China’s J-10C vs French Rafale, fans defend Blackpink’s Lisa: SCMP 7 highlights
From to China’s J-10C vs French Rafale to a Hong Kong actress in HK$5.8 million fraud case, here are highlights from SCMP’s recent reporting
We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.
1. How did China’s J-10C match up to French Rafale in India-Pakistan aerial clash?
Reports that France’s advanced Rafale fighter jet came off second best against the China-made J-10C Vigorous Dragon in a dogfight between the Indian and Pakistan air forces on May 7 attracted global attention.
2. Times have changed: US-China talks show Beijing learned how to deal with Trump
After their first set of talks since US President Donald Trump’s sweeping “Liberation Day” tariffs turned Washington’s trade war with China into a world-spanning conflagration, both Beijing and Washington – perhaps unsurprisingly – hailed the resultant removal of most of those steep import duties as a victory for their side.
3. US shares sixth-generation fighter details, intensifying China air rivalry
The US has unveiled more details about its sixth-generation fighter, including the aircraft’s expected range, as competition intensifies with China for future air combat superiority.
4. In Singapore, Gen Z voters are less happy with the election results. Here’s why
A recent survey after Singapore’s 14th general election has found that while most voters in the city state are satisfied with its outcome, less than half of Gen Z voters expressed approval of the ruling People’s Action Party’s (PAP) resounding victory.
5. ‘Freaking out’: Hongkongers fret over BN(O) visas as UK hardens migration stance
Hongkongers who have emigrated to the UK or intend to do so with their British National (Overseas) passport have expressed concerns over the country’s plan to double the settlement qualifying period for migrants to 10 years, with some saying they were “freaking out”.
6. Foreigners flock to China’s Shenzhen as visa-free entries surge 160%
Shenzhen, China’s southern tech hub, has reported a swell of overseas visitors this year, an influx attributed to the country’s expansion of visa-free entry and its integration of the Greater Bay Area, a region that incorporates Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macau.
7. Lisa’s Thai fans lash out at rapper Azealia Banks after transphobic tirade
A social media firestorm has erupted in Thailand after American rapper Azealia Banks directed transphobic slurs at K-pop sensation Lalisa Manobal – better known as Lisa of Blackpink – triggering a fierce backlash from her Thai fans that spiralled into a racially charged online battle.
