Polygraph Testing: An Underused Tool for Truth in Southeast Asia Polygraph examinations — widely known as lie detector tests — are a well-established investigative tool

700 Counterfeit Seagate Hard Drives Seized in Malaysia This month, Malaysian authorities seized around 700 counterfeit Seagate hard drives in a major enforcement action. The

Durian, often dubbed the “king of fruits,” is a tropical delicacy renowned for its pungent aroma and rich, custard-like flesh. Native to Southeast Asia—particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand—this spiky fruit is as controversial as it is beloved.

Despite its divisive smell, durian is highly nutritious, packed with calories, fibre, vitamin C, potassium, and healthy fats. Its rising popularity, especially in China, has fuelled a surge in demand. While Thailand remains the leading exporter, Malaysia’s distinctive durians, known for their stronger aroma and smaller size, are carving out a premium niche in the Chinese market.

Widespread extortion by rogue Indonesian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has cost industry players operating in the country hundreds of trillions of rupiah, exacerbating what corporate executives describe as a deteriorating business climate in a nation eager to attract foreign investment.

Industrial zones across Indonesia—particularly in key hubs such as Bekasi and Karawang in West Java, Batam in the Riau Islands, and East Java—have become prime targets for extortion by Civil Society Organizations, commonly known as Ormas (mass organizations), according to the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI).

Recent years have seen scammers boldly impersonating Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri Malaysia (LHDN), approaching Malaysians with offers of rebates for overpaid taxes or worse, threats of legal action for overdue tax.

Impersonation scams known as ‘rebate scams’ offers the victim a rebate while for those with overdue tax receives a threat to life, an arrest or other form of threats.