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.”

Overturning a previous ruling that prohibited retroactive environmental permits, the Supreme Court has opened the door to projects already underway without prior permits, weakening legal protection of territories and the precautionary principle. Environmental movements are concerned at a time when India is announcing ambitious plans for the manufacturing industry.

The agreement between Damascus and Kurdish militias is not enough to stem the violence in the country. 21-year-old Eliah Simon Tekla shot dead in his car parked in front of his home. Since Assad's fall, over 70 Christians have been killed for their faith. Christian minister: ‘I see people's suffering... and I feel responsible for their pain’.

Today's headlines: new clashes in Baluchistan, Pakistani army reports 145 militiamen killed; Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened, but only for a few dozen people a day; Hong Kong to adopt a five-year plan to “align” with Beijing. Singapore to have a national space agency. First Grammy for Korean K-pop.

Speaking at the fifth national assembly in Kyzylorda, the president presented the fundamental parameters of constitutional changes to free the country from the clans that have dominated it for over thirty years. He insisted on the need to prioritise administrative discipline, with technological acceleration at its service.

Leo XIV spoke during today’s Angelus about the Milano Cortina Olympic Games, and urged governments to “promote sincere and effective dialogue”. He joined Cuban bishops calling on leaders to “avoid violence”.  On the Beatitudes, he said, “God gives this hope primarily to those whom the world dismisses as hopeless.”