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Synopsis :

Part 1 - Programme 1 (00:00:00 to 00:04:58)
The programme features analysis in the  editorials of regional newspapers from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand on current political, economic and social issues in the region. This edition includes comments from Singapore's Straits Times on the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) which convened in Singapore during the week. The paper notes that ASEAN's large membership often stands in the way of dealing with global security concerns quickly. It calls on the ten core ARF members to build a clearer vision for the future while sustaining consultations with international partners. The programme also looks at the  escalation of the Thai-Cambodian border dispute over the  Preah Vihear Temple. The Bangkok Post feels that Phnom Penh's accusation of territorial encroachment by Thai soldiers on Cambodian territory is false, while Thailand's the Nation newspaper echoes the Thai Prime Minister 'sviews that the  standoff could be a  ploy by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to win the upcoming election. The Jakarta Post points out that Cambodia's request for UN Security Council intervention to settle the territorial dispute is a slap in the face for ASEAN.    

Part 1 - Programme 2 (00:05:01 to 00:09:53)
The programme features critical comments from the Bangkok Post on embattled Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's calls to change the constitution and announce a new cabinet line-up. This comes amidst rising commodity prices and a worsening economy. The paper calls on the Prime Minister to either get competent people who can handle the nation's economic problems into government, or pass on the leadership reins to a younger person who can deal with the country's challenges more effectively. Also in the programme, comments from the Jakarta Post on the history of ASEAN regimes and the grouping's effectiveness amidst political volatility in different countries in the region. Finally, the Jakarta Post's views on a move by nations in Asia and Africa to provide assistance to Palestine if it becomes an independent state.

Part 1 - Programme 3 (00:09:58 to 00:14:46)
The programme features Thailand's The Nation newspaper's views on why former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's corruption trial will be an uphill battle as some of his key allies were found guilty of charges levelled against them. The government of Thaksin's successor Samak Sundaravej faces dissolution following charges of vote buying by a senior member of the People's Power Party in the 2007 election. This has resulted in talk of coups. The Nation newspaper feels that  the rule of law, and not coups can solve the country's political problems. Also, Singapore's Straits Times' views on the need for measures to lift the weakening US dollar in foreign exchange markets to ease high oil prices. Finally,  criticism by the Bangkok Post of the secretive way in which Thai Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama handled the issue of granting World Heritage Site status to the disputed Preah Vihear Temple on the Thai-Cambodian border. The Nation newspaper feels that Thailand needs a new Foreign Minister with regional vision and a keen interest in ASEAN before it assumes the ASEAN chair on 25 July, 2008.  

Part 1 - Programme 4 (00:14:49 to 00:19:45)
The programme features comments from Singapore's Straits Times on new allegations of sodomy against former Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim who was jailed on a similar charge a decade ago. It says that there are fears of unrest and upheaval on the streets and cybersphere after the ruling Barisan Nasional has denied conspiracy allegations and Anwar's coalition has said that it is within reach of seizing power with the help of defections from the ruling party. Malaysia's New Straits Times touches on the US State Department's allegation that the charges against Anwar are politically motivated and questions America's self-image as a champion of civil liberties in view of controversial cases in the US. The programme also includes Thai newspaper The Nation's comments on Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's refusal to bow to pressure to make cabinet changes because of public dissatisfaction with the cabinet's performance.    

Part 1 - Programme 5 (00:19:52 to 00:24:50)
In this programme, Thai newspaper the Nation questions the ongoing street protests by the People's Alliance for Democracy calling for Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's resignation. This comes as the Prime Minister faces critics in a no-confidence debate. Thai monks have called on the protesters to respect the results of the December 2007 election which brought the current administration into power. The Jakarta Post draws parallels between street protests in Thailand and those in Indonesia and says that the no confidence motion will be unsuccessful as the ruling People's Power Party has a parliamentary majority. However, the paper calls on PM Samak to take heed of valid points made by the protestors. Also in the programme, the Bangkok Post's views on North Korea's declaration of its nuclear activity. This has resulted in the US easing trade sanctions and moving North Korea off its terrorism blacklist. Finally, changes to  electronic road pricing (ERP) in Singapore to smoothen traffic flow. The Business Times stresses on the need to improve Singapore's public transport system instead of raising the ERP and erecting more gantries.  

Part 1 - Programme 6 (00:24:53 to 00:29:42)
The programme features comments from Malaysia's New Straits Times on how opposition parties in Malaysia have fared in the first 100 days after the March 2008 General Election. While Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi faces calls to resign following the ruling Barisan Nasional's loss of several states, the new state administrations ruled by the opposition coalition have enjoyed a smooth power transition, insulated from hot button issues like the food or fuel crisis. The paper warns however that this honeymoon period won't last forever. Also in the programme, Thailand's the Nation newspaper and Singapore's Business Times' views on why soaring oil prices and the credit crisis have made controlling inflation a priority, and how raising interest rates and combatting the ill effects of commodity speculation might help in this regard. Finally, Singapore's  Straits Times' comments on the challenges that will face a proposed ASEAN Human Rights body which will have to strike a balance between addressing human rights issues and ASEAN's principle of non-interference in the affairs of member nations.

Part 1 - Programme 7 (00:29:45 to 00:34:42)
The views of Malaysia's New Straits Times on  the after effects of massive fuel price hikes in the country. Petrol prices rose by 41% following the removal of fuel subsidies. To calm public anger, Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi announced a cost-cutting package. The New Straits Times calls on the people to take note of the Malaysian government's move to cut two billion ringgit in unnecessary expenditure, make a distinction between neccessity and luxury and adjust their lifetyles in view of the present circumstances. We also hear the Jakarta Post's criticism of a move by the Indonesian government to impose restrictions on the minority Islamic sect Ahmadiyah in response to protests against the group by conservative groups. The paper feels that the government should not bow to these protesters. By banning the sect, it is implying that Ahmadiyah's teachings are wrong. This poses a setback to the country's commitment to religious freedom. Finally, comments from Singapore's Straits Times and Thailand's the Nation newspaper on street demonstrations in South Korea over President Lee Myung-bak's decision to lift a ban on US beef imports.

Part 1 - Programme 8 (00:34:44 to 00:39:35)
The programme looks at Illinois Senator Barack Obama's nomination as the Democratic Party's candidate for the US Presidency. The Jakarta Post comments on Mr Obama's childhood links with Indonesia and why he might have a more balanced position on Islam than his predecessor, President George W Bush. Thailand's the Nation newspaper notes that both Barack Obama and  Republican nominee John McCain have Southeast Asian links as Mr McCain was a POW in Vietnam. This might result in a new era in US policy towards Southeast Asia. Also, comments from the Nation, the Bangkok Post and Singapore's Straits Times on repeated calls for the resignation of Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej over plans for constitutional amendments which have since been dropped. Finally, the New Straits Times' views on why the Malaysian government's plans to increase fuel prices by 40 % is a responsible one, and the need for a campaign to educate the public about  the revamped subsidy system.

Part 1 - Programme 9 (00:39:37 to 00:44:25)
The programme features the regional papers' comments on the decision by the International Court of Justice to award sovereignty of the island of Pedra Branca to Singapore and Middle Rocks to Malaysia in the long-standing dispute over these territories. Singapore's Berita Harian notes that the verdict can lead to the settlement of other unresolved issues between the two countries. Malaysia's New Straits Times feels that the case serves to remind Malaysia that it should not neglect small offshore islands which can be beneficial to the country. Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao suggests that the win win verdict can help to strengthen cooperation between the two neighbours. We also hear what the Bangkok Post says about the Myanmar military government's move to ease restrictions on foreign relief workers entering the country following a UN Conference on the issue led by Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.  

Part 1 - Programme 10 (00:44:32 to 00:49:26)
The programme features comments from the New Straits Times on former Malaysian Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad's sudden decision to resign from the United Malays National Organisation or UMNO. The paper views this as a move to oust Mr Abdullah Badawi as Party President and Prime Minister, and says that UMNO will survive Dr Mahathir's departure. This could work to the advantage of defacto opposition leader, Anwar Ibrahim of the Pakatan Rakyat. Also, the Bangkok Post criticises Myanmar's handling of the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis and compares this with China's efficient response to the devastation caused by the Sichuan earthquake. Thailand's the Nation newspaper asks if this will affect Myanmar's military leaders' legitimacy. Finally, the Jakarta Post's observations on Indonesia's successful democratisation ten years after Suharto's fall despite slow economic progress.

Part 1 - Programme 11 (00:49:29 to 00:54:20)
In this programme, Singapore's Straits Times commends China's rapid response to the Sichuan earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale. Relief workers, volunteers and 50,000 soldiers were quickly mobilised in the rescue efforts. This is in contrast to Myanmar's slow response to Cyclone Nargis on 2 May 2008 which left a heavy death toll in its wake. Thailand's the Nation newspaper, Malaysia's New Straits Times and Singapore's Straits Times are critical of the Myanmar government's resistance in allowing foreign aid workers into the country. The Straits Times touches on ASEAN's slow response to the crisis and calls for an institutionalised mechanism to dispatch relief work at short notice to countries in the grouping who are affected by disasters. Also in the programme, the Jakarta Post criticises parliamentary opposition in Indonesia to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's move to raise fuel prices. The paper says that fuel subsidies benefit the rich more than the poor and strong leadership is required for the President to push the measures through. If he succeeds, he will win the next election with the support of the poor.  

Part 1 - Programme 12 (00:54:23 to 00:59:20)
The programme features Thailand's the Nation newspaper's views on  Myanmar's future after Cyclone Nargis struck on 2 May 2008 and Myanmar accepted disaster relief aid from ASEAN neighbours. The paper highlights ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan's call to ratify a 2005 agreement on disaster management and emergency response in ASEAN. It questions the Myanmar government's plan to hold a referendum on a new constitution on 10 May soon after the disaster. The Jakarta Post is critical of Myanmar's refusal to allow foreign journalists from entering the country following the cyclone. We also hear the Straits Times' views on the challenges of improving Sino-Japan relations despite a recent meeting between Chinese President Hu Jintao and Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda in Tokyo. Historical baggage between the two countries and China's attainment of superpower status stand in the way of better ties. Finally, criticism from Thailand's the Nation newspaper and the Bangkok Post on Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's proposal to form a rice cartel with other rice-growing countries in Southeast Asia.    

Part 1 - Programme 13 (00:59:24 to 01:04:12)
Malaysia's new Parliament convenes for the first time after the 8 March, 2008 polls which saw the ruling Barisan Nasional lose its two-thirds majority in Parliament. In this programme, Malaysia's New Straits Times reminds all  Members of Parliament to observe parliamentary rules and regulations,   put on their best behavior and not make unsubstantiated allegations in Parliament.   Also, Thai newspaper the Nation's views on Thailand's decision not to impose export restrictions on rice amidst rising rice prices,  and the proposal to have an organisation of rice exporting countries to control the price of rice. Malaysia's New Straits Times touches on the lower hikes in rice prices in Malaysia compared to neighbouring countries. Finally, Thailand's the Nation's comments on why  North Korea's nuclear activity following the Israeli bombing of a Syrian nuclear facility built with North Korea's help might derail six-party talks.    

Part 1 - Programme 14 (01:04:14 to 01:09:10)
The programme looks at comments in Singapore's newspapers on the findings of a Committee of Enquiry on the escape of Jemaah Islamiah leader, Mas Selamat Kastari from detention on 27 February 2008. These suggest that there were security lapses and a lack of physical barriers in the centre where he was detained. The Straits Times raises a number of questions on the adequacy of checks and balances in security procedures. Lianhe Zaobao asks who should take responsibility for the security lapses, and Berita Harian urges continued vigilance against the threat of terrorism. Also in the programme, the impact of the rising cost of rice on Southeast Asian nations. Malaysia's New Straits Times touches on moves to make the country more self sufficient in rice with a 4 billion ringgit  budget commitment and plans to turn Sarawak into the rice bowl of Malaysia.   The Jakarta Post feels that Indonesia should implement policies to increase self-sufficiency in rice and Thailand's the Nation calls for better water management and irrigation facilities in Thailand in view of the impact of droughts on rice farming.

Part 2 - Programme 1 (00:00:00 to 00:04:58)
This programme looks at the regional papers' views on the world food crisis which is likely to affect Third World countries adversely. The World Bank has met to discuss international coordinated plans to reduce hunger. Singapore's Business Times discusses the seriousness of the crisis and feels that a concerted global effort should be made to address the problem which can cause social unrest in affected countries. Thailand's the Nation calls for the reform of farming practices and more technological assistance for farmers. Also in the programme, Malaysia's New Straits Times touches on the future of UMNO in the midst of calls on Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi to resign. It notes that the mood of despair amongst UMNO members is uncharacteristic for a party known for its resilience and urges them to get on with the task of governing instead of indulging in defeatist talk. Also, the Straits Times' views on the thawing of China-Taiwan relations following Taiwanese Vice-President Vincent Siew's visit to China to meet Chinese President Hu Jintao. The paper urges both sides not to make unreasonable demands in their effort to forge closer ties.

Part 2 - Programme 2 (00:05:05 to 00:09:49)
This programme touches on  pro-Tibet protests around the world that hampered the Olympic Torch Relay ahead of the Beijing Olympics in August 2008. Singapore's Straits Times feels that attacks on the torch-bearing athletes will do nothing to help the Tibetans get a more sympathetic hearing from China on their grievances. It calls for new policy approaches in China on the Tibet issue. The Bangkok Post suggests that China can save the Olympics by pledging semi-autonomy to Tibet along the lines of Hong Kong. The programme also touches on Thailand's response to the looming rice shortage and increase in rice prices. The Nation newspaper urges the government to give farmers technical and other forms of assistance. It welcomes Thailand's alliance with India and Vietnam to stabilise the rice market and feels that the formation of an Organisation of Rice Exporting Nations to set a benchmark on rice prices will help farmers tide over unpredictable conditions. Finally, Malaysia's New Straits Times looks at the annual haze triggered by bushfires in Indonesia and calls for early preparations to deal with respiratory ailments caused by the haze.  

Part 2 - Programme 3 (00:09:52 to 00:14:32)
In this programme, Malaysia's New Straits Times criticises a 15-minute Islamic short film called 'Fitna' or 'Strife' by a Dutch lawmaker and MP. Banned in Indonesia, the film has disturbing images of terrorist acts superimposed over verses from the Koran. Calling it a home-studio concoction, the paper notes the muted response to it compared to the 2005 cartoon controversy over the depiction of the Prophet Mohamad. It also feels that the Dutch government should not be held responsible for the action of one of its citizens. Also in the programme, the New Straits Times notes that although Beijing has addressed the issue of pollution ahead of the 2008 Olympic Games, global criticism of China's crackdown on Tibet shows that the Olympics is not just a sporting event and China should not ignore international concern on Tibet. The Jakarta Post touches on China's lack of credibility in countering press reports on violence in Tibet and calls for careful handling of the issue. Finally, Singapore's Straits Times looks at the Prime Minister's move to give young ministers more exposure in his new cabinet. It also discusses the age factor in Singapore's leadership succession.  

Part 2 - Programme 4 (00:14:37 to 00:19:18)
The programme features the Bangkok Post's views on a possible boycott of the Beijing Olympics by some countries following China's handling of recent demonstrations in Tibet. It recalls China's politically-motivated boycott of several Olympics in the past. Singapore's Straits Times notes that most countries will  not boycott the Games and says that the Olympics should not be used to settle diplomatic scores. It urges China to work hard to make Tibetans accept the fact that they are Chinese citizens. We also hear the Straits Times and the Nation newspaper's views on Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou's plans to forge better economic ties with China. The President, who is viewed as China-friendly, is expected to work towards material progress rather than harp on the issue of independence. Also, the Nation newspaper commends Bhutan's fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuk and the current King, Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk for their far-sightedness in holding the first ever democratic election in the Himalayan kingdom. The paper notes that it is wise for this predominantly Buddhist country, with its emphasis on happiness to  embrace the forces of globalisation.

Part 2 - Programme 5 (00:19:26 to 00:24:19)
The programme looks at violent anti-Chinese protests in Tibet. Thailand's the Nation newspaper says the riots have shattered claims that Tibetans are satisfied with their lives after China moved in, and looks at opposing views from China and the West on spiritual leader Dalai Lama's role in seeking autonomy for Tibet. The Straits Times notes that although Tibet is an autonomous region in China, there are disputes over its status and it calls on China to assimilate the enemy. The paper feels  that China does not fear that its action in Tibet will ruin the Olympic Games and hopes that a Tiananmen type crackdown will not be necessary. The Jakarta Post urges Tibet to continue with negotiations with China for lasting peace and warns Tibetan demonstrators of harsh action from China should they continue with the violent protests. Also in the programme, Malaysia's New Straits Times comments on the need for Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi's new cabinet to address the grievances of the electorate following the Barisan Nasional's failure to get a two-thirds majority in Parliament in the March General Election.    

Part 2 - Programme 6 (00:24:22 to 00:29:21)
The programme features the regional papers' reactions to shock results in Malaysia's 8 March General Election in which the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition lost its two-thirds majority in Parliament and five states to the opposition. Singapore's Straits Times says that the outcome indicates a weakening of the party's strength in both urban and rural areas. Analysts attribute the BN's losses to rising costs, corruption and ethnic tensions following the recent government crackdown on an Indian rights group. Thailand's the Nation reflects on ethnic divisions in a country long known for its racial harmony. Malaysia's New Straits Times looks at the loss of credibility of the Malaysian Indian Congress whose President Samy Vellu was ousted in his Sungei Siput constituency. The paper feels that the opposition coalition was unprepared for its good performance in the polls and it is likely to face teething problems in the states it has won. The Bangkok Post looks at how the results will impact the insurgency in southern Thailand while Singapore's Business Times addresses economic concerns stemming from the results.

Part 2 - Programme 7 (00:29:24 to 00:33:22)
In this programme, the Jakarta Post criticises Indonesia's decision to abstain from the UN Security Council's vote for new sanctions against Iran over its nuclear policy. The paper feels that this shows indecisiveness on Indonesia's part. Taking a stand one way or the other would have won the country more respect. Also, the Straits Times comments on Philippine President Gloria Arroyo's decision to revoke an order that blocked officials from testifying in investigations on corruption allegations involving her husband. The paper feels that to enhance her credibility, she should readily and impartially help in the Senate enquiry. Finally, we hear the Bangkok Post's views on Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's intention to legalise casinos. The paper says that before holding a referendum on this, it is important to know what kind of gambling will be legalised, what mechanisms are in place to protect vulnerable members of society and how these facilities will be protected from becoming tools for money laundering and loansharking rackets. Also, the arguments in favour of legalised gambling.

Part 2 - Programme 8 (00:33:25 to 00:37:56)
The programme features Thai newspaper the Nation's reaction on ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's return to Thailand to face corruption charges after one and a half years of self-imposed exile. The paper questions the Foreign Ministry's move to return diplomatic privileges to Thaksin and expresses concern about Thaksin's influence on Thai foreign policy. Singapore's Straits Times looks at political instability in Pakistan after an election where the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) led by Asif Zardari, husband of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, won the most number of seats. The PPP will form a coalition with the Pakistan Muslim League led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who holds a grudge against President Musharraf for ousting and imprisoning him on corruption charges in 1999. Singapore's Business Times calls on the coalition partners to settle their differences. Finally, Malaysia's New Straits Times notes that the New York Philharmonic Orchestra's concert in Pyongyang, North Korea demonstrates the power of music to forge closer ties between nations.

Part 2 - Programme 9 (00:38:03 to 00:42:56)
In this edition of Regional Press Review, the Straits Times comments on Singapore 'swin over Moscow to stage  the first ever Youth Olympics in August 2010. The games, proposed by International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge, will recognise young sporting talent and have an outreach and educational component. The paper cautions that Singapore must not disappoint and says that sports fans will have a lot to look forward to. On the aviation front, even as the Singapore Airshow opens and thrills audiences with aerial acrobatics, Singapore's Chinese language newspaper, Lianhe Zaobao looks at the bright growth prospects for Singapore's aviation industry. The paper notes Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's observation that with advances in technology, Singapore's skies will never be saturated. However, the country will face stiff competition to remain a regional air hub. Finally, the Straits Times discusses global reactions to the Serbian province of Kosovo's declaration of independence. While several Western countries have recognised the state, Russia is opposed to the move and China has concerns about regional instability.