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. Is the ‘Big One’ coming? Earthquake mania grips Philippines as fears mount
A spate of powerful earthquakes across the Philippines has triggered widespread panic, sparked a flood of misinformation and prompted officials to take decisions that experts warn could undermine long-term disaster readiness.
2. Indonesian high-speed railway’s debts spark debate over who should pay the bill
Indonesia is pushing back against calls to tap the state budget to cover mounting debt from its China-backed high-speed railway, while Beijing has signalled it is open to repayment restructuring talks to ensure the line remains operational.
3. Is Japan making tourism more expensive to deter unruly visitors?
Tourists take pictures as cloud-clad Mount Fuji is seen in the background from Oishi park in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi prefecture, Japan, on Saturday. Photo: AFP
Japan’s proposed increase in visa fees and departure tax is an attempt to balance between dealing with overtourism and deterring misbehaving visitors at “the bottom of the pyramid”, according to industry observers.
AloJapan.com