Fast, factual wire coverage from across Malaysia and the region.
South Korea's southeastern cities have shattered temperature records amid an intense heat wave expected to persist through next week. Busan and Yangsan both registered all-time highs on Wednesday.
Japan's parliament has approved amendments to its imperial succession law, permitting adoption of distant male relatives and allowing women to retain royal status after marriage. However, lawmakers rejected proposals to allow women to become emperor despite strong public backing.
South Korea has tightened laws against fake news with severe financial penalties, but press groups and opposition lawmakers warn the vague definition could chill journalism and enable political censorship.