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Asia Specific

Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new podcast episodes twice a week. Get in touch: [email protected]

Episodes

Vietnam’s coffee industry, a global powerhouse for robusta production, faces significant pressure from climate change and evolving international regulations. While robusta remains more heat-resilient than arabica, erratic weather patterns threaten long-term yields, forcing roasters to increase robusta content in global...

Could dual citizenship stop Indonesia’s brain drain?

29 Sep 2026

13m

Bonus: Catching My Teacher

29 Sep 2026

18m

Asia Specific

25 Sep 2026

17m

We need to talk about AI

22 Sep 2026

22m

An awkward accident shines a spotlight on Hyrox

18 Sep 2026

17m

Inside Australia's plan to beat the algorithm

15 Sep 2026

16m

Why are Australia’s native animals going extinct?

11 Sep 2026

17m

Can Indonesia stop SE Asia’s annual smoke haze?

08 Sep 2026

18m

Is Hong Kong cinema’s golden age over?

04 Sep 2026

20m

AI processed

Hong Kong cinema faces a profound transformation as it navigates the legacy of its 1990s golden age and current political constraints. Once a prolific industrial powerhouse, the sector now produces significantly fewer films annually, hindered by economic shifts and the 2022 amendment to the film censorship ordinance. T...

The AI data centre boom in South East Asia

01 Sep 2026

20m

AI processed

The global AI boom is driving an unprecedented surge in data center construction across Malaysia, positioning the country as a critical regional hub. This expansion, fueled by Singapore’s 2019 moratorium on data centers and aggressive Malaysian government incentives, promises significant economic growth and increased G...