Jennie S. Bev is proud of Obama. She lived in the same district where Obama stayed in Jakarta:

“Both Barack Obama and I once lived and grew up in the Menteng district of Central Jakarta. He went to SD Negeri 1 Menteng, while I went to Saint Theresia. Both schools were within a few minutes drive from each other, but of course unless time was a Mobius strip, we would not have met each other.

“I am proud of him, not just because we shared some commonalities in our upbringing, but because we believe in the promise of the future and that together we have the capacity and the courage to make meaningful changes.”

Asri Wijayanti from Indonesia is now in the U.S., and is wondering why there are few election posters in the streets:

“I was thinking, that the Americans were so fascinated, as much as I was, about this election. I imagined the stacks of posters and banners all the way, as crowded as it is in Indonesia at the campaign phase, but I was wrong.

“It was pretty surprising for me to see NOTHING related to the national election on the way. No photos of the candidates, no posters, no banners, nothing. I walked through the bus stops, campus corridors, downtown area, wondering. Why? Is it because everybody knows Obama and McCain so well? But are the people sure that they are going to vote?”

Then she notes the lack of voters' education in media:

“I then learned that voter education is something rare in national media. I watched news channels, and I hardly see neutral electoral ads, or the ads that merely encourage people to register and cast their vote. Instead, compared to the dynamics in Indonesian election, the voter education activities in United States, in my eyes looks like underground phenomenon, the off-mainstream media programs, as the channels are more interested in the political waves itself then the encouragement to the people to be aware of their political rights.”

Patricio Mangubat from the Philippines is curious about Obama's anti-terror platform in the Asia-Pacific region:

“Obama has yet to address the increasing problems of terrorism in the Asia-Pacific region. We presume that Obama will continue the existing US policy against terror in the region, yet, up to what extent? Yes, anti-terror campaigns will definitely continue under either an Obama or a McCain presidency, but who'll be more vigilant and more vigorous in chasing after these Islamic terrorists? Given the record of Obama, will he be implementing a “softer” approach to this global menace?”

Khoo Kay Peng from Malaysia recognizes the need for politicians to show decisive leadership in times of crisis:

“US and Malaysia are facing the serious problem - but of different magnitude - with their domestic economy. It is probably much worse in the US than here. But there is a stark difference in the way politicians from both sides responded to the problem…We need politicians to show leadership during difficult times. Here in Malaysia, politicians busy jostling for positions.”

Asian Americans comprise a significant number in the United States. Who will win the Asian American vote? Jay encourages Cambodian Americans to actively participate in the election process. Brain Bang advises the Democrats on how to win the Filipino-American vote. Lao Voices highlights the poor economic situation of Lao Americans to argue against another Republican presidency:

“The situation for Lao Americans is far worse. According to the 2000 census, Lao Americans obtained a per capita (per person 25+) income of less than $12,000! Ironically, this is almost one tenth of the threshold where they benefit more from Republicans. Most will never make the Rep honey pot in their lifetime. More than one third of the Lao Americans even live below the poverty line. An estimated 98.5% of all Lao Americans will pay more taxes under McCain than under Obama. Go figure.”

Ridz.sg from Singapore is obviously not a fan of Vice President candidate Sarah Palin:

“Watching Sarah Palin is worrying though because the more I listen to what she has to say, the more of a joke she becomes to me. She evades every damn question. Wrong. She doesn’t even evade. She just talks about some other point and completely ignores the original question.”

On the other hand, CK's Musings is supporting Palin:

“Palin has struggled all her life, so I'm sure she'll understand the struggles the common people are going through when she is in the White House. She also speaks better and I don't feel like she's talking down to me. Biden and Obama are just too elitist, they make me feel like I'm a peon and that they hold all the answers.”

Hanqing values the experience advantage of McCain over Obama:

“Bottom line, the US (and the world) is going through a pretty trying period right now. I don’t think people really need to hear words of empowerment or inspirational sound bites that make them feel warm and fuzzy. They need to be reassured that they have a leader who has enough experience and mental toughness to help a country weather a crisis. And though John McCain may not be nearly as polished as Barack Obama is, his experience seems to make up for it.”

Akomismo from the Philippines compares McCain and Obama:

“Obama and McCain are yin and yang. Of all their contrasts, the assessment I agree with most is that they represent an America at the crossroads of two generations. One is from the America that has always been there: strong, triumphant, and takes pride in longevity and experience. The other is from an America that is just being born: cosmopolitan, global, and takes pride in diversity and change. What makes this election so close is that these two paradigms present equally valid ways of dealing with the present economic crisis, the lingering wars on Iraq and Afghanistan, and the standing of America at home and abroad. Thus, this isn’t about partisanship anymore, it’s about leadership. Who has what it takes to live out the vision of America they present?”

If informal surveys are to be believed, it seems Obama is more popular in the region. An Obama victory will be welcomed in Indonesia. Mum's the Word (or Pa) from Singapore believes it is impossible for McCain to win in the elections. Beyond SG discusses the role of social networking sites in today’s politics. A Vietnam non-profit group borrows the soundbytes of US candidates to promote their newsletter.

How did governments react to the issue? Chinese milk products were scrutinized, strictly regulated and banned. Even the popular white rabbit candy was listed as a dangerous food item. Health agencies have published a list of safe products from China.

Because of the milk scare, consumers are changing their diet, while others refrain from drinking milk. As expected, milk companies are assuring customers that their products are safe. A consumer from Brunei wants the government to review its list of contaminated milk products. Now a Mummy is worried since she bought a biscuit from a company based in China.

What is the reaction of bloggers? A Singaporean describes the issue as “Weapons of Mass Consumption-Tainted Milk Saga.”

Bangkok Pundit advises the government not to overreact:

“The government needs to take appropriate action to ensure the safety of its citizens, but it likewise shouldn't overreact and create a panic - if the government overreacts, China could retaliate and this affects Thai exporters.”

A reader is shocked to see Chinese milk products still being sold in Thailand supermarkets:

“I think the Thai government's stance is totally unacceptable, it's not just a question of PR. How come you can still see the products on the shelves in supermarkets? The government should take a strong stance for the public safety and inform us clearly what products are contaminated and remove them.”

Alexisthetiny from Bangkok will now buy more local and unprocessed food products:

“Melamine is supposed to be toxic, right? How in the heck, then can we have ‘acceptable levels’ of that stuff in our food? I’d imagine that for something this disgustingly bad for our health, ‘acceptable levels’ would be nil. Jesus. How on earth have we gotten to a point where we would allow stuff like that to be added to our food? Actually, how on earth have we gotten to this point where we allow corporations to tell us what is ok in food even if it goes against our instincts? One thing for sure, this is going to change my food shopping habits. From now on, its as local and unprocessed as it can get.”

My Food for Thots from Malaysia writes about the difficulty of banning trade with China:

“But heck, what's not made in China? Even Nike shoes are made in China! Does this mean it's only safe buying stuff not made in China? Which only mean the expensive, branded stuff? Which leads to bigger inflation? Which means our salaries will not suffice? Sigh….”

Tumbleweed in Space from East Timor writes about what the milk scandal revealed on modern living:

“The recent milk scandal in China once again reminds us of how much contaminants there are in almost every aspect of our life. This time it's melamine, but recently studies have also shown that polycarbonate, a plastic commonly used for milk bottles, contains the hormone-disrupting Biphesonol-A.”

What is the possible impact of the scandal on Myanmar? Fear from Freedom explains:

“Chinese milk powder is used widely in Myanmar. Coffee and tea mixed packets are used widely as well. Since these packets contained milk powder the authorities should check the source of the milk. Singapore found tainted milk powder in tea packets and our imports are from Singapore. It is important to tell the people so they can avoid milk powder from China in any form until things are checked.”

House on a Hill from the Philippines reminds the government not to impose trade policies that hurt the poor:

“Instead of taking pains to determine whether Sanlu milk could have indeed been smuggled into the country and sold to the public, we have government officials overreacting by freezing imports and pulling off the supermarket shelves just about any milk and milk-based product from China. What kind of solution is that? That’s a double whammy. That’s discriminating against legitimate Chinese producers and exporters of milk and milk-based products. Worse, that is hurting poor Filipinos who can not afford the que horror prices of milk and milk products sold locally by multinational companies.”

Then she identifies alternative sources of calcium:

“So we have a government who has continually failed to educate the people of the dangers of buying unlabeled food products. That same government is cutting off the supply of cheap milk because it cannot curb smuggling. Where does that leave the consumers, especially the poor ones? For those with children below two years old, breastfeed them. For the rest, understand that while milk is a good source of calcium, it is not the only source of calcium. Sardines, okra, tofu and beans are all rich in calcium.”

The Curious Life of a Quirky Chef from the Philippines asks “Is China trying to kill the world one kid at a time?” The blogger adds:

“First, there was the global controversy about children's toys that were tainted with lead. Then, the issue about candies and biscuits from China that allegedly contain formaldehyde. Today, health officials all over the world, plus the millions of dairy consumers are panicking because of the Chinese milk products that are contaminated with the industrial chemical melamine.”

Thailand bagged 4 medals. The most memorable victory was delivered by 33 year old boxer Somjit Jongjohor.

“The former world champion knew this would be his last Olympics and was determined to bring home the gold for his country. In Athens four years ago he lost in early rounds to Cuba’s Yuriorkis Gamboa which led him to believe his time as a competitive boxer was over.”

A controversy erupted when some Thai officials were accused of game-fixing:

“However, the Thai story at the Games is, as ever, about far more than the medals won – it is instead about the stories of Thai officials allegedly ‘trying to sell the country’ by lobbying officials to make sure Thai boxers lose their fights, endless controversies concerning whether the right results were determined in points-scoring events, stories of nuns, monks, orphans and changes of name to change luck and destiny.”

After 12 years, Malaysia won a medal in the Olympics. Student Ai Ling Tan is happy for Malaysia’s silver medalist:

“Anyway, despite Malaysia ranked 75 on the medal tally, I am still happy and proud that at least we won something! At least our country can now be seen on the medal tally! For such a long time, locals have been asking me, “How's Malaysia faring in the games?” And I can only shake in dismay, but now, my friends, now, we've won silver! Oh, so happy! :) Because we couldn't watch the badminton tournament (in which Lee Chong Wei won silver), dad messaged me the results and sarcastically said, “Gold is expensive. So China can only afford to give us silver.” Haha. That's my dad. :)”

Singapore also won a silver medal for table tennis. Some bloggers are not celebrating since the victorious players are not originally from Singapore. But others think this is a non-issue. They are Singaporeans, and their victory in the Olympics should be a cause for celebration:

“I will not go into debate about the degree of ‘Singaporean-ness' these table tennis athletes are. As far as I am concerned and in the eyes of the Olympic competition, they are Singaporeans. This mighty Olympic medal-winning achievement is a Singaporean record worth celebrating.”

Beside, Indonesian blogger Bleu notes that many table tennis players from other countries like France, Italy, Canada, and Poland have Chinese roots as well.

Swimmer Tao Li was praised for being the first Singaporean to reach the swimming finals. She finished fifth.

East Timor sent a single athlete to the Olympics. Lao Voices is satisfied with the performance of Lao athletes, considering the lack of proper sports facilities in Laos.

“Limited resources, such as Lao training facilities in a pool half the size of a standard Olympic size swimming pool, influence her results. Within those limits her achievements are great.”

Absolute Me cites a news report which reveals the pitiful allowance received by Cambodian athletes.

“The Cambodian team candidates were receiving only 30 USD per month from our National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) while training for the competition. I wonder how can they survive with such a little stipend if they really invest their heart and soul into the game and I wonder how much will NOCC has been putting to support our Cambodian team.”

Meanwhile, Singapore has promised to give $800,000 to athletes who will bring home a gold medal, and Thailand’s gold winners will receive $550,000.

Brunei was excluded from participating in the Olympics. The Brooding Lizard is disappointed:

“I say that the thing about Brunei not being able to compete is a funny thing. They really take last minute planning to the real last minute. For those of you who don’t know what happened - Brunei was excluded from the games because they failed to register their athletes on time. It was only on opening day itself, they decided to try hard to submit their registry.”

The Philippines did not win a single medal. Filipino Twitter users are not amused. Jose Paris twits:

“After the Beijing Olympics, the Philippines now holds the all-time record for the most number of medals in the Games without a gold”

kurenaiseiba adds:

“Philippines, you disappoint me on Beijing Olympics and thanks for wasting my day and time”

Wushu was not officially included in the Olympics but it was part of the Special Olympics Event. Southeast Asian countries received 14 medals for Wushu including a gold medal for the Philippines.

Warlock’s World writes:

“This morning, I saw the awarding ceremony for Wushu and the Philippine national anthem being played for the first time in the Beijing Olympics. I was emotional and proud of Willy Wang, our only gold medalist in this year’s Olympics.

“I do hope that Wushu becomes an official Olympic sport because Pinoy athletes are one of the best in that sport. I guess, we just have to wait for the 2016 Olympics because I just read online that the 2012 London Games didn’t consider Wushu. It even scrapped baseball and softball.

“I do wish that our Philippine sports officials will set their priorities. Funds should be given to sports associations that would enable Pinoys to get gold medals in the Olympics.”

Indonesian composer Ananda Sukarlan played a key role in the Olympics. His recent work was the official hymn for Olympic Sportsmen to celebrate the Beijing Olympic Games 2008 and was broadcasted in 200 TV channels throughout Asia.

Lengua et Pluma salutes the Olympic athletes:

“Athletes have been smashing records at Beijing Olympics much to our awe and amusement. Whether they are beating the world or Olympic records set in the recent Olympic Games or World Championships, or a world record unbeaten for more than decade already, they are sure pumping more energy in this Olympiad. Sports science is definitely far more developed this century, and new techniques have been applied in the athletes’ training programs. The world’s athletes simply performed very well in Beijing. The idea of the Olympic Games anyway is all about conquering human ability. The evolution of men has simply not yet stopped.”

C.V. Tyler has an interesting proposal: A unified ASEAN Olympic Team.

“Having a single, ASEAN team at the Olympics would go some ways toward forming a single ASEAN ethnicity. The advantage of a unified, ASEAN Olympic team is that it would also allow for Southeast Asian athletes who show potential to train in the most advanced athletics facilities in Southeast Asia, alongside the top athletes in Southeast Asia, and be coached by the top coaches in Southeast Asia. The talent from across the region can be consolidated into a few sports centers.”