The People's Party, heir to Move Forward in the progressive camp, leads the polls for tomorrow's vote in Thailand. But it is taking a more moderate line towards the monarchy and the elite to avoid facing dissolution, as happened to its predecessors.

For the first time, Islamic law is being used in this Malaysian state to initiate criminal proceedings. The “offence” is punishable by a fine of hundreds of euros and up to two years in prison. Under Islamic law, gender is determined at birth. A similar case involved transgender Nur Sajat, who fled to Australia in 2021.

The faithful gathered at the Batu Caves and Penang for the celebration, marked by vows, processions, and penances. The event commemorates the victory of Lord Murugan over evil, emphasising identity, community, and unwavering devotion. For Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, differences have “long shaped Malaysia's identity.”

Among the athletes who will compete on the Olympic slopes in a few days are two young people who grew up in the United States and Italy, but who maintained a special tie to their tropical roots. Proulx, 17, will be the first woman to compete in a Winter Olympics under the Philippine flag. “I guess we are pioneers,” she said, hopeful that her fellow countrymen and women will learn more about these sports.

Held in three phases between December and January, voting saw the victory of the military-backed party, taking almost all the seats according to the official tally. The outcome was a foregone conclusion, since the main opposition forces were excluded. Meanwhile, ASEAN, under the Philippine presidency, also discussed tensions in the South China Sea.

The examination of the Positio of the Italian Jesuit missionary who lived among tribal people in the 17th century has been completed in Rome. The Diocese of Dipolog received a formal communication from the Vatican yesterday, the anniversary of his martyrdom. Bishop Severo Caermare led a Mass to commemorate the day.