Kanazawa Station, Japan

A striking blend of modern innovation and traditional Japanese aesthetics, the Kanazawa Station in Japan is one of the most unique train stations in Asia. The station’s most iconic feature, the Tsuzumi-mon Gate, resembles a traditional torii gate and tsuzumi drums, symbolising the city’s rich cultural heritage. Behind it, the glass-and-steel Motenashi Dome offers both shelter and a sense of grandeur. Inside, wooden pillars embedded with local crafts honour Kanazawa’s artisanal legacy. Originally built in 1898, the station has evolved from a humble wooden structure into an award-winning architectural landmark. Its current form, completed in 2005, reflects the city’s dual spirit—respecting tradition while embracing the future.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Malaysia 

Malaysia, a nation steeped in history, is vividly reflected through its architectural heritage. The Kuala Lumpur Railway Station stands as a remarkable example, exemplifying Indo-Saracenic architecture that artfully integrates Moorish, Mughal and British colonial design elements. Opened in 1910, the station features grand domes, intricate arches and elegant minaret-like turrets that evoke the splendor of Indian palaces and Islamic architecture. Its creamy white facade and delicate detailing make it one of the most beautiful buildings in Kuala Lumpur. Though it now serves fewer trains, the station remains a striking architectural gem—rich in history and timeless in its visual grandeur.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, India

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai is a spectacular fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architecture. Designed by British architect F. W. Stevens and completed in 1888, the station features a grand stone dome, soaring turrets, pointed arches and intricate ornamentation reminiscent of Indian palaces. The building’s dramatic facade and richly detailed interiors reflect a unique cultural synthesis, created through collaboration between British architects and Indian craftsmen. As both a functional railway hub and architectural masterpiece, it stands as a symbol of Mumbai’s colonial past and commercial strength. Its grandeur continues to captivate millions of commuters and visitors alike.

Gyeonghwa Station, South Korea 

No other train stations in Korea rivals Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae for sheer picturesque beauty. Though no longer in service since 2006, this quaint station transforms every spring into a floral spectacle. Cherry trees line the disused tracks, creating an enchanting pink tunnel that attracts thousands of visitors. During the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival (April 1–10), the scenery reaches its zenith, and a special slow-speed shuttle train offers a magical journey through the blossoms. With its tranquil ambiance and romantic allure, Gyeonghwa Station remains an iconic and cherished springtime destination in Korea.

Beijing Station, China 

Beijing Railway Station, opened in 1959, is a prominent example of mid-20th-century Chinese architecture, combining Chinese socialist design with Stalinist influences. Covering 46,700 square meters, its distinctive turrets and spacious plazas are complemented by calligraphy from Chairman Mao, adding historical depth. Located near Tian’anmen Square, the station reflects an important era in China’s development and has witnessed significant events. While newer, modern stations have emerged, Beijing Railway Station remains a key cultural landmark, seamlessly connecting traditional architectural elements with a vast railway network serving both domestic and international travelers.

Ramses Train Station, Cairo, Egypt 

Ramses Railway Station, also known as Misr Station, is Cairo’s central rail hub and a significant historical landmark. First established in 1856 as the terminus of Egypt’s inaugural railway line from Alexandria, the current building was completed in 1892, showcasing a distinctive Heliopolis-style facade paired with industrial-age engineering. The station underwent major renovations between 2001 and 2011, with further upgrades completed in 2014, including modern amenities and improved infrastructure. Named after Pharaoh Ramses II, it also houses the Egyptian Railways Museum, which traces the evolution of transport in Egypt from ancient times to the present through exhibits, models and archives.

Sirkeci Terminal, Istanbul, Turkey  

Once the final stop of the legendary Orient Express, Sirkeci Railway Station—completed in 1890—remains one of Istanbul’s most iconic architectural landmarks. Designed by Prussian architect August Jasmund, it embodies a striking East-meets-West aesthetic, blending Seljuk-inspired horseshoe arches, intricate stained glass and Orientalist motifs with European materials and engineering. Nestled along the Bosphorus near Topkapı Palace, Sirkeci became a symbol of Istanbul’s cosmopolitan identity and its role as a gateway between continents. Today, following careful restoration and integration into the city’s modern rail network, it endures as a living monument to the golden age of rail travel and Ottoman elegance.

Tashkent Metro, Uzbekistan 

The Tashkent Metro, opened in 1977, is Central Asia’s first underground rail system and a hidden architectural gem. Conceived after the 1966 earthquake, it was built not only for functionality but also to showcase cultural pride. Each of its 50 stations features elaborate designs—marble columns, carved alabaster, stained glass and Soviet-era mosaics—blending Uzbek artistic traditions with Soviet monumentalism. Themes range from space exploration to classical poetry, making every stop a tribute to history and heritage. Once off-limits for photography, the metro is now open to all, offering travelers a unique glimpse into Uzbekistan’s post-Soviet and architectural evolution underground. 

Hua Hin Train Station, Thailand

Built during the reign of King Rama VI, Hua Hin Railway Station is one of Thailand’s oldest and most architecturally distinctive train stations. Originally completed in 1926, the red-and-white wooden structure showcases a charming Victorian gingerbread style, featuring carved wooden details and half-timbered construction. Its most iconic feature is the Royal Waiting Room—originally part of Sanam Chan Palace—relocated to Hua Hin in 1974. Designed in traditional Thai architectural style, it adds regal elegance to the station’s nostalgic atmosphere. Today, the station stands as a beloved heritage site and a proud symbol of Hua Hin’s development during Thailand’s early railway era.

Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, Hong Kong

Designed by Aedas and nestled beside Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong West Kowloon Station is a striking fusion of sustainability and architectural innovation. Its sweeping 147-foot-tall hall is crowned by a green roof planted with over 700 trees, forming the 7.5-acre Green Plaza where locals gather and visitors admire the city skyline. A vast curtain wall of 4,000 glass panels floods the interior with daylight, while 8,000 tonnes of steel shape its dramatic curved ceiling. Supported by nine towering columns, the station integrates three hectares of public space, including the scenic Sky Corridor—offering panoramic views and transforming travel into a visual experience.

Asia, a continent rich in history and culture, is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring monuments, each a testament to the brilliance, creativity and cultural depth of past civilisations. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia highlights the top 10 ancient marvels across the continent, presented in no particular order. From the majestic Taj Mahal in India to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, these enduring wonders reflect unparalleled craftsmanship, advanced engineering and profound spiritual significance. Today, these iconic landmarks continue to captivate imaginations, standing as timeless legacies that embody the ingenuity and vision of their creators.

Taj Mahal (Agra, India)

Widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful buildings, the Taj Mahal was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631 and completed in 1648 to honour his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Set on the right bank of the Yamuna River within a 17‑hectare Mughal garden, this vast white‑marble mausoleum exemplifies Indo‑Islamic artistry and engineering. Crafted from luminous white marble and set upon a raised platform, its perfect symmetry is enhanced by four slender minarets and a central dome rising 73 meters high. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal draws millions each year, symbolising eternal love and architectural mastery.

The Great Wall of China

Dubbed the largest man-made project in the world, The Great Wall of China was constructed intermittently from the 3rd century BC until the 17th century AD to defend the empire’s northern borders. Stretching over 20,000 km from Shanhaiguan in Hebei to Jiayuguan in Gansu, this colossal fortification combines rammed earth, stone and brick with trenches, beacon towers and garrison stations. Celebrated for its scale and engineering prowess, it reflects the strategic vision of emperors like Qin Shi Huang and the cultural exchanges between agrarian states and nomadic tribes. As an unparalleled feat of military architecture, the Wall continues to symbolise ancient ingenuity and Asia’s rich historical heritage.

Angkor Wat (Cambodia)

The largest religious monument on Earth, Angkor Wat stands as the crowning achievement of Khmer architecture and Southeast Asia’s ancient grandeur. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, this vast temple complex spans over 160 hectares, blending Hindu symbolism with later Buddhist devotion. Its harmonious symmetry, intricate bas-reliefs and soaring towers mirror Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods. Once the heart of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat is now a powerful symbol of Cambodian identity and national pride—so iconic it graces the country’s flag and draws millions seeking spiritual awe and historical wonder.

Himeji Castle (Himeji City, Japan)

Himeji Castle in Japan is a stunning example of feudal-era architecture and strategic ingenuity. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle for its graceful appearance, it has stood for centuries as a symbol of resilience and elegance. Constructed in the 14th century and expanded in the 1600s, it features a complex defensive layout designed to confuse invaders. Its white plastered walls offer protection against fire while enhancing its visual appeal. Remarkably preserved through wars and natural disasters, Himeji Castle remains one of Japan’s few original castles. Its harmonious blend of beauty and fortification secures its place among Asia’s greatest ancient marvels.

Borobudur Temple (Central Java, Indonesia)

Rising from the misty Kedu Valley like a stone lotus in bloom, Borobudur is the largest Buddhist monument on Earth—an awe-inspiring mandala carved in volcanic stone. Built in the 8th to 9th centuries by the Syailendra Dynasty, its design reflects Buddhist cosmology, symbolising the path to enlightenment. The temple’s three tiers represent the realms of desire (kamadhatu), form (rupadhatu) and formlessness (arupadhatu). Pilgrims ascend through 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues, symbolically journeying from the earthly to the spiritual. At the summit, 72 perforated stupas encircle the central stupa, representing Nirvana. Blending indigenous beliefs with Buddhist teachings, Borobudur is a sacred mandala in stone radiating cosmic light and transcendence.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Sri Lanka)

Sigiriya Rock Fotress, or Lion Rock, is a breathtaking ancient fortress rising nearly 200 metres above Sri Lanka’s central plains. Built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century, this monolithic outcrop features a palace atop its summit, reached through stone stairways and the iconic Lion’s Gate. Its surrounding gardens are masterpieces of ancient landscape design, complete with moats, pools and fountains. Midway up, frescoes and the polished Mirror Wall offer a glimpse into royal life and historic visitors’ musings. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya remains a symbol of ingenuity and ambition, earning its place among Asia’s most awe-inspiring ancient marvels.

Bagan Temples (Myanmar)

The Temples of Bagan in Myanmar are among Asia’s most remarkable ancient wonders. Once home to over 13,000 religious monuments, around 2,200 temples and pagodas remain scattered across the Bagan plains today. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries under the Pagan Kingdom, these structures reflect the region’s devotion to Theravada Buddhism. Notable sites include Ananda Temple, Dhammayangyi and Shwesandaw Pagoda. Despite earthquakes and controversial restorations, Bagan retains its spiritual significance and continues to attract pilgrims and tourists. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, it offers one of the densest concentrations of Buddhist temples in the world.

Ayutthaya Historical Park (Ayutthaya, Thailand)

Established in 1350 CE, Ayutthaya rose to prominence as the thriving capital of the Siamese Kingdom, known for its global trade, diplomacy and innovative city planning. Surrounded by rivers, it was protected from invasion and seasonal floods. The city became a cultural crossroads, blending Thai, Khmer, Chinese, Persian and European influences. Though devastated by the Burmese in 1767, its ruins, including the iconic Wat Phra Si Sanphet, still echo its former glory. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya’s architectural and artistic legacy helped shape the development of Bangkok and remains a powerful symbol of Thailand’s historic strength and creativity.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Bhutan)

Clinging to a cliff 3,120 metres above sea level in Bhutan’s Paro Valley, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of Asia’s most breathtaking religious sites. Legend holds that Padmasambhava, known as the Second Buddha, flew to this remote cave on the back of a tigress and meditated here in the 8th century. The temple complex, built in 1692, still functions as a sacred site today. A two-hour uphill trek through pine forests and prayer flags is required to reach the monastery, but the views and spiritual atmosphere make it a truly rewarding experience.

Mohenjo-daro (Pakistan)

Mohenjo-daro, meaning “Mound of the Dead,” is one of the most remarkable remnants of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation. Located in Pakistan’s Sindh province, it was once a thriving metropolis around 2,600 BCE, with a population of 35,000 to 50,000. Renowned for its advanced urban planning, the city featured a grid layout, sophisticated drainage systems and public baths. Its well-organised streets and standardised brick construction reveal a highly developed society, with no evidence of warfare. Abandoned around 1,900 BCE, the reasons for its decline remain a mystery. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into one of history’s earliest urban cultures.

In recent years, contemporary calligraphy has seen a vibrant resurgence across Asia, where tradition meets innovation in striking and meaningful ways. From the fluid meditations of Chinese brushwork to the modern reinterpretation of Hangul and the revival of ancient scripts like Baybayin, a new generation of calligraphers is redefining the art form. These artists honour the essence of their cultural heritage while exploring bold, expressive and often cross-disciplinary approaches. In this list, Top 10 of Asia celebrates the top ten most outstanding contemporary calligraphy artists in Asia (presented in no particular order) who are not only preserving ancient traditions but also transforming them into powerful, relevant expressions for today’s global art scene.

Fong Sheeney (Malaysia)

Fong Sheeney is a Chinese calligraphy artist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, originally from Kedah, a state in the northern part of Peninsula Malaysia. With a journey that began at the age of 7, she has perfected the art of blending traditional Chinese calligraphy with contemporary expression. Her work, which reflects her personal experiences and perspectives, has captivated audiences globally. Sheeney’s art has adorned spaces for prestigious brands such as Cartier, Prada and Louis Vuitton, and she has collaborated with esteemed entities like Tsutaya Bookstore, IKEA and Hin Bus Depot. An award-winning artist, Sheeney continues to inspire through live performances, workshops and her masterful creations.

Nakajima Hiroyuki (Japan)

Born in Japan in 1956, Nakajima began learning Japanese calligraphy at 6 years of age and later created contemporary artworks influenced by his deep knowledge of the art form. In 2000, he held a private exhibition in Rome and began performing live-action performances influenced by Tai Chi. He has since exhibited and performed worldwide in Italy, France, Germany, Finland, Belgium, the U.K., the U.S., China and Japan. In 2006, he was invited to the 60th Avignon Festival, an international stage art festival in France. Recently, his works explore global contradictions, including climate change and diversity. His activities have been featured in international publications such as Le Figaro (France) and Corriere della Sera (Italy).

Tusk (Thailand)

Tusk, a contemporary calligraphy artist from Thailand, began his artistic career as a freelance graphic designer before transitioning to calligraphy. In 2013, he studied the Lanna alphabet at Wat Phra Singh Temple in Chiang Mai, deepening his connection to the traditional scripts of Thailand. Tusk blends Thai, Lanna and English alphabets, creating a distinctive fusion that merges tradition with modernity. His work spans calligraffiti, product design and other innovative forms. In 2015, he held his first solo exhibition under the name “TUSK.” Known for his ability to develop new expressions rooted in tradition, Tusk continues to push the boundaries of contemporary calligraphy while preserving his cultural heritage in every piece he creates.

Aoi Yamaguchi (Japan)

Born and raised in Hokkaido, Japan, Aoi Yamaguchi has been trained to master calligraphy learning under Master Zuiho Sato from the age of 6. She is a recipient of numerous awards and supreme prizes at competitive public exhibitions. Aoi uniquely transforms Japanese calligraphy into physical artistic expression through conceptual performance. She has performed with contemporary dancers, models, and traditional and contemporary musicians all over the world. Currently residing in Venice, California, Yamaguchi continues her work on her conceptual calligraphy installations, exhibitions, workshops and performances as she continues to push the boundaries of traditional Eastern classics and contemporary artistic expression.

Malik Mazlan (Singapore)

A Singaporean Malay calligrapher with a deep interest in Chinese calligraphy, Malik Mazlan uses the tools and principles of this ancient art to reflect the diverse and multicultural world he inhabits. Malik’s work bridges cultural boundaries, inviting viewers to see calligraphy not just as an inherited tradition, but as a living, evolving form speaking to contemporary life. Inspired by the deep cultural heritage of Southeast Asia, Malik’s practice showcases Southeast Asian motifs, interwoven with his personal heritage and his chosen discipline, calligraphy. His work is constantly exploring how Chinese calligraphy can be reimagined in different cultural contexts. For Malik, each stroke is a conversation—between cultures, histories and life in the present moment.

Hiroshi Wada (Japan)

Hiroshi Wada is a contemporary calligraphy artist based in Kyoto, Japan. He began his calligraphy training at the age of five and, at 30, pursued more rigorous study under Ryosetsu Imai, a renowned master. Since 2017, Wada has shared works that transcend traditional calligraphy with a global audience. His works are regularly featured in solo and group exhibitions, particularly across the United States and Europe. Wada’s art is an “art of lines”. It captures the essence of traditional calligraphy while striving to move beyond it. His creative process begins in nothingness; he forgets the classics, returns to innocence and draws from the stillness of Zen. For Wada, true beauty lies on the edge where collapse and intentional lines come together.

Taipan Lucero (Philippines)

George Ian Joseph Figueras Lucero, known as “Taipan,” graduated Cum Laude from UP Diliman’s College of Fine Arts in 2012. He began as a startup ad studio founder before working as a designer in Japan, where he studied Japanese Calligraphy. There, his interest in Baybayin—an ancient Filipino script—began. Returning to the Philippines, he developed CalligraFilipino, a unique style that blends Baybayin with indigenous designs. In 2018, he held his first solo exhibit at the NCCA in Manila. His 2022 U.S. tour included exhibits and lectures at Philippine embassies and consulates, earning recognition from San Francisco’s mayor and California’s state legislature. His collaborators include Google, Stanford, Logitech, the Golden State Warriors and the Asian Art Museum.

Gen Miyamura (Japan)

Gen Miyamura boldly interprets calligraphy and pursues the beauty of ink art through innovative approaches. His work follows two directions: one explores digital collages made from calligraphic lines, the other draws on language symbols and systems to create contemporary art. His art is not confined to the traditional framework of calligraphy but instead seeks a broader form of expression that seamlessly traverses both the digital and analogue worlds. By embracing a contemporary perspective, Miyamura challenges conventional boundaries and redefines what calligraphy can be in the modern era. His works have been recognised for their sophistication and have been installed in numerous luxury hotels, reflecting both artistic depth and refined aesthetic appeal that resonate with a global audience.

Jameson Yap (Malaysia)

Rooted in tradition yet guided by innovation, Jameson Yap is a contemporary calligrapher renowned for the “River Stroke” philosophy—a meditative approach inspired by nature’s fluidity and balance. Mentored by his grandfather, he transforms each stroke into a dialogue between past and present. His work has been exhibited internationally, including at The Starhill KL, Park Hyatt Toronto and Shangri-La Vancouver, and is part of collections across Asia, North America and Europe. Through live performances and lectures, including at the Vancouver Art Gallery, he continues to share the timeless beauty of calligraphy as a profound expression of reflection and inner stillness.

Kim So-young (Korea)

Kim Soyoung, known artistically as Geulssidang, is a self-taught Korean calligrapher who reimagines the elegance of Hangul through brush and ink. Her signature performance, “The Art of Circle,” symbolises completeness and infinite possibility, often delivered in traditional Hanbok to blend heritage with modern aesthetics. Her expressive brushwork and emotional depth have led to collaborations with renowned brands while her work spans calligraphy, branding, design and spatial art. Geulssidang represents her unique artistic philosophy and identity as she continues to share the beauty of Hangul globally, creating culturally resonant works that bridge tradition and contemporary sensibility.

Southeast Asia’s literary scene is shaped by powerful female novelists whose works bring honour to their countries while exploring themes like migration, identity and social justice. These authors are gaining international acclaim, using their voices to tell rich cultural stories that resonate globally. Their contributions not only highlight contemporary issues but also celebrate their nations’ histories and traditions. In this list, Top 10 of Asia highlights the top ten influential female novelists (in no particular order) whose works are shaping the future of literature and are proudly representing Southeast Asia on the world stage.

Kim Thúy (Vietnam) 

Vietnamese-born Canadian novelist Kim Thúy left her homeland with the Boat People at the age of ten and settled in Quebac, Canada. A graduate in translation and law, she has worked in diverse fields, including as a seamstress, interpreter, lawyer, restaurant chef-owner and television host. Thúy is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2010 Governor General’s Literary Award, and was a 2018 Alternative Nobel Prize finalist. She is also a Knight of the National Order of Quebec, and a Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters of the French Republic. Her books, which have sold over one million copies, are available in 45 countries and territories, and have been translated into over thirty languages. Thúy now lives in Montreal with her two sons.

Gina Apostol (Philippines) 

Gina Apostol is a renowned Filipino novelist who has earned prestigious accolades, including the Rome Prize, the PEN America Open Book Award and two Philippine National Book Awards, along with various fellowships and residencies. She grew up in Tacloban, Leyte, in the Philippines, and now splits her time between New York and western Massachusetts. In 2023, she was honoured with the Alagad ni Balagtas Award for Fiction, the highest honour from her peers for literature in the Philippines. Apostol has authored five novels, including Insurrecto, which was named by Publishers Weekly as one of the Ten Best Books of 2018. Her most recent work, La Tercera, was also selected as a New York Times Editor’s Choice.

Dr. Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai (Vietnam) 

Dr. Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai is the author of 13 books in Vietnamese and English, including the global bestseller The Mountains Sing and Dust Child. Her works, translated into over 25 languages, have earned prestigious awards such as the PEN Oakland/Josephine Miles Literary Award, the International Book Award, the BookBrowse Best Debut Award, the Lannan Literary Fellowship in Fiction and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize (Runner-up). Through her writing, Quế Mai advocates for peace, women’s rights and equality. She has spoken at events worldwide, representing Vietnam and Southeast Asia on the global stage. In 2021, Forbes Vietnam named her one of the country’s 20 inspiring women.

Ika Natassa (Indonesia) 

Ika Natassa is a banker with a 22-year career who has been passionate about writing since childhood. Despite her demanding profession, she has become one of Indonesia’s most celebrated novelists, known for her sharp, modern storytelling. Her novels – Critical Eleven, The Architecture of Love, Antologi Rasa and more—reflect the aspirations of Indonesia’s urban professionals. Most of her works have achieved bestseller status and been adapted into films, with The Architecture of Love earning her a Best Adapted Screenplay nomination at Festival Film Indonesia 2024. Beyond literature, Ika is an award-winning banker and a sought-after speaker on corporate culture, transformation and storytelling. A rare force in both finance and literature, her journey proves that passion and profession can coexist.

Merlinda Bobis (Philippines) 

Merlinda Bobis is an award-winning novelist, poet and dramatist from the Philippines, now based in Australia. Her works explore themes of women, borders, migration, the environment, war and memory. Merlinda has written four novels: Locust Girl, A Lovesong (winner of Australia’s Christina Stead Prize), Fish-Hair Woman (winner of the Juan C. Laya Philippine National Book Award), The Solemn Lantern Maker and Banana Heart Summer (shortlisted for the Australian Literature Society Gold Medal). Additionally, her six poetry books, two short story anthologies and 10 performance works have earned international acclaim. Her highly anticipated novel, In the Name of the Trees, is set to be launched at the end of 2025. She will also be presenting her work at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair.

Vanessa Chan (Malaysia) 

Vanessa Chan is the Malaysian author of the internationally bestselling novel The Storm We Made, which became a Good Morning America and BBC Radio 2 Book Club pick, as well as a New York Times Editors’ Choice. Named best book of the year by NPR, Amazon, Elle and Goodreads, it tells the story of an unlikely spy—a discontented mother and wife in 1930s British Malaya whose actions unknowingly trigger her country’s most violent war. The Storm We Made is set to be translated into over twenty languages. Vanessa’s other work has also been featured in Vogue, Esquire and more. While she grew up in Malaysia, Vanessa now lives in Brooklyn.

Emily Lim-Leh (Singapore) 

Emily Lim-Leh is an award-winning author of 50 children’s books. She is the first outside North America to win 3 medals at the IPPY Awards, the world’s largest book awards. Emily is also a 4-time US-based Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards winner, and first in Southeast Asia to win a Moonbeam medal. Emily was named Mediacorp Singapore’s Singapore Woman Award Honouree for inspiring readers and received the Public Service Medal (Covid-19) from the Prime Minister’s Office, Singapore. Emily’s first children’s novel, Little Hero, released by Penguin Books SEA in 2024, has received numerous accolades, including being the #1 Bestseller in children’s books on Amazon Singapore and #1 Bestseller on Strait Times Singapore’s Children’s List. Little Hero also won a Bronze Medal at the US-Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.

Prabda Yoon (Thailand)

Prabda Yoon is a Thai novelist, best known for her literary works The Sad Part Was (2017) and Moving Parts (2018), both translated into English by Mui Poopuksakul and published by Tilted Axis Press. These story collections won the PEN Translates! Award and have garnered critical acclaim. In addition to her novels, Prabda is an accomplished filmmaker, with her first feature film, Motel Mist, premiering at the International Film Festival Rotterdam in 2016, and her second, Someone From Nowhere, competing at the Tokyo International Film Festival in 2017. She also co-wrote and served as showrunner for Netflix’s Bangkok Breaking (2021).

Loung Ung (Cambodia)

Loung Ung is a bestselling author and activist, best known for her memoir First They Killed My Father, which recounts her survival of the Khmer Rouge genocide, and was adapted into a Netflix film directed by Angelina Jolie. Her other books, Lucky Child and Lulu in the Sky, continue her powerful story of trauma, resilience and healing. Loung’s work has been translated into 15 languages and is widely taught around the world. She is also an advocate for landmine victims and human rights, using her platform to inspire change and raise awareness globally.

Leila S. Chudori (Indonesia)

Leila Salikha Chudori is an Indonesian author known for her bold storytelling that tackles taboo themes such as state absolutism, chauvinism and the hypocrisy of public mores. Her works, including the bestselling Pulang (“Home”) and short story collections Malam Terakhir (“The Last Night”) and 9 dari Nadira (“Nine Stories from Nadira”), have been translated into several languages. Chudori’s writing blends personal experience with mythology, creating complex narratives that reflect both traditional and modern Indonesian society. Her work has earned critical acclaim, with Pulang winning the Khatulistiwa Literary Award in 2013. Leila is also a respected journalist and TV writer.

Agritech innovation is reshaping Southeast Asia’s agricultural landscape, driving sustainable farming practices and enhancing productivity. From cutting-edge urban farming solutions to advanced IoT-powered platforms, agritech companies in the region are empowering famers with the tools they need to thrive. In this edition, Top 10 of Asia spotlights the top 10 most inspiring agritech companies (in alphabetical order) that have recognised the transformative potential of smart farming, and have taken the lead in revolutionising the farm management and supply chain solutions in the agriculture sector.

ADAMCO (Philippines)

Filipino-owned ADAMCO is an agritech company that engages in manufacturing and distributing agricultural equipment. The company sells rice combine harvesters, four-wheel tractors, rice transplanters, horizontal diesel engines, trailer beds and other small farm equipment. Now the largest dealer of farm machineries with over 37 branches and extension outlets across the Philippines, ADAMCO is committed to building value chain communities from the point of production to the point of consumption. The company holds strong to their belief in making agriculture easier and more profitable for farmers by providing them access to modern agricultural machinery. 

AGRHUB (Vietnam)

AGRHUB is an agritech startup based in Vietnam that provides smart agricultural solutions to transform traditional farming. With a focus on research and development, AGRHUB offers a comprehensive, one-stop service including IoT platforms, agribusiness consulting and custom solutions for farms of all sizes. Their advanced technology helps farmers optimise productivity, reduce costs and improve efficiency through devices that monitor and automate farm operations. AGRHUB currently serves over 500 users across 8 countries, offering scalable solutions for home gardens, greenhouses, hydroponics and more.

AgriAku (Indonesia) 

Based in Indonesia, AgriAku leverages technology to bridge the gap between farmers and agricultural production facilities. Through its innovative app, AgriAku provides easy access to a wide range of agricultural products at competitive prices, facilitating distribution across Indonesia. With over 23,390 partners, AgriAku ensures a seamless, efficient service, allowing farmers and partners to manage orders, check stock and optimise transactions. Committed to sustainable, inclusive and profitable growth, AgriAku continues to empower Indonesia’s agricultural community by offering affordable solutions and creating additional income opportunities for its partners.

Archisen (Singapore)

Archisen is a pioneering agritech company based in Singapore, specialising in high-tech urban farming solutions. Focused on transforming food production, Archisen designs and operates indoor farms that grow ultra-fresh, nutritious produce using Controlled-Environment Agriculture (CEA). With a projected annual yield of 100 tonnes, their farms maintain optimal conditions to enhance the flavour and nutritional value of plants. The company’s proprietary system, Croptron, integrates IoT technology, sensors and data analytics to optimise farm management and drive efficiency. Founded by Sven Yeo and Vincent Wei, Archisen aims to build the largest network of urban farms across Asia, offering sustainable farm-to-fork solutions.

BoomGrow (Malaysia) 

BoomGrow is a leading agritech company revolutionising food production through controlled environment farming. Using a patent-pending technology, its modular and scalable Machine Farm grows greens year-round with 95% less land and water, ensuring optimal taste, nutrition and sustainability. By nurturing plants without chemicals and offering door-to-door delivery, BoomGrow provides fresh, clean produce directly to local communities. Committed to reducing carbon footprints and improving food safety, BoomGrow’s innovative approach to farming helps address the environmental impact of traditional agriculture while meeting the growing demand for nutritious food in Southeast Asia.

DamDoh (Cambodia)

Founded in 2018 by Mr. Manil Ek, DamDoh is committed to empowering small farmers through sustainable organic farming practices. The company’s mission is to combat hunger, alleviate poverty and improve nutrition by providing hands-on training and utilising innovative technology. DamDoh supports farmers in cultivating food on small plots near their homes, fostering self-sufficiency and financial independence. By improving agricultural practices and access to vital resources, the company aims to enhance food security, restore biodiversity and elevate livelihoods. With a focus on education, collaboration and holistic development, DamDoh is transforming the lives of smallholder farming families and promoting a sustainable future.

Easyrice (Thailand) 

Led by Phuvin Kongsawat, Easyrice is an AI-driven agritech startup transforming the rice industry with innovative technology. Specialising in rice quality inspection, cultivar purity analysis and data management, Easyrice offers solutions like Easyrice M0 and Easyrice MP to automate quality and purity assessments with precision. Their latest tool, Easyrice Whiteness, sets new benchmarks for rice whiteness measurement. The company focuses on expanding its AI solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs and minimise errors in rice mills and agricultural businesses. In addition, Easyrice’s sister company, Exambrisk, develops intelligent solutions for businesses, driving technological advancements in agriculture across Southeast Asia.

Fashol (Singapore) 

Founded by Sakib Hossain, Fashol is revolutionising supply chains in Bangladesh by providing innovative solutions for both the retail and agriculture sectors. Headquartered in Singapore, the company aims to create a fairer and more affordable food system. Fashol not only offers a one-stop supply service that connects retailers with high-quality products through a pre-order system, they also empower farmers by eliminating intermediaries and offering direct market access. Through its strategic services, Fashol fosters economic growth, enhances efficiency and promotes a greener, more prosperous future for all stakeholders.

Mertani (Indonesia) 

Guided by the tagline “Be Part of Nature, Protect the Future”, Mertani is a leading agritech company that supports data resources in the agricultural, meteorological and hydrological sectors. Founded by Yestafat Fawzi in a small garage, Mertani has grown into an industry leader in developing IoT devices that provide accurate data to combat global warming through conservation and mitigation efforts. The company has already gained recognition for its impactful solutions in Indonesia and is now expanding its global presence, promoting its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability while leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive positive change in the fight against climate change. 

Urban Farm Tech (Malaysia) 

Urban Farm Tech is a leading agritech company based in Malaysia that focuses on sustainable urban farming solutions. Through innovative hydroponic and aquaponic systems, the company empowers communities, schools and businesses to grow healthy, pesticide-free produce with minimal water and land use. Urban Farm Tech offers consulting, design, build services, technical support and educational programmes, promoting food security and environmental sustainability. They are committed to contributing to a reliable food supply, as well as making the commercial food supply chain safer, healthier.