Humanoids starred in China's most-watched TV show, bringing New Year's traditions into the digital world, thus showcasing the country’s technological advances. Billions-dollar investments and competition among digital giants are bringing the prospect of robots in factories and offices that much closer.

Over the years, Japan has built a figure skating tradition capable of producing champions much loved at home. These successes are rooted in rigorous training and early selection. Since the 1990s, the Japan Skating Federation has built a national team that teaches athletes how to cope with pressure from a young age.

After five years, the landmark trial under the national security law ended. The founder of Apple Daily was charged with conspiracy and sedition. Chief Executive Lee praised the “severe” sentence that brings “relief to all”. Cardinal Zen was in the courtroom with Lay’s wife. Eight other defendants were also sentenced. Attention now turns to the trials of Chow Hang-tung, Lee Cheuk-yan, and Albert Ho.

With yesterday's landslide victory, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will be able to advance her electoral platform, potentially opening the door to constitutional reform. The prime minister has also proposed cutting consumption taxes and boosting the defence forces. Analysts believe that tensions with China in recent months had an impact on results.

In some counties, local residents are organising campaigns to apply to host new nuclear reactors in an attempt to cope with economic and demographic decline. In return, municipalities receive subsidies and funds for infrastructure development. However, some associations fear that the concentration of power plants will increase the risk of accidents.

Bangladesh inks an agreement with China to manufacture UAVs, with technology transfer and the development of military infrastructure. Although Dhaka stresses the technology’s civilian use, New Delhi views the agreement as a strengthening Chinese military presence in a neighbouring country.