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British filmmaker and educator Dr. Paul D.J. Moody, whose career spans over four decades in film, TV, documentaries, and commercials, has relocated from the U.K. to Vietnam to nurture young creative talent. Having worked on projects showcased at Cannes, Berlin, and Rotterdam, and taught at leading institutions worldwide, he became Head of the School of Communications and Creative Industries at British University Vietnam (BUV) in 2024.

Dr. Moody has updated BUV's programs to align with industry needs, introducing animation and creating a new Film and Media Production program inspired by top U.K. arts education models. His teaching approach combines practical industry experience, critical thinking, and real-world case studies, with faculty recruited from multiple countries.

He emphasizes storytelling rooted in humanity, balancing artistic integrity with commercial viability. While recognizing AI and virtual production as important filmmaking tools, he warns against over-reliance on them. He encourages students to write and produce their own films, retaining intellectual property.

Impressed by BUV students' dedication, Dr. Moody believes they will graduate as industry-ready professionals with strong ethics, ready to contribute to Vietnam's growing presence in global creative industries.

Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports will compensate each of the two Malaysian tourists set on fire outside a busy Bangkok shopping mall with up to 550,000 baht (US$17,000). This includes up to 500,000 baht for medical costs and 50,000 baht for emotional distress.

The victims — 26-year-old Ong Yik Leong and 27-year-old Gan Xiao Zhen — have shown significant improvement, with the female victim now able to communicate through writing. Although their families want them transferred to Malaysia, doctors have advised continuing treatment in Thailand for now.

The attack happened on Aug. 7 when a man poured paint thinner over them and set them alight. Witnesses helped stop the assault and detained the suspect, who had recently lost his job as a security guard and was reportedly under stress. He is now in police custody.

A Milieu Insight survey of 6,000 travelers from six Southeast Asian countries found Singaporeans the most reluctant to visit the U.S., with 55% reporting decreased interest in 2025. Key concerns include personal safety, discrimination, Trump-era policies, gun violence, and immigration detentions.

Singapore's low crime rate raises citizens' safety expectations, making U.S. gun violence and mass shootings particularly off-putting. Reports of increased anti-Asian discrimination, especially after Donald Trump's 2024 election win, have further discouraged travel.

While cost and visa requirements are less of a concern—Singaporeans have the world's most powerful passport and visa-free U.S. entry via the Visa Waiver Program—some still fear being detained at immigration.

Singapore was named Southeast Asia's safest country in 2025, which may heighten hesitancy toward destinations perceived as risky.

Han, a resident of Zhongshan City, Guangdong, unknowingly paid his landlord's electricity bills for nine years due to illegal wiring connected to his meter. Suspicious of high charges—hundreds to over 1,000 yuan monthly—Han tested his system on July 17 by turning off all devices, yet the meter kept running. An electrician confirmed the landlord had tapped into Han's meter.

Han, who rented the apartment for 700 yuan/month since 2016, replaced air conditioners three times but saw no reduction in costs. Even when away for Lunar New Year, bills were 200–300 yuan. His mother's brain tumor and his modest income made the financial burden severe.

When confronted, the landlord denied wrongdoing but removed the wiring after seeing the electrician's findings, which Han recorded. Police involvement led to the landlord agreeing to pay 15,000 yuan—150 yuan per month—far less than Han's estimated 30,000–40,000 yuan loss.

Han, now moved out, is considering legal action and shared his story to warn other tenants.

Matcha, rich in antioxidants and caffeine, can boost metabolism and energy, but isn't suitable for everyone. Nutritionist Do Thi Lan advises certain groups to consult a doctor before regular consumption:

• Heart disease: High caffeine may raise heart rate, trigger palpitations, or spike blood pressure in those with hypertension, arrhythmia artery disease.

• Anxiety & insomnia: Caffeine can worsen symptoms; avoid matcha in the evening or entirely if sensitive.

• Blood thinners: Matcha's vitamin K can reduce effectiveness of anticoagulants like warfarin, raising clot risk. Keep vitamin K intake consistent and seek medical advice.

• Pregnant/breastfeeding women: Excess caffeine (>300 mg/day) may increase risks of miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight. Matcha also contains catechins that may reduce folic acid absorption—important during pregnancy.

• Digestive issues & ulcers: Caffeine stimulates stomach acid, potentially worsening gastritis, reflux, or IBS. Tannins may hinder plant-based iron absorption; avoid on an empty stomach.

• Children: Not recommended for under 12 due to nervous system sensitivity. Over 12 should limit caffeine to 85–100 mg/day.

One cup of matcha has ~60–80 mg of caffeine, depending on preparation. While generally safe for healthy adults in moderation, vulnerable groups should approach matcha cautiously to avoid adverse effects.