Chris Infotainment

The US's Decision to Exclude South Africa from LEN Funding By excluding South Africa from its overseas funding for the roll-out of the revolutionary six-monthly HIV prevention jab, known as lenacapavir (LEN), the Trump administration undermines its own stated mission of helping other African countries, according to a US HIV activist. This decision has sparked significant criticism and concern within the global health community. In September, the US government announced that it would join the Global Fund to Fight Aids, TB and Malaria, to buy LEN for African countries with high HIV infection rates. The Trump administration described its support as a "market-shaping initiative" aimed at increasing LEN production and uptake, thereby bringing down the price of the jab as quickly as possible. However, the US government left South Africa off the list of 10 states it will fund, despite the country having the largest market for LEN due to its high number of new HIV infections. ...

A New Champion in Airport Excellence Muscat International Airport, which had previously held the prestigious title of "World's Leading Airport for Customer Experience" for three consecutive years, has now lost this honor to Hong Kong International Airport at this year's World Travel Awards. This shift marks a significant moment in the global aviation landscape, as airports continue to compete for recognition in delivering exceptional passenger experiences. Located in Seeb, approximately 32 kilometers from Oman's historic city and capital, Muscat, the airport covers an area of more than 2,000 hectares. It serves as a vital hub for both regional and intercontinental travel, offering flights to various destinations across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The airport's strategic location within the Muscat metropolitan area makes it a key gateway for travelers visiting the Sultanate of Oman. In contrast, Hong Kong International Airport spans 1,900 hectares and has bee...

Yamaha has introduced an A2-compliant version of the T7 World Raid in Europe, a move that has sparked excitement among adventure bike enthusiasts. While many riders elsewhere can only dream of owning this rugged ADV machine, European riders now have the opportunity to experience it legally. Adventure bikes often come with an unspoken rule: you must start on smaller, less impressive machines before being allowed to ride the more powerful ones. This is especially true in Europe, where the tiered licensing system ensures that riders progress through different levels of skill and experience. In contrast, the US allows a 17-year-old with a fresh motorcycle license to legally ride a supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2, highlighting the stark differences in licensing regulations across regions. This disparity is one reason why Yamaha’s decision to make the Ténéré 700 World Raid A2 compliant is so significant. By doing so, they’ve essentially handed one of their most hardcore middleweight ADV bi...

Record Number of International Visitors in Vietnam Vietnam has recorded a historic number of international visitors in the first 11 months of this year, with nearly 19.2 million tourists arriving, marking a 21% increase compared to the same period last year. This figure represents the highest number ever recorded for Vietnam, showcasing the country's growing appeal as a global tourist destination. In 2019, before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam welcomed 18 million foreign visitors, which was the highest number at that time. The following year, 2020, saw a decline due to the pandemic, with approximately 17.6 million visitors. However, the recovery has been swift and robust, with the current numbers indicating a strong rebound in the tourism sector. Key Markets Driving Growth Mainland China continues to be the largest source of international tourists to Vietnam, with 4.8 million arrivals between January and November. South Korea follows closely behind with 3.9 millio...

Bun bo Nam Bo (Southern-style beef noodle) has been ranked 81st, while pho bo (beef noodle soup) came in at 83rd in the list of 100 Best Dishes in the world for 2026, as published by an international food magazine. This recognition highlights the global appeal of Vietnamese cuisine and its deep roots in local traditions. The southern Vietnamese beef noodle dish is a traditional favorite that features a combination of beef, rice vermicelli, garlic, and fresh herbs and vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, and bean sprouts. It has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5, reflecting its popularity among food lovers around the world. Bun bo Nam Bo (Southern-style beef noodle). Photo by TasteAtlas The dish is typically served in bowls where the noodles, vegetables, and herbs are arranged neatly. The beef is stir-fried and placed on top before being garnished with peanuts and shallots, adding both texture and flavor to the meal. Pho bo, the beef-based variant of pho, also made it i...

Forest Viet participated in the Vietnam Tourism Promotion Program, which was organized by the Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) in Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hangzhou, China, during late November. This event was part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting Vietnamese tourism in the Chinese market. It coincided with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and China, as well as the Vietnam-China Cultural Exchange Year 2025. Forest Viet's representative (the third person from the right) at Vietnam Tourism Promotion Program in Shanghai, China. Photo courtesy of Forest Viet The program brought together representatives from airlines, travel companies, event organizers, and tourism partners from both countries. The primary goal was to strengthen connections and expand cooperation, especially as the number of Chinese tourists visiting Vietnam continues to grow steadily. According to VNAT, in the first 10 months of 2025, Vietnam welc...

Phu Quoc, a stunning island that has been recognized as the most beautiful in Asia by readers of the American magazine Condé Nast Traveler, has seen a remarkable increase in international tourism. In the first 11 months of this year, the island welcomed nearly 1.6 million international tourists, marking an 80.9% rise compared to the same period last year. This surge in visitors has significantly boosted tourism revenues, which reached VND39 trillion during the same timeframe, an impressive 99.5% increase from the previous year. According to reports from An Giang Province's Department of Tourism, the growth in tourism can be attributed to the return of international travelers, particularly those arriving via charter flights from Russia. Phu Quoc has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world, with visitors coming from 150 countries and territories. These include Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), South Asia, and traditional markets such as K...

Global Efforts to Curb Screen Time and Protect Adolescents The issue of screen time among adolescents has become a growing concern for parents, educators, and governments worldwide. As technology becomes more integrated into daily life, many countries are taking steps to limit the impact of digital devices on young people. Lynn Lee, a stay-at-home mother of three from Singapore, has experienced firsthand the challenges of managing her daughter’s screen time. Her 15-year-old spends up to eight to 10 hours a day watching dramas or playing games on her phone, despite parental controls that shut off internet access at 10:30 p.m. Lee describes this behavior as an addiction, which has led to changes in her daughter’s mood and even affected her eyesight. “It’s not because they’re not well-behaved, but it’s really addictive and they do it unknowingly,” Lee said. “As parents, we have to help them.” Lee is not alone in her concerns. Many parents have welcomed recent government measures aimed...

Raul Rocha, the president of the Miss Universe Organization, has faced significant backlash following his remarks about Olivia Yace of Ivory Coast not winning the Miss Universe 2025 title. Rocha suggested that Yace’s inability to travel visa-free to many countries was a key factor in her not securing the crown. Olivia Yace, who represented Ivory Coast at the Miss Universe 2025 contest. Photo from Yace's Instagram According to reports, during a livestream after the Nov. 21 finale in Bangkok, Rocha was questioned about why Yace, who was considered one of the top contenders, did not win. Speaking in Spanish, the Mexican executive stated, "Look at how many countries Ivory Coast needs a visa to enter: 175! What? Yes, 175!" He emphasized that a Miss Universe winner must travel extensively, implying that Yace’s visa restrictions would hinder her ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the title. Yace finished as the fourth runner-up at the 74th Miss Universe competition ...

Rwanda Joins Global Effort to Expand Nuclear Energy At the 30th UN Climate Conference (COP30) in Brazil, Rwanda made a significant move by signing the International Declaration to Triple Global Nuclear Energy Capacity by 2050. This declaration is seen as a critical step for the country, as it aims to secure financial support and access to advanced nuclear technologies. The Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB) believes that this commitment will position Rwanda as a key player in the global transition towards clean energy. The declaration recognizes nuclear energy as a vital component in achieving global net-zero emissions. It seeks to reduce further pollution and promote sustainable development. With the addition of new signatories such as the United States, France, South Korea, Rwanda, and Senegal, the number of supporting countries has reached 33. Strategic Advantages for Rwanda Prof. Fidèle Ndahayo, CEO of RAEB, highlighted the strategic and practical benefits of joining the declara...

A New Concept in Personal Hygiene A Japanese company has introduced a revolutionary device called the 'Mirai Human Washing Machine,' which has captured public attention for its ability to shower and dry a person in about 15 minutes simply by lying down. This unique machine, developed by Science, an equipment manufacturer based in Osaka, is now being considered for sale at an electronics specialty store in Tokyo. The machine was showcased at the Osaka-Kansai Expo and has generated significant interest. According to reports from Japan's Kyodo News, Yamada Holdings announced plans to sell the 'Mirai Human Washing Machine' at the 'LABI Ikebukuro Main Store' in Toshima Ward, Tokyo. The machine will be on display starting December 25th, with trial experiences available for interested visitors. Features and Technology Behind the Machine The 'Mirai Human Washing Machine' is designed to automatically cleanse and dry the entire body in just 15 minutes. It...

A Call for Ethical Innovation in the Digital Age First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has emphasized the importance of aligning technological progress with human values as the world continues to embrace the digital age. Her message, delivered during the “Education Above All” plenary at the 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) in Doha, Qatar, highlights the need for global leaders, educators, and innovators to ensure that technology serves humanity rather than replaces it. Tinubu warned that innovation without ethical considerations could hinder progress instead of driving it forward. She stressed that the core of any technological advancement should be the preservation of human dignity, connection, and purpose. In her address, she urged the global community to take deliberate steps to maintain these values as digital tools evolve rapidly. “Technology must lead; we should not remove human values from technology,” she said. Her statement was made through a statement by her Senior Sp...

During graduate school, low wages often made survival a key concern. Many colleagues from modest backgrounds faced similar challenges. The belief that "becoming a professor would bring stability and prestige" began to fade as more individuals opted for corporate jobs. At a recent reunion, a friend who completed postdoctoral studies abroad and was appointed as an assistant professor at a prestigious private university shared a starting salary of 70 million Korean won. The reaction was one of shock. Even more surprising was the revelation that Seoul National University assistant professors had seen their starting salaries remain stagnant in the 60 million range for over a decade. Top talent does not stay where compensation is cut. As highlighted by KBS’s “War on Talent,” elite professionals are increasingly moving toward medical schools. Current researchers admit, “I’m considering discouraging my child from pursuing engineering.” They understand better than anyone that dedica...

A Vibrant Culinary Destination Vinh Khanh Street in Ho Chi Minh City has gained international recognition as one of the world's 31 coolest streets, according to a British magazine. This bustling street is known for its numerous seafood grills that line both sides, offering an array of fresh and flavorful dishes. Located approximately 2.5 kilometers from Ben Thanh Market, the street is filled with hundreds of sidewalk restaurants serving various types of seafood, including oysters, lobsters, sushi, and snails. The atmosphere on Vinh Khanh Street is lively and engaging. As described by the publication, the street is designed to keep visitors entertained throughout the evening. Street vendors offer dried squid as a pre-dinner snack and ice cream for dessert, while buskers perform in the middle of the road, creating a unique blend of entertainment and local culture. Motorbikes weave through the crowd, adding to the dynamic energy of the area. Must-Try Restaurants One of the most f...

Ricky Gervais' Proposed Thames Home Faces Flooding Risks Ricky Gervais, the British comedian and actor, is facing significant challenges in his plans to build a new home on the banks of the River Thames. The Environment Agency has issued a warning that the proposed property could be at risk of flooding, which might lead to 'loss of life.' This concern has prompted the need for a special flood permit and additional precautions. The comedian's original planning application was rejected in February, leading him to submit a revised proposal in September. One of the main issues raised by the Environment Agency is the potential for flooding, a problem that even Gervais’ own experts have acknowledged. The agency has stated that the depth of a potential flood could reach nearly one and a half metres—just slightly less than Gervais’ height of 1m 73cm. Without proper evacuation procedures, the government agency warns that this could be dangerously fatal for the public and emer...

Escalating Impact of Flooding and Landslides in Central Vietnam The ongoing flooding and landslides in central Vietnam have resulted in a tragic death toll of 55 people, with 13 others still unaccounted for, according to recent updates from authorities. The situation remains critical as relief efforts continue around the clock. Regional Toll and Ongoing Risks Dak Lak province has been the hardest hit, with 27 reported deaths, followed closely by Khanh Hoa, which recorded 14 fatalities. Gia Lai and Lam Dong each saw five deaths, while two more were reported in Hue and Da Nang. The number of missing individuals stands at 13, primarily in Dak Lak and Khanh Hoa. The casualty count has risen by 10 since the previous day, even as river levels on major waterways begin to recede. However, the threat is far from over, as experts warn that the risk of flash floods and landslides remains high due to expected continued rainfall. Water Levels and Warnings The Department of Dyke Management an...

Escalating Tensions Between China and Japan Over Taiwan Contingency Amid rising tensions between China and Japan over their respective positions on a potential contingency in Taiwan, there have been significant developments in the relationship between the two nations. Reports indicate that China has formally notified Japan of a suspension of seafood imports from Japan, marking another escalation in the ongoing diplomatic dispute. According to the information, the Chinese government conveyed this decision through official diplomatic channels early in the morning. This move comes as part of a broader pattern of pressure exerted by China against Japan, which includes advising against travel and study in Japan, as well as delaying the screening of Japanese films. These actions have drawn comparisons to past restrictions on Japanese cultural content. Japan’s Stance on a Potential Taiwan Crisis Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has made it clear that Japan would view any crisis inv...

South Korea's Flag Illuminates the Burj Khalifa During State Visit The flag of South Korea was prominently displayed on the exterior wall of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, located in Dubai, UAE. This gesture marked a significant moment during President Lee Jae-myung’s state visit to the UAE. The UAE side illuminated the Burj Khalifa’s exterior with the South Korean flag on the night of the 18th, local time, as a symbol of goodwill and diplomatic relations. Standing at an impressive height of 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa is not only the world’s highest structure but also a testament to architectural innovation. The building was primarily constructed by Samsung C&T, highlighting the strong ties between South Korea and the UAE. Extensive Display of South Korean Flags Across Major Roads In line with the president’s state visit from the 17th to the 19th, the UAE side made a grand display of the South Korean flag along major roads from the airport in Abu Dhabi, t...

Escalating Tensions Between China and Japan Japan has been recognized as the "world's most favorite country" by readers of Condé Nast Traveler this year. However, amid a growing diplomatic dispute with China, the Japanese government has advised its citizens in China to enhance their safety measures and avoid crowded areas. This warning comes in response to the escalating tensions between the two Asian economic giants, particularly following comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan. The situation has led Beijing to urge Chinese citizens to avoid traveling to Japan, which has had a noticeable impact on Tokyo's stock market. The Japanese embassy in China issued a statement on Monday, urging its citizens to be vigilant and avoid places where large crowds gather or are commonly associated with Japanese people. China has emphasized its commitment to protecting the safety of foreigners within its borders but has also reiterated its strong ...

Nicki Minaj Speaks Out on Genocide Allegations in Nigeria American rapper Onika Maraj-Petty, known to the world as Nicki Minaj, recently addressed a United Nations event in New York. During this high-profile gathering, she spoke about reports of alleged genocide attacks targeting Christians in Nigeria. Her participation was part of a broader conversation on global religious freedom and human rights. Minaj’s appearance at the event followed an earlier announcement that she would be speaking alongside the United States ambassador to the UN, Michael Waltz. The address, which was aired on the official YouTube channel of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, highlighted her concerns over the ongoing violence against religious communities. In her speech, Minaj condemned the repeated assaults on religious groups, emphasizing that the situation had reached alarming levels. She stated: “Back in way too many places… in Nigeria, Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes and ki...