The fall 2021 couture season was shape-shifting on many levels.


Couture shouldn’t be such a slippery subject. You can look it up in a dictionary, for one. And, in 1945 the governing body of French fashion, now known as the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, registered a legal designation of “Haute Couture.” Still, the métier remains the Greta Garbo of the fashion system: glamorous, mysterious, and elusive.



There are times, such as now, when couture feels vital, the highest expression of new ideas. But there have been periods, such as after the infusion of energy provided by Christian Lacroix in the late 1980s, when couture seemed to be operating in an “I want to be left alone” mode. When that happens, hands are wrung until, with perfect timing, the “star” gathers her skirts, raises her chin, and makes a grand entrance once again-always in a new guise. She’s taken on a new role this season.



When we talk about couture, we are really talking about shape-shifting. It’s not only that silhouettes change, but we periodically reconfigure the meaning we assign to couture as well. And often this is related to changes in the ways we look at women’s bodies and roles in society. At around the same time that Coco Chanel introduced the streamlined, cylindrical, and somewhat androgynous silhouette, American women had gained suffrage and the Model T was being mass-produced. Society, and women, were on the move. The postwar yearning for a “return to normalcy” saw a retrograde take on gender (see Revolutionary Road), supported by the heavily architected New Look by Christian Dior. You get the idea.

We didn’t get a single new silhouette for fall 2021, but we did get a reshaping of couture on material and conceptual levels-along with four debuts.

There was young Andrea Brocca, the Sri Lankan–Italian designer, who explored the golden mean, and the experienced Pieter Mulier, who stepped out at Azzedine Alaïa with a collection that included retakes of specific archival pieces (like perforated leather corset belts) but also captured some of the spirit of the late designer’s body-con dressing. This, at a time that “sexy” dressing is being reimagined apart from the male gaze.



Kerby Jean-Raymond, the first Black designer to be invited by the Fédération to show on the couture schedule, elected to create his own format, rather than follow tradition. For starters, he presented his message-driven collection in America (where the word couture is often casually applied). His choice of location, the estate of C.J. Walker, the country’s first female millionaire, was part and parcel of his narrative around Black excellence.



In Paris, Demna Gvasalia referenced an old-time couture custom, by having models hold, or stand by, cards showing the number of their exit in the look book. Back in the day, it wasn’t unusual for a big house to have a collection numbering a hundred or more looks. Getting admittance to a Balenciaga show was a feat in itself, involving various levels of “approval.” Such was the level of haute-ness that in 1968, as prêt-à-porter was starting to develop, Cristòbal Balenciaga walked his client Bunny Mellon across the street to Givenchy, and hung up his scissors and white coat.

When Gvaslaia joined the house in 2016, he elevated his ready-to-wear with couture touches. His off-the-shoulder puffers and hip-jutting jackets were posture changing and tenure defining. Now, it would be easy to say that the designer’s take on couture, which included day pieces, some even made of denim, was trickle-up. But it’s more nuanced than that. Trickle-through is more like it, as Gvaslaia seemed to be in dialogue with the legacy of Balenciaga and his own body of work. The most significant change here was that his couture is imagined for varied bodies and genders. (It should be mentioned that the house founder was adept at “improving” his clients’ silhouettes through cut. They might have had perfect pedigrees, but they did not all have models’ physiques.)



Gvasalia has brought a modern view on gender to a métier in which it was never really a topic. With few exceptions, like Jean Paul Gaultier, couture was designed and aimed at women (if sometimes sold to men); Savile Row provided a masculine alternative. Now Gvasalia-and others-are proposing couture fashion for men and for gender-nonconforming individuals.



The elaborate formal looks at Balenciaga evoke the romance and aura of Irving Penn’s photographs of postwar couture. Yet, in the tradition of Gaultier, there are wardobe staples, too, like a black suit and a trench coat, which is arguably the piece that defines this season. Rainwear, a staple in many closets, made appearances at Balenciaga, Christian Dior, Gaultier, and Maison Rabih Kayrouz. This seems significant because the pandemic shifted our notions of time and place. For some, their home became their castle, and the delights of the everyday replaced the outward, social focus of the past.



The celebrification of fashion in the late 1990s and aughts affected couture as well; the front rows that had usually been dedicated to clients shifted to accommodate celebrities, and a métier that caters to the very few became a marketing tool, focused on showmanship, fantasy, and the wow factor, all of which make for good imagery. But couture was never just about red carpet dresses.



In the 1950s, a Balenciaga day suit was the de facto uniform of fashion editors. And in 1960, one of the most shocking looks in Yves Saint Laurent’s collection for Christian Dior was a leather “Chicago” jacket with a vaguely beatnik vibe. Kayrouz, for one, is wary of couture being siloed. If designers don’t “keep on doing pieces that people will wear,” he says, “the ateliers will only work for some pieces and [for] some fortunate clients that will only wear those pieces in very specific places.” In other words, to remain relevant, couture needs to relate both to contemporary modes of living and to fantasy, as it has traditionally done.



Nostalgia is ingrained in couture. The ateliers preserve know-how the way that the Brothers Grimm did folklore. And this fall season was one of the backwards-forward glance, with Gvaslaia looking at the heritage of Balenciaga, Pieter Mulier at that of Azzedine Alaïa, and Sacai’s Chitose Abe at Gaultier. This kind of back-and-forth was also happening through upcycling. While this practice is not totally new to couture-Christian Lacroix repurposed a matador jacket into a skirt in 2002-led by Ronald van der Kemp and Maison Margiela’s John Galliano, it now has reached enough of a critical mass for my colleague Nicole Phelps to herald the arrival of truly circular couture. Couture is once again on an upward spiral.


Economic policymakers push for more favorable terms in ongoing negotiations
Thailand has submitted its final proposal in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, focusing on a push for more competitive tax rates within ASEAN.

The government hopes that a favorable outcome will spur investment and balance regional economic dynamics as major powers like China and the US vie for influence.

The move comes as Thailand looks to strengthen supply chains and increase resilience amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.
Diplomatic ties fray as military conflict worsens
In a sign of deepening hostilities, both Thailand and Cambodia have recalled their ambassadors following a surge in deadly violence at their disputed border.

The mutual diplomatic withdrawals reflect a breakdown in communication as military confrontations continue to escalate, prompting concerns from regional partners and international observers about the risk of broader instability in Southeast Asia.
F-16 fighter jets deployed amid intensifying clashes at disputed frontier
Thailand has launched airstrikes on Cambodian military positions using F-16 fighter jets, marking a dramatic escalation in a long-standing border dispute between the two nations.

Thai officials say the strikes were in response to Cambodian shelling and troop movements near the contested area, with both sides exchanging heavy fire throughout the day.

The Thai military has confirmed the deployment of advanced aircraft to protect its territory, while Cambodia has vowed to respond with force.
New initiatives aim to boost post-pandemic recovery and attract tech-savvy travelers
Thailand has announced a sweeping tourism reform plan, allowing digital payments through Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies as part of its 'Routes to Roots' strategy.

The initiative seeks to revive the country's tourism sector by promoting lesser-known destinations, leveraging mobile data insights, and embracing innovation to enhance visitor experience.

Officials hope to position Thailand as a forward-looking destination in a competitive regional market.
Movement restricted as army seals off crossing points to control fighting
Thailand has sealed off several key border crossings with Cambodia in an effort to contain the escalating conflict that has erupted into open fighting between the two militaries.

The closures come amid concerns over landmines, artillery strikes, and growing civilian displacement in the affected areas.

Security forces have been placed on high alert, and travelers are being advised to avoid the frontier zone entirely.
Historic Preah Vihear complex remains flashpoint for hostilities
The latest border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia stem from a long-running territorial dispute over the ancient Preah Vihear temple complex.

Despite international court rulings and periodic peace talks, both nations continue to claim sovereignty over surrounding land, fueling military standoffs and nationalist fervor.

Analysts say the temple remains a symbol of unresolved historical tensions that now risk igniting a wider regional crisis.
Casualties mount as both sides trade artillery and rocket fire
At least 12 people, including several civilians, have been killed in escalating clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces along a disputed section of their shared border.

Authorities report rocket and artillery fire exchanged between military units, forcing thousands of residents to flee the area.

Humanitarian agencies have raised alarm over the growing civilian toll, as both governments refuse to back down from territorial claims linked to historic temple sites.
Growth driven by demand for exports and easing supply chain pressures
Thailand’s automotive sector reported a 12 percent year-on-year increase in car production for June, signaling a strong rebound amid recovering global demand.

The uptick is attributed to renewed investments in the electric vehicle segment and easing of critical component shortages.

Industry leaders remain optimistic about continued growth through the second half of the year despite geopolitical tensions in the region.
Elite swimmer to compete on global stage in Singapore
Columbia University athlete Gian Santos is set to compete at the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, marking a major milestone in his swimming career.

Representing his university and country, Santos will join top competitors from around the world in a series of high-stakes events hosted at the state-of-the-art facility in the island nation.
Tech leader highlights practical breakthroughs in AI and user interfaces
Microsoft’s Xinxing Xu is gaining recognition for translating advanced research into practical innovations at the company’s Singapore lab.

Her work, focused on human-AI interaction and applied machine learning, is helping shape real-world technologies that address complex challenges in user experience and digital accessibility.
New product targets parents seeking safe, ergonomic baby drinkware
Singapore-based brand Hegen has introduced its latest innovation, the PCTO 330ml straw cup, designed specifically for babies aged six months and up.

The BPA-free PPSU pink straw cup is intended to promote independent drinking and features an ergonomic design that combines functionality, safety, and visual appeal for modern caregivers.
Health setback affects Team USA's travel plans
Roughly ten members of Team USA's swimming delegation have been deemed too ill to travel to Singapore for the World Aquatics Championships.

The development has prompted a reshuffle of travel arrangements and training schedules, though officials stress that the majority of the team remains healthy and will compete as planned.
Paradox reveals gaps between assessment scores and actual resilience
Despite receiving top security ratings, several of Singapore’s most prominent companies have suffered cyber breaches, raising concerns about the effectiveness of conventional security grading systems.

Experts say the findings highlight the need for deeper evaluations beyond surface-level metrics and call for adaptive strategies to address persistent vulnerabilities.
Premier League club to face Italian giants in high-profile friendly
Arsenal’s manager has voiced his hope for a packed stadium when the team faces AC Milan in a much-anticipated match in Singapore.

The friendly encounter is expected to draw thousands of fans and marks a key stop in both clubs’ international pre-season campaigns, boosting the city-state’s reputation as a major venue for global sports events.
Blaze draws attention to mental health and safety concerns
Residents of a Toa Payoh block have identified the victim of a recent flat fire as a known hoarder in the community.

The blaze, which damaged multiple units, has raised concerns about fire hazards linked to hoarding behavior and prompted renewed calls for early intervention and community support mechanisms.
Indonesian police intercept drug shipment at airport
Indonesian authorities have arrested two foreign nationals in Bali for attempting to smuggle cocaine into the country.

The suspects were apprehended during a customs inspection at the island’s international airport, with law enforcement seizing packages containing illegal substances concealed in personal luggage.

Investigations into the smuggling network are now underway.
Biofuel group sees gains for American ethanol exports
Growth Energy, a leading advocate for the ethanol industry, has welcomed recent U.S. trade agreements with Indonesia and Japan, describing the deals as crucial steps to expanding market access for American biofuels.

The group emphasized that the pacts will support U.S. rural economies and help foster long-term international demand for renewable energy products.
Deal hailed as a major win under 'America First' policy
The White House has issued a statement touting the newly signed trade deal with Indonesia as a significant win for American workers and businesses, framing the agreement as another example of the 'America First' economic strategy.

Officials praised the deal for opening new markets, reducing trade barriers, and deepening strategic economic ties between the United States and Southeast Asia.
Magnitude 6.2 tremor prompts safety concerns
A strong earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale struck Indonesia’s Sulawesi island, according to geological monitoring agencies.

The quake’s epicenter was located inland, triggering fears of aftershocks but no immediate tsunami warnings were issued.

Authorities are assessing the damage as emergency services respond to affected areas.
Analysts optimistic about near-term market momentum
Market analysts suggest that Indonesia’s benchmark stock index may soon break through the key resistance level of 7,500 points, driven by investor optimism and improved foreign inflows.

The upbeat sentiment follows recent economic policy announcements and international trade deals, bolstering confidence in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
Measures target rising living costs and inflation concerns
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced a package of financial relief measures, including direct cash handouts and a reduction in fuel prices, aimed at mitigating the burden of rising living costs for Malaysians.

The move is part of the government’s broader initiative to strengthen economic resilience and support lower-income households facing ongoing inflationary pressures.
Turner & Townsend report cites resilience in competitive position
Malaysia continues to maintain its competitive edge in the regional construction market, even as building costs rise, according to a new report by consultancy firm Turner & Townsend.

The report attributes Malaysia’s sustained appeal to its skilled labor force, infrastructure pipeline, and business-friendly policies, which have helped buffer against cost escalations seen across Asia.
Authorities find no proof fugitive financier is in China with fake passport
Malaysia has stated there is no credible evidence to support claims that fugitive financier Jho Low is living in China under an assumed identity using a fake passport.

Officials emphasized that ongoing investigations have yet to confirm his whereabouts and that cooperation with international agencies continues in efforts to bring him to justice over his alleged role in the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal.
New policy affects employers nationwide with stricter compliance
Malaysia will begin enforcing its revised minimum wage law from August 1, with authorities warning of firm penalties for employers who fail to comply.

The move is part of the government’s ongoing labor reform agenda aimed at improving wage equity and living standards, especially in sectors where wage stagnation has been a persistent issue.
Beijing warns of supply chain disruption if conflict persists
China has issued a stern warning to rebel groups in northern Myanmar, demanding an end to hostilities that threaten the global supply of heavy rare earth elements.

The ultimatum comes as Beijing grows increasingly concerned about security in key mining regions that supply critical materials for electronics and defense industries.

Analysts warn that further disruptions could significantly impact international markets dependent on rare earth exports.
Rare CCTV captures 2.5-metre displacement during powerful quake
Security footage has revealed a dramatic 2.5-metre fault shift during a recent earthquake in Myanmar, providing rare visual evidence of seismic activity in the region.

The surveillance camera, positioned near the epicenter, captured the ground rupture in real time as the quake struck, sending shockwaves through local communities.

Seismologists say the footage offers valuable data on tectonic movement in Southeast Asia's seismically active zones.
Analysts say junta’s electoral plans lack legitimacy and transparency
Myanmar's military government is facing renewed scrutiny over its planned national elections, with experts and observers warning that the process is designed to entrench junta rule rather than restore democracy.

The Asian Network for Free Elections and other regional bodies have expressed concern over the lack of independent oversight and the continued repression of opposition groups and ethnic minorities.

The military seized power in a 2021 coup, prompting widespread protests and international condemnation.
Thailand owes the world clarity. Here it is—time‑stamped, specific, and backed by on-the-ground evidence. Cambodia opened fire first.

The Timeline Thailand Recorded

07:35 AM — Thai checkpoint at Ta Muen Thom Temple detects Cambodian UAV (drone) noise over the temple front.
07:45 AM — Six Cambodian soldiers, armed with RPGs, are spotted advancing toward Thai operational bases.
08:20 AM — Cambodian troops open fire from roughly two hundred meters east of Ta Muen Temple.
09:40 AM — Thailand’s 2nd Army Region issues a statement: Khmer forces launched a heavy attack targeting civilians. A BM‑twenty‑one rocket fired from a mountain position hits Prasat Don Tau.
09:42 AM — Hun Sen posts on Facebook: “Khmer did not fire first.”

The sequence speaks for itself. Contact began from the Cambodian side before any Thai counter-action.


Civilians Were Targeted

BM‑twenty‑one rockets are area-saturation weapons, not precision tools. Firing them into Thai territory—striking civilian zones—violates humanitarian principles and Thailand’s sovereignty. Thailand has the duty and the right to defend its people.


To Global Media: Don’t Settle for Words—Demand the Files

If you are an international outlet or platform, don’t rely on crafted statements from either side. Ask for and publish:

  1. Raw video and audio from Thai forward positions.

  2. Drone, radar, and SIGINT logs confirming airspace violations and firing sequences.

  3. Shell-fragment forensics and crater analysis to prove firing origin and trajectory.

  4. Satellite imagery of launch points, especially the mountain position tied to the BM‑twenty‑one strike.

  5. Time-stamped social posts and official communiqués aligned with battlefield events (e.g., the 09:42 denial following the 09:40 Thai statement).

Thailand is prepared to show the data, not just draft the narrative.


Thailand’s Position

  • Cambodia initiated fire.

  • Thai civilians were struck.

  • Thailand will defend its people and territory, while presenting verifiable evidence to the international community.


The Bottom Line

Cambodia fired first. Thailand has the timeline, the recordings, and the impact sites to prove it. The world deserves transparent, verifiable proof—and Thailand is ready to provide exactly that.

Thailand has confirmed that twelve civilians, including an eight-year-old boy, have been killed and over thirty injured after Cambodian forces launched artillery strikes into Thai territory.

The attacks began Thursday morning with a strike on a Thai military base near the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin province and were followed by direct fire on civilian areas.

As of 2:15 PM, the Royal Thai Army reported damage across four provinces:

  • Surin: Two civilians killed (including a child), four injured, five soldiers wounded.

  • Ubon Ratchathani: One civilian killed, four seriously injured.

  • Si Sa Ket: Eight civilians killed (including a 15-year-old), 15 injured, one soldier killed, two wounded.

  • Buri Ram: One civilian injured.

Homes, farmland, and livestock were also damaged. In Surin’s Kap Choeng district, two BM-21 rockets hit a village during evacuation efforts, killing a twelve-year-old and an adult. Over 40,000 residents from 86 villages are being evacuated to shelters, with hospitals in the area also relocating patients due to nearby rocket strikes.

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin condemned the attacks as a grave violation of human rights and Thai sovereignty. He confirmed that medical teams and emergency personnel have been deployed to support the wounded.

“The government will take all necessary measures to respond to this aggression and protect Thai citizens,” Mr Somsak said.

The Royal Thai Army strongly denounced the strikes, calling them inhumane and a breach of humanitarian principles.

“Thailand stands ready to defend its people and sovereignty against any further violations,” the army’s statement declared.

Emergency operations remain ongoing in affected areas, with the full extent of casualties and damage still under assessment.

Relations between Cambodia and Thailand have deteriorated significantly since May. Since then, cross-border tensions have surged, including leaked phone calls between Cambodian and Thai leaders in June, and full-scale military clashes erupting in July that left twelve Thai civilians dead and over thirty injured.


Check our Thailand-Cambodia dispute timeline:

  • 1907 – France and Thailand sign border treaty

  • 1954 – Thailand occupies Preah Vihear temple

  • 1962 – ICJ rules the temple belongs to Cambodia

  • 2003 – Thai embassy torched in Cambodia after Thai actress comment

  • 2008–2011 – Repeated cross-border firefights near the temple

  • May 2025 – Cambodian soldier killed by Thai fire at the border

  • June 2025 – Leaked call between Hun Sen and Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra triggers political fallout

  • July 2025 – Thai-Cambodian army clashes erupt near disputed border

Thailand has condemned Cambodia’s artillery strikes on civilian areas as a grave violation of sovereignty, vowing to defend its people and territory. Evacuations and military readiness continue across multiple provinces.

As deadly clashes erupt again along the Thai-Cambodian border, Thailand stands firm against decades of disputed claims, colonial legacy distortions, and Cambodia’s manipulative political maneuvers. The Thai side, under internal pressure and external fire, deserves global support in its rightful assertion of territorial integrity and national dignity.

The long-standing tension between Thailand and Cambodia has once again exploded into deadly violence. Clashes on Thursday near the Prasat Tamuan Thom Temple—a contested area near Cambodia’s Oda Mean Chey province—left at least two Thai civilians dead and several others wounded, including soldiers. The Thai military has confirmed at least six separate clashes along the border, including a Grad rocket attack launched into Thailand’s Surin Province, killing innocent Thai civilians.

Despite both sides accusing each other of opening fire first, the facts—and the context—strongly favor the Thai position. The area in question has been the subject of unresolved friction for decades, a result not of Thai aggression but of colonial-era boundary confusion imposed by the French during their rule in Indochina. Those arbitrary lines, drawn without respect for the free movement and ethnic mingling of local populations, were later used as justification for Cambodian claims—claims that have been politically weaponized again and again.

Cambodia has continuously escalated tensions, not only militarily but also through propaganda and political maneuvering. Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, despite having officially stepped down, remains the dominant figure behind the scenes and is now stirring nationalist passions online. His heavy involvement, especially through social media, has poured fuel on the fire—conveniently at a time when his son, the new prime minister, is trying to solidify the Hun family’s dynastic grip on Cambodian politics.

Meanwhile, Thailand has shown remarkable restraint and internal democratic accountability. Even amid political instability—highlighted by the temporary removal of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who had sought a conciliatory tone with Hun Sen—Thailand’s military has maintained defensive postures along the border. When landmines recently wounded a Thai soldier, initial confusion over their origins gave way to credible military reports implicating recent Cambodian activity.

Thailand’s patience, however, should not be mistaken for weakness. The Thai people are rightfully angry—not only at Cambodian provocations but also at years of international institutions ignoring or underestimating Thailand’s legitimate concerns. While the International Court of Justice (ICJ) once ruled in Cambodia’s favor over a nearby temple dispute, Thailand never accepted that decision—not out of obstinacy, but because it defied historical movement patterns, local cultural ties, and national sovereignty.

This latest bloodshed is not a spontaneous outbreak—it is a calculated escalation rooted in Cambodia’s internal political needs and a blatant disrespect for Thailand’s national borders. The Thai side has not only suffered civilian casualties but is once again being asked to show maturity and restraint while facing off against an unpredictable, provocatively posturing neighbor.

It is time for the international community to recognize the reality on the ground: Thailand is not the aggressor—it is the aggrieved. Its borders, culture, and people deserve respect, not rockets. Its soldiers are not invaders, but guardians. And its leaders, regardless of internal divisions, are justified in standing firm against Cambodia’s reckless behavior.

Thailand does not seek conflict. But if peace continues to be undermined by political showmanship and historical distortions from Phnom Penh, Thailand will—and must—defend its sovereignty with dignity, resolve, and the backing of global partners who value stability over manipulation.

The Royal Thai Army confirmed a firefight near Ta Muen Temple in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province, on the morning of July 24, 2025, stating that Cambodian forces initiated the attack.

It also urged the media and the public to refrain from sharing images or information related to troop movements, military equipment, or locations to safeguard operational security and prevent misuse by hostile actors. 

International Court of Justice rules that failure to act on climate change may breach legal duties and entitle affected nations to reparations
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a unanimous advisory opinion stating that countries may be violating international law if they fail to take adequate measures to address climate change.

The ruling, delivered on July 24 at The Hague, declared that a "clean, healthy and sustainable environment" constitutes a human right under international law.

The opinion, supported by all fifteen ICJ judges, found that a state's inaction on climate protection could amount to an "internationally wrongful act" and that countries harmed by the effects of climate change may be entitled to reparations.

The court emphasized that nations have legal obligations to take measures to prevent environmental harm, including from greenhouse gas emissions caused by human activity.

The case was initiated by Vanuatu and supported by over one hundred and thirty countries, including major greenhouse gas emitters.

The ICJ was tasked with addressing two central questions: the legal responsibilities of states under international law to mitigate climate change and the legal consequences for harm caused by inaction or insufficient measures.

During the hearing, ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa described climate change as "an existential problem of planetary proportions." The court’s opinion further affirmed that international legal instruments, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, oblige states to act in line with scientific consensus to limit global warming and environmental degradation.

The ruling builds upon a series of legal developments.

It follows earlier decisions by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the European Court of Human Rights, which recognized the duty of states to protect populations from environmental harm.

In 2019, the Supreme Court of the Netherlands ruled that the government had a legal duty to safeguard its citizens from the effects of climate change.

Sea level rise and warming trends continue to affect low-lying nations.

Between 2013 and 2023, global sea levels rose by an average of 4.3 centimeters, with some Pacific regions experiencing higher increases.

Global temperatures have risen approximately 1.3 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times due to the continued burning of fossil fuels.

The ICJ opinion may serve as a legal foundation for future actions in both international and domestic courts.

Climate advocates have indicated that the decision could be used to press for stronger climate action at upcoming diplomatic meetings, including the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) scheduled for later this year in Belém, Brazil.

The advisory opinion is non-binding but may influence future legal interpretations and treaty negotiations.

While welcomed by many nations and environmental organizations, the ruling drew opposition from several major oil and gas-producing countries.

The United States, under the current administration, reiterated its focus on national energy priorities and dismissed binding international mandates on emissions reductions.

The court acknowledged that international law alone cannot fully resolve the climate crisis but emphasized the role of collective human effort and scientific advancement in addressing the global challenge.
Thailand has recalled its ambassador to Cambodia and will expel Cambodia's ambassador, following a landmine incident that injured a Thai soldier along the disputed border between the two countries.

The Thai Foreign Ministry has lodged a formal protest with Cambodia, saying the landmines found in the area were newly deployed and had not been encountered during previous patrols.

The Thai government has also ordered the closure of all border checkpoints under the jurisdiction of Thailand's Second Army.

"Tourists are strictly prohibited from entering these border areas," it said.

In the landmine incident on Wednesday, the soldier sustained injuries and lost his right leg.

Earlier, Thailand accused Cambodia of placing landmines on the Thai side of the disputed border area after three soldiers were injured.

Cambodia denied the claim and said the soldiers had veered off agreed routes and triggered a mine left behind from decades of war. But in fact the landmine is newly produced, made in Russia, and such a landmine did not exist during the war. 

Thai authorities said the soldiers were injured, with one losing a foot, by a landmine while on a patrol on July 16 on the Thai side of the disputed border area between Ubon Ratchathani and Cambodia's Preah Vihear Province.

Thailand’s Gulf Development completes $128 million takeover of 770 MW run-of-the-river plant, securing long‑term electricity supply to Thai grid
SET-listed Gulf Development has acquired the remaining sixty‑percent shareholding in the Pak Lay Hydropower Project in Laos from Sinohydro for approximately one hundred and twenty‑eight million US dollars, bringing its ownership to one hundred percent .

The Pak Lay facility, located on the Mekong River in Pak Lay district of Xayaburi province, is a run‑of‑the‑river hydropower plant with an installed capacity of seven hundred and seventy megawatts .

It is under development and slated to begin commercial operations in 2032 under a twenty‑nine‑year power purchase agreement to sell electricity exclusively to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand at an average tariff of approximately two point seven baht per kilowatt‑hour .

The project uses natural river flow without a large reservoir or water diversion, ensuring inflow equals outflow and the water volume of the Mekong remains unaffected .

The acquisition aligns with Gulf’s strategy to expand its renewable energy portfolio and support Thailand’s commitments to net‑zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 .

Gulf aims for forty percent of its total power capacity from renewables by 2035 and net‑zero scope one and two emissions by 2050 .

The transaction was executed through Gulf’s wholly‑owned subsidiary, Gulf Hydropower Holdings, and includes both equity and shareholder loans .

Gulf previously held a forty percent stake in Pak Lay Power Co via a joint venture with Sinohydro, which had held the remaining sixty percent .

The Pak Lay acquisition is part of Gulf’s broader investment programme, comprising a ninety‑billion‑baht budget from 2025 to 2029, of which up to eighty percent is earmarked for renewable energy development, including solar, wind, biomass, waste‑to‑energy, and hydropower projects, as well as digital infrastructure .
Five Thai soldiers injured, diplomatic ties downgraded and border crossings closed amid disputed mine incidents
Thai and Cambodian relations have further deteriorated following a landmine explosion on July 23, 2025, which injured five Thai soldiers—including one who lost his right leg—during a patrol near the Chong An Ma border crossing in Ubon Ratchathani province.

The incident occurred around 4:55 pm local time in a disputed border zone under Thai Second Army jurisdiction.

Four other soldiers suffered shock symptoms and concussive injuries and are receiving treatment at Nam Yuen Hospital .

In response to the explosion, the Thai government took several diplomatic and security measures.

All northeastern border crossings were closed.

Thailand recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled Cambodia’s ambassador, accusing Cambodia of planting newly laid Russian-made PMN‑2 anti-personnel landmines—devices not used by the Thai military—and lodging a formal protest via its Foreign Ministry .

The Thai army activated its “Chakrapong Phuwanart” emergency plan, reinstated during the 2011 Preah Vihear temple crisis, involving both the 1st (Central Plains) and 2nd (Northeast) Army Regions .

This latest incident follows a previous landmine blast on July 16, when three soldiers stepped on PMN‑2 mines near Chong Bok in Nam Yuen district.

One lost a foot and two others were injured.

Thai bomb-disposal teams recovered further devices, raising concerns that hundreds may lie buried within Thai territory.

Military officials initially believed the landmines might be remnant from decades-old conflicts, but later investigations found them to be newly planted .

Cambodia has denied responsibility, stating that Thai personnel strayed from agreed patrol routes into its territory, where unexploded ordnance remains.

The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority labelled Thai accusations “baseless” and expressed regret over the incident .

The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence echoed this position, attributing the explosion to an unauthorized Thai patrol incursion .

These mine incidents follow a broader escalation that began with a brief military skirmish on May 28, in which a Cambodian soldier was killed.

Since then, both countries have implemented border closures, trade restrictions, and media bans.

Cambodia has halted imports of Thai agricultural produce and broadcasts, while Thailand has limited crossing points and reinforced military presence in multiple provinces .

Domestic political reactions have intensified in both countries.

In Thailand, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and the ruling Pheu Thai Party cite the blasts as grave threats to peace.

Separately, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is under an ethics probe over a leaked phone call in which she criticised the military—a controversy linked to the border dispute .

In Phnom Penh, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the activation of a conscription law in 2026—dormant since its passage in 2006—citing rising tensions with Thailand and plans to augment Cambodia’s defence capabilities, including a proposed increase in defence spending from a national budget already allocating US $739 million to the military .

The law mandates 18 months of service for citizens aged 18–30 (voluntary for women), with indications that the training period may be extended to 24 months .

Despite continued calls from both governments for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement—including Cambodia’s intention to bring the matter before the International Court of Justice—neither country has fully disengaged.

Thai military authorities have signalled their intent to escalate the issue to the United Nations under the Ottawa Treaty, which prohibits the deployment of anti-personnel landmines .

The border remains a sensitive flashpoint, with both nations maintaining heightened military readiness and restricted patrol protocols.

The disputed zones near Ubon Ratchathani and Preah Vihear continue to feature contested geography, contested claims and the persistent threat of unexploded or newly emplaced ordnance.
SingWealth Holdings expands with formal launch of new platform
Malaysia has officially launched the Professional Financial Planning Firms Association, or PFPFA, marking a significant step in the regional expansion strategy of SingWealth Holdings.

The new platform aims to elevate standards in the financial advisory industry, foster cross-border collaboration, and reinforce Malaysia’s position as a key player in Southeast Asia’s wealth management sector.
The Second Army Region reports that BM-21 rockets fired from the Cambodian side have hit a PTT gas station in Ban Phue, Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, leaving many students and civilians injured.


In a discussion concerning the advancements led by Tesla, he remarked on Elon Musk's pioneering vision regarding AI's role in the automotive industry.
Huang noted that Tesla operates two factories and has recognized the necessity of establishing an AI factory to support its vehicles, which increasingly rely on AI technologies for various functionalities.

This perspective aligns with a growing trend across industries where companies integrate AI into their operations.

As noted by industry experts, the incorporation of AI is becoming essential for industrial companies to maintain competitiveness.

It is noted that organizations that fail to adopt AI technologies may find themselves at a disadvantage in the rapidly transforming industrial landscape.

The conversation around AI factories is a reflection of the broader economic implications of integrating AI into manufacturing and operational processes.

Many firms, beyond the automotive sector, are exploring AI solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and innovate products.

The evolution of manufacturing towards more intelligent systems is shaping the future of production, with AI playing a crucial role in decision-making and automation processes.

As the economic landscape shifts, the emphasis on AI integration is also prompting discussions on workforce implications.

Companies are beginning to reassess skill requirements as AI technologies advance.

This trend raises important considerations for workforce development and education as industries adapt to include AI-driven methodologies.

Overall, Huang's comments serve as a testament to the ongoing transformation in the industrial sector, where the presence of AI technologies is becoming synonymous with operational success and future viability.
Hanoi caught in balancing act amid competing digital infrastructure offers
Vietnam is navigating a complex path in its smart city development as it finds itself at the intersection of U.S.-China technological rivalry.

Competing offers from both nations are influencing infrastructure choices, cybersecurity standards, and data governance policies.

Analysts warn that decisions made now could shape Vietnam’s digital sovereignty and economic future for decades to come.
Robust exports and manufacturing drive strong year-on-year expansion
Vietnam’s economy expanded by 7.52% in the first half of 2025, driven by a surge in exports, industrial production, and investment inflows, according to official data.

The growth marks one of the highest in the region, supported by resilient manufacturing sectors and improving domestic consumption.

Economic planners are optimistic about continued momentum, though caution persists over global headwinds and inflationary risks.
At least three people killed and hundreds displaced in Nghe An province
Severe flooding triggered by storm Wipha has killed at least three people in Vietnam’s Nghe An province, with hundreds more displaced as heavy rains inundated low-lying areas.

The storm, which weakened into a tropical depression as it moved inland, overwhelmed local reservoirs and caused widespread property damage, including the destruction of over 420 homes.

Emergency services are continuing search and rescue operations while warning of further landslides and rising river levels.
Country climbs seven positions amid expanded visa-free access
Vietnam has advanced seven places in the latest global passport rankings, reflecting increased visa-free access to multiple countries.

The boost is attributed to successful diplomatic efforts and recent travel agreements, which have opened up more destinations for Vietnamese citizens.

Authorities say the improvement enhances global mobility and signals Vietnam’s growing international standing.
Rising visitor numbers in Vietnam prompt Thai tourism rethink
Thailand is rethinking its tourism strategy in response to Vietnam’s rapid rise as a regional travel hub.

With Vietnam seeing significant growth in sustainable tourism, cultural experiences, and eco-attractions, Thai authorities are reassessing marketing efforts and infrastructure investments to maintain competitiveness.

Experts say the shift underscores changing travel preferences across Southeast Asia.
Study finds low resilience and significant psychological strain
Caregivers of lung cancer patients in Vietnam are facing dangerously low resilience levels, with a new study revealing high psychological stress and inadequate support systems.

The findings underscore the hidden emotional toll on family members, many of whom struggle with financial burdens and lack access to mental health services.

Medical experts are calling for targeted interventions and broader caregiver support policies nationwide.
Agreement marks deeper military ties between the two nations
Vietnam and Turkey have signed a new defense cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral military ties and expanding strategic collaboration.

The accord includes provisions for defense technology exchange, joint training programs, and enhanced defense industry cooperation.

Both governments hailed the agreement as a milestone in their growing partnership and a step toward broader geopolitical alignment.
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