Alice Guo gets life term for human trafficking; Bali poisoning mystery: 7 Asia highlights

From a Singapore minister’s Hong Kong remarks to South Korea’s medical shortage, here are a few highlights from SCMP’s recent Asia reporting

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Alice Guo attends a hearing at the Senate in Manila over accusations of human trafficking in September 2024. Photo: AFP

Published: 12:30pm, 25 Nov 2025

We have selected seven stories from the SCMP’s coverage of Asia over the past week that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.

1. Alice Guo gets life term for human trafficking linked to Philippine scam hub

A Philippine court has found a former mayor guilty of human trafficking and sentenced her to life imprisonment over her role in setting up a scam centre, as Manila and other Southeast Asian governments vow to fight transnational criminal syndicates.

2. Singapore minister sorry for derogatory remarks on Hong Kong football team

Singapore’s Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo speaking to Singapore’s national football team in a locker room after their win over Hong Kong in an Asian Cup qualifier match in Kai Tak Stadium on Tuesday. Photo: Facebook/David Neo

Singapore’s acting sports minister has conceded he “should have been more respectful” after calling Hong Kong football fans and players “idiots” in a locker room pep talk to his side, following the city state’s historic win on Tuesday night in Hong Kong.

3. Preacher misconduct prompts Indonesia rethink on religious vetting

Islamic cleric Mohammad Elham Yahya Al Maliki is seen embracing a young girl and sucking in her cheeks. Other clips show him kissing several children on the cheek. Photo: YouTube/Gerakanpis

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