Thai PM’s suspension reignites debate, Malaysia’s new tax: 7 Asia highlights

From Duterte ending his womanising era to defence concerns over an Indonesia mine, 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. Malaysia’s new ‘luxury’ taxes hit the middle class where it hurts

2. PM’s suspension reignites debate on ‘judicial activism’ of Thailand’s courts

3. Philippines’ Duterte ends womanising era, leaving ‘13 to 27’ lovers behind

4. Chinese ambassador’s ‘grandstanding’ advice for Australia raises eyebrows

5. Kuala Lumpur’s Aerotrain suffers double trouble after US$100 million relaunch

6. China-funded smelter fires up Indonesian defence concerns

7. Why Singapore refused to be a ‘Third China’ – and how Lee Kuan Yew made it clear