In 1994, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 16 September the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. If emissions of uncontrolled ozone-depleting chemicals continue rising, then the gains could be lost. It remains an ongoing technological challenge to find practical ways to cool ourselves and propel our aerosols without depleting the ozone layer or aggravating climate change.

In this fascinating retrospective issue, we mine ASIAN Geographic’s extensive archives to create a compilation of articles from our best-loved past issues focused on Asia’s diverse cultures and unique cultural practices. From the art of henna to the spiritual beliefs underpinning martial arts, Tibetan sky burials to the region’s most taboo rituals, we celebrate Asian culture at its most beautiful and bizarre.

In this unique retrospective issue, we mine ASIAN Geographic’s extensive archives to create a compilation of articles from our best-loved past issues, beautifully repackaged in one highly collectible special edition. From fact-packed infographics to rich photographic portfolios, powerful poetry to significant moments in Asia’s history, we wind back the clock and share some of the highlights of the ASIAN Geographic journey.

What does it mean to be a “traveller” if it is not to derive pleasure from exploring new places, having fresh experiences, and enriching oneself? Of course, there’s nothing wrong with kicking back on a sublime stretch of white sand or indulging in the finer things in life at a beautiful resort – we’d be lying if we didn’t admit that those aren’t great – but they aren’t the reasons why we travel in and of themselves. No, after the gruelling isolation of the pandemic, as most of us can finally look forward to getting on a plane, we travellers are excited to immerse ourselves in unknown cultures and witness amazing sites of natural (and manmade) beauty – and challenge ourselves in the process. In this special issue of ASIAN Geographic PASSPORT, we aim to inspire those new travels, both through fascinating cultural experiences and adrenaline-pumping adventures.

This issue will bring us the various textiles of Asia. From the growing of silk and cotton to the weaving of fabric together, the issue will cover the styles and methods that the diverse Asian community have followed for aeons and how modern-day technology has boosted or sometimes hindered, the livelihood of these textile communities. While moving with the times is crucial, the issue will highlight the spurt of eco-fashion businesses that focus on green and sustainable methods to manufacture garments. While the issue mentions the production process, it is only right to the commendable designers and textile masters who have changed the game.

In this issue, we will take a look at the most anticipated event of 2022 – The FIFA World Cup. This international frenzy has taken the world by storm and Asia is no exception. This issue will cover the roots and history of football as well as how the Asian community have stood out among the best footballers in the world. Asians have also invested considerably in footballers and football clubs.

In the first issue, we delve into the major world religions. Covering Christianity, Budhhism, Islam, Hinduism and Sikhism, the issue follows the rise and falls of these religions as well as the practices and traditions that have stood the test of time. The influence religion has had on food, festivals and the overall lifestyle of a region is unmatched. Journey through the origins of these religions and gain a deeper understanding about the beliefs that inspire such deep devotion and faith in their followers. Furthermore, there will be an exploration on the divide that exists between and within religious communities and how it has steered away from the
initial path.

Asian Geographic takes a deep dive into the defining element of Asia - her herbs. This issue will cover the healing values of herbal plants and other species across the Asian continent, including the Middle East. Explore the culturally-unique ways that these herbs were utilised in indigenous communities in the early years of civilisation and how they have evolved and adapted themselves into modern-day cuisines and healing blends.

To wrap up 2021 and welcome 2021, we tackle the ever prevailing topic of climate change, which has a plagued our world for seemingly endless amounts of time and has only gotten more pressing as the years wear on. Tracing back to its origins, we will explore the different ways in which the actions of humanity have resulted in the onset of climate change. Awareness on climate change is on the rise but every day, forests are still shrinking, wildlife are still dying off and pollutants of all sorts are still harming the environment. Taking a look at our past, present and future, the science, history and solutions to climate change will be explored. Along the way we will also look at those that are doing their utmost to persevere our world and make it more sustainable.

In the final issue, AG will release its annual Passport magazine, which will take a deep dive into parts of Asia that are off the beaten path. Found in the furtherest corners of the world, these places have managed to stay mostly of the public eye and have remained a  point of intrigue for many. Traversing the unexplored, we will guide you from the highest points in Asia to the coldest and lowest. Beyond the wonderful places we will bring you, this edition of Passport will include the monthly Winners and Finalists of Images of Asia, which capture the essence of Asia through the lens of photographers throughout the continent. This issue will undoubtedly travel to a side of Asia you have never seen before.

The Culture of Tattoos in Asia
• The Painted Ones (Page 14)
• The Tattooed Fire Mummies (Page 24)
• The Spider Women (Page 28)
• Thailand’s Sacred Tattoos (Page 38)
• The Underbelly of Japanese Art (Page 46)
• From the Ashes of a Dying Art (Page 56)
• Tattoos in Asia (Page 62)
Asian Culture and History
• Javanese Spiritual Life (Page 76)
• Games of Asia (Page 88)
• The Cham Silk-Weavers of Bangkok (Page 94)
AG Passport
• Conquer the Highest Mountain in Malaysia (Page 102)

When examining Burmese politics leading up to the various coups, the impact independence leader Bogyoke Aung San had on Myanmar – and the subsequent fallout following his assassination in 1947 – cannot be understated. His death had profound implications for subsequent decades in Burmese history.....

Through travel, we are able to seek out new places, meet new people, discover new cultures and create wonderful memories, and though we might not be able to explore the world like we used to right now, we're hoping that with this special issue Asian Geographic Passport Island Tourism Edition, we can ease your travel itch, and allow you to experience Asia right from your very own couch.

In this issue of Asian Geographic Elements of Life Edition, we're paying tribute to these all-important elements. From the history of wu xing to the symbolism of the elements in various cultures and festivals, we've selected the best picks from the last year and combined it all into one Collector's Edition magazine for you to experience what 2020 had to offer, all in one sitting.

From the steel used in our skyscrapers to the tin cans of our drinks, metals have become an indelible part of our lives. Mercury seduced us in our search for immortality while gold has both created and destroyed empires. These are just some of the metals that have played vital roles in our shared history.

Our Asian GeographicEart Edition presents to you a world of inventions, from the Stone Age to the 21st century, before taking you through Central Asia in our Passport section.

ASIAN Geographic Fire edition features the significance of the element and how it is celebrated across the continent, from antiquity to the modern ages. This issue also delves into the vast world of folk tales across the continent, and attempts to combine the different methods of storytelling to show that these narratives are all around us, even today.

Think of the tales you may have heard about tribes that travel, carrying with them their families, livelihoods, and homes, only to move again in a couple of weeks, leaving nothing but footsteps. It is fascinating, and as if these tribes have a life so large it could be established anywhere – across towns, countries, and even borders.

 This Wood issue encapsulates these lives led by the nomads of Asia, stories of powerful women, and a look at the unprecedented challenges facing China and the wider region due to the coronavirus pandemic. We have taken the element through its numerous definitions: growth and being, its physical properties, its shapes and forms, and its symbolism. Because just like bamboo, so symbolic of the wood element, we bend, we twist, but we never break.


Dive into our new look with our Water edition. The deep blue is fascinating, not only for what lurks beneath, but even how people have been traversing it for centuries, and its significance in cultures and traditions. From birth to the journey of life, and even in death, water is a vital element in all lives, whether it is through consumption, livelihood, or part of an ingrained ritual. Let us bring you through this journey, as we swim through Chinese and Hindu philosophies, the ocean and river streams, and other blue-themed surprises. This issue will grab your attention and bring to light the immense beauty of this elixir of life. Sit back, and let the tides take you in.

The concept of food has always been one served on a plate (or bowl) selflessly, with a story to tell. Each ingredient and every process tells a tale of a home and a homeland. In this issue, we journey through the history of staple Asian foods, rice and noodles, and their associated dishes around the region. You may see stark differences as well as uncanny resemblances among dishes, and each dish will show you part of a nation’s culture and tradition. Our feature articles highlight the unique street food culture of Asia and take you through the fascinating history and practice of the paan (betel nut) custom. And in case it all makes you feel a little peckish, we have also provided some inspiration for amazing restaurants, cafés, and other dining experiences for any mood, budget and event, so you can have your fix in any corner of Asia. Be warned though: your mouth will water and you may hear a rumble – from your tummy, of course. But we promise it will be worth the journey.


Asian Geographic Magazines continues to commemorate its 20th anniversary in this issue by celebrating the richness, allure, and expanse of Asian brands, artists, and locations that are, and have been, in line with our publication’s themes and overall outlook for the past 20 years, as well as bring to you more original articles and perspectives. For the last two decades, we have been honouring Asia’s diversity and vastness, and still continue important discussions in the continent, ranging from environmental issues to science, exploration, travel and of course, the different heritage, art and cultures that pulsate through the continent and reinforce our vision to bring Asia to the World.

In this issue, Asian Geographic magazine celebrates 20 years of publishing by
rehashing some of its best works, contributors, and achievements. We will look
at two decades of captivating photography and stunning art, as well as scientific
discoveries and cultural exploration. While it is safe to keep on the track, our
journey through Asia has often taken us off the beaten path, whether through
physical quests or beyond the boundaries of our minds. On this occasion, we also
bring to light a unique perception of the current economic development in India
and China, as well as take you through the enchanting, multi-faceted country that
is Qatar. As we mark this milestone we look back on this beautiful continent and
the people who have helped shape our identity, but we also look forward – for
there is much more to come.

Asia has no lack of treasures and in this issue, we present the multitude of identities and forms they take. From a journey into the Golden Triangle to explore the lifestyles, spiritual beliefs, traditions and arts of the six major hill tribes that live there, we also look at UNESCO Heritage sites in India, the Philippines, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, China, Qatar, Nepal, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Lebanon, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. We trace the intriguing journey of Koh-i-Noor, the world’s most famous diamond, from India to England, and reflect upon the bountiful natural resources that our Earth has provided in our columns on nature and wildlife.

This issue compares the mobile phone scene in Asia and the West and delves into everything related to the gadget that has become very much a part of our everyday lives. We zoom in on apps, wireless networks, mobile service providers and phone manufacturers – the people and technologies that fuel the burgeoning global mobile phone market. We illustrate the evolution of the mobile phone and what actually goes into its production with informative timelines and carefully crafted infographics. In addition, we explore the problems and possibilities that come with the ever-evolving mobile phone scene. Be inspired by winning photographs from international mobile photography competitions in the mobile photography special and reminisce about pagers, phonebooks and other essentials that kept people connected in the past.

Themed The Taste of Waste, issue 134 spotlights one of the most pressing environmental issues mankind faces — plastic pollution. We trace the history of this ubiquitous manmade monster and reveal some shocking statistics of our plastic consumption. Additionally, we discuss how factors like economic development, mindless consumption and poor waste management have led to severe pollution of rivers in Asia and how the plastic we discard is finding its way into our diets. Besides highlighting countries with effective waste management and recycling practices, we present viable solutions to our plastic problem in stories like Our Battle for Sustainability and Changing the Face of Plastic Waste. In the hope of inspiring you to mitigate the impact you make on the environment, we have included The Reality of Recycling Plastic that tells you the essentials of plastic recycling, Thinking Twice About Travel and You Can Make a Difference that both touch on our incessant demand for energy.

Colours of Asia presents Asia’s culture, people, practices and landscapes through a curation of photographs by award-winning photographers from Asia and beyond. Published in conjunction with Images of Asia 2018 — Asian Geographic’s annual photo competition —the photo book opens with a collection of stunning images by this year’s competition judges: Manuel Librodo, Tommy Morris, Brendan O’Se, Jose Jeuland, David Tay, Gathot Subroto and Shavonne Wong. Bringing even more interesting perpectives of Asia to this collectors’ must-have are several photographers who specialise in landscape, portrait and documentary photography. Also featured are selected winning and shortlisted entries from the Sony World Photography Awards, the world’s most diverse photography competition. Covering different forms of photography such as street, conceptual and fashion photography — which are not usually published in Asian Geographic magazines — Colours of Asia promises to be a visual feast that delights and inspires.

Draw inspiration from influential leadership icons, philanthropic champions, business magnates, science icons, cultural figures and sports heroes in our list of 100 astonishing Asians. Read about how plein-air drawing is gaining a strong following in urban societies worldwide in an age when instant photo feeds prevail. In 'Microscopic Plastic Litter and Rivers of Filth', we spotlight the issue of plastic pollution and how this environmental nemesis can find its way to your dinner. Find out how a Dutch man had a hand in writing history when he copied the Portugese’s closely-guarded sailing routes to the East Indies in 'The Map That Opened Up Southeast Asia'. What's your impression of Kama Sutra? Find out how it compares to the true identity of what could be the most celebrated yet misunderstood treatise on sex. See Singapore from new perspectives in Sony ambassador Michael Yamashita’s shots of the garden city, and view a snapshot of the highest and longest natural and man-made structures in the East and West.

This year, the quadrennial Asian Games – a massive sports event that often gets mixed up with some of its regional variants – will be hosted here in Southeast Asia. We appraise several local sports that set the Asiad’s lineup apart from its Olympic counterpart, and drop in on three unique sportspeople gearing up for August. But the 18th Games’ most interesting aspect could just be its return to Indonesia, a place where, over a half-century ago, Jakarta’s controversial hosting decisions shocked the 1960s’ worlds of sports and politics. Indonesian politics also kicks off another fascinating tale: how five Southeast Asian men managed to create the first Asian miracle of the 20th century: the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Helped by a few rounds of golf and drinks, these powerful diplomats succeeded in getting their respective countries – many with histories of bitter grudges and border invasions – to team up into a bloc that today still merits international admiration. Their surviving family and friends share memories of these master negotiators.

What is tradition? In this issue, we look at how a people’s loving protection and willing maintenance of ancient observances allow rituals like fire wars to survive the generations, and revive fading subcultures – like Thailand’s forest wizards – from the brink of extinction. Yet this era’s predominant theme seems encapsulated by the underdog tribe’s failure to resist bartering unique customs for a share in progress, meaning unusual ways of life, like monkey hunting and corpse care, may soon be permanently forfeited to history. Dive into the weird and wonderful parts of Asia’s heritage as we uncover the diverse ways that her people make meaning of milestones and seasons, and live unique lives across remote islands, quiet villages and high mountains.

With the modern world developing at the dizzying pace it is, do you know what’s going on around you and how it all works? In this issue, we look at the latest in science and technology across the region, from the obvious – China’s transformation from IT copycat to technology leader – to the unexpected, like why Cambodia’s farmers are now selling bat faeces instead of rice. Go on a sparkling journey across the night sky in our exclusive story on astrotourism, an upcoming trend that’s winning the hearts of Asians young and old across the region. Read about a mysterious bridge between India and Sri Lanka that has geologists befuddled, and a hyper fast underwater levitating train – straight out of a sci-fi movie ­– that you might soon be able to buy tickets for. Are you ready to get up to speed?

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ASIAN Geographic is the bi-monthly magazine that scours the region to bring readers the most compelling stories and images from the world's largest and most diverse continent.  Readers enjoy a unique melting pot of breathtaking photography and in-depth features covering culture, nature, sustainability issues and exploration into the history of this diverse region. A regular 'Exploration' segment follows brave field editors as they travel deep into Asia's unexplored regions to take readers on a journey.

AG-105 Special Edition

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