The pontiff was among the few voices in the world to constantly remember this Southeast Asian country torn apart by a war that has now lasted for more than four years. In 2017, at a time of great political and economic openness, Francis visited Myanmar, bringing hope to believers of all religions. A memorial Mass was held for him in Yangon cathedral yesterday.
From Jakarta, moderate Islamic movements and political leaders express their sadness for the death of the pontiff, a man of great stature for the faithful of other religions as well. Signing the document on Fraternity with Grand Imam of al-Azhar was a high point. For the bishops of Indonesia, which he visited last September, the pope’s values of love, solidarity, and partiality for the marginalised are “timeless”.
According to a new report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, criminal gangs linked to Southeast Asia's online scam centres are expanding their activities into Africa, Latin America, and other vulnerable regions thanks to technological developments. The business – described as a “cancer” by experts – generates almost US$ 40 billion a year in profits. Online platforms that are only accessible privately and gambling sites are at the heart of this illegal ecosystem.
Three weeks after an earthquake devastated Mandalay and central Myanmar, the Church remains close to the faithful and the victims, offering material and spiritual support. While many churches remain unusable, Holy Week is being celebrated in camps for displaced people and in parish halls. Maximilian, a Caritas volunteer, says that despite the destruction and the pain, people support each other in a true experience of rebirth.
In Malaysia, the "journey of the Cross" has begun, set to end next year at the Pastoral Convention. In Negombo, young people and children put on a play centred on the Lamentations with local traditions and customs. Tens of thousands take part in a pilgrimage in Zamboanga to remember the sufferings of Jesus. In Labuan Bajo, the bishop brought the Way of the Cross among inmates.
According to the 2025 Global Happiness Index, happiness and satisfaction vary greatly among Asian countries. In India, 88 per cent say they are happy, while only 60 per cent say the same in Japan. In Southeast Asia, too, happiness and positive attitude towards the future are higher than in the more advanced economies of East Asia. Economic difficulties remain the first cause of unhappiness everywhere.
