We have selected seven stories from the SCMP’s coverage of Asia over the past week that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.
1. US call centre bill threatens Philippines’ US$30 billion outsourcing boom
As dusk settles over Angeles City, Justin Cunanan prepares for another long night. While the rest of the Philippines sleeps, he joins millions of his compatriots powering a global industry that is now facing threats from both Washington and Silicon Valley.
2. Why a US$70 day trip to Johor is now Singaporeans’ favourite leisure hack
Every month, Rachel Tan, a 53-year-old Singaporean tutor, boards a bus across the 1km (0.6 mile) causeway for a day trip to Malaysia’s Johor state, where she stocks up on groceries and treats herself to lunch and a film.
3. Price surge weighs on gold, silver sales in India’s Diwali market
Record-high gold and silver prices fuelled by US-China friction have dented demand for the precious metal in key consumer market India, in the lead-up to the peak buying period for the Diwali festival.
4. Asia’s youngest nation nears the end of its epic quest to belong