Southeast Asia | Axios Times

Wildfire Haze From Indonesia Blankets Southeast Asia as Malaysia Closes Schools

Malaysia closed schools in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and several states after haze from Indonesian forest fires pushed air quality to harmful levels, affecting about two million students. Singapore also saw "very unhealthy" air quality, but said the Formula One race would proceed. The haze stems from Indonesia's worst fire season in over a decade, with at least 200,000 hectares burned and more than 170,000 respiratory infections reported.

Oct 9, 2026

Sports

Japan Sumo Association Promises Thrills for Thai Fans on 2027 Tour

Japan Sumo Association Chairman Hakkaku said Friday the sport will bring excitement to Thai fans when it holds an exhibition tour in Thailand in June 2027 — the first such tour in the country. Hakkaku said he hopes the performances will help promote sumo across Southeast Asia.

Oct 9, 2026

World

Job Lures: Human Trafficking Networks Target Skilled Young Workers

Human trafficking networks use fake job advertisements to lure skilled young workers into online scam centers. An estimated 300,000 people have been trapped in Southeast Asia, and the threat is spreading to Africa. Experts call for coordinated government response and better protection for victims.

Aug 30, 2026

Technology

Malaysia Boosts AI Data Center Push to Become Southeast Asian Hub

Malaysia is intensifying its drive to attract both domestic and foreign investment in data centers, leveraging surging global demand driven by the rise of artificial intelligence. With favorable geography, improved telecom infrastructure, and supportive policies, the country aims to emerge as a key Southeast Asian hub and rival regional leaders like Singapore.

Aug 26, 2026

World

Warning: Online scam centers fuel global human trafficking, IOM says

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) warns that human trafficking through online scam centers has become one of the fastest-growing forms of trafficking worldwide, with victims from over 80 countries lured into criminal operations. IOM Director General Amy Pope said these centers employ up to 300,000 workers across Southeast Asia and increasingly target educated people via fake job ads. Survivors often face abuse, debt and re-victimization, while global scam losses reached up to $114 billion last year.

Jul 28, 2026