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Why Filipino Pop Powerhouses SB19 & BINI Are Embracing the Grammys’ Asian Pop Category: ‘We See It as a Door Opening, Not a Box Closing’
SB19 and BINI have entered the Grammys’ inaugural best Asian pop music performance category, describing it as a chance to bring Filipino music to a wider audience. Their support comes amid concerns from some artists that a regional category could limit recognition across the Grammys’ broader fields. The Recording Academy announced the category on 16…
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‘Once Upon in the Middle East’ Review: China’s Oscar Entry Is a Breakneck Blockbuster That Mixes Food Porn With Wartime Devastation
China’s Oscar entry, *Once Upon a Time in the Middle East*, follows a Chinese chef caught up in the outbreak of the Iraq War. The review describes it as a technically extravagant, highly watchable blockbuster whose antiwar message is undermined by blunt propaganda portraying China as a benevolent protector. Chef Xu Fu takes over a…
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Pakistan has locked down Imran Khan’s stronghold – but it could backfire
Pakistan imposed emergency rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, suspended Imran Khan’s party-led provincial government and deployed security measures as protests demanding Khan’s release continued. The federal government says the move is needed to protect residents from terrorism, but critics question the stated link and warn that the crackdown could deepen political tensions. Thousands of supporters had…
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‘I’d talk to the TV’: The paid companions bringing warmth to China’s lonely
A paid companionship service in Beijing is helping older people who live alone with meals, household repairs and regular human contact. Its work reflects the growing challenge of loneliness in China, where migration and changing lifestyles can leave people far from family and established support networks. Ninety-one-year-old Yang says the visits transformed daily life after…
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Who’s to blame for the toxic smog choking South East Asia?
Indonesia is facing its worst wildfire season in a decade, with hazardous smog affecting millions and spreading to Singapore and Malaysia. The fires have intensified during an unusually strong El Niño, while anger is growing over suspected commercial land-clearing by fire and the authorities’ difficulty in stopping it. Nusantara Atlas recorded 1,043,377 wildfire hotspots, affecting…
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Prince William joins cricket legends on The Mall to promote Earthshot summit
Prince William played an informal cricket match on The Mall in London, which was closed to traffic and turned into a pitch with Buckingham Palace as its backdrop. The event celebrated the unifying power of sport and promoted the Earthshot Prize’s upcoming summit and awards in Mumbai. William played for about ten minutes alongside cricket…
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CodePink launches China tour as grand jury investigation into Singham network funding continues
CodePink co-founder Medea Benjamin is leading a 12-day tour of China that promotes the country’s revolutionary history and socialist development. The trip has drawn attention because the organisation has received funding from US businessman Neville Roy Singham, whose network is under a US grand jury investigation. The tour is advertised at an estimated cost of…
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John Swinney jets off on another costly ‘jolly’ to India just DAYS after UK Government trade mission
John Swinney is due to lead a week-long Scottish business mission to India, prompting criticism that it duplicates a UK Government visit taking place just days earlier. Critics say the trip could be an expensive publicity exercise, while the Scottish Government says it will promote Scotland’s economic interests and build partnerships. The Scottish delegation includes…
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England v Greece: Women’s World Cup qualifying playoff, second leg – live
England host Greece in the second leg of their Women’s World Cup qualifying play-off, carrying a 3-1 lead from the first match in Crete. The result will decide who advances to a decisive play-off against Ukraine, with England seeking a place at next summer’s World Cup in Brazil. England manager Sarina Wiegman wants an improved…