Singapore’s opposition, Filipino in running for pope, India vs Pakistan: 7 Asia highlights

From a Filipino tipped to be pope to Indians rethinking their US study plans, here are a few highlights from SCMP’s recent Asia reporting

We have selected seven stories from the SCMP’s coverage of Asia over the past week 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. Singapore election: why can’t the opposition make inroads?

2. ‘If I were God, I wouldn’t choose me’: Filipino cardinal tipped to be next pope

3. India vs Pakistan: a Western-Chinese arms face-off in the making?

4. Malaysia’s evergreen Mahathir, older than Superman and sliced bread, eyes 100

5. ‘Things have gone haywire’: Indian students rethink US study plans

6. ‘Is this the Thailand we want?’ Brutal murder exposes tourist boom’s dark side

7. As tourist bookings plunge over earthquake prophecies, Japan shuts down rumours