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WTF is Up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong

WTF is Up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong

By Coconuts

‘WTF is Up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong’ is a podcast by Coconuts Media that delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.
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Singapore decriminalizes gay sex + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | December 1, 2022

WTF is Up in Southeast Asia + Hong KongNov 30, 2022

00:00
34:03
Bizarre groping at Bangkok EDM fest + other top stories | WTF SEA + HK | December 15, 2022

Bizarre groping at Bangkok EDM fest + other top stories | WTF SEA + HK | December 15, 2022

Dec 14, 202232:52
Indonesia’s new penal code: more than unsexy time + other top stories | WTF SEA + HK | December 8, 2022
Dec 07, 202229:46
Singapore decriminalizes gay sex + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | December 1, 2022

Singapore decriminalizes gay sex + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | December 1, 2022

The LGBTQ+ community in Singapore is celebrating a hollow victory after a bill was passed repealing a law that criminalized sex between two men, while another was passed to ensure that the definition of marriage as between a man and a woman is protected. Coconuts Singapore’s Delfina Utomo gives us the lowdown on the reaction in the Little Red Dot, and how even the smallest steps for LGBTQ+ rights should be celebrated in the largely conservative country. Tune in!

Other stories include:

New Malaysia PM Anwar Ibrahim refuses to use his office’s official Mercedes S600 | Gov’t eyes flying cars for Indonesia’s future capital city Nusantara | Riding BTS will be more expensive starting Jan. 1 | They’re building a shortcut in Canggu (but not the one you’re probably thinking of) | INTERVIEW: ‘I was told that I would never see my family again’ | Dear ‘Underage’ producers, it’s 2022. Can we please stop sexualizing minors?

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Nov 30, 202234:03
Um, No: Convoluted Malaysian election explained + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 24, 2022

Um, No: Convoluted Malaysian election explained + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 24, 2022

Nov 23, 202234:34
Hainanese chicken rice… sandwich? + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 17, 2022

Hainanese chicken rice… sandwich? + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 17, 2022

We’re not necessarily against culinary reinventions of our beloved national dishes, but when an LA-based sandwich shop put Singapore’s beloved Hainanese chicken rice between two pieces of bread, we had our doubts. But this week’s guest to WTF, Regional Managing Editor Delfina Utomo, argues that there’s some sense in the reinvention, as long as one is open minded enough to try. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Watch: Elon Musk’s bizarre, virtual interview by candlelight at the B20 Summit in Bali | Embarrassingly error-filled APEC welcome sign fixed | Batik Air sorry for misplacing the president’s son’s luggage | 1MDB: Malaysia court rejects government request to forfeit designer handbags and jewellery seized from Najib and Rosmah | ‘First world prices with third world wages’: Filipinos compare grocery prices between Singapore and Manila

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Nov 16, 202230:30
Thai trafficking victims face prosecution at home + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 10, 2022

Thai trafficking victims face prosecution at home + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 10, 2022

Thousands of Thais have fallen victim to traffickers who forced them to commit cyber crimes against their compatriots under threat of violence. While such scams have been widely documented, few have followed up on victims after they were rescued and repatriated. Coconuts Bangkok’s Milk talks to us about her three-part story on how Thai trafficking victims’ nightmare continues with prosecution back home. Tune in!

Other stories include:

More than 550 doctors fired by Myanmar junta for refusing to work in protest | Babysitter braves Kampung Baru blaze with baby in arms | ‘Kebaya Merah’ and the hardcore risks adult content creators in Indonesia are willing to take | CNB chimes in on Aaron Carter’s death, uses his drug abuse to give anti-drug PSA | Immigration pursuing unruly foreigners after MotoGP wannabe does street burnout in Bali | Inmates now using drones to sneak in contraband, jail bureau claims

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Nov 09, 202228:06
Religious police nab Halloween revelers in KL + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 3, 2022

Religious police nab Halloween revelers in KL + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | November 3, 2022

Twenty people were arrested for allegedly inciting vice and cross-dressing in Kuala Lumpur during a Halloween party, of all things. This may come as a shock to those who see KL as a relatively progressive city, but Coconuts KL’s Aminah Farid explains that religion has long been used to justify persecution towards the LGBTQ+ community. Ominously, things may continue to get worse as elections loom in Malaysia. Tune in!

Other stories include:

One Thai killed in Seoul Halloween stampede: embassy | Richard Branson declines offer to live TV debate on the death penalty, urges Singapore to challenge local activists instead | 1.8 tons of liquid meth disguised as coconut water intercepted by HK Customs in city’s biggest meth bust ever | Travelers to Australia, declare your rendang or face huge fine and deportation | Authorities defend removal of ads – including for ‘babi guling’ – ahead of G20 Summit | Family remembers late patriarch by painting his tomb like Jollibee

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Nov 02, 202225:44
Kinky gallery opens in Bangkok + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 27, 2022

Kinky gallery opens in Bangkok + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 27, 2022

A storefront with the sign “SEX SHOP” in neon pink normally leaves little to the imagination, but in Bangkok, it’s a provocative gallery dedicated to artworks that destigmatize sex and kinks while promoting overall sexual health. Coconuts Bangkok’s Nicky Tanskul gives us the lowdown on just what to expect in this sex-filled quarters in Phloen Chit, and the kind of pieces open-minded purveyors can acquire. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Military jets bomb concert in northern Myanmar, killing at least 50 | Human Rights Watch calls on Malaysia to halt deportations of Myanmar refugees due to risk of arrest back home | Mask off! Marcos Jr to sign executive order making indoor mask-wearing ‘voluntary’ | Indonesia officially launches second-home visa, allowing holders 10-year stay (including in Bali) | Singapore challenges billionaire Richard Branson to live TV debate on the death penalty | How yoga pants became an object of controversy and defiance in Hong Kong | With a heavy dose of kink, Bangkok clinic-cum-gallery prescribes better sexual health | Can we, once and for all, stop referring to the Indonesian language as ‘bahasa’?

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Oct 26, 202236:15
Triggering footage at Bali bombings memorial + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 20, 2022

Triggering footage at Bali bombings memorial + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 20, 2022

The 2002 Bali bombings were one of the deadliest terror attacks the region has ever seen, claiming the lives of 202 people. Twenty years on, the pain from the tragedy persists, and things got downright triggering when graphic footage from the attacks was shown to survivors and mourners who attended a memorial service in Kuta. We speak to Coconuts Bali Managing Editor Amahl to understand how that could have happened, and whether or not people were held responsible. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Journalists go into hiding after threats by Myanmar’s military junta | Primary school teacher threatened with dismissal letter for voicing out against school syllabus | Hong Kong civil servant arrested for releasing revenge porn of girlfriend who allegedly strayed | Dog saliva or alcohol? What really triggered the Turkish Airlines passenger on that diverted flight? | Redditors sharing Pinoys’ weirdest flexes expose toxic cracks in Filipino culture | High honors: Bangkok dispensary to hold ‘Cannabis Cup’ | Get Rex’d: Singapore set to welcome a giant T-Rex – but only for 3 days

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Oct 19, 202239:55
Inappropriate laughter gets Bangkok officer sacked + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 12, 2022

Inappropriate laughter gets Bangkok officer sacked + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 12, 2022

Oct 12, 202228:40
Tragedy at Kanjuruhan Stadium + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 6, 2022

Tragedy at Kanjuruhan Stadium + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | October 6, 2022

It has been an especially somber week in the region, with the tone set by the terrifying incident at Kanjuruhan Stadium in Indonesia, where at least 131 soccer fans died in a stampede. Regional Managing Editor and WTF host Andra Nasrie takes us through what we know so far about the devastating tragedy while offering theories as to who to blame (spoiler: it’s not the spectators). Tune in!

Other stories include:

Netizens call for justice over slain broadcaster as #JusticeForPercyLapid trends | Junta sentences Australian economist Sean Turnell to 3 years in prison | ‘Jealous’ Bangkok man cuts up woman, to internet’s grim fascination | Lost at sea: Indonesian fisherman found clinging to plastic barrel | Primary school allegedly conducts ‘mock prison’ experience to teach students importance of abiding the law | Sneak Beak: The new Bird Paradise will open in the second quarter of 2023 | Indonesian coaches rising up in Bali’s foreigner-dominated fitness scene

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Oct 05, 202229:37
SEA cuss words make for a fucking banger + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 29, 2022

SEA cuss words make for a fucking banger + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 29, 2022

While Dota 2 is a game beloved by all ages, you should probably keep the young’uns away from the Southeast Asia server – a cesspool of cuss words from across the region. It got so bad that Japanese gamer and Twitch streamer Xiinya collected all of these into a banging tune. Coconuts Regional Managing Editor Delfina Utomo hops onboard to talk to us exactly which countries were represented with their colorful language, and why this has sparked a bizarre sense of patriotism among the region’s players. Tune in!

Other stories include:

5 rescuers in Bulacan killed during typhoon ‘Karding’ flash flood | Oh Noru! Typhoon about to hit storm-battered Bangkok | Government mascot apologizes for insensitive post about near-escape of transgender woman from police | Sweet tax: Indonesia mulls excise on sugary drinks | Japanese gamer turns Singapore cuss words into a song, now on Spotify | Angry dad in your area: Man allegedly burns daughter’s precious K-pop merchandise, gets trashed by Internet | New Canggu eatery Inklusiv Warung, with its Deaf wait staff, is about more than just great food

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Sep 28, 202235:51
RIP interfaith pleasantries + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 22, 2022

RIP interfaith pleasantries + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 22, 2022

Muslims saying “rest in peace, Queen Elizabeth” is apparently a big no-no, according to a Malaysian Islamic jurist who this week warned against asking God for “forgiveness” for deceased non-Muslims. Coconuts KL reporter Aminah Farid came on this week’s episode to explain that while not every Muslim in the country is that narrow-minded about their faith, attempts to otherize non-Muslims remain alarmingly common. Tune in!

Other stories include:

#NeverForget, #NeverAgain trend on Twitter as Filipinos mark 50th anniversary of martial law | No Thai royals at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral | Indonesian TikTok user does blackface to mock ‘The Little Mermaid’ remake | 2 women get locked in scissor leg-style takedown in Hong Kong amid claims of infidelity | Can you not? Foreign woman sitting on car window draws ire from Bali netizens | Singapore ‘boomer’ boss flamed for dismissing intern who requested for virtual interview

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Sep 21, 202242:23
That old kidney for iPhone joke again + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 15, 2022

That old kidney for iPhone joke again + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 15, 2022

That old kidney for iPhone joke again + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 15, 2022

For pioneers in the legalization of weed in Asia, Thailand sure can’t take a joke. Just take a look at the Thai Red Cross, who had to warn citizens the obvious: don’t sell your kidney in exchange for the latest iPhone 14, after a photo of individuals (who aren’t even Thai) showing off their fake post-surgery bandages went viral. We checked in with Coconuts Bangkok’s Nicky Tanskul and asked him if he would ever consider bartering his organ for the latest premium device. Tune in!

Other stories include:

‘Increasing evidence of crimes against humanity and war crimes’ in Myanmar: UN investigator | Arrivals from mainland China exempted from vax requirements due to their low Covid-19 risk: Hong Kong’s leader | 2 sergeants latest to be dishonorably discharged, jailed by military for gay sex | Keep off the grass: Malaysians warned not to do drugs abroad or face repercussions at home | Police investigate viral car sex video featuring couple in traditional Balinese clothes | Puppy patiently waits in line for free porridge | TikTok girl thirsts over Singapore army boys, manifests through reiki – it worked

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Sep 14, 202231:29
Joseph Schooling’s cannabis non-scandal + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 8, 2022

Joseph Schooling’s cannabis non-scandal + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 8, 2022

How dare Joseph Schooling smoke pot… was the reaction we thought Singaporeans would make when their Olympic hero admitted to cannabis use during a moment of weakness. Instead, the nation has been supportive of the athlete. Coconuts Regional Managing Editor Delfina Utomo makes her maiden WTF SEA + HK splash as we dive deep into the controversy. We also discuss a Singaporean law forbidding citizens from drug use abroad. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Najib Razak admitted to hospital after less than two weeks in prison | ‘Feels like home’: PH President Bongbong Marcos in Jakarta for maiden overseas trip | 31 Hong Kong men fall victim to mainland China naked-chat blackmailing, with one losing as much as HK$220,000 | Buckle up in the back, Bangkok. It’s now the law. | 3 dolphins – 1 wearing dental crowns – released into the ocean by Bali sanctuary | Couple with 42-year age gap gain fans, brush off haters on TikTok

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Sep 07, 202242:24
Peruvian trans man dies in Bali police custody + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 1, 2022

Peruvian trans man dies in Bali police custody + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | September 1, 2022

Rodrigo Ventosilla touched down in Bali in early August for a honeymoon with his new husband Sebastian Marallano. The Peruvian couple’s trip immediately turned into a nightmare when police arrested Rodrigo after finding cannabis-derived products in his luggage. Rodrigo soon died in police custody, prompting his family to accuse Bali authorities of arbitrarily detaining him on the grounds of transphobia and racial discrimination.

Coconuts Bali’s Amahl Azwar has been relentlessly pursuing this story for weeks in order to get to the truth. We caught up with him in this week’s podcast to get an update and his insights into this major case. Tune in!

Other stories include:

DepEd launches probe into sexual harassment allegations against 6 high school teachers in Cavite | 16-year-old dies in toilet fire after prank goes horribly wrong | West Java vice governor promotes polygamy, early marriage as solutions to stop HIV spread | Hong Kong property agent’s towel-clad apartment ad causes controversy | This cranky and sarcastic Singaporean just wants you to flush the toilet | ‘Cookies’ delays Bangkok store, drops plan to import weed

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Aug 31, 202237:02
Najib: 12 years a prisoner + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 25, 2022

Najib: 12 years a prisoner + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 25, 2022

After years of delaying serving his corruption sentence with appeals, former Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak is finally going to prison after some major courtroom drama. Coconuts KL reporter Aminah Farid, who was on location during the verdict, takes us on a play-by-play of the historic event, while trying to grasp how Najib’s supporters still anguished despite the former leader stealing billions from the country. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Singapore’s gay sex law to be repealed: PM Lee, LGBT groups ‘relieved’ | 3 more Hongkongers reported as victims of Southeast Asian human trafficking job scams: city’s No. 2 security official | Burning issue: Weed to remain legal, easily available under Thailand’s Cannabis Act | People are pissed over LTO’s request that students not ‘go to school too early’ | Own an iPhone? Make some extra bucks selling screenshots to clout-chasing Indonesians | Sex and the Monkeys: Scientists discover that, just like some of us hoomans, Ubud’s macaques also use ‘sex toys’

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Aug 24, 202237:29
Old men and an anti-LGBT manifesto + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 18, 2022

Old men and an anti-LGBT manifesto + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 18, 2022

In Singapore, middle-aged men airing their anti-LGBT sentiments is nothing new — but when they come up with an 82-page manifesto, it’s bound to garner some attention. Coconuts Singapore’s Carolyn Teo comes onboard to shed light on the opposition behind the repeal of the controversial Section 377A in the city-state’s penal code, and the nasty and tired clichés this group has leaned on.

Also, Coconuts KL’s Aminah Farid is in the co-host seat as Andra pillow fights his way through Indonesian Independence Day. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Singapore’s anti-LGBT summit organizers pack manifesto with culture war cliches | Najib begins final appeal to overturn 1MDB-linked conviction | Kuta hotel room, thought to be online gambling HQ, deserted ahead of police raid | Bacteria levels of 6 masks sold in Hong Kong exceed EU standards: Consumer Council | Woman lawyers up after she was caught stealing chocolate bars from convenience store | Thai teens get stupid on date rape drug for TikTok laughs (Videos) | Jollibee Chickenjoy named the best fast-food fried chicken in the US

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Aug 17, 202235:17
Cattle shit everywhere in Bali? + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 11, 2022

Cattle shit everywhere in Bali? + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 11, 2022

We here try not to take the words of someone who is basically Australia’s Donald Trump seriously. But when far-right politician Pauline Hanson called for a border closure to Bali (which she referred to as a country, by the way) amid foot-and-mouth disease concerns because apparently there’s cattle shit everywhere, this was too hard to ignore. Coconuts Bali Managing Editor Amahl Azwar came on this week’s episode to debunk Hanson’s claims, while telling us what the cattle poop situation really is like in Bali. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Police general Ferdy Sambo faces death penalty for ordering bodyguard’s murder | Hong Kong to cut Covid-19 quarantine for arrivals to 3 days starting Aug 12 | Women, fight! Historic bouts KO ban at Thailand’s oldest Muay Thai stadium (Photos) | Over his head? Senator Robin Padilla roasted over suggestion that cable cars can solve Metro Manila’s traffic woes | Geylang Fury Road: Boiling woman nearly run over by frenzied fellow (Video) | Over one-third of Malaysian youths believe using two condoms is safer than one: survey

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Aug 10, 202236:31
An eggs-istential crisis in Malaysia + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | August 4, 2022
Aug 03, 202240:45
Singapore executes drug convict + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | July 28, 2022

Singapore executes drug convict + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | July 28, 2022

Nazeri Bin Lajim, who was convicted of trafficking heroin more than a decade ago, was hanged last Friday as Singapore continues to enforce its strict death penalty regime. This week, we caught up with Coconuts Singapore’s Carolyn Teo, who sat down with Nazeri’s sister prior to his execution for a deeply heart wrenching feature story.

Coconuts Bangkok’s Pasavat “Nicky” Tanskul is in the co-host chair in Sam’s stead this week, and he gave the lowdown on fresh confusion surrounding Thailand’s budding legal cannabis scene after a new government order instructed police to arrest anyone selling weed without “permission.” Tune in!


Other stories include:

Citayam Fashion Week: Social Agency ‘ready’ to round up trans women, crossdressing men | Ravichandran becomes first Malaysian to conquer K2 mountain, despite disability | Going at the red light: Foreigner on motorbike filmed urinating at Sanur intersection | The Metropolitan Museum of Manila is closed for now — but will reopen with new art spaces in BGC | Hong Kong restaurant’s ingenious takeaway BBQ bento with built-in grill garners raves from Japan

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

WTF is up in Southeast Asia + Hong Kong is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Jul 27, 202236:04
We seat you not: Chairs stolen from BKK stadium + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | July 21, 2022
Jul 20, 202231:10
A cowgirl romp gone wrong + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | July 14, 2022

A cowgirl romp gone wrong + more top stories | WTF SEA + HK | July 14, 2022

Jul 13, 202235:38
Changes are afoot! | July 7, 2022

Changes are afoot! | July 7, 2022

Yep, this week’s podcast episode did indeed land on a Thursday instead of the usual Friday. That’s just one of the changes we have made to The Coconuts Podcast, the other notable transformation being reformatting the episodes to make them shorter and more digestible for all our listeners.

That said, even more changes are afoot as we strive to make this podcast your go-to source of information on all things Southeast Asia and Hong Kong. We would appreciate your feedback on our new direction, so please leave your reviews on whichever platform you’re playing this from, or drop us a line at info@coconuts.co.

For now, tune in!

Other stories include:

​​Brazilian student apprehended at Bali airport for bringing marijuana from Thailand | BTS warns Bangkok commuters to stop booty-clenching the pole | 13yo arrested for breaking into McDonald’s dessert kiosk to shoplift HK$10 worth of ice cream | Booster shots to be required for travel, mall entry amid rising COVID-19 cases | Senator Imee Marcos defends mother Imelda’s 93rd birthday party in Malacañang, calling it a ‘simple get-together’ | Masked woman goes Michael Myers on streaming Singapore couple (Video)

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in – or curious about – Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!

Jul 06, 202229:48
Legalization Express: The dos and don’ts of marijuana in Thailand, with Coconuts Bangkok’s Milk | July 1, 2022

Legalization Express: The dos and don’ts of marijuana in Thailand, with Coconuts Bangkok’s Milk | July 1, 2022

Jun 30, 202259:30
Let's talk chocolate and sustainability with Nat Geo's Louise Mabulo | June 24, 2022

Let's talk chocolate and sustainability with Nat Geo's Louise Mabulo | June 24, 2022

Sam's nasty sexual musings about chocolate notwithstanding, this week's podcast delivers some very important messages regarding food sustainability and the environment. Most, if not all, of the credit goes to our guest National Geographic Young Explorer and The Cacao Project founder Louise Mabulo, who is promoting her upcoming episode in the excellent podcast series Expedition: Earth. Tune in!

Also, do visit this link to tune into Louise's Expedition: Earth episode titled Expedition: Hope that premieres on Friday, July 8 at 5pm SGT / 4pm BKT/JKT.

Other stories include:

Singapore reports first monkeypox infection, 13 quarantined | Large fire devastating homes just off Bangkok's Rama IV Road | AQI: It's getting harder and harder to breathe in Jakarta | Carcass of baby Chinese white dolphin stranded in Discovery Bay, 14th such case this year | Good Doggo: Tabanan gas canister theft attempt thwarted by barking dog | After going viral, Tropical Hut is selling out across Manila - and is now hiring new staff to keep up with the demand

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Jun 23, 202246:07
FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Myrne takes us for a spin in 'Circles' | June 17, 2022

FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Myrne takes us for a spin in 'Circles' | June 17, 2022

On this week's Fresh Tunes Friday, the spotlight is on Singaporean DJ and producer Myrne who joins us on The Coconuts Podcast to talk about his latest EP, Circles. He talks to us about producing music in lockdown, his experience playing in Tomorrowland, and why the '10s is the coolest music era. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Disney's 'Lightyear' smacked with NC16 rating: IMDA | Full marriage equality bill gets surprise nod from Thai Parliament | Quietly Proud: LGBTQIA+ Indonesians in Bali celebrate Pride Month solemnly amid rising backlash | Hong Kong woman scorches forehead while drinking Flaming Lamborghini | Alleged pedophile dies following assault and being forced to masturbate using hot balm in jail | Creepy intruder lurking by condo window turns out to be standee of BTS' Jin


The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Jun 16, 202254:44
How sexual taboos are silencing Christian Hongkongers, with Peace Chiu | June 10, 2022

How sexual taboos are silencing Christian Hongkongers, with Peace Chiu | June 10, 2022

This week, we caught up with Coconuts Hong Kong reporter Peace Chiu to discuss her latest feature story centering on a sexually abused woman who failed to get the help she needed due to taboos surrounding sex among Christian Hongkongers. Peace sheds the light on how conservative viewpoints are hurting victims, and how some are working to turn the tide. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Thailand lights up as marijuana goes legal today (Photos) | Apparently, the 'first exorcism center in Asia' will be built in the Philippines | Is Indonesia ready for hookup culture? | Clip of duo having sex on balcony goes viral, woman arrested and released on bail | No concrete plans yet for Bali digital nomad visa, official says | No, a pregnant officer was not forced to work: Singapore police

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Jun 09, 202246:21
True boys' love representation on new web series 'Getaway', with Sean Foo | June 3, 2022

True boys' love representation on new web series 'Getaway', with Sean Foo | June 3, 2022

Boys' love dramas, while hugely popular in Asia, have mostly found an audience in heterosexual females. Sean Foo, the founder of leading LGBT+ publication Dear Straight People, wanted to break from that mold. This week, he chats with us about creating, producing and starring in the new web series Getaway, and why it's no ordinary boys' love drama. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

Should you put potatoes in your adobo? The internet weighs in | Miyabi (AKA Maria Ozawa) apologizes to Indonesian fans for canceling her visit, says she misses Bali in particular | Kitchen of Jumbo Floating Restaurant sinks after announcement about exit from Hong Kong | A cat's tale: Indonesia's feline celebrity Pororo comes home after going missing | Monkeypox! Thailand quarantines 12 on flight with infected passenger | Dee Kosh pleads guilty to offering boys money for sex acts | Insecurity spreads as crime ravages Yangon

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Jun 02, 202201:02:49
Hope for the Earth in Gen Z, with Melati Wijsen | May 27, 2022

Hope for the Earth in Gen Z, with Melati Wijsen | May 27, 2022

Changemaker and NatGeo Asia's Expedition: Earth star Melati Wijsen, who co-founded Bye Bye Plastics and YOUTHTOPIA, graces us with her presence on the Coconuts Podcast as she talks to us about founding a social initiative at 12, inspiring other youths across the globe, and why one is never too young to start making a difference. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

No more 'melukat' purification ritual for Instagram content: PHDI | Writers, reporters get discounts at Soi 33's 'Propaganda Bar' | Uh-oh! Toy store accused of 'setting trap' for boy who knocked over HK$33,600 Teletubby statue | New regulations say Indonesians must have at least 2 names ⁠- and they can't be weird | Taco shop in Makati pushes back on criticism its prices are too high in heartfelt post | Singapore's Dear Straight People drops gay drama set in Bangkok | Burmese OnlyFans star barred from traveling to Bangkok: source


The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
May 26, 202254:55
Indonesian preacher Abdul Somad a no-go in Singapore, with Carolyn Teo | The Coconuts Podcast | May 20, 2022

Indonesian preacher Abdul Somad a no-go in Singapore, with Carolyn Teo | The Coconuts Podcast | May 20, 2022

Indonesian celebrity preacher Abdul Somad can either be charismatic or controversial, depending on who you ask. But Singapore is apparently not a fan of his colorful preachings that they denied him and his party entry into the Little Red Dot, reportedly due to his "extremist and segregationist teachings," an affront to the city-state's multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. Was the reaction a bit extreme or warranted? Coconuts Singapore's Carolyn Teo weighs in. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

Consumer Council finds traces of banned veterinary drug by-product in 3 sausage brands, prohibited fragrances in 4 hair mask models | Puppy 'charged' with getting lost by Lumphini cops | Vegetable seller beats powerful political family to become town's mayor in the Philippines | Feel free to take off your mask outdoors: President Jokowi | Scorching weather, sweating Singapore to continue | Ubud chef returns home after being scammed and left in limbo for days in Singapore


The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
May 19, 202251:25
Bongbong boings to victory in the Philippine presidential election | The Coconuts Podcast | May 13, 2022

Bongbong boings to victory in the Philippine presidential election | The Coconuts Podcast | May 13, 2022

Things are looking grim for democracy in the Philippines. The specter of the Marcos dictatorship that had loomed over the past few decades has birthed, barring any last-minute surprises, the country's next president. How did Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. win by an unprecedented landslide? Did his challengers ever stand a chance? We spoke to political scientist Cleve Arguelles to make sense of the Filipino presidential election, and what a Bongbong presidency means for the country. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

Protesters storm election commission office amid impending Marcos win over reports of irregularities at polls | Royal Thai Army bans Lazada deliveries over royal offense | Two Yangon journalists in legal limbo after 9 months in Insein Prison | Singapore's national COVID tracking may return: minister | Podcaster Deddy Corbuzier down nearly 9 million followers on Instagram following gay couple interview backlash | Aussie model and marriage equality campaigner Ryan Channing dies in Bali | Scalpers jack up Mirror concert tickets to as high as HK$438,102

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
May 12, 202201:04:05
The Podcast of Plastic, with Antoinette Taus | The Coconuts Podcast | May 6, 2022

The Podcast of Plastic, with Antoinette Taus | The Coconuts Podcast | May 6, 2022

Did you know that we consume a credit card's worth of plastic each week? Or that we can easily save thousands of bottles by just carrying a water tumbler? There's a lot of chatter about plastic pollution, and people can't even seem to agree on the best way to reduce plastic! So we spoke to Filipina actress, UN Goodwill Ambassador for Environment Programme, and The Podcast of Plastic host Antoinette Taus as she sheds light on the plastic waste problem in Asia-Pacific. Tune in! Other stories include: Russian 'yogi' apologizes for posing naked on sacred Balinese tree, turns herself over to police | Shake Shack coming to Bangkok | Beaches & pools to reopen in Hong Kong on May 5, bars & karaoke lounges can open from May 19 | KPK nabs Bogor Regent Ade Yasin over bribery suspicion | Despite risk of expulsion, Iglesia ni Cristo members openly defy church leaders' endorsement of Bongbong Marcos-Sara Duterte tandem | Singapore publisher to recall Chinese books with pentagram | NUG's nuts cradled by 'ball lifter' exile media: Tat spox The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong. The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
May 05, 202201:01:10
The struggle against capital punishment in Singapore, with Kokila Annamalai | The Coconuts Podcast | April 29, 2022

The struggle against capital punishment in Singapore, with Kokila Annamalai | The Coconuts Podcast | April 29, 2022

Tragic news out of Singapore this week, as the state executed a mentally impaired Malaysian man despite multiple appeals and public protests. Singapore has resumed executing prisoners on death row after a two-year pause due to the pandemic, and we spoke with activist Kokila Annamalai who shared with us the struggles and the race against time to save them and uphold basic human rights. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

Singapore executes 'low IQ' prisoner despite desperate appeals | Bangkok cops fail to arrest 'royalists' who beat reporter | Tropical cyclone may form over South China Sea this weekend: HKO | Power to the People: Citizens, not officials, raise Robredo's and Pangilinan's hands | Major stonks for Mayora after Kopiko makes appearance at Elon Musk-Luhut Pandjaitan meeting | Aung San Suu Kyi convicted of corruption by junta court, gets 5 more years | 'Fearless child of God' faces deportation over butt-naked dance on Bali's Mount Batur: officials

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Apr 28, 202249:11
Online predators and the fetishization of Chinese-Indonesian women, with Kevin Ng | The Coconuts Podcast | April 22, 2022

Online predators and the fetishization of Chinese-Indonesian women, with Kevin Ng | The Coconuts Podcast | April 22, 2022

This week on the Coconuts Podcast, we spoke to Perth-based journalist Kevin Ng, who wrote a gripping report on tailing the activities of a network of online sexual abusers targeting Chinese-Indonesian women. Just how many of these creeps are there? Are online platforms doing enough? Tune in to find out more.

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Other stories include:

At Coachella, teen rapper Milli feeds Thai pride with a bowl of mango sticky rice (Video) | HK actress embroiled in blackface controversy apologizes for 'insensitive' portrayal of Filipina domestic worker | Singapore church defends singing Christian on flight | Filipinos flood Twitter with 'Leni Withdraw' memes after lagging candidates gang up on Robredo | Bali officials deny reports regarding plan to increase visa on arrival fees | Suu Kyi lawyer dismisses talk of 'dialogue' with junta | Man who miraculously survived his car colliding with KRL Commuterline train may face legal consequences

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Apr 21, 202201:00:09
FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Didi J revs up her career with 'Murcielago' | The Coconuts Podcast | April 15, 2022

FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Didi J revs up her career with 'Murcielago' | The Coconuts Podcast | April 15, 2022

We're back with Fresh Tunes Friday this week, and in the virtual guest chair was Serbian pop artist/fashion designer Didi J, who recently dropped her new single 'Murcielago' (yes, named after the supercar). She talks to us about what it was like collaborating with Iggy Azalea for the track, her previous collaborations with other global pop superstars like Shaggy, as well as her plans for world domination (and the hard work necessary to achieve it). Tune in!

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Other stories include:

Kinder recall widens as salmonella scare spreads in Singapore | Bangkok's biggest '420' fest delayed until cannabis no longer criminal in June | Epidemic of sexual harassment on Indonesian campuses continues due to culture of impunity | Owners face up to HK$10,000 fine and 6 months in jail if they refuse to surrender pet for disease control | Bali prison inmate ordered crystal meth hidden in milk via bike taxi app | In Japan, Filipinos close down the famous Shibuya Crossing to march for Leni-Kiko | Guard killed in attack on junta leader's compound

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Apr 14, 202251:55
The Carrie Lam Conundrum in Hong Kong, with Peace Chiu | The Coconuts Podcast | April 8, 2022

The Carrie Lam Conundrum in Hong Kong, with Peace Chiu | The Coconuts Podcast | April 8, 2022

Hong Kong's divisive leader Carrie Lam made headlines when she announced that she was no longer seeking a second term. We wanted to know what that was all about, so Coconuts Hong Kong's Peace Chiu hopped on to give us the lowdown on Hong Kong's political landscape.

We've also got Coconuts Bangkok's Nicky Tanskul (sans croc head) bringing his own fresh energy to the podcast while Andra sips from coconuts away in paradise. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Who killed the Berawa beach dogs? | Police find woman caught red-handed stealing tourist's necklace near Asoke (Video) | Fined for watching too much porn? Cybersecurity watchdog warns about intricate phishing scam | Indonesian director Joko Anwar to make his Hollywood debut through 'Fritzchen' | Jollibee is opening its first Aussie branch in Sydney | 400+ rally against death penalty after Singapore executes prisoner | Junta sentenced 24 Yangon youths to death last month - including two boys

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Apr 07, 202252:15
Civil rights in Singapore, with Constance Singam | The Coconuts Podcast | April 1, 2022

Civil rights in Singapore, with Constance Singam | The Coconuts Podcast | April 1, 2022

The Coconuts Podcast has had the honor to talk to Singapore's most cherished activist icons, Constance Singam, as she shares stories of her work that has turned tides in Singapore, the country's evolving civil rights movement, and why her re-issued memoir is a must-read for today's young Singaporeans. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

A woman scorned: Wife sells cheating husband's items on Facebook live | Male performer in OnlyFans star's videos may be charged: police | Man gets punched and kicked over 30 times in Mong Kok, bystanders just look on | Buleleng police officer went full monty at traffic stop | Thailand will not lift ban on vaping, citing health threat | Booze ban lifted, masks optional as Omicron subsides: PM Lee | ASSK quarantined after associates contract COVID-19: report

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Mar 31, 202252:38
A Filipina in Ukraine, with Krysten Boado | The Coconuts Podcast | March 25, 2022

A Filipina in Ukraine, with Krysten Boado | The Coconuts Podcast | March 25, 2022

We've all read news reports and seen the images of the horrors that have unfolded in Ukraine. But few know what it's like to cope with the constant fear of imminent death that comes with living in a war zone like Filipina travel blogger Krysten Boado, who has elected to stay with her loved ones in Ukraine. Amid the endless doom, Krysten also shared with us about the things that instill hope and keep her going. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

The quirks of Mandalika GP: Rain shaman, litter dominate post-race discussions | No, an American reporter did not interview Prayuth | Foreign domestic worker YouTuber draws fans with humorous, spot-on videos about struggles of working in Hong Kong | Baby dies in utero after pregnant woman 'left unattended' at NUH: husband | 'They don't need to feel sad': Indonesian woman smiles from ear-to-ear after slitting her children's throats | Ariana Grande shares clips of 137k-strong Pinoys singing 'Break Free' at Leni-Kiko Pasig rally | Singapore's 'Rave Republic' cancels Naypyidaw show over human rights abuses

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Mar 24, 202201:45:37
FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Singapore's YAØ has no Asian shame in 'Lose Face' | The Coconuts Podcast | March 18, 2022

FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Singapore's YAØ has no Asian shame in 'Lose Face' | The Coconuts Podcast | March 18, 2022

It's another Fresh Tunes Friday! We're talking to newly signed Universal Music Singapore's YAØ, who's gotten us into the groove with his newest single "Lose Face." The artist dishes on his take about the Asian concept of "losing face," his retro musical influences, and other tidbits like whose album he would save in a fire. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

Hong Kong Police tell British activist to take down website for breaching national security law or face jail time | Singapore 'samurai' arrested after attacking man and cars with sword (Videos)
| Skeletal remains of Spanish man found in dilapidated Nusa Dua house | Fantastic name of Myanmar junta's Sinopharm clone is revealed | Nusantara won't be built in a day. Try 15-20 years, Jokowi says | Philippines' beloved Shakey's - and its thin-crust pizza - has finally opened in Singapore | Will Lisa Blackpink face the same Thai charges for promoting alcohol? Very Unlikely.

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Mar 17, 202201:02:17
Ukraine's ambassador to Indonesia on the Russian invasion | The Coconuts Podcast | March 11, 2022

Ukraine's ambassador to Indonesia on the Russian invasion | The Coconuts Podcast | March 11, 2022

The impact of Russia's invasion on Ukraine goes beyond the needless devastation and suffering in Eastern Europe. This week, we had the honor of welcoming His Excellency Vasyl Hamianin, Ukraine's ambassador to Indonesia, for his perspective on the invasion and how Ukrainians in the archipelago country and throughout the region are affected. Tune in!

NOTE: Due to scheduling constraints, we will only be able to upload Mr Hamianin's interview around noon SGT on Friday, March 11, 2022. Please refresh your podcast player by that time to access the updated version of the episode when it becomes available.

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Other stories include:

PH finally raises age of sexual consent from 12 to 16 | Myanmar junta leader sick in his mansion with COVID-19: report | 2 COVID-19 positive children, aged 4 and 8, die in Hong Kong | Geprek Bensu smashed over Paris Fashion Week claim | Thai beauty tuber jokes about invading Ukraine to pimp products, internet isn't happy | Best buds Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire spotted ordering coconuts in Bali | Tesla-hater boldly keys car in Clementi unaware of built-in surveillance cameras (Video)

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Mar 10, 202201:43:13
Quarantine-free travel to Bali, with Amahl Azwar | The Coconuts Podcast | March 4, 2022

Quarantine-free travel to Bali, with Amahl Azwar | The Coconuts Podcast | March 4, 2022

Heads up, tourists: Bali is finally lifting its quarantine restrictions! While it's a bit of good news for those aching to visit the island, is it all that it's cracked up to be? The new policy has left some unanswered questions, so we roped in Coconuts Bali managing editor and island resident Amahl Azwar to give us the lowdown - including travel do's and don'ts, as well as the Balinese dishes that should be on top of your bucket list. Tune in!

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Other stories include:

You can now get your booster shot 3 months after your second jab | 'I did not join Ukraine as a Thai national, but as a human being': former airman volunteers to fight Russian invasion | 'I wanna lick your p*ssy': Singapore woman calls out catcaller (Video) | Panic buying: Hong Kong shoppers strip supermarket shelves bare amid lockdown fears | Ogoh-ogoh returns ahead of Nyepi tomorrow with COVID-themed effigies | 'It's here, bruh': Scotland's first Jollibee greeted by long lines in Edinburgh | Myanmar beefcake Paing Thakon free after 11 months in junta captivity

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Mar 03, 202201:37:50
Philippine elections warm up with Ash Presto | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 25, 2022

Philippine elections warm up with Ash Presto | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 25, 2022

We're nerding out hard this week as we had the privilege of welcoming Filipina sociologist and political commentator Ash Presto (@sosyolohija) to The Coconuts Podcast. Join us for a lengthy and extensive talk on the upcoming Filipino elections, why the son of a dictator is polling so high, and deeper philosophical takes on leadership in the region. Also, we couldn't help but find parallels between Filipino politics and Game of Thrones (hopefully excluding the trainwreck that was Season 8). Tune in!

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Other stories include:

BBQ owner wins internet hearts grilling meat for blind Bangkok couple | Botched breast filler by an unlicensed practitioner caused Jakarta woman's death: police | 11-month-old girl infected with COVID-19 dies, Hong Kong's youngest fatality suspected to be caused by the virus | Naughty Officers: 2 policemen arrested for allegedly spreading young couple's public sex CCTV video | Mixed reactions to Jake Zyrus' topless photo proves we still suck at LGBTQ acceptance | Respect! Mystery man cheered for rescuing wild boar, liberating traffic (Video) | Battered Myanmar model recounts abduction from her Yangon home

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Feb 24, 202201:29:31
Fresh Tunes Friday: Stephanie Poetri shows off a different side in 'Picture Myself' | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 18, 2022

Fresh Tunes Friday: Stephanie Poetri shows off a different side in 'Picture Myself' | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 18, 2022

This Fresh Tunes Friday, get ready to say "I Love You 3000" as 88Rising artist and Indonesian pop star Stephanie Poetri joins us all the way from LA to talk about her newest single, "Picture Myself." The 21-year-old dishes about breaking through the global music scene, life in America, and the food she misses the most from home. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Thai YouTuber hounded over leaked sex tape escapes to Netherlands | Singapore Airlines lands in Bali for the first time in 2 years, carrying 156 passengers | 3-year-old girl dies after testing positive, becomes Hong Kong's youngest COVID-19-related death | Indonesian trans icon Dorce Gamalama passes away at 58 | Environment authorities seize smuggled exotic ants in tubes | 19 corgis and Shiba Inu rescued from illegal breeding couple: AVS

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Feb 17, 202252:21
2 men and a historic make-out in Beijing, with Carolyn Teo | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 11, 2022

2 men and a historic make-out in Beijing, with Carolyn Teo | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 11, 2022

What is the big deal about two blokes kissing? Well, it depends from where you're seeing it. In Singapore, there's a bit of fuss surrounding two men who smooched in the background of a live report aired by Channel News Asia for the Beijing Winter Olympics. The incident has once again sparked discussions on LGBTQ+ rights in the Little Red Dot, the laws that are shackling full-on expression, and how Singaporean society views the marginalized community. Joining us to shed light on this complicated issue is Coconuts Singapore's own Carolyn Teo. Tune in!
Other stories include:

Actually a barbershop, not a brothel, Thai salon admits (Photos) | Bali now under Level 3 PPKM as Omicron continues spread | New COVID-19 cases pass 1,000-mark for the first time as Hong Kong reports first deaths in 5 months | 6 years later, crocodile in Indonesia finally free from tire 'necklace' | After controversial hosting stint at BBM-Sara campaign kickoff, Toni Gonzaga bids goodbye to 'Pinoy Big Brother' | 'Whack your motherf***ing face': Singapore patient goes off on nurse (Video)

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Feb 10, 202257:47
Getting a load of croc (meat) with Nicky Tanskul | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 4, 2022

Getting a load of croc (meat) with Nicky Tanskul | The Coconuts Podcast | Feb. 4, 2022

Croc meat krapow? What the croc? Bangkok is apparently experiencing a "pork-flation", and food hawkers and foodies are putting this reptile meat in demand. Coconuts Bangkok's Nicky Tanskul gives us the lowdown on devouring this (arguably) cute creature, what it tastes like, where first-timers should give it a go, and whether it's better than chicken. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Thai YouTuber faces prosecution over her own leaked sex tape | iClout: Status symbol for rent in Indonesia | The #MarcosDuwag fiasco has a sequel, after Bongbong Marcos declines another presidential forum | Quarantine hotels and direct flights: Bali gears up for international tourism re-relaunch this week | New York Times on boil over its bizarro 'Singaporean Chicken Curry'

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Feb 03, 202201:05:02
Thailand ablaze with excitement over recreational weed | The Coconuts Podcast | Jan. 28, 2022

Thailand ablaze with excitement over recreational weed | The Coconuts Podcast | Jan. 28, 2022

Gather round, potheads! Well, only those in Thailand, because it's the only country in Southeast Asia to have all but legalized recreational weed. The legality of the decriminalization is about as clear as a stoner's train of thought at this point, so we spoke at length with Coconuts Bangkok's Chayanit "Milk" Itthipongmaetee to shed light on when it would be safe to toke up in public, whether or not tourists can partake, and where to find delectable edibles like deep-fried marijuana leaves. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Singapore dad charged with murdering 11-year-old twin boys | 89 y.o. Jakarta man accused of car theft by motorcyclists beaten to death despite driving own vehicle | Cop kills gifted Bangkok eye doctor, testing pledges for safer roads | Faced with a deadline while on vacation, guy sends email while on a parasail | Bali may be quarantine-free travel option for Singaporeans: Luhut

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Jan 27, 202253:52
FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Singapore's Lincoln Lim talks about 'Home' | The Coconuts Podcast | Jan. 21, 2022

FRESH TUNES FRIDAY: Singapore's Lincoln Lim talks about 'Home' | The Coconuts Podcast | Jan. 21, 2022

Welcome to the first edition of Fresh Tunes Friday in 2022! Singapore's Lincoln Lim hopped on, where the singer-songwriter waxed poetic about his new single, Home, the progress vs heritage debate in Singapore, and the country's music industry. We also talk about Home's music video, shot by Coconuts pal Jeremy Hu. Tune in!

Other stories include:

Bali woman 'marries' dagger in place of absent groom | Sexpat blogger 'Stickboy' abruptly pulls out of Bangkok | In a world where people share content before verifying, Indonesian tidal bore thrill-seekers find themselves the face of the Tonga tsunami | After assault on change-less GrabFood rider, Pinoys call for greater rider protection | Smart Singapore mom realizes baby's hidden potential: water shield (Video)

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Jan 20, 202256:21
There are anti-vaxxers in Singapore?! | The Coconuts Podcast | Jan. 14, 2022

There are anti-vaxxers in Singapore?! | The Coconuts Podcast | Jan. 14, 2022

Welcome to a brand new season of The Coconuts Podcast! We hope 2022 has brought good things to you, as they have to us in the form of new host Samantha Beltran of Coconuts Manila. Sam is joining relative veteran Andra Nasrie of Coconuts Jakarta in the never-ending quest to bring you the latest, most important, and most wondrous stories from Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

This week, we spoke with Coconuts Singapore's Carolyn Teo about a small but vocal band of anti-vaxxers in Singapore. "Anti-vaxxers in Singapore?" we hear you ask. To that we say of course, as ignorance knows no borders.

We hope you enjoy this week's episode. Until next week!

Other stories include:

Clown desperate for a way home commits crime in Bali | 2022's worst food crime has already hit Bangkok: ramen floats | Ghozali Everyday: Indonesian man with US$1 million selfies an unlikely NFT star | This local cake shop created an exact replica of Aunt Petunia's famous cake in Harry Potter | S'pore Art Museum opens Friday with musical mushrooms, forced flirting

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.
Jan 13, 202249:28
A Very Coconuts Countdown: The year's top stories | The Coconuts Podcast | Dec. 3, 2021

A Very Coconuts Countdown: The year's top stories | The Coconuts Podcast | Dec. 3, 2021

The curtain falls on another season of The Coconuts Podcast. Hosts Nurul Azliah and Andra Nasrie take listeners through a best of episode comprising the biggest hits across all Coconuts cities in 2021, including a story about a mermaid sleeping among rubbish in Bali, a "mystery" crazy rich family buying an entire condo building in Singapore, and an aerobics routine that captures the year's craziness in Yangon.

The Coconuts Podcast is taking a break this month, and we'll be back in January 2022. Thanks for listening, and until then!

Other stories include:

Danish man who damaged shrine in Bali set for deportation after serving prison sentence | Rainbow Power: Hundreds demand marriage equality in Bangkok (Photos) | Hong Kong breakdancer Cha Cha Kong sets sights on Olympics 2024 | Back to 2: Jakarta PPKM level upgraded amid faltering tracing | Najib Razak, Rosmah Mansor welcome new grandchild in Singapore | 'Weak explosion' recorded on Mt. Pinatubo, Phivolcs confirms | Singapore now world's second most expensive city: Economist | Yangon mall eerily empty after guards brutalize anti-violence campaigners

The Coconuts Podcast delivers impactful, weird, and wonderful reporting by our journalists on the ground in eight cities: Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Yangon, and Bali. Listen to headline news and insightful interviews on matters large and small, designed for people located in - or curious about - Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

The Coconuts Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Subscribe today!
Dec 02, 202101:01:42