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Asia Insight
Season 12
Episode 9

Trains Carry Workers Home After Zero-COVID: China

March 3, 2023

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Asia Insight - S12 - E9

After 3 years under the Zero-COVID Policy, movement restrictions in China have been removed, allowing migrant workers in major cities to travel home to visit their families. Train lines like the K-134 running from Shenzhen are now accessible, creating a rush of prospective passengers hoping to make it home in time for the Chinese New Year. Some have had their professions disrupted by the pandemic, while others have discovered new opportunities. All of them compete for a limited number of seats on the train, as we ride alongside the workers attempting the long trip home.

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Asia Insight: Season 12 - 33 Episode s

12x1 - Street Food as Social Rehabilitation: Thailand
January 6, 2023
The Thailand Institute of Justice is using street food carts as a form of social experiment that attempts to help former prisoners rehabilitate into society. In the program, they take a seminar on cooking and business, and are provided with a food cart and startup money. Support team leader Thanachai Sundaravej gets to know each of the participants, and gives them advice considering each of their unique circumstances. In this episode, we get to know the people who seek a new chance through street food.
12x2 - Bonding in the Barangay: The Philippines
January 13, 2023
In the Philippines, where natural disasters and poverty are a continuing issue, people depend on their barangays for help and assistance. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, carrying out various services, from health and welfare to disaster management. In Manila's Chinatown, community ties are especially close due to a history of persecution of people of Chinese descent under Spanish rule. We focus on one barangay's community bonding in the lead-up to Christmas.
12x3 - Reforming the National Sport of Muay Thai: Thailand
January 20, 2023
Thailand's Muay Thai boxing is a powerful martial art in which fighters strike with their arms and legs. Gambling on the sport has been common, leading to corruption such as fixed bouts. To regain trust in the sport, the Royal Thai Army forbade gambling in the most prominent stadium, which it operates. Promoters attempt to generate interest through means such as music performances and women's matches, but along with fighters, they grapple with the prospect of holding the yearly stadium anniversary show while keeping gambling out of the ring.
12x4 - Fishermen Face Land Development: Penang, Malaysia
January 27, 2023
The livelihoods of fishermen residing in Malaysia's Penang State are being placed at risk by a plan to construct enormous artificial islands with a total area of 1,800 hectares. Having worked in these waters for generations, the local fishermen are concerned about the intrusion into one of the country's most productive fishing sites for shrimp. Meanwhile, other fishermen work to preserve mangrove forests in the Penang area. In this episode, we voyage alongside the Malaysian fishermen who seek to continue living and working in harmony with the environment.
12x5 - Seniors! Back to School: Thailand
February 3, 2023
In just 20 years, Thailand's senior population has doubled in size. Many seniors find themselves isolated at home, while others suffer from stress, depression and other mental health issues. One new initiative is looking to prevent age-related issues and encourage social integration: Schools for seniors, aimed at those over sixty. Classes cover social media, fraud awareness and practical career training. Explore how "senior school" has given many isolated elderly people a new lease on life.
12x6 - "On That Day, We Were Fearless": China's White Paper Movement
February 10, 2023
Spurred by a series of deadly accidents during the zero-COVID policy, young people in China have begun to express their political objections with blank white paper, symbolizing the people's inability to criticize the government. The gesture spread across China, with protestors holding large gatherings speaking out against the government in over 20 cities nationwide. This episode shares the voices of young protestors who took part in the demonstration in Shanghai.
12x7 - House of Manga Aspirations: Japan
February 17, 2023
Japan is the home of manga. With over 140 manga magazines, it's produced countless international hits. A Tokyo NPO runs several share houses for young artists who hope to make a mark as manga creators. Those aged 18-35 who are seriously pursuing the profession may live in these homes. Some offer direct guidance from professionals and over 120 artists in these share houses have since made their professional debut. Meet the young people chasing their dreams over their three-year residence.
12x8 - Tokyo's Sustainable Fishermen
February 24, 2023
The waters of Tokyo Bay once teemed with life. But Japan's economic rise saw coastal areas reclaimed and water quality undermined, and catches soon plummeted. Today, fishermen are working hard to restore the region's environment and marine resources. Conger eel fishers use equipment that allow fry to escape, while others are farming oysters on tidal flats as an alternative to diminished seaweed and asari clam harvests. A group of 300 fishermen have imposed strict rules upon themselves in order to protect and grow the splendid alfonsino population. Meet the passionate people working to shape a more sustainable future.
12x9 - Trains Carry Workers Home After Zero-COVID: China
March 3, 2023
After 3 years under the Zero-COVID Policy, movement restrictions in China have been removed, allowing migrant workers in major cities to travel home to visit their families. Train lines like the K-134 running from Shenzhen are now accessible, creating a rush of prospective passengers hoping to make it home in time for the Chinese New Year. Some have had their professions disrupted by the pandemic, while others have discovered new opportunities. All of them compete for a limited number of seats on the train, as we ride alongside the workers attempting the long trip home.
12x10 - Taiwan's 100,000 Emergency Shelters
March 17, 2023
As political tensions run high between Taiwan and mainland China, inspections are being carried out of 100,000 emergency air-raid shelters, which have been mandatory in the construction of large buildings since 1971. Local leaders prepare the shelters and attempt to motivate citizens in the district to take part in evacuation drills, despite attitudes of complacency or aggression that have recently emerged. In this episode, we unearth the shelters that stand waiting to protect the residents of Taiwan.
12x11 - Youth Living in the Changing Hong Kong
March 31, 2023
Under the one country, two systems principle, Hong Kong had been allowed a right to free speech. But after protest rallies there called for democratization in 2019, the National Security Law was passed to clamp down on anti-government activities, and many activists were arrested and imprisoned. As the political face of Hong Kong changes with each passing day, young residents feel a sense of unease about whether they should remain in Hong Kong, and what the future there may bring.
12x12 - Pioneer of Food Waste Reduction: Taichung, Taiwan
April 21, 2023
One-third of all food produced worldwide is wasted. Determined to do better, Taichung City in Taiwan enacted an ordinance on food banks in 2016. Under this framework, municipal food banks collect food nearing expiration and donate it to those in need; refrigerators in public markets allow unused food to make it into the hands of social welfare organizations; and a facility producing bio-powered electricity for 800 households has also been built. At the same time, the private sector is expanding its activities to eliminate waste. We look at the Taichung City-led effort to reduce food waste.
12x13 - A Flood of Climate Migration: Bangladesh
May 12, 2023
Bangladesh is one of Asia's poorest countries and suffering some of the worst effects of climate change. Cyclones, floods and other disasters have led millions to lose their homes and become climate migrants. Those migrating to major cities such as Dhaka struggle to find work, while even rural towns are seeing their populations explode. Infrastructure is failing and local governments are struggling to find solutions. But new projects are seeking a way forward.
12x14 - The Struggle of Unwed Mothers: China
May 19, 2023
Under China's One-Child Policy, maternity benefits had been confined only to married couples, excluding mothers of children born out of wedlock. In recent years, major cities have revised this policy to combat population decline, prompting more people to apply for the benefits. However, as preexisting social discrimination against unwed mothers still remains, many face an uphill battle in actually attaining these rights that should be due to all women.
12x15 - Shaping Sustainable Cashmere: Mongolia
June 9, 2023
Mongolia's nomads are raising an increasing number of cashmere goats. The goats' soft undercoats provide the raw wool for luxury cashmere fabric, and is an important cash income. But this rise has also triggered serious environmental problems. Because goats pull grass out by the roots when grazing, nearly 80% of Mongolia's land is threatened by desertification. We follow the NPOs, companies and nomads working to restore the plains, and realize a higher standard of living.
12x16 - The Reality Faced by Nepal's Workers Overseas
June 16, 2023
Due to limited options available in their home country, many Nepali workers travel to locations such as the Middle East and Malaysia to send home funds that support the lives and education of their families. However, the work conditions they find waiting for them are often harsh, and many sustain kidney damage. Some even lose their lives, leaving families to support themselves. In this episode, we speak to the workers who face these conditions for the good of their families.
12x17 - Refuge in a Train - Life After the Turkey Earthquake
June 23, 2023
Three months after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit Turkey, 2.5 million people are still displaced. One of the hardest-hit areas is Iskenderun, Hatay Province, where sleeper trains in a corner of the station are functioning as temporary shelters. In this episode, we focus on some of the people - more than 100 at last count - who still call these carriages home. We hear from a couple who lost their home, a woman struggling to overcome trauma with her husband's support, and a child who can't face going back to school.
12x18 - Violence-Free Stadiums: Indonesia
June 30, 2023
In October 2022, a tragedy took place at an Indonesian soccer stadium, taking the lives of 135 people. After the match, fans stormed the pitch. Security forces fired large amounts of tear gas in response. The resulting panic caused a fatal stampede. Bereaved families criticize the unnecessary escalation of the authorities, as they fight to uncover the truth behind the tragedy. Others seek to improve relations between rival supporters and transform Indonesia's often violent soccer culture.
12x19 - Attempted Change in the Garment Industry: Bangladesh
July 7, 2023
Bangladesh is well known as an international garment producer, with 4.2 million people employed by the industry, many working in factories to sew apparel for overseas brands. But in 2013, the nation was shocked by an accident in which the collapse of an illegally expanded building holding several factories claimed more than 1,100 lives. The incident drew worldwide criticism and caused safety regulations to be imposed. Now caught between strict regulations, rising costs and the constant demand for lower prices from overseas buyers, factory owners and their employees find it hard to earn a living.
12x20 - Struggling Elderly Migrant Workers: Xi'an, China
July 14, 2023
The Banpo Labor Market located in the city of Xi'an was once known as a prime location for recruiting laborers. Now, almost all those who gather to find work are in their 50s or 60s. But to prevent construction site accidents, some major cities are passing ordinances that forbid the employment of people 60 or older. Migrant workers who need to sustain themselves accept jobs out of contract, and disputes are frequent. In this episode, we meet the workers who once fueled China's economic growth, but are now being left in the dust.
12x21 - Herding Above the Clouds: Pakistan
July 28, 2023
For generations, Pakistan's Wakhi people have herded each summer in Pamir, a high-altitude grassland that is vital to raising the livestock upon which they depend. The difficult trek there along winding mountain paths was once a summer ritual for families, but the tradition has changed since more people are deciding to keep their children in school instead. In this episode, we travel with the Wakhi people on a journey at risk of being lost to time.
12x22 - To Live is to Paint: Mongolia
August 4, 2023
Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar is home to the country's only art school that accepts students with disabilities. Currently, 13 of its 50 students have intellectual or physical disabilities. One graduate is now a professional artist who has enjoyed success in the US and Japan. Accessibility remains a challenge in Mongolia, and there are few educational and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Many live isolated from society. By teaching students of all abilities side by side, the school has become a source of hope for many students and their families. As the school approaches its 30th anniversary, meet the students chasing their artistic dreams, and the principal and teachers who guide them.
12x23 - The Uncertainty of China's "Factory Inheritors"
August 18, 2023
Chinese business founders who succeeded in manufacturing during the country's economic growth have reached retirement age. Now taking the helm from them are the "factory inheritors," their sons and daughters who have benefited from opportunities such as studying abroad. However, the conditions they face in China's manufacturing industry are far different than what they had studied, as they grapple with post-pandemic economic stagnancy that threatens to grow even worse. In this episode, we meet the young people who have inherited a battle for business survival.
12x24 - A Language Identity: Taiwan
September 1, 2023
Taiwanese was the language of everyday life in Taiwan until the KMT Party under Chiang Kai-shek came to power in 1949. Then martial law was enforced, the use of Taiwanese was banned, and Mandarin Chinese became the dominant language. Today, Taiwanese is spoken and read mostly by elderly people. But as concerns grow about the loss of linguistic heritage, and against a backdrop of political tension with the mainland, young people in particular are seeking to bring back Taiwanese. A social media star, young mothers and nature guides are among the people we meet who are reexamining their identity through the medium of the Taiwanese language.
12x25 - A Country Goes Digital: Cambodia
September 8, 2023
In October 2020, the National Bank of Cambodia became the first central bank in Asia to launch a digital currency. With the US dollar representing 90% of the cash circulating in the country, the bank decided to promote use of domestic currency through technology. Three years on, digital payments are a common sight in urban areas – a huge change for the once cash-focused economy. Now, the bank has turned its sights to rural Cambodia. What will the changes mean for the lives of rural residents?
12x26 - Recognition for Paternity Leave: South Korea
September 15, 2023
To combat a declining fertility rate, in recent years the government of South Korea has offered increased financial aid to parents who apply for leave from work. Although guaranteed paternity leave by law, many fathers discover that upon returning to work, they face overt harassment such as lack of promotions, or more subtle interference. In response, support groups aspire to create a legal framework that protects working fathers, and to change society's perception of them.
12x27 - Cambodia's Hip-hop School for Children
October 6, 2023
In 2005, Cambodia's first alternative school, Tiny Toones, was opened in Phnom Penh. In addition to general subjects, it adds courses on rap and dance into the mix. It was founded by a Cambodian man raised in the United States, who discovered a new purpose imparting his unique knowledge to young people. Most of the students come from impoverished backgrounds, and some enroll after dropping out of the public school system, or fleeing a turbulent family life. The school even provides dormitories to students if needed. In this episode, we meet the staff and children who have created a new place to belong through their shared love of hip-hop.
12x28 - Making Food Waste Useful: The Philippines
October 20, 2023
The Philippines' growing economy and population have led to a rise in trash, and it has become a serious social issue. Over half of this trash is food waste, and one woman hopes to use it to improve the lives of poor families. Lorilyn Daquioag uses microbes from the forest to break down food waste and produce a liquid solution that makes top-quality organic fertilizer. By distributing this for free to poor neighborhoods, she can track its efficacy on vegetables and flowers. The plan is to grow delicious, healthy vegetables for locals, and eventually produce a surplus to be sold at the market. Follow Lorilyn as she takes on the two-fold challenge of waste and poverty with a single solution.
12x29 - Artistic Coexistence in Treasure Hill: Taiwan
October 27, 2023
Treasure Hill is a community and artist village run by the city of Taipei since 2010. Originally a settlement built by retired soldiers and immigrants, the buildings were deemed illegal and unsafe, and condemned to demolition. Twenty years of demonstrations and activism by locals persuaded the city to preserve the area, and it was turned into an "artist village" with studios and exhibition spaces. 22 artists from Taiwan and abroad live alongside ordinary residents. Meet the locals working hard to preserve the community's history.
12x30 - The Rise in Young Chinese Street Vendors
November 10, 2023
With an unemployment rate of over 20% among people under age 25, mass layoffs in China have affected the careers of young people. In response, many have decided to take their futures into their own hands and open stalls as street vendors. Although they may earn less than before, they can work without fear of suddenly losing their jobs, and some see vending as a chance for networking or study in preparation for other work. In this episode, we gather along with the young people seeking out stability amidst an uncertain future.
12x31 - Newspaper of the Street Children: India
November 17, 2023
Balaknama is an Indian newspaper written and edited entirely by underprivileged children, focusing on news from their own neighborhoods. The paper is available in both Hindi and English, and 8,000 copies are printed monthly. Stories range from fires and kidnappings to the inspiring account of a child recovering from drug addiction. We follow the 17-year-old chief editor, 16-year-old reporter and a 13-year-old rookie as they document the world they live in and work for a better future.
12x32 - Online Voice Actors Go Global: The Philippines
December 8, 2023
The rise of the internet has made the Philippines into a hub for dubbing international movies, TV shows, and cartoons into English. Meet the Filipino voice actors taking on the global market.
12x33 - A Border School of Hope: Mae Sot, Thailand
December 22, 2023
A school in Mae Sot, Thailand, located just across the border with Myanmar, shelters immigrant children of all ages, providing education to many who face the effects of poverty or the civil war.

Asia Insight: All seasons

S1: Season 1
29 Episode s
S2: Season 2
41 Episode s
S3: Season 3
41 Episode s
S4: Season 4
43 Episode s
S5: Season 5
36 Episode s
S6: Season 6
37 Episode s
S7: Season 7
39 Episode s
S8: Season 8
29 Episode s
S9: Season 9
32 Episode s
S10: Season 10
28 Episode s
S11: Season 11
26 Episode s
S12: Season 12
33 Episode s
S13: Season 13
22 Episode s

12x1 - Street Food as Social Rehabilitation: Thailand

12x2 - Bonding in the Barangay: The Philippines

12x3 - Reforming the National Sport of Muay Thai: Thailand

12x4 - Fishermen Face Land Development: Penang, Malaysia

12x5 - Seniors! Back to School: Thailand

12x6 - "On That Day, We Were Fearless": China's White Paper Movement

12x7 - House of Manga Aspirations: Japan

12x8 - Tokyo's Sustainable Fishermen

12x9 - Trains Carry Workers Home After Zero-COVID: China

12x10 - Taiwan's 100,000 Emergency Shelters

12x11 - Youth Living in the Changing Hong Kong

12x12 - Pioneer of Food Waste Reduction: Taichung, Taiwan

12x13 - A Flood of Climate Migration: Bangladesh

12x14 - The Struggle of Unwed Mothers: China

12x15 - Shaping Sustainable Cashmere: Mongolia

12x16 - The Reality Faced by Nepal's Workers Overseas

12x17 - Refuge in a Train - Life After the Turkey Earthquake

12x18 - Violence-Free Stadiums: Indonesia

12x19 - Attempted Change in the Garment Industry: Bangladesh

12x20 - Struggling Elderly Migrant Workers: Xi'an, China

12x21 - Herding Above the Clouds: Pakistan

12x22 - To Live is to Paint: Mongolia

12x23 - The Uncertainty of China's "Factory Inheritors"

12x24 - A Language Identity: Taiwan

12x25 - A Country Goes Digital: Cambodia

12x26 - Recognition for Paternity Leave: South Korea

12x27 - Cambodia's Hip-hop School for Children

12x28 - Making Food Waste Useful: The Philippines

12x29 - Artistic Coexistence in Treasure Hill: Taiwan

12x30 - The Rise in Young Chinese Street Vendors

12x31 - Newspaper of the Street Children: India

12x32 - Online Voice Actors Go Global: The Philippines

12x33 - A Border School of Hope: Mae Sot, Thailand

S1: Season 1

S2: Season 2

S3: Season 3

S4: Season 4

S5: Season 5

S6: Season 6

S7: Season 7

S8: Season 8

S9: Season 9

S10: Season 10

S11: Season 11

S12: Season 12

S13: Season 13