Euan Black

Euan Black

Euan Black is a property, finance and general news reporter for Melbourne-based news site The New Daily. 

Prior to joining the national news website in June 2019, he spent 18 months covering business and politics for Cambodia-based Southeast Asia Globe. He has carried out original reporting in five Southeast Asian countries, profiled government ministers and Forbes-listed millionaires, and written features on everything from the business of mixed martial arts in Singapore, to the impact of censorship on tech startups in Vietnam.

TWITTER @euanblackwrites

Articles by Euan Black

Jun 25, 2018 • 7 min read
Cambodia

Agriculture branches out as rice returns flatten

Although rice has long fed both the people and the economy of Cambodia, experts say that crop diversification and increased investment are needed to take the agriculture industry to the next level
By Euan Black - Jun 25, 2018

May 01, 2018 • 7 min read
Four pillars: manufacturing

Rising costs pose new challenges for Cambodia’s manufacturing sector

Cambodia’s manufacturing sector continues to benefit from preferential trade deals with the West, but unpredictable wage hikes and competition from nearby countries could put the brakes on two decades of sustained growth
By Euan Black - May 01, 2018

Apr 29, 2018 • 7 min read
Four pillars: construction

How China is shaping Cambodia’s skyline

Rapid economic growth continues to open up new opportunities for a booming construction industry riding high on Chinese investment
By Euan Black - Apr 29, 2018

Apr 29, 2018 • 6 min read
Four pillars: tourism

Cambodia’s tourism industry looks beyond Angkor Wat

Buoyed by a surge in Chinese visitors, Cambodia's tourism industry is surfing a wave of growth and prosperity, but greater diversification is needed to keep the industry on its upward trajectory
By Euan Black - Apr 29, 2018

Apr 26, 2018 • 4 min read
The Siam

Enjoy a sunset cruise and indulgent spa treatment

Art Deco styling, lavish greenery and an eclectic antique collection create an alluring aesthetic at this luxury urban resort in Bangkok
By Euan Black - Apr 26, 2018

Feb 27, 2018 • 7 min read
Singapore business

With a little help from a ‘golden duck’

A legal dispute led to the collapse of his nightclub, but Jonathan Shen bounced back to build a thriving snacks business off the back of Singapore’s wildly popular salted egg yolk trend
By Euan Black - Feb 27, 2018

Feb 02, 2018 • 4 min read
The Myst Dong Khoi

A historic getaway in Ho Chi Minh

A celebration of Ho Chi Minh City’s storied past, the Myst Dong Khoi weaves historical motifs into its homely, modern design
By Euan Black - Feb 02, 2018

Dec 20, 2017 • 3 min read
Alibaba Expansion

Jack Ma’s Alipay agrees partnership with Cambodia’s PiPay

Alipay has signed a deal with Cambodia’s PiPay that will allow customers to use their Alipay wallet to pay at PiPay POS payment systems across the country A customer pays for a cinema ticket by scanning a QR code with PiPay's mobile wallet app, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Photo supplied
By Euan Black - Dec 20, 2017

Dec 14, 2017 • 3 min read
Kampong Glam

Singapore’s colourful Muslim quarter

Our neighbourhood guide on where to eat, drink, sleep, explore and shop in Kampong Glam
By Euan Black - Dec 14, 2017

Dec 08, 2017 • 3 min read
Music

This young DJ went from playing free shows in Singapore to headlining in New York

Lincey is an up-and-coming DJ from Singapore and will be playing this weekend at ZoukOut2017, one of the island’s most renowned music festivals Lincey, one of Singapore’s most promising DJs and producers Lin Weicheng Elvin, better known as Lincey, is making a name for himself as one of Singapore’s…
By Euan Black - Dec 08, 2017

Dec 06, 2017 • 7 min read
Vietnam

The ‘coffee king’

Hai Ninh Nguyen came from the rural province of Thai Binh to be one of only four Vietnamese people to make this year’s Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia
By Euan Black - Dec 06, 2017

Nov 27, 2017 • 2 min read
Online startups

Co-founder of the Malaysian Uber for truck drivers says startups should go digital

In 2013, Nadhir Ashafiq co-founded TheLorry.com, an online platform that connects people who need to move truckloads of items from A to B with lorry drivers, using algorithms similar to those found under the hood at Uber. Ashafiq broke down TheLorry.com’s success and discussed the state of play for startups in Malaysia
By Euan Black - Nov 27, 2017

Nov 16, 2017 • 3 min read
Shangri-La

Finding a secret sanctuary in Kuala Lumpur

The Shangri-La in Malaysia’s capital succeeds in providing a home away from home while retaining a certain classical charm
By Euan Black - Nov 16, 2017

Nov 14, 2017 • 5 min read
Singapore

Read. More!

A determined Singaporean publisher set out on an audacious quest for Booker Prize success
By Euan Black - Nov 14, 2017

Nov 02, 2017 • 3 min read
Cambodia Daily

Former journalist talks about country's independent media

Chan Thul Prak started his career as a journalist at a Chinese news agency before working for five years at the recently shuttered Cambodia Daily. In 2010, the Siem Reap native left the Daily for Reuters. He discusses his reasons for becoming a journalist and the recent crackdown on independent media in Cambodia
By Euan Black - Nov 02, 2017

Oct 20, 2017 • 3 min read

KrisEnergy to extract Cambodia’s first oil in 2019

The Singaporean company has taken a significant step towards producing Cambodia’s first ever barrel of oil Kelvin Tang (C), president of KrisEnergy Cambodia, Malaysian Tan Ek Kia (L), chairman of the KrisEnergy Group, and Aun Pornmoniroth (R), Cambodian minister of economy and finance, toast during a signing ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 23 August 2017. Photo: EPA/Mak Remissa
By Euan Black - Oct 20, 2017

Oct 20, 2017 • 3 min read
The Warehouse Hotel

A historical getaway on Singapore's riverside

A sleek riverside getaway in Singapore that is both clean-cut and mischievous, the Warehouse Hotel is an exemplar of industrial design that doesn’t shy away from its colourful past 
By Euan Black - Oct 20, 2017

Oct 18, 2017 • 6 min read
Zoë Ng

Shaking up Cambodian office culture

Zoë Ng worked at McKinsey, Google and the beauty startup Charlotte Tilbury to build up a range of experience before striking out on her own. Now she heads up Raintree, an award-winning office and retail development in Phnom Penh
By Euan Black - Oct 18, 2017

Oct 18, 2017 • 6 min read
International school life

A guide to nurturing ‘third culture kids’

A transient international education is well suited to the world’s increasingly globalised economy, but it’s not without its own challenges
By Euan Black - Oct 18, 2017

Oct 10, 2017 • 7 min read
Hang Chuon Naron

Cambodia’s education minister on reforms and the fourth industrial revolution

Often held up as the poster boy for progressive reform in Cambodia, education minister Hang Chuon Naron sat down with Southeast Asia Globe to discuss how a country that is struggling to provide basic primary level education can compete on the world stage
By Euan Black - Oct 10, 2017

Oct 09, 2017 • 3 min read

Smart Axiata buys 30% stake in Cambodian media champions Sabay

Smart  believes the deal with Sabay Digital Corporation will help it realise its aim of becoming Cambodia’s ‘digital champion’ by 2020 Mike Gaertner (2-L), Sabay's COO, Chy Sila (3-L), Sabay's CEO, and Thomas Hundt (3-R), Smart Axiata's CEO, pose for a photograph at Smart's flagship store in Phnom Penh, after signing an agreement for Smart Axiata to purchase a 30% stake in Sabay Digital Corporation, 9 October 2017.
By Euan Black - Oct 09, 2017

Sep 28, 2017 • 3 min read

Vann Molyvann, ‘the man who built Cambodia’, dies at age 90

A pioneer of Cambodia’s post-independence architectural renaissance, Vann Molyvann was one of the country’s most cherished cultural treasures Vann Molyvann was the most notable exponent of the New Khmer Architecture movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Photo: Sam Jam for SEA Globe
By Euan Black - Sep 28, 2017

Sep 27, 2017 • 4 min read

More than 75,000 driven from homes as Bali volcano set to blow

Indonesia begins aid operation as thousands are forced to flee with Mount Agung teetering on the edge of eruption, but local tourism operators remain bullish about the safety of visitors Mount Agung is seen from Datah village in Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia, 26 September 2017. The Center for Volcanology of Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) raised the alert level of Mount Agung to the highest level on 22 September. Photo: EPA-EFE/Made Nagi
By Euan Black - Sep 27, 2017

Sep 26, 2017 • 2 min read

Member of Duterte’s bodyguard unit found dead

One of the Philippine president’s bodyguard unit was shot on Tuesday morning, but authorities say Duterte was far away from the incident Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte looks on during a meeting with Asean economic ministers in Pasay City, south of Manila, Philippines, 06 September 2017. Photo: EPA-EFE/Mark R. Cristino
By Euan Black - Sep 26, 2017

Sep 26, 2017 • 3 min read

Philippines to launch ‘fair’ investigation into deaths of Vietnamese fishermen

Philippine foreign affairs secretary promises thorough probe into an incident in which two Vietnamese fishermen were shot dead trying to escape from the Philippine navy Philippine foreign affairs secretary Alan Peter Cayetano (L) greets Vietnam foreign minister Pham Binh Minh during the reception for the 50th Asean Foreign Ministers Meeting at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, south Manila, Philippines, 05 August 2017. Photo: EPA/Bullit Marquez
By Euan Black - Sep 26, 2017

Sep 18, 2017 • 2 min read

Cambodia to enter Angelina Jolie’s ‘First They Killed My Father’ into Oscars

With critics hailing Jolie’s latest work as her best directorial effort to date, the country’s oscar selection committee has confirmed the film will be Cambodia’s entry to the prestigious awards Cambodian producer Rithy Panh (L) and US director Angelina Jolie arrive for the screening of the movie 'First They Killed My Father' during the 42nd annual Toronto International Film Festival in Toronto, Canada, 11 September 2017. Photo: EPA-EFE/Warren Toda
By Euan Black - Sep 18, 2017

Sep 04, 2017 • 4 min read
Press Freedom

Cambodia Daily publishers banned from leaving the country

Following the Cambodian newspaper's closure over an unpaid tax bill, the General Department of Taxation has announced the newspaper’s general manager will not be permitted to leave the country unless the owners pay $6.3m in alleged arrears
By Euan Black - Sep 04, 2017

Sep 01, 2017 • 12 min read
UFC vs. One Championship

The fight for Asia’s MMA fanatics

Undeniably the biggest mixed martial arts promotion in the Western world, US-based Ultimate Fighting Championship also brings in millions of dollars in revenue from Asian media rights deals. But Singapore-based One Championship is turning the tables with a roster filled with local talent and a focus on Asian values
By Euan Black - Sep 01, 2017

Aug 30, 2017 • 5 min read

The fourth industrial revolution is coming to Southeast Asia

The recent Inspire Asean event in Phnom Penh focused on the future of manufacturing, with industry leaders arguing that the region must move on from labour-intensive processes if it is to compete on the world stage
By Euan Black - Aug 30, 2017

Aug 29, 2017 • 2 min read

Indonesia convicts its first woman over suicide bomb plot

East Jakarta District Court finds a pregnant Indonesian woman guilty of committing an act of terrorism as country ramps up efforts to combat extremist threats An Indonesian bomb squad police officer searches for explosives near a body in Jakarta, Indonesia, 25 May 2017. Photo: EPA
By Euan Black - Aug 29, 2017

Aug 09, 2017 • 9 min read
New generation

Will digital wallets succeed in creating a cashless Cambodia?

High smartphone penetration and a large unbanked population make Cambodia a seemingly ideal location to launch the next big digital wallet. Favourable demographics, however, are no guarantee of success
By Euan Black - Aug 09, 2017

Aug 03, 2017 • 3 min read

Duterte calls Kim Jong-un a ‘son of a whore’, but economic ties remain

Days before 27 countries are set to meet in Manila to discuss how they should best deal with an increasingly threatening North Korea, the Philippine president said the ‘chubby-faced’ leader’s ‘nuclear war’ must be stopped Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte talks to journalists during the 113th anniversary rites of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Quezon City, east of Manila, Philippines, 02 August 2017. Photo: EPA/Rolex Dela Pena
By Euan Black - Aug 03, 2017

Jul 31, 2017 • 3 min read

Police kill Philippine mayor accused by Duterte of drug links

Days after the president vowed to continue his war on drugs ‘no matter how long it takes’, police shot dead Reynaldo Parojinog, the mayor of Ozamiz who Duterte last year accused of having ties to the drug trade Duterte speaks to protesters after delivering his second state of the nation address. Photo: EPA/Mark R. Cristino
By Euan Black - Jul 31, 2017

Jul 28, 2017 • 4 min read

Trailblazing Cambodian game designer sets sights on animation series

Ahead of Saturday’s Cambodia Young Entrepreneur Awards (CYEA), we caught up with Ear Uy, the founder of the gaming studio Sabay Osja and former award winner to discuss being on the cutting edge of business in the Kingdom
By Euan Black - Jul 28, 2017

Jul 26, 2017 • 2 min read

Myanmar calls for calm after three die of swine flu

Authorities hope to allay public concern following a recent outbreak of the H1N1 virus, which they say is a common occurrence Myanmar man wears a mask as he walks in in Yangon, Myanmar, 24 July 2017. Photo: EPA/Lynn Bo Bo
By Euan Black - Jul 26, 2017

Jul 24, 2017 • 2 min read

Vietnam stops drilling in South China Sea after threats from Beijing

One week after China threatened to attack its bases in the Spratly islands, Hanoi has ordered a private oil company to stop drilling in the contested territory A Vietnamese naval soldier standing guard next to a Vietnamese flag on Thuyen Chai Island, one of the Spratly Islands, Vietnam 17 January 2013. Photo: EPA/STR
By Euan Black - Jul 24, 2017

Jul 20, 2017 • 4 min read

Jokowi begins clampdown on critics in Indonesia, but will it backfire?

After his close ally lost the bitterly contested Jakarta election, president Joko Widodo is clearing the path for his re-election bid, starting by disbanding a prominent Islamic group Indonesia's President Joko Widodo waits for delegates at the Indian Ocean Rim Association summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, 07 March 2017. Photo: EPA/Mick Tsikas
By Euan Black - Jul 20, 2017

Jul 19, 2017 • 3 min read

Duterte says martial law must be extended to ensure ‘public safety’

The Philippines leader has requested an extension to martial law on the island of Mindanao as the conflict with Islamic State-linked rebels nears its end Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gestures during the turnover ceremony of pistols at the Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, 18 July 2017. Duterte handed over 3,000 units of caliber .45 pistols to the military, stressing the need for soldiers to be equipped with more than service firearms during drugs operations. Photo: EPA/Mark R. Cristino
By Euan Black - Jul 19, 2017

Jul 17, 2017 • 3 min read

Deal delivers boost to Malaysia’s opposition, but it's still “not going to win”

The opposition coalition has brought an end to the impasse between factions led by Anwar Ibrahim and Mahathir Mohamad, but analysts say the deal is unlikely to have a decisive impact on the upcoming general election Jailed Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim pays last respect to his late father in Kajang, Malaysia, 05 April 2015. Photo: EPA/Fazry Ismail
By Euan Black - Jul 17, 2017

Jul 11, 2017 • 8 min read

Why parkour is taking off in strait-laced Singapore

Parkour has risen from the suburbs of Paris to global fame ­– and its values of respect and inclusivity are helping it win over the culturally conservative city-state
By Euan Black - Jul 11, 2017

Jul 10, 2017 • 3 min read

Vietnam foils attempt to smuggle 3 tonnes of ivory into Hanoi

Seizure shows that the illicit trade in elephant tusks persists despite efforts by both Vietnam and China to combat trafficking syndicates A photograph of baby elephant tusks found among 7,200 kilograms of seized ivory at a customs compound in Kwai Chung, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China, 06 July 2017. Photo: EPA/Alex Hofford
By Euan Black - Jul 10, 2017

Jul 07, 2017 • 3 min read

Indonesia’s Starbucks boycott is just the tip of anti-LGBT iceberg

The recent calls for Muslims in Indonesia to boycott Starbucks because of the chain’s support of gay rights has shined a light on the limits of ‘moderate’ Islam The logo of Starbucks Coffee is seen at a coffee shop in Jakarta, Indonesia, 06 July 2017. Photo: EPA/Mast Irham
By Euan Black - Jul 07, 2017

Jul 07, 2017 • 3 min read

Aung San Suu Kyi considers change to hate speech law amid media backlash

Myanmar’s leader told reporters her administration is considering amending the country’s Telecommunications Law after the widely condemned arrests of three journalists Myanmar's state counselor Aung San Suu Kyi speaks to the media during a joint press conference with Norway's minister of foreign affairs Borge Brende (not pictured) after their meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, 06 July 2017. Photo: EPA/Hein Htet
By Euan Black - Jul 07, 2017

Jul 06, 2017 • 3 min read

Philippine military captures ‘matriarch’ of Marawi terror cell

The country’s security forces make significant arrests as Duterte once again threatens to eat the organs of terrorists Philippine government troops conduct house to house searches as fighting between Islamist militants and government forces continues in Marawi City, Mindanao Island, southern Philippines, 07 June 2017. Photo: EPA/Merlyn Manos
By Euan Black - Jul 06, 2017

Jul 05, 2017 • 2 min read

McDonald’s Malaysia to open 188 more restaurants by 2025

The fast-food chain sets sights on aggressive expansion as it attempts to catch up on rivals KFC and Burger King A Malaysian RELA Corps officer guards in front of a McDonald's outlet during a protest in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 08 August 2014. Photo:EPA/Azhar Rahim
By Euan Black - Jul 05, 2017

Jun 30, 2017 • 2 min read
InterContinental Singapore

Celebrating business chic

This recently renovated classic is a sophisticated celebration of the city-state’s diversity and traditions
By Euan Black - Jun 30, 2017

Jun 30, 2017 • 4 min read

“Why is Facebook booming? Because people want to share”

Prior to Inspire Asean's social media business networking lunch, Southeast Asia Globe spoke to leaders at Havas Media about the importance of having a comprehensive social media strategy in a country where the smartphone reigns supreme
By Euan Black - Jun 30, 2017

Jun 28, 2017 • 4 min read

Prison time looms for Filipinos that fail to sing national anthem “with fervor”

Proposed law comes amid wave of nationalism in the Philippines that has also seen calls for the country to change its name The Philippine national flag is raised during ceremonies marking Independence Day at Luneta Park in Manila, Philippines, 12 June 2017. Photo: EPA/Mark R. Cristino
By Euan Black - Jun 28, 2017

Jun 27, 2017 • 3 min read

Philippines attempts to quash rumours of President Duterte’s ill health

At a time when Filipinos are losing their lives to fighting in the country’s troubled south, the pugnacious leader’s absence has many questioning whether his health problems have knocked him down Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (L) visiting evacuees from Marawi City at the Iligan City National School of Fisheries in Iligan City, southern Philippines, 20 June 2017. The President has not been seen in public since. Photo:EPA/Presidential Photographers Division Handout
By Euan Black - Jun 27, 2017

Jun 22, 2017 • 3 min read

Supercars worth $2.91m stolen from UK and shipped to Thailand

More than 100 Lamborghinis, Porsches and BMWs have been stolen from Britain and sold in Thailand – often to unsuspecting customers A Thai model presents Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 at the 37th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, 22 March 2016. Photo: EPA/Rungroj Yongrit
By Euan Black - Jun 22, 2017

Jun 14, 2017 • 3 min read

Former Cambodian opposition leader Sam Rainsy not returning home although travel ban lifted

Rainsy’s position remains unchanged despite Prime Minister Hun Sen overturning a decision that prevented his return to the country, where he faces years in prison Sam Rainsy, then president of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), arrives at the National Assembly during a plenary session in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 09 April 2015. Photo: EPA/Mak Remissa
By Euan Black - Jun 14, 2017

Jun 14, 2017 • 2 min read

Myanmar army slammed for abuses of non-Rohingya minorities

In a new report, Amnesty International says the systematic abuses that have drawn international attention in Rakhine state are also occurring against ethnic minorities elsewhere in the country
By Euan Black - Jun 14, 2017

Jun 07, 2017 • 10 min read
Cambodia

The fewer forests, the more floods

Massive deforestation is playing a crucial role in the droughts that are devastating Cambodia. But despite an official ban on timber exports, forests continue to be cut down at a record rate
By Euan Black - Jun 07, 2017

Jun 05, 2017 • 3 min read

In Singapore, fintech boom is missing the ‘tech’

As one of four managing directors at Tryb Capital, a tech-focused investment company, Markus Gnirck explains the importance of true innovation and talks about emerging trends The founders of Tryb Capital. From left to right: Veiverne Yuen, Magnus Böcker, Markus Gnirck and Nels Friets. Photo supplied
By Euan Black - Jun 05, 2017

May 30, 2017 • 2 min read

Thai authorities arrest British journalist en route to Iraq

A British journalist on his way to Mosul was arrested in Thailand for carrying a gas mask and plates for a bulletproof vest, which authorities say violates a law that classifies the equipment as weapons or war A Thai tourist police officer on a segway while patrolling the departure hall of Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, 17 February 2012. Photo: EPA/Narong Sangnak  
By Euan Black - May 30, 2017

May 29, 2017 • 2 min read

Jakarta Airport’s Skytrains to be fully operational by August

Three skytrains connecting terminals at the capital’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport are part of the government’s push to modernise Indonesia’s infrastructure Garuda Indonesian air planes park on the tarmac of Terminal 3 of the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Indonesia, 28 April 2017. Photo: EPA/Mast Irham
By Euan Black - May 29, 2017

May 29, 2017 • 2 min read

Facebook bans users in Myanmar from using pejorative word for Muslims

Amid mounting pressure to crack down on those using the platform to incite hatred or showcase violence, Facebook has made a move to tone down the speech of its users in Myanmar Myanmar Buddhist nationalists attend a protest against the Religious Affairs and Culture Minister Aung Ko's decision to ban the ultranationalist Buddhist organisation Ma Ba Tha in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, 20 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Hein Htet
By Euan Black - May 29, 2017

May 26, 2017 • 3 min read
Top 5

Best places to drink gin in Southeast Asia

Gin has come a long way since William Hogarth’s depiction of a depraved London being wrenched apart by its addiction to “mother’s ruin”. Here, we serve up our favourite spots to get your juniper kick
By Euan Black - May 26, 2017

May 25, 2017 • 3 min read

With ban lifted, Cambodian maids to arrive in Malaysia next month

After reports of Cambodian maids being subjected to slave-like conditions in Malaysia led to a ban more than five years ago, a deal has been completed to reopen the labor trade despite continued concern by rights groups Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen (R) and Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Razak chat after inspecting a guard of honor during Hun Sen's official arrival at the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya, Malaysia, 03 June 2016. Photo: EPA/Fazry Ismail
By Euan Black - May 25, 2017

May 25, 2017 • 3 min read

Philippines deploys tanks and helicopters in attempt to reclaim southern city

After declaring martial law on Mindanao Island, authorities have intensified their battle to recover control of the southern city of Marawi from a band of Islamic State-affiliated gunmen Wounded Filipino soldiers are carried onto a military helicopter following reports of fresh clashes between government troops and rebels in Marawi City, Mindanao Island, southern Philippines, 25 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Linus G. Escandor II
By Euan Black - May 25, 2017

May 24, 2017 • 2 min read

Chinese firm purchases 49.9% stake in Malaysia’s national carmaker

The Malaysian business conglomerate DRB-Hicom has finally found a foreign firm to help restore Proton to its former glory Malaysia's second minister of finance Johari Abdul Ghani (C) witnesses the signing of an agreement between DRB-HICOM and China-based Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, 24 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Fazry Ismail
By Euan Black - May 24, 2017

May 24, 2017 • 4 min read

Cambodia’s premier enters campaign fray as opposition predicts victory

Prime Minister Hun Sen’s shock decision to march with his party in an upcoming campaign parade led to speculation his party feared significant losses in the upcoming elections, but analysts say the ruling party is still likely to win – by hook or by crook Supporters of the Cambodian People's Party (CPP) gather during a campaign for the Cambodian local commune elections in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 20 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Mak Remissa
By Euan Black - May 24, 2017

May 23, 2017 • 2 min read

Crowds in Indonesia watch gay couple publicly caned

Two days after police in Jakarta arrested 141 men suspected of taking part in a gay sex party, two men were publicly caned on Tuesday in Aceh province A man is whipped in front of the public as punishment for being in a same-sex relationship in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, 23 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Hotli Simanjuntak
By Euan Black - May 23, 2017

May 22, 2017 • 3 min read

Cambodia’s National Police retract report linking Royal Group tycoon to illegal logging

Less than a week after releasing a report accusing business tycoon Kith Meng of involvement in illegal logging, the National Police have issued a short statement claiming the report was an “unintentional” mistake A photograph of business tycoon Kith Meng posted to Facebook by Royal Financial Corporation, a financial consultancy firm owned by Kith Meng's Royal Group.
By Euan Black - May 22, 2017

May 19, 2017 • 3 min read
Francisco Guterre

Timor-Leste’s new president is unlikely to rock the boat

Faced with a looming economic crisis, Timor-Leste went to the polls in March to decide on its fourth president. They chose Francisco ‘Lu-Olo’ Guterres, a resistance fighter who has promised reform but is likely to stay loyal to his political patrons
By Euan Black - May 19, 2017

May 19, 2017 • 3 min read
Smoking ban

Duterte issues snap ban on public smoking in Philippines

The president has followed through on his promise for a nationwide ban on public smoking, with a call for public enforcement that has some worried it may fan the flames of violent vigilantism
By Euan Black - May 19, 2017

May 18, 2017 • 6 min read
Whatever happened to

Cambodia’s acid attack epidemic?

Almost two decades after pop singer Tat Marina came to symbolise the scourge of acid attacks in Cambodia, efforts to end the violence have seen major success
By Euan Black - May 18, 2017

May 17, 2017 • 2 min read

Male couple sentenced to 85 lashes for gay sex in Indonesia

Indonesia sentences gay men for the first time under new law, amid fears the country’s traditionally pluralistic society is losing its battle with radical Islam A man on trial for being in a same-sex relationship reacts as he listens to the judge at the Sharia court in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, 17 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Hotli Simanjuntak
By Euan Black - May 17, 2017

May 17, 2017 • 4 min read

Cambodian National Police accuse top tycoon of role in large scale environmental crime

On Tuesday evening, police released a damning report supporting claims that the business magnate Kith Meng’s firms have been using a hydropower dam project as a front for illegal logging A photograph of severe deforestation in Prey Lang Forest, Cambodia. According to satellite data released by Global Forest Watch in 2015, since 2001, the Southeast Asian nation has lost over 1.75m hectares of forest, with its deforestation rate accelerating faster than any other country in the world. Photo supplied
By Euan Black - May 17, 2017

May 16, 2017 • 2 min read

Thailand backs down on threat to shut down Facebook

The Thai telecoms regulator says it has no plans to block access to the social media giant after initially threatening to shut it down today if it didn’t block content deemed insulting to the monarchy A person uses a computer displaying the Thai Facebook login page in Bangkok, Thailand, 09 May 2017. Photo: EPA/Diego Azubel
By Euan Black - May 16, 2017

May 15, 2017 • 2 min read

New documentary sheds light on link between gems and war in Myanmar

A film by NGO Global Witness exploring the ties between Myanmar’s military and the country’s murky gem trade will be screened for the first time in Yangon this week A still from the upcoming documentary Jade and the Generals. Photo: YouTube/Global Witness
By Euan Black - May 15, 2017

May 15, 2017 • 2 min read

Malaysia blocks import of 330 endangered tortoises from Madagascar

Authorities have seized $276,721 worth of exotic tortoises at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in the latest high-profile animal trafficking incident to hit the Southeast Asian nation Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMC) officers display a seized Ploughshare tortoise during a press conference at Custom Cargo Complex, near Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang, Malaysia, 15 May 2017. Five Ploughshare and 325 Indian Star tortoises were seized at KLIA airport after smugglers attempted to import them from Madgascar. Photo: EPA/Ahmad Yusni Scene
By Euan Black - May 15, 2017

May 13, 2017 • 4 min read
Cambodia

The slow growth of organic farming

Farming without chemicals brings huge benefits to both producer and consumer, but it’s a hard sell in Cambodia, where poverty is preventing large swathes of the rural population from investing in a long-term, organic future
By Euan Black - May 13, 2017

May 11, 2017 • 3 min read

Staying ahead of the curve: the future of Cambodia’s construction industry

SPONSORED: When the Cambodian government announced in January that the value of approved projects in 2016 topped $8.5 billion, many saw it as evidence of an industry bubble. But experts say there is still plenty of room for investors to make a healthy profit, with increased competition fuelling demand for high-end construction A plane flies over a construction site in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 10 April 2017. Cambodia's economy is estimated to grow by 7.1% in 2017 and 2018, according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Photo: EPA/Kith Serey
By Euan Black - May 11, 2017

May 04, 2017 • 4 min read
Interview

New governor faces uphill struggle to unite Jakarta after divisive election

Anies Baswedan, the former minister for education and culture beholden to Indonesia’s entrenched political interests, must heal the scars of religious intolerance and address crippling inequality, says Bonar Tigor Naipospos of the Jakarta-based Setara Institute for Democracy and Peace
By Euan Black - May 04, 2017

May 04, 2017 • 3 min read

Companies embrace change from within to capitalize on tech advancements

With industry adopting new technology at a dizzying rate, the idea that humans are being rendered obsolete has taken root. But as high-tech becomes the norm, experts say a company’s workplace culture and human resources will make it stand out Jessica Li, APAC director of customer experience at Johnson & Johnson (far right) talks during a panel discussion entitled 'Why millennials are killing loyalty and demanding brand engagement' at the recent CXO Leaders Summit held at the Suntec Convention Centre in Singapore, 27 April 2017. Photo: Media Corp International
By Euan Black - May 04, 2017

Apr 25, 2017 • 7 min read
Smart Tech investments

Anna Gong on Southeast Asia’s start-up bubble

Anna Gong, the winner of the Singapore Women Entrepreneur Award 2017 and CEO of Perx, a mobile customer loyalty company backed by Golden Gate Ventures and the co-founder of Facebook Eduardo Saverin discuss artificial intelligence and the region’s obsession with fintech
By Euan Black - Apr 25, 2017

Apr 21, 2017 • 2 min read

Harley Davidson latest brand looking to tap into Cambodian market

Following luxury Western automobile brands such as Rolls-Royce and BMW, the world renowned motorcycle manufacturer will open its first dealership in Cambodia in a few months time A file photo dated 28 August 2003 showing Harley-Davidsons parked near the Milwaukee Museum of Art on the shores of Lake Michigan. Photo: EPA/Shawn Thew
By Euan Black - Apr 21, 2017

Apr 19, 2017 • 2 min read

Anies Baswedan headed for big win in Jakarta election, unofficial polls show

The Muslim candidate and former minister is leading by 16% with almost all votes counted in his bitterly contested race against embattled incumbent Ahok Jakarta governor candidate Anies Baswedan (R) reacts with his running mate Sandiaga Uno (L) after exit polls in Jakarta, Indonesia, 19 April 2017. Photo: EPA/Bagus Indahono
By Euan Black - Apr 19, 2017

Apr 11, 2017 • 2 min read

Myanmar authorities begin shutting down controversial camps in Rakhine state

Weeks after Kofi Annan said it was “really about time” Myanmar closed its internally displaced person (IDP) camps, authorities say they are heeding his advice Rohingya woman with her face covered with Thanakha, a yellowish-white traditional cosmetic paste, sits at Thet Kel Pyin internally displaced persons camp near Sittwe of Rakhine State, 08 March 2017. Photo: EPA/Lynn Bo Bo
By Euan Black - Apr 11, 2017

Apr 10, 2017 • 2 min read

Indonesia to decide on new capital by the end of the year: official

Facing gridlock and the grim reality that Jakarta could soon be subsumed by water, the Indonesian government says it is moving ahead with plans to move the country’s capital A general view of heavy traffic on a main road in Jakarta, 08 April 2016. Photo: EPA/Mast Irham
By Euan Black - Apr 10, 2017

Apr 10, 2017 • 10 min read
Microfinance

In whose interest?

Cambodia’s microfinance sector reels from the central bank’s decision to introduce an interest rate cap
By Euan Black - Apr 10, 2017

Apr 07, 2017 • 2 min read

Last Hoorah for Formula One in Malaysia

Malaysia’s 19-year relationship with world’s premier racing tour has come to an end due to escalating costs and declining ticket sales Dutch Formula One driver Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing in action during the Formula One Grand Prix of Malaysia in Sepang, Malaysia, 02 October 2016. Photo: EPA/Fazry Ismail
By Euan Black - Apr 07, 2017

Apr 06, 2017 • 3 min read

Aung San Suu Kyi: ‘Ethnic cleansing is too strong an expression’ for crisis in Rakhine State

Facing mounting criticism for failing to speak out against human rights abuses against the Rohingya ethnic minority, Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi gave a rare public defence in a wide-ranging interview with the BBC Myanmar's State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi delivers a speech during a ceremony for the National Health Plan (2017-2021) at the Myanmar International Convention Center in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, 31 March 2017. Photo: EPA/Hein Htet
By Euan Black - Apr 06, 2017

Apr 05, 2017 • 3 min read

Malaysia extends controversial security law that allows for 28 days of detention without charge

Malaysia’s House of Representatives voted to extend the law for 5 years amid a debate over whether it’s a necessary tool to combat terrorism or an aggressive assault on civil liberties Bersih Chairman Maria Chin Abdullah looks on during the Bersih 5.0 rally press conference at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 17 November 2016. She was arrested and detained under SOSMA the following day. Photo:EPA/Fazry Ismail
By Euan Black - Apr 05, 2017

Mar 27, 2017 • 4 min read

Top five: Southeast Asia’s best speakeasy bars

Informed by the drinking culture of the US’ prohibition era, the modern speakeasy offers the perfect blend of mouthwatering innovation and welcome escapism. Here are some of our favourites from around the region
By Euan Black - Mar 27, 2017

Feb 28, 2017 • 2 min read

‘Bikini airline’ Vietjet’s stocks soar as company goes public

Vietnam’s only privately owned airline, Vietjet, issued 300m shares on the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange Tuesday morning. By 9:19am, the stock price had jumped from $3.95 to $4.74, valuing the low-cost airline at $1.42 billion A Vietjet crew member closes the door of a A320 airplane before departure for Bangkok at Noi Bai international airport in Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Huy Kham/Reuters
By Euan Black - Feb 28, 2017

Feb 16, 2017 • 3 min read
DPRK and Southeast Asia

Assassination of Kim Jong-nam highlights Malaysia’s close ties to North Korea

The murder of Kim Jong-nam, the half-brother of North Korean despot Kim Jong-un, in a Malaysian airport brings into focus Malaysia’s deep ties with North Korea, but also threatens to damage the long-standing relationship between the two countries
By Euan Black - Feb 16, 2017

Feb 07, 2017 • 4 min read

Duterte’s vicious battle with the church continues

During the Philippines’ recent Sunday Catholic services, priests across the country decried President Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly drug war as a “reign of terror”. But experts say its criticisms are unlikely to affect Duterte’s popularity
By Euan Black - Feb 07, 2017

Feb 01, 2017 • 9 min read
Buddhism

Pagoda problems

As Cambodia modernises and sex and drug scandals rock the monkhood, the famed saffron robes no longer command the respect they once did
By Euan Black - Feb 01, 2017

Nov 16, 2016 • 8 min read
Milk

A dairy love affair

Thanks to rapid urbanisation and rising incomes, Southeast Asia is consuming dairy products at one of the fastest-growing rates in the world
By Euan Black - Nov 16, 2016

Nov 04, 2016 • 3 min read

Rodrigo Duterte brings rebel leader in from the cold

The Philippine president met MNLF founder Nur Misuari in Manila in an effort to resuscitate the stalling peace process Photo: King Rodriguez/EPA Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte met with Nur Misuari, the founder of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), a Muslim separatist movement in the country’s south, yesterday in an attempt…
By Euan Black - Nov 04, 2016

Oct 12, 2016 • 4 min read

A top Singapore curator on the problem of elitism in contemporary art

Michael Lee is a Singaporean artist, curator and publisher who is currently working as an associate curator for the Singapore Biennale, which runs from 27 October 2016 until 26 February 2017. Here, Lee gives his thoughts on the four-month artistic extravaganza, as well as elitism in the discussion of modern art
By Euan Black - Oct 12, 2016

Oct 04, 2016 • 3 min read

Indonesia recoups billions in unpaid taxes

Indonesia’s controversial tax amnesty programme has netted $7.45 billion in its first three months, but the country will need more to fund President Joko Widodo’s ambitious $400 billion infrastructure plan
By Euan Black - Oct 04, 2016

Oct 03, 2016 • 9 min read

Creative learning

The Montessori approach to education is well placed to serve growing regional demand for creative thinking, yet Southeast Asia’s devotion to grades and testing is proving difficult to shake
By Euan Black - Oct 03, 2016

Sep 22, 2016 • 3 min read
Sustainability

New eco-friendly island settlement to be built in Indonesia

Earthship architect Michael Reynolds has announced his company’s latest project: building a completely self-sustainable, carbon-neutral settlement of homes on Kenawa island, Indonesia
By Euan Black - Sep 22, 2016

Sep 16, 2016 • 3 min read

Indonesia’s plastic bag tax not enough, say experts

Indonesia’s plastic bag tax, meant to curtail the roughly 187 million tonnes of plastic waste entering the country’s water every year, is not enough to fix Indonesia’s environmental crisis, according to experts
By Euan Black - Sep 16, 2016