Ramadan price gougers, Philippines’ US exemption, India-Taliban ties: 7 Asia highlights

By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-03-04 04:06:30 | Updated at 2025-03-04 07:55:19 3 hours ago

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. Why is the Philippines exempted from US foreign aid freeze?

 AP

Two Philippine Air Force FA-50 fighter jets fly with two US Air Force B-1 bomber aircraft during a joint patrol and training over the South China Sea on February 4, 2025. Photo: AP

2. Ramadan price gougers put on notice in Malaysia as holy month looms

 Getty Images

People buy food from street vendors for iftar (fast-breaking) meals at the Ramadan bazaar in conjunction with the celebration of the holy month of Ramadan in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in March 2024. Photo: Getty Images

3. Indonesia’s budget battles sink its aircraft-carrier dreams

 AFP

The Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi pictured in 2016. Indonesia is reportedly considering buying the recently retired vessel. Photo: AFP
Read Entire Article