东谈西论

2025年结束之前的最后两天， 美国科技巨头Facebook的母公司Meta宣布收购一家总部在新加坡的人工智能初创公司Manus。收购价格据说超过20亿美元，Manus联合创始人兼总裁肖弘将加入Meta，担任Meta的副总裁。 Manus自称是总部在新加坡的公司。另一位联合创始人张涛去年6月在新加坡出席论坛，也以新加坡企业的身份示人。但是他的出生地是在中国，Manus的创始团队成员也都是中国人。 33岁的肖弘是江西人，他在念大学的时候就开发科技应用，在2022年创办蝴蝶效应科技。去年3月，肖弘率领团队推出了Manus，号称是全球第一款通用智能体产品。它可以为用户完成具体的任务，比如帮你筛查简历、帮你订酒店、订机票等等。 不过，Manus从中国公司变身新加坡公司，再被美国公司收购的这场华丽转身，目前受到了阻力。中国商务部介入，表示将对这次收购进行调查。 Manus一开始为何要出走到新加坡？它有可能通过调查，顺利被Meta收购吗？Manus的这次出走经验，又会给其他中国科技公司带来怎样的启示？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与新加坡优势研究咨询公司创始人兼CEO张帆分析Manus收购案的始末。 延伸阅读： 闫曼：技术的“原籍”阴影——从Manus收购案看全球监管新常态 新闻人间：Manus肖弘的金蝉脱壳术 The global tech world is abuzz with Meta’s planned US$2 billion acquisition of Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup now under scrutiny from Beijing. On December 30, 2025, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, announced plans to buy Manus, with co‑founder and president Xiao Hong set to join Meta as a vice president. The deal hit a snag on January 8, 2026, when China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) launched a national security review under its Export Control Law, citing risks in AI technology transfers. It is the first time Beijing has used this law to examine an overseas acquisition of a Chinese-founded AI company, underscoring its tighter control over advanced technologies. Founded in China in 2022 as Butterfly Effect Technology, Manus moved its headquarters to Singapore in 2024. Its flagship product, a general intelligent agent capable of automating tasks like resume screening, hotel bookings, and flight reservations, was launched in March 2025. The move to Singapore was widely seen as a bid to attract global capital and mitigate exposure to rising US–China tech tensions. Can Meta complete the Manus deal, and what does this case signal for other Chinese-founded AI firms seeking global expansion under growing regulatory and geopolitical pressure? Join host Han Yonghong in Global Heartbeat as she discusses these questions with Tim Zhang, founder and CEO of Edge Research Consulting. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

美国军队于1月3日凌晨突袭委内瑞拉首都加拉加斯。据报导，委内瑞拉总统马杜罗（Nicolas Maduro）及其夫人弗洛雷斯（Cilia Flores）在数小时后被美军强行带走，并被押送至位于纽约布鲁克林的联邦拘留中心。 目前，纽约南区联邦地区法院已正式起诉马杜罗，罪名包括毒品恐怖主义阴谋、可卡因走私阴谋、非法持有枪械及破坏性装置等。 美国总统特朗普对此强硬表态，宣称美国将接管委内瑞拉，直至政权实现安全交接。他同时向委内瑞拉代理总统发出警告，称其“如果不做正确的事，将面临比马杜罗更糟糕的处境。”此外，特朗普也对古巴和哥伦比亚发出威胁。 此次美国动用军事武力跨境抓捕委内瑞拉总统，是否已构成侵略行为？ 分析家指，美国重拾“门罗主义”，要巩固并扩大其在西半球的主导权。这会对现有的国际秩序构成什么挑战？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与香港城市大学法学院教授、中国法与比较法研究中心主任王江雨深入解析这场震惊国际的大抓捕。 延伸阅读： 美国抓捕马杜罗“绝对决心”行动事件簿 郭兵云：美国闪击委内瑞拉的得与失 In the early hours of January 3, the US mounted a major operation in Caracas that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, who were swiftly flown to the United States and placed in federal custody. Maduro now faces a superseding indictment in the Southern District of New York on narco‑terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy and weapons charges involving machineguns and destructive devices. President Donald Trump has declared that the United States will effectively govern Venezuela until a “safe, proper and judicious” transition of power, warning Venezuelan elites that those who “do not do the right thing” could share Maduro’s fate. Trump has also issued sharp warnings to Cuba and Colombia. This dramatic intervention raises far‑reaching questions about international law, sovereignty and the future of global governance. Is it an act of aggression or a legally justified intervention, a one‑off operation or a sign of a renewed Monroe Doctrine in the Western Hemisphere? In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, Professor Wang Jiangyu from the City University of Hong Kong provides an in‑depth analysis of the geopolitical stakes and considers what this turning point may mean for the international order. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

在中日关系紧张的背景下，日本演艺活动陆续出现突发状况。原定于11月29日开演的日本天后滨崎步（Hamasaki Ayumi）上海演唱会临时被取消。另一位歌手大槻真希（Maki Otsuki）的上海演唱活动到一半，也被当场中止。 这场中日风波的导火索，是日本首相高市早苗11月7日在国会答询时表示，北京若以军舰和武力方式统一台湾，将构成日本的“存亡危机事态”，届时日本可行使集体自卫权。这意味着日本准备军事介入大陆统一台湾的行动。 随后，在美国总统特朗普11月24日与高市通话后，高市早苗又在国会答询时称，根据《旧金山和约》，日本已经放弃了与台湾有关的一切权利和权限，因此无立场去认定台湾的法律地位。她的这番谈话被中国外交部批评为炒作“台湾地位未定论”，是“错上加错”。 高市早苗引用《旧金山和约》真的是在炒作台湾地位未定论？这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与《联合早报》中国新闻资深高级记者于泽远解析在持续升级的言论交锋下，中日关系是否还有转圜空间。 延伸阅读： 于泽远：中日关系可能更糟 韩咏红：再看中日风波 On November 28, 2025, Japanese singer Maki Otsuki’s performance at a Shanghai anime event was abruptly halted mid-song, becoming one of several cultural disruptions amid escalating tensions between China and Japan. Around the same time, pop icon Ayumi Hamasaki also saw her much-anticipated Shanghai concert cancelled at the last minute, despite full preparations being completed. These incidents unfolded against the backdrop of controversial remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who suggested Japan might invoke its right to collective self-defense if China were to use force to unify Taiwan, framing such a scenario as a potential survival-threatening situation for Japan. Although Takaichi later referred to Japan’s long-standing position under the San Francisco Peace Treaty to clarify Tokyo’s legal stance on Taiwan, Beijing denounced her comments as provocative and destabilising. In the fallout, cultural exchanges have been disrupted, Chinese tourists are reconsidering trips to Japan, and sectors of bilateral trade and tourism are coming under growing strain.  In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, Lianhe Zaobao’s China News Copy Editor Yu Zeyuan joins host Han Yong Hong to examine China and Japan’s deepening rift. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

美国国务卿鲁比奥最近与乌克兰官员在日内瓦会谈。鲁比奥声称，会谈非常高效，但没有提供任何细节。上个星期，媒体流传一份美国提出的俄乌28点和平计划。因此，有媒体评论鲁比奥此行是为了灭火。 这份和平方案的内容明显偏袒俄罗斯，其中包括承认克里米亚、卢甘斯克和顿涅茨克地区为俄罗斯领土、乌克兰须放弃加入北约并将乌克兰军队规模限制在60万人以内。与此同时，俄罗斯将重新融入全球经济，重新加入八国集团，西方国家分阶段解除对俄罗斯的制裁。美国则主导乌克兰重建和投资项目，并获得一半的利润。 28点和平计划几乎是施压乌克兰投降的方案，引起了欧洲哗然。到了周末，德国、法国与英国又提出了另一份和平方案。乌克兰的命运是否会有转机？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与香港城市大学法学院教授、中国法与比较法研究中心主任王江雨详细解析。 延伸阅读： 王江雨：礼崩乐坏，列强分食——俄乌终局与世界秩序的“战国化”  社论：美国28点俄乌和平协议的外交现实  A controversial 28-point US peace proposal for the Russia-Ukraine war has sparked significant debate across Europe and Ukraine. The plan reportedly includes territorial concessions favouring Russian interests by recognising occupied territories and restricting Ukraine's military size and NATO aspirations. Following intense diplomatic activity, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Ukrainian officials in Geneva amid global scrutiny. European leader, primarily the UK, France, and Germany, countered with their own modified proposal emphasising Ukraine's sovereignty, no restrictions on its armed forces, and the possibility of European Union (EU) membership.  As diplomatic efforts intensify, questions arise whether these negotiations will genuinely steer towards lasting peace or further complicate Ukraine's future. In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yong Hong discusses these geopolitical developments with Professor Wang Jiangyu from the City University of Hong Kong School of Law. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

日本新任首相高市早苗本月7日在国会答询时表示，若大陆对台湾动武，“台湾有事”并涉及军舰或伴随武力的使用，则可能构成日本的“存立危机事态”，意味着日本可行使集体自卫权，军事介入台海局势。 高市的言论随即在中国引发强烈反应。中国驻大阪总领事薛剑在社交媒体发文称，对于“擅闯进来的肮脏头颅，应毫不犹豫斩掉”，但随后删除相关贴文。 北京之后采取多项反制行动。国台办、官方媒体与外交部发言人连续发声抗议。解放军在黄海举行实弹演习。此外，北京呼吁中国民众避免赴日旅游、慎重安排赴日留学，并撤销两部日本电影在华上映档期。 北京多次要求高市早苗收回相关言论。她是否会退让？日本盟友美国又将采取何种立场？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与台湾辅仁大学日文系特聘教授兼日本暨东亚研究中心主任何思慎解析这场中日风波接下来将如何发展。 In a rapidly escalating diplomatic dispute, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent comments suggesting Japan might intervene militarily if China attacks Taiwan have triggered a strong backlash from Beijing.  China’s Consul General in Osaka made a provocative statement on social media, which was later removed, and Beijing has since imposed retaliatory measures, including halting Japanese film releases and discouraging travel to Japan. These actions have led to a sharp decline in tourism and a significant drop in Japan’s tourism-linked stocks. In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong invites Professor Ho Szu-Shen from the Department of Japanese Language and Culture at Fu Jen Catholic University to share his insights on this latest flare-up in Sino-Japanese relations and the broader implications for Taiwan and regional stability. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

中国第三艘航空母舰“福建舰”上周三在海南三亚某军港正式入列。中国国家主席兼中央军委主席习近平亲自出席入列仪式，并登上“福建舰”视察，现场按下电磁弹射按钮。 “福建舰”是中国首艘采用电磁弹射系统的航母，也是全球首艘利用电磁弹射技术让第五代战斗机起飞的航母。据报道，利用该系统，约90秒即可弹射一架歼-15T战斗机，一天内的起降架次最高可达300次。电磁弹射系统还可支持较重机型的起飞，例如固定翼预警机。 中国官媒报道指出，“福建舰”采用电磁弹射技术的决策由习近平亲自拍板。这个决定为什么要习近平亲自作出？ “福建舰”入列后，中国航母编队的整体作战能力将进一步提升。外界关注，此举将如何改变中国与美国海军之间的实力对比，以及对台海地区局势带来何种影响。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与《联合早报》中国新闻资深高级记者于泽远解析电磁弹射技术的突破，以及“福建舰”入列对中美海军实力对比所带来的影响。 China's naval capabilities have reached a new milestone in naval modernisation with the commissioning of its third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which is the first carrier to be designed and built entirely within China.  The vessel is equipped with the advanced Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), marking a major technological leap over the traditional steam catapult and ski-jump ramp configurations seen on earlier carriers, enabling more efficient and frequent aircraft launches. President Xi Jinping personally attended the commissioning ceremony in Hainan province, underscoring the vessel's strategic importance.  The commissioning of this advanced carrier raises important questions about its impact on the naval power dynamics between China and the US, as well as the broader security landscape surrounding the Taiwan Strait. In this episode of Global Heartbeat, host Han Yong Hong and Lianhe Zaobao’s China News Copy Editor Yu Zeyuan explores these pivotal developments.  Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

备受瞩目的中美元首峰会，上个星期四在韩国釜山举行。美国总统特朗普和中国国家主席习近平谈了100分钟，双方会后也同意在关税和出口管制等问题上达成部分妥协。 不过，备受关注的台湾问题这次并没有出现在会谈中。特朗普在会后对记者说，他和习近平“没谈到台湾”。在此之前，外界担心，中美会在这次元首峰会中完成一次“大交易”，特朗普会表示“反对台独”来换取中国在其他问题上的让步，但这个局面并没有发生。 习特釜山峰会到底有没有谈到台湾？没谈到台湾问题意味着什么？ 在台湾，最大在野党中国国民党新当选主席郑丽文过去几天正式就职。她接掌国民党，又会给台湾带来什么？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与淡江大学中国大陆研究所荣誉教授赵春山分析习特会为何不提台湾？ 延伸阅读： 韩咏红：中美走入“强强对决”阶段 胡锡进：郑丽文当选成为台湾政治生态新风向标  Following last Thursday’s summit in Busan, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping reached limited agreements on tariffs and export controls after a 100-minute meeting. Despite widespread speculation, the sensitive topic of Taiwan was not discussed. Pre-summit fears of a US “grand bargain” trading Taiwan interests for Chinese cooperation proved unfounded, providing relief to observers and Taiwan’s government. Afterwards, Trump told media that China would not take military action against Taiwan while he is president, but offered no details or formal assurances from Xi.  Meanwhile, Taiwan’s main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), recently welcomed new chairperson Cheng Li-wun, who has pledged to defend democracy, pursue cross-strait peace, and manage rising security challenges. In this episode of Global Heartbeat, host Han Yong Hong speaks with Chao Chun-shan, honorary professor of diplomacy at Tamkang University, about the summit’s silence on Taiwan and its implications for US-China relations and regional stability. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

从明年开始，中国将进入中共建国以来的第十五个五年经济社会规划阶段。中共中央委员会上个星期召开全体会议，除了确定开除多名高干的党籍外，也审议通过了《第十五个五年规划的建议》。 中国国家发改委主任郑栅洁在全会后的记者会上说，未来10年中国产业的新增规模，将相当于再造一个中国高技术产业。 然而，过去几年来，中国政府大力强调发展高科技产业，在新能源汽车、机器人等领域也交出了亮丽成绩，但是民众的经济体感依然不佳。 中国经济发展的道路上依然面对许多困难，新提出的“十五五”规划，为解决这个问题找到答案了吗？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与香颂资本董事沈萌讲解中共四中全会通过的十五五规划。 延伸阅读： 十五五规划强调经济建设与高质量发展 学者：更注重人民体感  陈婧：中国经济走出疫情冲击了吗？ Starting in 2026, China will embark on its 15th five-year economic and social plan, a critical blueprint recently adopted by the Communist Party's Central Committee at its Fourth Plenary Session. This marks another significant milestone in the country's development trajectory since the founding of the People's Republic of China. Emphasising high-quality growth and the establishment of modern industrial clusters, the plan seeks to propel China into a new era of technological innovation.  Despite the government's successful forays into high-tech sectors such as new energy vehicles and robotics, public sentiment regarding the economy remains cautious. The recent Fourth Plenum focused on reviewing achievements under the current plan and setting priorities for the years ahead.  In this episode of Global Heartbeat, host Han Yonghong speaks with Shen Meng, Director of Xiangsong Capital, to discuss whether the 15th Five-Year Plan can address China's persistent economic challenges.​ Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

台湾民进党籍立法委员王世坚在台北议会质询时的片段，被中国大陆音乐人王搏改编成洗脑神曲。王搏创作的慷慨激昂原版，迅速在两岸网络走红，各地华语音乐人也纷纷接力演绎，衍生出各种版本，包括抒情版、陕西话版和粤语版。 王世坚本人对自己意外在中国大陆爆红感到不可置信。他感叹，网上人才、鬼才什么都有，让他叹为观止。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与《联合早报》中国新闻资深高级记者于泽远探讨这首《没出息》到底有什么魔力？为什么能在全中国大陆的网民中广泛传播？它是否透露了北京反独促统的哪些新思路？ 延伸阅读： 新闻人间：“反共人士”王世坚 意外走红大陆 反续推大罢免遭党内炮轰 绿委王世坚称不会退党 The “Mei Chu Xi” (沒出息, “No Future”) meme went viral in Mainland China after a clip featuring Taiwanese Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Wang Shih-chien was remixed into a catchy song by mainland Chinese musician Wang Bo. Stemming from a fiery parliamentary exchange in Taipei, the track’s humorous tone and emotional resonance have inspired countless adaptations across dialects and social media platforms. While Wang expressed surprise at his sudden mainland fame, the phenomenon prompts deeper questions: does its popularity merely reflect internet culture, or could it signal subtle political messaging or collective frustration within China?​ In this Global Heartbeat episode, host Han Yonghong and Lianhe Zaobao’s China News Copy Editor Yu Zeyuan examine the reasons behind the song's widespread appeal and discuss whether the trend is a harmless meme or part of broader cross-strait political currents. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

日本执政的自由民主党上星期六举行总裁选举，64岁的前经济安保部长高市早苗当选，成为自民党首位女总裁。外界预计，她也将成为日本历史上首位女首相。 高市早苗在当选后表示，为了国家利益，自民党必须“像牛马一样工作”，她本人也将摒弃“工作与生活平衡”这一概念，“工作、工作、再工作”。 从政前，高市早苗曾担任电视节目主持人，并是重金属乐团的鼓手。她长期崇拜英国前首相撒切尔夫人。部分舆论称她为“日本版铁娘子”，但也有批评者认为她是“日本版特朗普”或“女版安倍”。 高市早苗政治立场鲜明，主张大力打击外国人非法居留，限制外国人购买日本土地，并推动修宪，让日本能够正式拥有国家军队。她延续已故前首相安倍晋三的外交立场，强调“台湾有事就是日本有事”。 她也曾公开表示，日本民众对中国“感到愤怒”，自己“也一样”，认为日本人“已经受够了”。因此，高市早苗被视为日本极右翼政治势力的代表人物。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与东京大学综合文化研究科教授川岛真解析高市的当选，会给东北亚局势带来什么冲击？摆在她面前的，又有哪些重大挑战？ 延伸阅读： 于泽远：中日关系将遭遇高市早苗冲击？ 林泉忠：高市早苗外交之路铺满荆棘 In a landmark moment for Japanese politics, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has elected Sanae Takaichi as its first female leader, positioning her to become Japan’s first female prime minister. The 64‑year‑old former Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications is a staunch conservative, noted for her nationalist views and uncompromising work ethic.  Takaichi, formerly a television host and heavy‑metal drummer, has cultivated a distinctive public persona. Her policy platform calls for stricter immigration controls, tighter restrictions on foreign land purchases, and constitutional amendments to formalise a national military. Closely aligned with the security positions of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, she is especially vocal on Taiwan‑China tensions and is often referred to as Japan’s “Iron Lady” for her admiration of Margaret Thatcher. In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong and Dr. Shin Kawashima, Professor of International Relations at the University of Tokyo, examine Takaichi’s ascent, Japan’s rightward political shift, and the potential regional consequences. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

大名鼎鼎的中国教育网红张雪峰被封杀了。 张雪峰专门提供考研辅导以及高考填报志愿指导，以“寒门指路人”的形象收获了大量粉丝。但他也因为言辞激烈而不时引发争议。 在今年北京的九三阅兵后不久，张雪峰在直播中放言，只要北京武力攻打台湾，他最起码会捐款1亿元人民币；枪声打响的那一天，他就至少会捐5000万元人民币。 然而，这次他可真是踢到铁板了。中国网信办不久后宣布，开展为期两个月的“清朗·整治恶意挑动负面情绪问题”专项行动。张雪峰以及大量网络账号，比如主张颓废生活的躺平博主“十年网吧大神”、“刘二狗”、“小A在上网”等等，都成了专项行动的整治对象。 根据官方通报，挑动群体极端对立情绪、宣扬恐慌焦虑情绪、挑起网络暴力戾气、过度渲染消极悲观情绪等内容，都在整治范围之内。中国官方自2016年以来就陆续开展“清朗”专项行动，目标是净化网络空间。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与旅居台湾的时事评论人徐全解析这一轮又一轮的“清朗”行动，反映了什么问题？今年官方要用专项行动来整治社会情绪，它最终又会达到什么效果？ 延伸阅读： 下午察：被清朗的户晨风和张雪峰 中国多名“躺平”博主被封 整治颓废内容再升级 In a dramatic development, Zhang Xuefeng, one of China’s most prominent education influencers, has been removed from major platforms as part of a government crackdown on online negativity. Renowned for his advice on postgraduate entrance exams and college application counselling, Zhang built a huge following, particularly among students from disadvantaged backgrounds. His outspoken commentary often sparked controversy, and a recent livestream pledge to donate millions if Beijing resorts to force against Taiwan brought heightened scrutiny. Within days, the Cyberspace Administration of China launched a special “Qinglang” (“Clear and Bright”) campaign, aimed at purging content that incites negative emotions and societal anxiety. Influencers and online personalities now face investigation and removal for allegedly promoting pessimism, antagonism, or social unrest. This ongoing campaign, active since 2016, reflects Beijing’s persistent drive to reshape digital discourse and maintain a positive online atmosphere. In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong and Taiwan-based commentator Xu Quan unpack the social and political implications of China’s latest round of internet censorship and emotion management. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

延宕了五年多的TikTok在美国运营的争议终于接近有了结果。 上周五，美国总统特朗普和中国国家主席习近平进行了通话，双方就TikTok出售其在美国的业务达成了框架协议。白宫发言人莱维特（Karoline Leavitt）在周六接受媒体采访时表示，TikTok将主要由美国人拥有，七名董事会成员中将有六名是美国人，TikTok的算法也将由美国人掌握。 中国企业字节跳动旗下的短视频平台TikTok在美国拥有庞大的用户群，使用人数以亿计。自 2020 年左右开始，美国政府开始担忧TikTok会收集大量美国用户数据，影响美国青少年思想，对国家安全构成威胁。从特朗普第一任政府到拜登政府，再到如今的第二任特朗普政府，美国始终要求字节跳动剥离TikTok美国业务。 中国则谴责美国对TikTok的限制是“强盗逻辑”，是“明火执仗的抢劫”。 而今，中美就TikTok出售问题达成了框架协议。出售TikTok如何从“抢劫”变成双赢？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与新加坡优势研究咨询公司创始人兼CEO张帆一起分析中美达成协议的这个时间点，背后有什么玄机？ 延伸阅读： 分析：TikTok交易是中美妥协结果 但短期内恐难达成经贸协议 分析：中国或授权解决TikTok算法争议 The long-running dispute over TikTok's operations in the United States appears close to a breakthrough, as the US and China recently announced progress on a proposed framework agreement following a phone call between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping. Under the current terms, TikTok's US operations would be majority-owned by American investors, with six of the seven board seats held by Americans, ensuring U.S. control over the platform’s algorithm and data governance. ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, would retain one board seat and a minority stake, in alignment with provisions of the 2024 US law requiring divestment of foreign control. Though both Trump and Xi have endorsed the deal’s framework, official confirmation and implementation are still pending. In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong and guest Tim Zhang, Founder & CEO of Edge Research Consulting, explore the significance of this proposed deal. They discuss the timing, underlying political motivations, and the broader geopolitical implications for US-China relations, examining whether this development signals a move toward greater cooperation or sets the stage for renewed conflict. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

经过了两天的磋商，美国财长斯科特·贝森特与中国副总理何立峰就 TikTok 在美国运营的问题达成了框架式协议。 自从特朗普再次上任以来，中美关系持续紧张，但是两个大国近期也密集互动。继国防部长视讯、外长通话后，美国总统特朗普与中国国家主席习近平很可能不久后也会见面。 一些台湾评论员担忧，在来临的中美元首峰会中，台湾将成为一道主菜，成为交易的筹码。这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与美国大西洋理事会非常驻研究员宋文笛谈特朗普上台这半年，台美关系发生了什么变化？ 延伸阅读： 【视频】习近平特朗普周五通话 中美就TikTok在美运营达成框架协议 特稿：陆美进入谈判交易期 台湾恐成特朗普禁脔 Diplomatic fault lines and high-stakes negotiations are reshaping US-China-Taiwan relations under President Trump’s renewed term. After two days of intense talks in Madrid, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng announced a framework agreement that could lead to US-controlled ownership of TikTok, marking a major moment in the ongoing tech and security contest. While Washington and Beijing continue diplomatic exchanges—from defense to foreign affairs—there is growing momentum for a potential Trump-Xi summit later this year.  Meanwhile, Taiwan faces increasing anxiety. Local commentators warn the island risks becoming a bargaining chip in upcoming US-China deals. What new risks does Trump’s approach pose for Taiwan’s leadership? What’s next for cross-Strait security? In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, Han Yonghong welcomes Wen-Ti Sung, nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Global China Hub, for expert analysis.  Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

在被羁押一年后，台湾在野党民众党前主席柯文哲，星期一上午以新台币7000万元交保回家。 柯文哲是台湾“白色力量”的领军人物，他在2024年参选总统落败，不久后被指卷入京华城土地弊案，遭起诉图利、收贿、公益侵占及背信等罪名，包括收取威京集团主席沈庆京约新台币1700万元贿款，并与李文宗、李文娟兄妹共同侵占政治献金约新台币6200万元。 不过，台湾检调调查一年，仍未查出金流。如今，柯文哲获准交保回家。台北地检署则表示，将尽速提起抗告。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与新加坡国立大学东亚研究所高级研究员祁冬涛解析柯文哲这次的回归，是“满血复活”，还是踏入更凶险的漩涡？他真的是被冤枉的吗？而他的再度登场，会否为“蓝白合”投下重大变数？ 延伸阅读： 祁冬涛：大罢免失败后的台湾 民众党将出现两个太阳？ 游盈隆：想多了 Former Taipei Mayor and ex-chairman of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), Ko Wen-je, was released on NT$70 million bail after spending a year in detention on corruption charges. Ko, known for leading the “white force” political movement, finished third in the January 2024 presidential election. He was indicted in December on multiple counts, including allegedly accepting NT$17.1 million in bribes during a property redevelopment case and misappropriating political contributions linked to his campaign. Prosecutors plan to appeal the court’s decision to release him. In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong and Qi Dongtao, Senior Research Fellow at the East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore, analyse these developments and discuss their implications for Taiwan’s opposition politics. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

印度尼西亚首都雅加达上星期爆发激烈的示威与暴乱。事件的直接导火索是民众不满国会为议员提供5000万印尼盾（约3950新加坡元）的住房津贴。 愤怒的民众走上街头抗议，要求政府提高最低工资标准、降低税收等一系列诉求。警方发射催泪弹和高压水枪驱散示威者。印尼财政部长慕燕妮和数名议员的住所也被示威者闯入抢劫。 截至目前，印尼暴动已造成至少八人死亡。印尼过去三年的经济增长都在5%左右，表现亮眼。去年就职的总统普拉博沃还许下豪言壮志，要将经济增长提高到8%，让印尼成为吸引外资的热土。 这个前景光明、看来欣欣向荣的国家为何会突然爆发示威？ 这场暴动又会如何影响印尼总统普拉博沃的形象、统治地位以及印尼的经济发展？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与《联合早报》驻雅加达特派员蓝云舟一起探讨。 延伸阅读： 社论：印尼会否再陷动荡旋涡？ 印尼暴乱再升级 普拉博沃让步 愿取消多项议员津贴 Last week, Indonesia was rocked by large-scale protests after the parliament moved to increase lawmakers’ housing allowances, stoking anger in a nation grappling with rising costs of living and economic hardship. Demonstrators, including students, labor unions, and motorcycle taxi drivers, rallied in Jakarta and cities nationwide, demanding fairer wages, lower taxes, and institutional reforms. Tensions soared when 21-year-old delivery driver Affan Kurniawan was tragically killed by a police armored vehicle during a crowd dispersal in Jakarta, intensifying the unrest. Subsequent demonstrations saw government buildings and homes of parliament members torched, widespread clashes with police, and multiple fatalities reported as security forces deployed tear gas and water cannons. In response to the escalating outcry, President Prabowo Subianto announced the reversal of the perk increases and postponed an official trip abroad to address the crisis. The protests have since called attention not only to lawmakers’ privileges, but also deeper frustrations over economic inequality, unemployment, and police accountability. In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong discusses these events with Nam Yunzhou, Lianhe Zaobao’s Indonesia correspondent. Together, they explore how the protests unfolded, the underlying causes of Indonesia’s unrest, and what it may mean for the country’s future stability. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

中国纪念抗日战争胜利80周年大会，上周日在北京天安门广场举行第三次、也是最后一次综合演练，标志着一切准备就绪，待9月3日正式登场。 中国国防部官员表示，“九三阅兵”将坚持实战标准，把阅兵准备视为练兵机会，并展示解放军的最新装备，其中包括多款“国之重器”。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与《联合早报》中国新闻资深高级记者于泽远解析这次阅兵有哪些亮点？为什么连军迷都自嘲成了“军盲”？在当前国际地缘政治激烈竞争中，中国高调阅兵，将对外释放怎样的信号？ 延伸阅读： 九三阅兵首次亮相新型武器装备占比大 包括高超精打装备 【视频】中国九三阅兵倒数两周 军方称首次亮相新型装备占比很大 This September 3, China will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second Sino-Japanese War with a grand military parade in Tiananmen Square. Beyond honouring the country’s wartime sacrifices, the parade is expected to reveal some of the latest advances in Chinese defense technology. The event has generated buzz both domestically and internationally. Defense watchers are eager to see what new systems might appear on display, while some Chinese military enthusiasts even joke about being “military blind ”— overwhelmed by the sheer volume of cutting-edge equipment expected to debut. But the parade is about more than military spectacle. At a time of shifting global politics, it also serves as a window into how China perceives its role on the world stage. In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong speaks with Yu Zeyuan, China News Copy Editor at Lianhe Zaobao, to examine the significance of the September 3 parade and its broader geopolitical implications. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

在举世瞩目的美国、乌克兰与欧洲领导人多边会议于美国时间星期一下午在白宫举行。 乌克兰总统泽连斯基形容，他与美国总统特朗普进行了良好的交流，双方也谈到乌克兰的安全保障问题。 与今年2月相比，此次特朗普与泽连斯基的会谈气氛截然不同，现场氛围明显轻松。甚至有记者称赞泽连斯基当天所穿的西装“非常出色”。 特朗普在会后宣布，他已安排美国、乌克兰与俄罗斯举行三方峰会。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与华东师范大学俄罗斯研究中心副主任张昕深入解析俄乌战争是否终于要迎来和平曙光？ 延伸阅读： 杨瀚森：俄乌战争：骑虎难下与一团乱麻 高建生：双普“试探性会晤”试探出了什么？ This week, global attention turned to Washington D.C. as US President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Monday. The meeting, held with the involvement of key European stakeholders, marked a significant moment within ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Unlike previous tense encounters, the latest talks between Trump and Zelensky unfolded in a more relaxed and cordial atmosphere. Following their discussions, President Trump publicly proposed a trilateral summit involving the United States, Ukraine, and Russia, sparking fresh hopes and international speculation about possible avenues toward resolving a war that has lasted more than three years. In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong invites Associate Professor Zhang Xin, Deputy Director of the Centre for Russian Studies at East China Normal University to provide expert analysis on the significance of this diplomatic move and its potential implications for global security. Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

美国总统特朗普上周猛烈加大对印度的关税打压力度，宣布对印度产品加征关税，从25%提高到50%，理由是印度“以直接或间接方式进口俄罗斯石油”。特朗普还在社交媒体上形容，俄罗斯和印度的经济都已经“死亡”。 分析人士原本预期，特朗普在第二任期内会拉拢印度来制衡中国的崛起。今年2月，印度总理莫迪才刚访问白宫，并宣布将与美国携手合作，让印度再次伟大。 如今两人形同翻脸，印度出现反美情绪，民间呼吁抵制麦当劳、可口可乐、苹果等美国跨国公司。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与复旦大学国际问题研究院副院长、南亚研究中心副主任林民旺详细解析美印关系的紧张，将如何影响印度的经济发展以及莫迪的政治地位？美印交恶又是否会成为中国的一次机遇？ 延伸阅读： 印度调整对华战略为对冲美国压力 龙象难共舞 分析：特朗普以关税为外交工具 料难有成效 In a dramatic turn of events, US–India relations have plunged to their lowest point under President Donald Trump, after he doubled tariffs on selected Indian exports from 25% to 50% in direct response to India’s continued imports of Russian oil. This move, coupled with Trump's reported remarks dismissing the economies of both Russia and India as “dead”, signals a sharp reversal from the diplomatic warmth of earlier this year. Only months ago, in February 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the White House. At the time, analysts widely anticipated that Trump’s second term would bring deeper strategic cooperation, especially as part of a joint effort to counter China’s growing influence in Asia. That optimism has since evaporated. Now, the two leaders appear politically at odds, and a surge of anti-American sentiment is sweeping across India, spurred by public calls to boycott major US brands such as McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and Apple. This deterioration of ties raises pressing questions: What will be the economic repercussions for India? How might the tensions affect Mr Modi’s political standing? And could this rift between two major powers present a strategic opportunity for China? Join us on Global Heartbeat podcast as host Han Yonghong examines these issues with Professor Lin Minwang, Deputy Director of the Centre for South Asian Studies and Vice Dean at the Institute of International Studies, Fudan University. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

在马来西亚首相、亚细安轮值主席国主席安华的斡旋下，持续了五天的泰国与柬埔寨边境武装冲突终于告一段落。 这场短暂却强烈的军事行动造成了至少35人死亡，30万人流离失所。千年古寺柏威夏寺再次成为泰柬两国领土争议的焦点。 安华在宣布泰国与柬埔寨同意无条件立即停火时，特别提到美国总统特朗普和中国发挥的作用。 泰柬这次为何会突然发生军事冲突？它背后是领土争议还是家族恩怨？ 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与新加坡国际事务学会高级研究员、马来西亚太平洋研究中心首席顾问胡逸山为你解析。 延伸阅读： 学者：亚细安轮值主席国积极介入斡旋显影响力 王庆民：泰柬战火是东南亚局势不祥之兆？ After five days of fighting at the Thailand–Cambodia border, centred around the historic Preah Vihear Temple, the two countries have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. This short but intense conflict resulted in more than 40 deaths and the displacement of over 300,000 people, underscoring the volatility of this long-running territorial dispute The breakthrough came in Malaysia, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, acting as ASEAN Chair, serving as mediator. Both U.S. President Donald Trump and China played significant supporting roles. Trump’s diplomatic intervention—linking U.S. trade negotiations to a halt in hostilities—was described by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet as “decisive mediation.” Hun Manet also thanked both Anwar and China for their constructive roles.  This external engagement by major powers adds a complex layer to regional dynamics and raises important questions. Does the ceasefire signal ASEAN’s growing capacity to manage intra-regional conflicts, or does it highlight the mounting influence of global powers in Southeast Asian disputes? In this episode of the Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong speaks with Dr. Oh Ei Sun, Senior Fellow at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs and Principal Adviser at the Pacific Research Centre of Malaysia. Together, they unpack the roots and ramifications of the latest Thailand–Cambodia confrontation, illuminating ASEAN’s role and what the renewed interventions by the U.S. and China mean for the future of regional diplomacy. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

去年2月，中国娃哈哈集团创始人宗庆后逝世。有评论形容，宗庆后是中国改革开放后第一代白手起家的民营企业家，他的离世被视为一个时代的落幕。 民众深切悼念这位爱国的企业家、“平民首富”，并引发一场针对另一个矿泉水品牌农夫山泉的抵制舆论。 没想到，时隔十七个月，宗庆后近日被曝有六名拥有美国国籍的私生子女。宗庆后的长女宗馥莉与几位私生弟妹的豪门家产争夺战拉开序幕，相关风波也迅速升级为涉及中国国有资产流失的舆论疑云。目前，杭州市上城区财政局已成立专项工作专班介入。 这期的早报播客《东谈西论》，听主持人韩咏红与《联合早报》中国新闻资深高级记者于泽远一起解析宗家家产纷争，以及官方在应对家族遗产纠纷和国有资产流失争议时所面临的两难处境。 延伸阅读： 于泽远：娃哈哈凶多吉少了？ 下午察：宗馥莉掌舵下的娃哈哈怎么了？ The passing of Zong Qinghou, founder of China's Wahaha Group, in February 2024, marked the end of an era. Hailed as a patriotic, self-made entrepreneur and "commoner billionaire," his death prompted widespread media coverage and reflection on his legacy. In the aftermath, there was even talk among some netizens about supporting Wahaha over rival brand Nongfu Spring. But just over a year later, a new revelation shocked the public: three individuals living overseas, allegedly Zong's illegitimate children and reportedly holding US citizenship, came forward to contest his multi-billion dollar estate. Their emergence set off a fierce legal battle with Wahaha’s official heir, his only acknowledged child, daughter Zong Fuli. While some reports have speculated that Zong may have fathered as many as six illegitimate children, only three have initiated actual legal claims. This struggle quickly grew beyond a family feud. Questions surfaced about whether parts of Zong Qinghou’s fortune, given Wahaha’s roots as a collective enterprise, should in fact belong to the state. The case has reignited national debate about the complicated legacy of China’s economic reforms, collective enterprises, and the often-blurred line between public and private wealth. In response, local authorities in Hangzhou have stepped in to investigate amid growing public scrutiny.  Where will this high-stakes saga lead? And what does it reveal about the challenges facing China’s private enterprises and the difficulties of inheritance and reform-era ownership? In this episode of Global Heartbeat podcast, host Han Yonghong and Lianhe Zaobao's China news copy editor Yu Zeyuan unravel the Wahaha inheritance battle and the complex questions it raises about wealth, ownership, and reform in contemporary China. Hosted by Lianhe Zaobao’s Associate Editor, Han Yong Hong, Global Heartbeat is a Mandarin weekly news and current affairs podcast that is updated every Tuesday, 7.00 PM SGT. It is available on zaobao.sg, Apple Podcast, Spotify and other podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.