Asian Tribune

Education Reforms Should Suit the Country, Not the JVP: Namal Rajapaksa

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has criticised the government’s proposed education reforms, urging that any changes must be tailored to the needs of the nation rather than aligned with the political agenda of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). Addressing the media, Mr. Rajapaksa said the President’s recent comments suggest the reforms may...

NMRA Strengthens Regulations to Combat Illegal Pharmacy Practices in Sri Lanka

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) has reaffirmed and strengthened existing rules requiring the full-time presence of qualified pharmacists at all registered pharmacies across Sri Lanka, in a bid to curb illegal practices and improve public safety in medication dispensing. Under the NMRA Act No. 5 of 2015, pharmacies must employ at least one licensed...

Singapore Exchange Expands Into Crypto Futures for Advanced Traders

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) is moving deeper into the digital asset market by introducing regulated cryptocurrency futures contracts aimed at institutional and advanced market participants, financial sources say. From 24 November 2025, SGX’s derivatives arm will begin offering Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures — a type of crypto derivative that allows traders to take positions...

BRICS Naval Wargames Highlight Strategic Ties — But India Chooses to Sit Out

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

South Africa has begun hosting joint BRICS naval exercises, drawing attention to the increasing geopolitical importance of the bloc’s military cooperation — even as one of its founding members, India, opted not to participate. The weeklong drills, named “Will for Peace 2026,” kicked off in Simon’s Town, South Africa, bringing together warships from China, Russia...

One Dead and 300 Buildings Destroyed as Bushfires Ravage South-East Australia

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

At least one person has been killed and more than 300 buildings destroyed as devastating bushfires continue to sweep across south-east Australia, authorities have confirmed. The fires have been burning for several days across dozens of locations, primarily in the state of Victoria, with additional outbreaks reported in New South Wales. Officials estimate the fires...

Iran Warns It Will Retaliate if U.S. Attacks, as Hundreds Killed in Protests

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, saying it will launch retaliation if Washington carries out any military strikes against the Islamic Republic, even as widespread anti-government protests spread and the death toll climbs. (CitiNewsroom.com) The warning came on Sunday from Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, who said that in the...

Sri Lanka Clinches Thrilling Victory Over Pakistan in 3rd T20I

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

Dambulla, January 11, 2026 — In a high-octane clash at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 14 runs to claim a memorable win in the third and final T20 International of the series. Sri Lanka posted a competitive 160 for 6 in the shortened 12-over contest, powered by a destructive cameo...

Business & Economics

Rising Political Uncertainty in South Asia Raises Regional Security Concerns

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Political uncertainty across South Asia is raising concerns among regional analysts, who warn that prolonged instability could undermine security cooperation and economic recovery efforts. Several countries in the region are grappling with fragile governments, contested elections, and public dissatisfaction driven by economic pressures. Experts note that domestic political volatility often spills across borders in South...

China–Taiwan Tensions Intensify Amid War of Words and Military Signalling

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Tensions between China and Taiwan have intensified following a series of sharp political exchanges and increased military activity around the self-governed island. Beijing reiterated its claim over Taiwan, warning against what it described as “separatist actions”, while Taipei accused China of escalating intimidation. Recent military drills near Taiwan have heightened concerns among regional observers, who...

India and Pakistan Signal Willingness to Resume Diplomatic Engagement

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

India and Pakistan have signalled tentative openness to resuming diplomatic engagement, raising cautious hopes for easing long-standing tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Officials on both sides have stopped short of announcing formal talks but have acknowledged the need for dialogue. Relations have remained strained for years, particularly over the disputed region of Kashmir. Analysts say...