Opinion

  • I. The Shadow of Majapahit When the Majapahit Empire collapsed under the rising tide of Islam in Java during the late 15th century, Bali became more than a sanctuary, it became a living reliquary of a lost civilisation. As temples crumbled and courts fell silent in Java, priests, dancers, artisans, warriors, and nobles crossed the

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  • West Borneo, with its dense rainforests and sprawling rivers, is home to remote towns like Nanga Pinoh, Nanga Ela, and Nanga Sokan. The region’s communities are deeply tied to the rivers that branch across the land, forming a network that has shaped life for centuries. The term “Nanga,” derived from the Iban language, refers to

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  • The Emperor’s Unrelenting Obsession In the vast palaces of Xianyang, Emperor Qin Shi Huang sat upon a throne of unparalleled power. The first ruler to unify China, he had conquered kingdoms, built the Great Wall, and forged an empire under his rule. Yet, despite his triumphs, one fear haunted him relentlessly: death. The Emperor was

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  • It was a rainy morning in Jakarta, and the familiar chaos of the city’s traffic stretched my one-hour journey to what felt like an eternity. The toll roads alone cost 62,000 rupiah—a sum that could easily buy two modest meals for many Indonesians. The disparity was evident everywhere: the oldest, rickety cars struggling alongside luxury

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  • Korea is often celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and global influence through industries like K-pop, technology, and cinema. Yet, beneath this glittering surface lies a challenging cultural and social dynamic that contributes to the country’s political crises and societal struggles. Based on personal experiences and observations, this article explores how certain cultural mindsets

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  • China’s meteoric rise to global prominence has sparked a mixture of admiration and unease. For some, China’s rise is a story of innovation and opportunity. For others, it raises concerns over political dominance, economic influence, and cultural misunderstandings. Yet, beneath these polarising narratives lies a more complex story—one rooted in a rich history, marked by

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  • I am a forward-thinker with an optimistic view of the future, driven by the belief that humanity and machines can not only coexist but thrive together. I see technology, particularly AI, as a tool for enlightenment, helping us understand ourselves, each other, and even other species in ways never before possible. At my core, I

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