Panama: locals threatened by new dam proposal
23 May 2025
Hundreds of residents in Panama’s Indio River region are opposing a proposed dam project that threatens to flood their homes. The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) plans to build a 4,600-hectare reservoir to supply water to the drought-affected canal, a key passage for 6% of global maritime trade. The $1.6 billion project, slated for completion by 2032, aims to stabilise water levels amid declining rainfall. While ACP pledges $400 million for compensating and relocating roughly 2,500 residents, groups warn that up to 12,000 people may be affected. Many villagers, dependent on farming and fishing, feel their livelihoods are being sacrificed for international shipping interests. Recent protests on the river reflect deep opposition, despite ACP’s commitment to dialogue. President Jose Raul Mulino supports the initiative, which has also stirred geopolitical tensions.
A controversial proposal to name former Indonesian president Soeharto a national hero has sparked widespread international condemnation. Over thirty civic groups issued a joint statement warning that such an honour would whitewash Soeharto’s 32-year authoritarian rule, marked by systemic corruption and grave human rights abuses. The groups cited atrocities during the 1965–66 anti-communist purges, in which up to three million were killed, and the 1997–98 disappearances of pro-democracy activists, as well as Soeharto’s alleged embezzlement of $35 billion. They also referenced a 2016 tribunal in The Hague, which concluded that the Indonesian military played a central role in mass killings under his command. The nomination, currently under review, was reportedly put out by Central Java’s governor, who later denied involvement. The civic leaders have urged the government to reject the nomination and instead address unresolved human rights violations and entrenched corruption linked to Soeharto - who is the father-in-law of current president Prabowo Subianto. This is not the first proposal to nominate him as a national hero; similar attempts took place in 2010 and 2015.
In Malaysia, invasive fish species like the suckermouth catfish are threatening the nation’s rivers and native aquatic life. Originally introduced for aquariums, the hardy suckermouth has proliferated in polluted rivers, outcompeting local species, spreading disease, and causing environmental damage such as riverbank erosion. The Klang Valley, along with many other waterways, is now overrun by these aggressive invaders. Alarmed, Mohamad Haziq founded a volunteer group during the Covid lockdowns to combat the ecological threat. Dubbed Malaysia’s ‘foreign fish hunter squad’, the group now boasts over 1,000 members and meets weekly to catch and remove invasive fish. While suckermouths are largely considered undesirable, their eggs are used for bait, and researchers are exploring potential uses for the fish - including biochar, leather, fertiliser, and pharmaceutical collagen. Despite acknowledging the fight may never be fully won, the group remains committed to raising awareness and protecting Malaysia’s fragile river ecosystems, one net at a time.
Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The diagnosis followed recent urinary symptoms and revealed a high-grade, aggressive form of the disease. However, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, meaning it may respond well to treatment. Biden and his family are currently considering treatment options. The news has drawn sympathy from across the political spectrum. Donald Trump expressed support for Biden and his family, wishing him a swift recovery. Other political figures voiced their prayers and confidence in Biden’s resilience. Biden, who stepped down from the 2024 presidential race due to health concerns, has maintained a low public profile since leaving office, though he has given occasional speeches and interviews. A long-time advocate for cancer research, he relaunched the Cancer Moonshot initiative in 2022. His son Beau died of brain cancer in 2015.
Two Israeli embassy staff members, Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were shot dead outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington DC. The couple, described as being 'in the prime of their lives', were leaving an event when they were attacked. A suspect, Elias Rodriguez, 30, was apprehended at the scene and reportedly shouted 'free Palestine' while being detained. Authorities are investigating potential links to terrorism and antisemitism. The killings have shocked both US and Israeli communities, and are being condemned as a brutal act of antisemitic violence. Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to increase security at diplomatic missions worldwide, while the foreign minister called the attack 'a direct result of toxic, antisemitic incitement’. The incident comes amid intensifying scrutiny of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has triggered widespread global criticism and deepening humanitarian concern.
Two thousand Iranians turning to Jesus every day
15 May 2025
Over two thousand Iranians are reportedly turning to Christ each day, according to the Bible Society. Despite the severe risks in a nation where leaving Islam can carry a death sentence, underground Christianity is flourishing. One 92-year-old woman evangelises on public transport by inviting strangers to help her read the gospels: many end up taking home a New Testament. This quiet revival is not only drawing Iranians to Jesus, the Jewish Messiah, but also transforming their attitudes toward Israel and the Jewish people, long depicted as enemies by Iran’s regime. Formerly steeped in antisemitism, many new believers now intercede for Israel, praying for peace between the two nations. Amid growing persecution, the gospel is advancing, fulfilling prophetic scripture and reshaping hearts even within regions historically opposed to God’s people. This movement coincides with increased Christian engagement among British youth and raises hope amid cultural hostility. The spiritual battle is intensifying - but so too is the light of Christ in dark places.
‘I should be dead’: actor’s miracle survival
15 May 2025
Christian actor Jesse Hutch has shared his remarkable survival story after nearly drowning during a whitewater rafting accident. While working as a guide in his college years, Hutch was pulled underwater into a powerful current known as the 'green room’. Trapped and unable to surface, he eventually blacked out after water filled his lungs. He was under water between 11 and 22 minutes, so by medical standards he should have died. Yet, miraculously, he survived with no major damage. Hutch describes the moment of surrender as filled with divine peace, saying, 'I completely surrendered … and it was the most peace I ever felt.' This life-altering experience deepened his walk with God, instilling a lasting lesson: he is not in control—God is. Following the incident, Hutch felt an unexpected call into the acting world, a path he had never pursued but now sees as part of God’s purpose. His testimony is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and grace, even in moments when all seems lost.
‘I have no fear’, says singer with cancer
15 May 2025
Brad Arnold, lead singer of the rock band 3 Doors Down, has publicly revealed his battle with stage-four clear cell renal carcinoma, a cancer that has metastasised to his lungs. Despite the grave diagnosis, Arnold’s response is one of unshaken faith and peace. In a heartfelt video message, he declared, 'We serve a mighty God and He can overcome anything... I have no fear.' He has cancelled his summer tour to begin treatment and humbly asked fans for prayer. Arnold has used his platform to share the Gospel boldly in concert settings, often reminding audiences that the messages of worthlessness perpetuated by society are lies. 'You are enough… because Jesus Christ loves you’, he told fans during a recent show. His testimony continues to inspire many, and his story is a compelling call to pray, believe, and speak hope in life’s darkest trials.