year. We follow the work of Dr. Gamal Albinsaid and his colleagues as they look to provide medical services to people in need.
In January 2016, China finally ended its 37-year one-child policy. All couples are now free to have a second child. The result has been a huge boom in second babies. The number of births for 2016 was 18.5 million. That's 2 million higher than the average over the last 5 years. Many of the mothers hoping for a second child are 35 years of age and above. Older mothers are vulnerable to a variety of risks during pregnancy and childbirth. Within 6 months of the end of the policy, the maternal death rate rose 30% compared to the first 6 months of 2015. The government is hurrying to respond to this data. Meet these determined mothers and their families who chose to accept those risks as we visit a postpartum care center in Shanghai.
In years past, China's migrant workers were looked upon as lowborn, and expected to eagerly accept even harsh working conditions. But with the country's major economic growth, rising wages mean that there are fewer young workers taking jobs in factories. But a handful of so-called "outsiders" have instead become entrepreneurs in the city, creating businesses that provide specialty services valuing skill and experience more than social standing. In this episode, we take a look at this "new blue collar", a group of young people chiseling out their own identities in the harsh cities of China.
Reflecting Mao Zedong's famous words that women hold up half the heavens, women in China benefit from greater equality in the workplace than in many other nations. But on a social level, women tend to be discouraged from actively pursuing their careers or hobbies with labels that are unfairly applied to them: Whether deemed "leftovers" or facetiously called "ideal women", those who choose priorities that differ from conventional gender images are penalized by harsh social perceptions. In this episode, we take a look at the lives of women who seek their own identities, evading the restrictive gender roles that have yet to catch up with otherwise modern China.
There is a big trouble in the faraway Polynesian Kingdom of Tonga. Until recently Tonga was best known for the skill of its rugby players but today Tonga has been classified as "the most obese nation on earth", caused by a reliance on imports of cheap fatty meats, refined carbohydrates and other packaged junk foods. Traditionally, Tongans ate a lot of fish and root vegetables, but their eating patterns have changed drastically. Obesity has led to a great number of Tongans developing deadly Type 2 diabetes. Amputations and heart disease have hit record levels and life expectancy is falling. We investigate Tonga's efforts to combat this medical emergency and explore why there is "Big Trouble in Paradise".
Death has been a taboo topic in China for centuries, making it difficult to prepare terminally ill patients and their families. One doctor is breaking this tradition by helping patients and families face the imminence of death through the new option of palliative care facilities, comforting patients in their final days of illness. In this episode, we examine the challenges undertaken by a man who opposes cultural norms with his belief that to appreciate the true value of life, one must not avert their eyes from the reality of death.
The district of Daehangno, located in central Seoul, has been known for decades as a college town. Young people brought their creativity to the location, which in turn attracted people from all over the nation seeking to express their views through art and performances. But in recent years, tragedies caused by government neglect and general complacency have led to a reaction in the area, where artists now seek to draw attention to political issues through their works. In this episode, we explore an art town that directly confronts the problems faced by modern South Korea.
China's one-child policy, created as an effort to prevent overpopulation, was ended in 2016 after 37 years. Now, those born during the first generation of the policy are reaching middle age, and are raising their own families. Although hard work among economic prosperity has granted many of them wealthy lifestyles, their wishes for large families are accompanied by the challenge of parenting siblings with different needs than they had as only children. In this episode, we catch up with families from the one-child policy generation who take careful steps into a new era of parenthood.
Though Myanmar is an agricultural nation, with over 60% of the population engaged in farming, many rural villages lack vital infrastructure such as running water and electricity. Furthermore, decades of political unrest have left numerous farmers struggling to eke out a living from rented land. Set up 9 years ago in Yangon, Proximity Designs is an NPO that aims to support impoverished farming communities by offering affordable agricultural tools, as well as providing micro-finance loans. Much of the equipment they provide relates to irrigation, with treadle pumps and water storage tanks that save time and effort, enabling farmers to invest more time in other work for a staggering increase in yields. We follow the activities of this NPO working hand in hand with rural farmers to promote development in Myanmar.
In Cambodia June 2017 saw elections to determine membership of local councils across the nation. In recent years these ballots have been dominated by the ruling Cambodian People's Party, led by Prime Minister Hun Sen. But the 11 other parties vying for seats this time included the Grassroots Democracy Party, made up of farmers determined to promote regional development from a rural perspective. Follow farmers making their voice heard on the political stage for the first time.
Economic growth in Myanmar has seen wine become popular with the country's younger generation. One of its major wineries sits in the highlands of the Shan state in northeast Myanmar. It's founder, German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach, worked with local residents and spent 5 years making the country's first domestically-produced wine. The biggest challenge was finding grape varieties that could survive the six-month monsoon season. They imported 13,000 young grapevines of over 30 varieties from Europe and conducted repeated cultivation tests. Today the winery produces 400,000 bottles a year. Over a hundred locals work at the winery and vineyard, which provides them with a stable income. We will explore the winding and difficult path taken by the pioneers who produced Myanmar's first wine.
In 2015, China launched its Internet Plus policy with the aim of promoting the use of Internet in various industries such as e-commerce and online banking. The results have been highly successful and China's mobile payment market has exceeded 6 trillion U.S. dollars since the introduction of the Internet Policy, 50 times the size of the U.S. market. On this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts of innovators trying to stay ahead of the game.
One in ten Filipinos -- over 10 million people -- work outside their native country. Recently, many people are hoping to work overseas as caregivers. They are graduates from 4-year universities and people changing careers from skilled positions such as computer technicians. Often coming from large families, Filipinos are used to caring for elderly relatives. Their cheerful, dedicated work ethic has made them popular in other countries. Although most have been employed in the West or Middle East, the increase in older populations in nearby Asian countries is driving demand in this region as well. Japan has the world's oldest population, and one school has had a surge in applicants for a course that specializes in caregiving for Japan. Lessons include an intensive Japanese language course. Meet the young caregiver hopefuls who study for their families and for a brighter future.
In Quezon City, near the Philippine capital Manila, lies the shantytown of San Roque. But as economic growth fuels rapid urban redevelopment, some 40,000 locals live under the constant shadow of eviction from their ramshackle homes. Around 3,000 families have already been moved out of the city to new homes provided by the government, but many still lack basic infrastructure like power and water.
Hong Kong was returned to mainland China in 1997. In spite of the Umbrella Revolution 3 years ago when junior high school students occupied Hong Kong's financial district, the pros and cons of its independence are still being debated. In spite of the proposed "one country two policy system", the future looks uncertain. On this episode of Asia Insight we take a look at Hong Kong -- 20 years after returning to China.
In July 2017, an "inclusive dance" show, featuring dancers with physical disabilities performing together with able-bodied dancers, was held in Vladivostok, the largest port city in the Russian Far East. Artyom Moiseyenko, age 42, the organizer and host of the event, was nearly completely paralyzed by a traffic accident during his 3rd year of college. Through tireless rehabilitation and an indomitable spirit, Artyom regained feeling and movement in his upper body.
70% of the world's civilian-use drones are made in the same city: Shenzhen, now referred to as "Drone City" by locals. In the span of a few years, drones have become a popular product with enthusiasts around the world, but the general public has perceived them as little more than toys. All this is beginning to change thanks to the innovations made in Shenzhen. From police investigation to transport, drones are set to enable major changes in society. We follow alongside this new technology to witness the heights to which the "Industrial Revolution of the Sky" has taken flight.
In China, migrant workers are a common presence in major cities such as Shanghai, where their low-cost labor makes a major contribution to the workforce. However, their status as perceived outsiders with low education has always limited their careers and earnings. Recently, many laborers have pursued a new possibility: Specialist certification, in fields such as culinary arts or care-giving. In industries where increasing quality is demanded, a greater focus is being placed upon knowledge and skill than past education. In this episode, we take a look at former migrant workers who attend night school in addition to their daytime jobs, struggling to distinguish themselves and be seen as more than just their birthplace and education level.
The city of Siem Reap is a major tourist destination, acting as the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple. It is also home to a very different kind of spectacle: a circus troupe that performs gravity-defying stories from Cambodian history and culture. The performers, who come from underprivileged backgrounds, were trained at Phare Ponleu Selpak, an art school co-founded by Khuon Det. In this episode we trace Det's extraordinary story, from Thai refugee camp to performing arts director - and some of the flying acrobats he has helped to lift out of poverty.
71-year-old artist Luong Anh Dung has spent 50 years drawing propaganda - and he's proud of it. Working for the Hanoi government, he painted hundreds of posters in the service of his socialist homeland. Dung's teacher, 86-year-old Le Lam, studied propaganda art in the USSR. Transplanted to Vietnam, this visually striking art form evolved into its own unique style. Both Dung and Lam served on the frontlines during the Vietnam War, where they created patriotic works from the battlefield.
Despite the great economic growth that is invigorating China, recently a small group of young people are turning their backs on the busy cities to search for a simpler way of life. In the mountains of Fujian Province, a handful of men and women disillusioned with big city life are working together to build their own sustainable community. With only their dreams to guide them, they attempt building, farming and other community planning entirely from scratch. But whether their ideals will be sufficient to sustain this challenging infrastructure remains to be seen. In this episode, we meet the young men and women pursuing a simpler lifestyle in a community of their own making.
Each year, over 13 million tourists visit the Indonesian island of Bali. But this tropical paradise faces a major trash problem, with non-biodegradable plastics a particular threat to the environment and wildlife. 4 years ago, local young people set up an NGO to tackle the situation: Bye Bye Plastic Bags. Founded by pre-teen sisters Melati and Isabel Wijsen, the group's activities include beach clean-up events and the provision of re-usable natural-fiber shopping bags to local stores. Local governments have also joined the fight, launching recycling schemes and school awareness campaigns. We follow 2 dynamic teenagers leading a team that is battling Bali's garbage problem.
Just 1 year ago in Myanmar, the National League for Democracy led by Aung San Suu Kyi was formally elected, freeing the country from the grip of a 50-year military reign. During the past regime, punk music had emerged as an underground medium to protest the government's authoritative rule. However, new social problems have grown visible under the current government. In the midst of Yangon's economic growth, harsh income gaps and joblessness are major obstacles, giving modern punk music a new perspective for their voice of protest. In this episode, we follow the activity of The Rebel Riot, a punk band in Myanmar addressing social issues through song, and working to help the country's disadvantaged citizens.
4 days a week, horse caretaker Ridwan Sururi loads his equine partner Luna with a couple of crates full of books, and leads her around the elementary schools in the farming village of Serang in Indonesia. He has provided this library on horseback service for free since 2015; the village has no public library, and most of the villagers cannot afford to buy books. He hopes the books will help the children learn about the world and grow as human beings. Discover the story of one man's mobile library and how it enriched the everyday lives of the people in his village.
Each year, over one thousand defectors escape the restrictive nation of North Korea to seek a new life in the South. Even if they succeed, persistent discrimination against North Koreans prevents them from feeling truly accepted into the new society. In response, a handful of defectors have taken an ambitious approach: Starting their own companies, they seek social positions as company presidents that ensure respect from those around them. In this episode, we follow the North Korean entrepreneurs who have defied their former nation, justifying their new lives by emerging victorious in the business world.
For decades, the image of Asian comics has been dominated by Japanese manga, the characters of which are known across the globe. Attempts by various countries to create their own similar IP has resulted in little more than derivative products. However, a new generation of Chinese comic artists now seeks innovation over imitation: They use distinct visual techniques to create a worldwide Chinese cultural industry, while still respecting its rules on media. In this episode, we introduce the artists who attempt to convey the values of China to the world.
In the 20 years since control of Hong Kong was returned from Britain to China, access to the vast Chinese market has helped the territory grow into Asia's leading financial hub. But over the last decade, redevelopment has driven up land prices and rent, leaving many struggling to make ends meet: including families crammed into tiny apartments, and senior citizens forced to live in so-called "cage homes" comprised of a single bunk. Yet while many battle to escape such poverty, the flow of people from mainland China seeking wealth and success in Hong Kong continues unabated. Explore the true nature of Hong Kong's unequal society through the living conditions of its poor.
China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, located deep inland, is one of the nation's poorest. Despite being left behind the country's swift economic development, the region has been able to make use of its long tradition of goji berry farming. Under China's One Belt One Road initiative, a united trade infrastructure has been developed, propelling Ningxia to agricultural prominence through the goji berry trade. In this episode, we meet the farmers and businessmen who have staked their dreams on the tiny red fruits.
Water puppet theater is a folk art unique to Vietnam. Puppeteers use poles to move their wooden dolls over a water "stage". This centuries-old tradition nearly died out during the Vietnam War, but the village of Dao Thuc, Hanoi, kept the skills alive. Despite losing half their puppeteers during the war, the village started a campaign in the mid-1980's to revive the troupe and restart performances. Villagers rediscovered old stories and added a new one, drawing on their war-time experiences. We follow their efforts to protect this important cultural heritage.
Continuing on from his first term, Chinese President Xi Jinping began his second term with popularity rivaling that of Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, and stated that he would make China into a greater global leader. Despite China's strict monitoring of political gatherings and debate, the growth and change of the country has inspired groups of young people to exchange heated views on their country's politics and morality. To the new generation, what is the ideal form of global leadership? In this episode, we speak with the young people of China to hear their opinions on the global future of their nation.
Across Seoul, the capital of South Korea, independent bookstores are on the up. 50 such establishments have opened in the last year alone, with many in the bohemian Hongdae neighborhood. Each offers a unique selection of literature with a personal touch, with some even giving customers the chance to enjoy a beer or a coffee as they peruse the stock. Drawn to this world, more and more young people are choosing to self-publish their own writings, and even to open stores themselves. With the country's publishing industry undergoing rapid change, we meet some of the young people turning a new page for books in South Korea.
Each morning, Cambodian day laborers in Phnom Penh line up to seek work for the day, hoping that they may find enough for them to eke out a living. But in recent years, the laborers have been pursuing a new option: Traveling abroad to work in countries such as Thailand, Japan and South Korea. Several years of work in any of these countries could net them enough to live comfortably in Cambodia. With help from new businesses such as language schools and mediation companies, these pioneers set off on their own journeys to unfamiliar lands, all in hopes of bringing home better lives to their families.
Traditional Korean paper, or hanji, was first made around 2,000 years ago. Made from paper mulberry bark, research suggests it is durable enough to last for over 8,000 years. It is especially coveted for its properties by those restoring cultural treasures. However, aging masters and a lack of successors has put the tradition's future into question. This time on Asia Insight, we meet 4th-generation hanji maker Jang Sung-woo, who resolutely adheres to traditional techniques, and is determined to pass on the wealth of his family's tradition to a new young apprentice -- and the next generation of papermakers.
One of the most vivid and unique forms of performance to be found in Taiwan is at risk of vanishing altogether. Taiwan's traditionally colorful processions, coupled with energetic song and dance performances, are designed to celebrate the important milestones of life. The acts come equipped with massive stage trucks and elaborate floats, but as young people opt for more subdued, modern weddings and funerals, performers and business owners are having trouble continuing the spectacle. In this episode, we follow along with the last remnants of this beautiful but endangered art.
The Golden Triangle, overlapping the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, is a major production center for opium poppies. In one area, however, the illicit trade has fallen sharply thanks to a project started by the Princess Mother Srinagarindra. Her foundation's work in Doi Tung, northern Thailand, has focused on supporting ethnic minorities through forest regeneration and promoting alternative crops such as coffee and nuts. This program looks at how a three-decade royal project eliminated poppy growing – and transformed lives.
An in-depth portrait of Asia today, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization. Today: Bhutan's Hurdle to Happiness.
Although the youth of China are not permitted to discuss the politics of their country openly, the 706 Youth Space offers them a rare under-the-radar opportunity to consider their future. Many university students in Beijing hail from regional areas and can often find life in the city both expensive and isolating. The 706 Youth Space was created to provide an independent, non-faculty environment run by students from various universities. As well as providing inexpensive accommodation, events are held which give students a chance to exchange their views regarding both lifestyle choices and academic subjects.
In January 2017, Taiwan passed a measure stating that all of its nuclear power plants will be shut down by 2025. The change comes after Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster and 30 years of anti-nuclear protests by residents. The key to phasing out nuclear power lies in renewable energy such as wind power and solar energy. Because of this, the government is conducting numerous tests. Business leaders, however, desire stable pricing and a secure power supply, so are pushing for continued operations. Explore the situation in Taiwan after the decision to phase out all nuclear power.
For centuries, a unique culture has existed in South Korea around the breeding and slaughter of dogs for their meat. However, protests by animal activists during the Olympics severely impacted public opinion of dog meat, costing breeders their jobs and reducing sales to a fraction of previous levels. Animal-lovers seek compassion for the animals, while those involved in the industry counter that their businesses are not in violation of the country's admittedly vague legislation. In this episode, we explore this industry at the center of a complex social controversy.
For brides everywhere, the right wedding dress is a crucial part of their big day, and Taiwanese firms are key players in this global industry. As well as the world's top-selling wedding dress maker, the island boasts the leading manufacturer of lace for bridal gowns. Main city Taipei is also home to several wedding photo studios that attract numerous couples from overseas, offering services ranging from dress hire and makeup to location and even underwater shoots! Follow the Taiwanese businesses working to give couples a fairytale start to married life.
In recent years, video sharing service YouTube has grown increasingly popular for the freedom it provides users in expressing their views. Through it, these "YouTubers" often communicate the latest trends on their channels. But a surprising group has emerged among video creators: North Korean defectors who, having fled to South Korea, now seek to educate other young people on the truths of their homeland, while dispelling the deep-seated prejudices many hold towards them. These so-called "Defector YouTubers" consider what it means to be born North Korean, as they seek their own futures in a land so near to and yet so far from where they were born.
The electric phin -- a modern adaption of a traditional stringed instrument -- is an essential part of any festivity in the villages of northeast Thailand. Inspired by the introduction of American music during the Vietnam War, electric phin bands offer a unique -- some say psychedelic -- take on folk culture. We look at the history of the instrument, and the pioneering musicians who hooked up a song-and-dance revolution.
In the 25 years since Mongolia introduced a market economy at the beginning of the 1990's, the country saw growth fueled by rich mineral wealth, but since 2012 a fall in mineral value and government restriction of foreign investment has led to a stalled economy. Few jobs offer enough to live on and a third of the population are living in poverty. Many have turned to jobs in South Korea. In 2017 there were 135,000 visa applications, a four-fold rise in just 3 years. Meet the people seeking a better life at home by working in South Korea.
In 2016, Asia Insight reported on a flourishing Chinese mall located in Laos, known to locals as the "Chinese castle". It had served as the center of business for many Chinese merchants, but in July of 2017, a sudden fire burned the complex to the ground. With their hard work turned to ash before their eyes, many returned home to China, and a small few relocated and rebuilt their businesses. However, with the start of the One Belt One Road policy, business competition from major firms has intensified, leaving little room for smaller shopkeepers to flourish. In this episode, we reconnect with the Chinese merchants struggling to get by in rapidly changing Laos.
Laos is a small landlocked nation in Southeast Asia with a population of 6.5 million. Although 70% of the population of Laos still lives in rural villages, growing rice and raising livestock, a new affluence is being brought about by an increase of Chinese-run banana plantations. These have sprung up in response to a boost in demand for bananas in neighboring China, providing Laos workers with a ready source of income. However, behind this success, a darker reality lurks. In this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at Laos' Banana Boom.
There are said to be 300,000 certified lawyers currently working in China. However, almost none of them are qualified to represent hard-of-hearing clients, who are often unaware of their legal rights, and with no one to turn to when they fall victim to fraud or discrimination. Tang Shuai is the only known Chinese lawyer who is fluent in both forms of Chinese sign language, and he has made it his career's mission to assist the hard of hearing however possible. In this episode, we accompany the lawyer determined to create new dialogue within the Chinese legal system.
Nepal is famed for its many mountains, which include part of the Himalayan Range. But despite an abundance of crystal-clear snowmelt, and over 6,000 rivers and streams nationwide, the capital, Kathmandu, and its surrounding valley are beset by severe water shortages. With over 100,000 rural migrants arriving in the city each year, water infrastructure is unable to keep up. As various businesses and schemes step in to fill this gap, we examine a city battling to secure the water it needs.
It is 10 years since the Great Sichuan Earthquake of 2008, which left 87,000 people dead or missing. The Beijing government has invested heavily in recovery efforts and according to official figures, Sichuan's GDP has tripled from pre-quake levels. However, survivors who lost loved ones in the disaster still struggle with their grief and not all of the recovery efforts have been successful. In this episode of Asia Insight, we revisit people we interviewed 10 years ago and see how far they have traveled on the road to recovery.
In Laos, despite the recent introduction of a 9-year compulsory education, many children are unable to attend school because their families are too impoverished to afford the necessities. Sounita Phimmasone, who works as a news anchor, experienced this hard way of life firsthand in her youth. It motivated her to found Kids' House, a weekend school located in the capital of Vientiane, providing classes in a variety of subjects such as art, dance and literature. In this episode, we visit Kids' House, where Sounita is bringing a future to the disadvantaged children of Laos.
An inter-Korean summit took place on April 27, 2018. It was a historic meeting – the first in 11 years – where Moon Jae-in, President of South Korea and Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea found common ground. A number of pledges, including denuclearization, brought the 2 countries closer. Outside of politics, many private citizens have been working tirelessly to lay the foundations for a future where more exchange between North and South is possible. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the many efforts of both South Koreans and North Koreans alike taking new steps toward a unified Korea.
Many people in Nepal turn to local shamans for everything from the timing of weddings and moves to treating illnesses. Some shamans single out local women as witches, claiming that they caused illnesses or tragedies. The resulting witch hunts sometimes end in physical abuse, and there are around 30 reported cases a year. The falsely accused women may be hit, kicked and forced to eat excrement. We speak with victims of these witch hunts, as well as to some NGOs that provide victims with support and are working to eradicate this terrible practice.
Just a few years ago, Hong Kong was well-known as the location of many bookstores specializing in so-called "banned books" that were forbidden for sale in mainland China. However recently, they have nearly disappeared from the market, with many of the bookstores that carried them closing shop. This steady movement is strongly linked to the change in political leadership in mainland China, which has placed greater pressure on merchants to comply with the political view of the mainland. In this episode, we follow the traces of Hong Kong's political freedom amidst a rapidly changing era.
Taiwan began its democratization in the 1990's, paving the way for freedom of expression greater than in any other Chinese-speaking region. Now, Taiwan has grown into a haven for creators who seek to spread views disapproved of by the mainland Chinese government. Lam Wing-kee is one among them, a former bookstore owner who suffered months of imprisonment in China for selling politically sensitive books. In this episode, we hear from the free thinkers who have left their homelands so that they may begin new lives free from creative persecution.
Ilsung Women's Middle and High School is not an ordinary school. The average age of the students is 61. Many of these women missed out on the chance of an education during childhood because of poverty. Learning to read and write so late in life presents many challenges, but the students make up for that with hard work and a hunger to learn. In this program, we join them as they pursue their dreams of higher education.
Myanmar's government, led by Aung San Suu Kyi, is trying to end long-standing conflicts with ethnic armed groups. Talks are based on the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement reached under the prior government. We speak to 2 of the men involved in drafting the historic agreement, Aung Min, a former military man and Min Zaw Oo, a former student demonstrator and rebel fighter who is now an expert in peace studies. Together, they bear witness to the recent history of peacemaking in Myanmar.
Traditionally, single Chinese women over the age of 27 were made fun of and regarded as "being left on the shelf". But now, with healthy incomes, single women are financially independent and have started to find a voice of their own. In spite of pressure from their parents, they don't have to marry and rely on their husbands. On this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the lifestyles of 3 young women who are enjoying their single lives in the city of Beijing.
In 2016 a new tourist hotspot was born in Malang, Indonesia: Rainbow Village. Once a poor slum, residents began painting their homes vibrant colors, creating trick art and handmade props. Today, both Indonesian and foreign tourists flock to the neighborhood to take selfies and upload photos to social media, creating new jobs for residents and increasing quality of life in the village. The project's success has prompted other villages across Indonesia to use paint to boost their quality of life.
One Tianjin-based call center receives contact from over 10,000 people a year, spanning various ages and social groups. Known as the Hope Line, its counselors provide free advice to those who struggle with issues such as clinical depression or personal loss. Recently increasing are callers in their 20's, who have grown up financially stable but burdened by the many pressures of modern society. In this episode, we reach out to a call center that serves as a ray of light to the residents of northern China.
In the Philippines, regional economic disparity drives people to the cities, where many live in slums. Mayor Johnielle Keith Pasion Nieto is taking a hands-on approach to improving people's lives in his municipality near Manila. His programs include loans to promote homeownership, job creation schemes and the foundation of a free university. And whenever residents have a problem, his office door is always open. We follow the mayor's groundbreaking attempts to make a difference.
Palm oil plantations in Indonesia are ravaging local forests and destroying the habitats of orangutans, driving them towards extinction. The Centre for Orangutan Protection, or COP, is an NGO on the island of Borneo that rescues and cares for these animals. At their forest rehabilitation center, staff help young, orphaned orangutans by acting as their family and teaching them the skills they'll need to return to the wild. The COP also monitors the surviving habitats of wild orangutans and reports companies carrying out illegal development, hoping to put a halt to further plantations.
China's Internet Plus Initiative has improved convenience and availability of technology nationwide, supposedly boosting quality of life through new industries such as bike sharing and internet food delivery. However, in the shadow of this growth, serious problems have become visible. Abandoned bikes litter cities, and food delivery workers are expected to rush food out at a dangerous pace. In this episode, we look at the difficulties of the Chinese workforce during the Internet Plus era.
Rakhine, one of the poorest states in Myanmar, is receiving huge investment as part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. A pipeline to China is already in place. A special economic zone, including new ports and an industrial park, is also planned. However, land acquisitions for these new links between Myanmar and China are sparking opposition. Reporting from a region that's out of bounds to most news organizations, we look at the massive impact of China's growing economic power on the lives of Rakhine people.
Mongolia is a country strongly associated with the traditional nomadic farming lifestyles held by many of its citizens. But recently, a new and modern cultural movement has gained considerable popularity: Mongolian hip hop. Influenced by Western artists but adding their own upbeat and positive perspectives, the country's performers mix uniquely Mongolian melodies and instruments with fresh beats to send an inspirational message to other young people all over the nation.
In Darkhan, northern Mongolia, is a circus group made up of street kids. Of the 30 performers aged between 8 and 25, nearly half once lived on the streets. The group's leader, Tumur, once performed in circuses around Europe with his wife Battsetseg. After returning to Mongolia in 2005, they saw how many kids lived on the streets, and resolved to help them, feeding them and teaching them circus skills as a form of physical training. Starting with simple juggling and backflips, before long the kids were learning more difficult skills. Since 2011, the troupe has been operating as a professional circus group. Circus skills have given these former street kids hope. We look at the challenges they faced, and the bonds they share with Tumur and his wife.
2024
In Turkey, one NGO gives the Syrian refugees a chance to smile again by helping them perform circuses. Now, they head out to take the stage for the kids affected by the 2023 Turkey earthquake.
An increasing number of young people are relocating to Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of China. They leave behind the stress of life in large cities to resculpt their own lives with a new vision.
In China's rapidly growing animation industry, independent works are gaining attention. A dedicated film festival is held to allow young talent to be discovered, letting them follow their dreams.
Northern Kazakhstan borders Russia and has historically been home to many ethnic Russians. However, a recent rise in Kazakh migrants to the region has led to deepening tensions between the two groups.
The Kadazan Dusun people of North Borneo, Malaysia, had been losing their tradition of rice farming with the passage of time, but new efforts are being made to preserve it through sustainable methods.
Wengding, home of the Wa people in Yunnan Province, is called China's "last traditional village," but residents have been moved away, with the village now run by an outside developer to boost tourism.
In the Maldives, rapid construction of artificial islands is underway to combat coastal erosion that disrupts the lives of people near the shore, but with the construction come new difficulties.
In India, looking for a marriage partner has long been a family affair, but with more women taking an active role in society, the method and priorities of the search are starting to change.
For just two months every year, more than 1,000 men brave the dangers of the dense forest in order to hunt for wild honey, providing them the chance for an income where few other options exist.
Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar suffers from severe air pollution. New designs use sunlight to ensure warm, smoke-free homes. We explore the technology and its challenges.
For just US$9 a night, young people stay in a "Job-hunting Hotel" in Shanghai while seeking post-graduation employment, even as the stagnating economy causes the number of available positions to drop.
A small publisher in South India is making picture books with indigenous artists that depict their traditional art. It's part of a growing effort to preserve their disappearing culture for future generations.
Elementary schools for nomadic children are closing as funding and student numbers fall. Meet an architect determined to stop this vicious cycle.
High-end chocolate from top-quality cocoa is a new Filipino specialty. Quality beans command good prices, changing the lives of poor rural farmers.
Taiwan's society is aging at a rapid pace, and many choose to care for the elderly at home rather than send them to assisted living. Aiding them are caregivers from among 230,000 foreign workers.
In 2022, the Hong Kong government implemented a policy attracting outside workers to combat depopulation, drawing businesspeople and families relocating to find better lives as "New Hongkongers."
Cases of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) are on the rise. We visit a Filipino NGO that protects victims, and helps them to recover.
In Bangkok's largest slum, children of migrant families are taking up musical instruments to play in an orchestra in hopes of having a better future.
In South Korea, the labor shortage has caused a spike in foreign workers. Many of them work under harsh conditions, and grass-roots efforts are underway to ease tensions between foreigners and locals.
Once considered worthless, bamboo is in the spotlight in Indonesia. One NGO is using it to improve the environment and local livelihoods. It's also playing a role in revitalizing a local village.
For the sake of their families, Nepalese men are working for the Russian military. Wages 10 times higher than in Nepal are promised, but as many go missing, their families await word on their fate.
The exile of President Marcos Sr. was hailed as a victory for democracy in the Philippines, but with the election of his son 36 years later, shifting views affect how history may be perceived.
In China's rapidly growing food delivery industry, deaf workers who call themselves "voiceless knights" use apps and other tools to perform work, gaining new independence within society.
A new high-speed rail line has sparked a massive rise in tourism to Laos's historic capital Luang Prabang. It's had a major effect on traditional local life in this World Heritage town.
2025
The indigenous Taroko people are taking the stage to perform traditional songs and dances to entice visitors back to their famed Taroko Gorge after being impacted by a major earthquake in April 2024.
As the coffee market in China rapidly grows, ethnic minorities in Yunnan Province, which makes 98% of all Chinese coffee, are developing a unique specialty coffee brand using their local customs.
Cambodia has set out to build a historic new canal. While some have high hopes of business opportunities and economic stimulation, concerns remain about the displacement of around 1.6 million people.
Recently popular in China are "otome games" allowing female gamers to experience romance with male characters. Services providing costumed dates have emerged as a related business for fans.
During Indonesia's occupation of East Timor, thousands of children were separated from their families and taken to Indonesia. One project seeks to reunite these "Stolen Children."
Cambodia has witnessed remarkable economic growth, and women are on track to be the next driving force. With government support, more women are opting to launch their own businesses.
Divorce is illegal in the largely Catholic Philippines, but as a bill for legalization is to be deliberated by the senate, women enduring domestic violence advocate the controversial bill.
Following 15 years of strict censorship under the former administration, Bangladeshi journalists are now seeking the truth and freedom of press in order to regain the trust of the people.
Climate change has seen vegetable harvests fall in South Korea. One group of women is embracing hardy organic techniques, while the government is training a new generation of farmers with technology.
Alampu Village, located high among Nepal's Himalayas, had long been a location of handmade slate production by the Thami people, but modernization has changed life there over the last 20 years.
In Shenzhen, factories rely on recruiters using streaming to attract temporary workers to suit the workload. Many young people attempt recruiting to earn a good living among the changing times.
In the Philippines, a lengthy COVID-19 lockdown sparked unemployment that broke families apart. One theater troupe offers sanctuary to kids who support each other through life's hardships.
50 years after the Vietnam War ended, some veterans are still on duty - not as fighters, but as volunteer guardians of their hometowns. We go on night patrol in Canh Thuy Ward.
After US President Trump announced raised tariffs on products from China, among unsteady demand and falling rates, Chinese clothing factories seek solutions such as business with other countries.
Attacks by Islamic extremists had caused chaos in Indonesia, but social programs designed to reeducate prisoners are underway, and now the former terrorists attempt to reintegrate into society.
During Syria's 13-year civil war, more than 100,000 people are thought to have disappeared. In the aftermath of conflict, families are seeking truth, justice, and hope for the future.
Many Mongolian children dream of changing their family's lives by becoming a pro sumo wrestler in Japan. We meet the members of a school sumo club as they prepare for a national tournament.
The fashion industry has faced criticism for its impact on the environment. Meet the Indonesian innovators who are using natural materials and traditional techniques to help save the planet.
In Yiwu, China, the Muslim Hui people expand trade with Arab countries using their Arabic language skills. They are becoming an essential presence as China shifts away from US trade and diversifies.
South Korea is facing a growing gender divide, fueled by a stark wage gap and cases of discrimination. This has sparked a movement of women opting out of marriage. We explore the social impact.
In Cambodia, the purge of intellectuals under Pol Pot and years of war caused traditional Khmer dishes to vanish from home kitchens. Today, chefs are working to bring them back.