The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) found that during the Covid-19 pandemic, Filipino households prioritized asset accumulation, increased savings, and reduced debt levels as a response to economic challenges. The central bank's 2021 Consumer Finance Survey analyzed data from 16,212 households nationwide, revealing how families adapted their finances amidst policy changes and the pandemic's impact on the economy.
https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/03/17/business/top-business/bsp-reports-covid-19s-impact-on-households/2074050Labour Minister Ashok Ghosh has vowed to provide support for the most vulnerable sections of society amid the ongoing debate over welfare cuts in India. The government is considering various measures to mitigate the impact on low-income families and individuals, including those who rely on social security benefits. The Labour Ministry is working closely with state governments and other stakeholders to ensure that no one is left behind in the proposed reforms.
https://www.livemint.com/politics/news/labour-vows-support-for-most-vulnerable-amid-welfare-cuts-debate-11742125162163.htmlHong Kong bartender Leo Ko, who was crowned world bartender of the year in 2023, has been sober for three years and attributes his newfound energy to giving up alcohol. According to Dr. Lee, a doctor who specializes in addiction treatment, reducing or quitting drinking can have significant benefits, including improved mental clarity, better sleep quality, and increased vitality.
https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3302207/how-champion-hong-kong-bartender-who-quit-alcohol-feels-now-and-benefits-giving?module=top_story&pgtype=sectionA recent survey by the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong found that only one-third of Hong Kong parents recognize calling their child "lazy, stupid or fat" as a form of child abuse. The survey, which polled over 2,500 parents aged under 18, highlights a critical gap in parental understanding ahead of new mandatory reporting laws taking effect on January 20 next year.
https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3302591/most-hong-kong-parents-unaware-always-calling-child-stupid-abuse-survey?module=top_story&pgtype=sectionThe global obesity epidemic is a growing health crisis that affects India as well. Nurturing healthy eating habits and making conscious lifestyle choices can help combat the rising health issue. Experts emphasize the importance of combining diet with regular exercise, stress reduction, and sufficient sleep to address obesity effectively.
https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/health-and-fitness/obesity-epidemic-how-nutritional-habits-can-combat-the-rising-health-crisis-9262637.htmlIndia has showcased its learnings in promoting labour welfare and social justice at the International Labour Organization (ILO). The country's approach to addressing these issues has been highlighted as a model for other nations. India's experience with the National Social Security Act, which provides financial assistance to workers who lose their jobs due to retrenchment, is being studied by the ILO. This act has helped millions of workers and their families, demonstrating the effectiveness of India's labour welfare policies.
https://www.livemint.com/news/india/india-showcases-its-learnings-in-promoting-labour-welfare-social-justice-at-ilo-11742113464391.htmlIndian corporate houses remain positive about hiring persons with disabilities, with several companies actively seeking talent from the disabled community. This shift in approach is driven by a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Companies such as IndusInd Bank and Suzlon Energy have already started to implement inclusive hiring practices, while others like Airtel and Reliance Industries are also exploring ways to increase accessibility and opportunities for people with disabilities.
https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/indian-corporate-houses-remain-positive-for-hiring-persons-with-disabilities-11742118294967.htmlIndonesia's Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry is promoting digital access for women through the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Deputy Minister Amurwani Dwi Lestariningsih emphasized the need to address the gender gap in digital access. The ministry has implemented the National Action Plan for Digital Economic Development and published the Digital Transformation Guidelines for Women in 2022. A partnership program with UN Women and Gojek trained 50 women entrepreneurs in Semarang, Central Java, to enhance their market access. The ministry is developing the Indonesian Common Space (RBI) as a community-based program to support women entrepreneurs, especially in rural areas, by providing discussion space, mentoring, training, and technology access.
https://en.antaranews.com/news/348673/indonesia-shares-best-practices-at-69th-csw?utm_source=antaranews&utm_medium=desktop&utm_campaign=popular_rightA new medical facility is set to be established in Ipoh, offering specialized medical services that will enhance the quality of healthcare in the city. The center will provide high-quality medical expertise, improving patient care and reducing the need for residents to seek treatment outside of Ipoh. This development aims to improve access to quality healthcare, benefiting the local community.
https://www.ipohecho.com.my/2025/03/16/sunway-medical-centre-ipoh-to-open-on-april-2/