Dear ST reader,

       We hope you’ve been keeping well. And a Happy Chinese New Year to those who celebrate.

       The scramble to keep up with President Donald Trump’s edicts and ideas continues apace, with his latest plan for the US to take over Gaza and move Palestinians out eliciting uproar from the rest of the world.

       Closer to home, Singapore has been caught up in Washington’s scrutiny over whether advanced Nvidia chips used for artificial intelligence had found their way to China, bypassing US restrictions. Analysts say to expect more probes, and more overreach.

       Mr Trump has also unleashed his promised tariffs on China, drawing a calibrated response from the Asian giant. Meanwhile, his upcoming meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be closely-watched for clues on how US foreign policy will play out in Asia.

       Over in the Philippines, the Marcos-Duterte feud takes another turn ahead of mid-term polls, with Vice-President Sara Duterte being impeached after threatening to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos and his family members. In Indonesia, President Prabowo Subianto’s first 100 days in office places him high in approval ratings, but he has much more work to do.

       Also read our features on whether Shenzhen is eclipsing Hong Kong, and Malaysia’s shifting pineapple industry.

       The US President’s hosting of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gives him a chance to shore up America’s position against China.

       Read more:

       Beijing’s measured response to Trump’s tariffs

       Putting the ‘Madman Theory’ to the test

       Have a listen:

       Trump’s blistering start and its impact on Asia

       China is seen to be using its power in global supply chains as a weapon ahead of Trump tariffs.

       Read more:

       Can China’s DeepSeek sink its US rivals?

       Sara Duterte’s impeachment could mean the end of her political career, analysts say.

       Read more on Southeast Asia’s politics:

       Prabowo scores high on ratings but pressing issues remain

       Listen to this podcast:

       Malaysia has big plans, while Najib just wants to go home

       Shenzhen may have the tech but Hong Kong holds the key to research and funding.

       Read our other Insight features here.

       Indonesia, one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gas, has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

       Read more:

       Three days in Xi’an

       The Johor pineapple traditionally offered at the altar may soon be replaced by one from Sarawak.

       Read more:

       Why are pineapple tarts only eaten at Chinese New Year?