Santorini's iconic blue-domed churches are not only visually stunning but also hold historical significance, with many dating back to the 19th century. The Greek island is known for its unique architecture, which has been influenced by various cultures throughout history, including the Venetians and Ottomans. Visitors can experience the local culture by enjoying traditional cuisine and wine, such as moussaka and Assyrtiko wine, while taking in the breathtaking sunsets that have made Santorini a popular tourist destination.
A plaque in Singapore, created by artist Sean Dunston, has been modified to include an anti-smoking message after concerns were raised about normalizing smoking. The plaque's original intention was to depict a Samsui Woman in peace, but it now also warns of the dangers of smoking, with changes made at the request of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and in consultation with Dunston and his landlord.
Srebrenica Massacre Victims Honored with Annual Rites
7.12.25
The remains of Srebrenica victims are still being excavated and buried annually on July 11, with a recent exhibition at the memorial center highlighting individual stories through artifacts found in mass graves and forests around the town. The "Lives behind the fields of death" exhibition, featuring recorded testimonies from survivors, aims to humanize the genocide by focusing on individual lives, including young people, men, women, and those with dreams and ambitions. A recent burial ceremony marked the laying to rest of seven more victims, while a UN resolution adopted last year commemorates the Srebrenica genocide on its anniversary, despite Bosnia's Serbs and Serbia refusing to acknowledge it as such.
Syrian Designer Rami Al Ali Breaks Haute Couture Barrier
7.12.25
Syrian designer Rami Al Ali has broken down in tears after being named to the Haute Couture calendar, marking a breakthrough moment for the country's fashion industry. Al Ali, who founded his brand over 20 years ago and has dressed celebrities like Beyonce and Helen Mirren, hopes that artists will now use their platform to highlight Syria's rich history and design culture. He believes there is more freedom to express himself and others in various aspects, leading to a bolder and braver approach.
Taylor Swift's impact on the music industry is undeniable, as evident from her chart-topping album "The Tortured Poets Department" and the record-breaking "Eras Tour". Her recent shift towards a quieter approach may be seen as a strategic move to focus on songwriting and artistic expression. This change in pace allows her to maintain her creative edge while still connecting with fans through her music, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.
TikTok Boosts Indonesian Boat Dance Trend 'Pacu Jalur'
7.12.25
TikTok users worldwide have taken inspiration from traditional dance moves performed by young performers on long boats in Kuantan Singi, Indonesia. Local dancers Linda Lestari, Yunia Pratiwi, Mila Novita, and Raden Putri Alpadillah Ginanjar collaborated with the platform to promote their unique cultural heritage. The trend has been dubbed "Pacu Jalur," which translates to "pushing the current."
An exhibit at The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, titled "If Books Could Kill", explores the use of toxic pigments such as mercury, arsenic, lead, and orpiment to create vibrant colors for bookbinding over millennia.
TudungPeople, a Malaysian modest fashion brand founded in 2011, is showcasing its signature plain-coloured hijabs at the Malaysia Pavilion in Expo 2025 Osaka. The brand's designs embody the quiet strength of intentional design and celebrate unity in diversity through its products, which are inspired by Malaysian heritage and values comfort, functionality, and timeless elegance. Dr Fazly, founder of TudungPeople, believes that modest fashion is a strength, not a limitation, and aims to reinterpret traditional elements thoughtfully for the modern Muslimah. The brand's global expansion programme, supported by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), will help establish its presence abroad and promote Malaysian culture through soft power.
Cambodia's S-21 prison, also known as Tuol Sleng, has been recognized by UNESCO for its efforts in transforming a land ravaged by war and genocide into a place of peace and dignity. Norng Chanphal, who survived the prison as a child, expressed relief and hope that the recognition will allow the site to exist forever and serve as a reminder to prevent similar regimes from happening again. The inscription acknowledges Cambodia's efforts to heal and honor its past, bringing some justice to the souls of victims like Chanphal's mother.