Clad in dopamine-boosting colours and stylish outfits, China’s “fashion grannies” are turning heads with their youthful sartorial choices, embodying the statement that “age is just a number and style knows no bounds”. Beyond their trendy appearances lies a deeper narrative of resilience, individuality and inspiration. Here’s a glimpse into the lives and philosophies of three remarkable women who are redefining ageing with their style and grace.

Recent changes to China’s military structure marks the country’s renewed focus on modern warfare. With the dissolution of the Strategic Support Force, and the setting up of the Information Support Force, Aerospace Force and Cyberspace Force in its place, the new arms will become critical pillars supporting the four services. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at the recent changes.

China’s employees are dependent on its social security system to keep them going, especially in terms of pensions and funds for those of retirement age. However, amid struggles with salaries and manpower, how are companies to take care of employees?

Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing’s moves have always been highly watched by investors and the public alike. The pivot to Hong Kong and the mainland by CK Asset Holdings, founded by Li and helmed by his son Victor Li, has rekindled discussions as to whether the Li family is shifting its strategic focus back to China. Lianhe Zaobao’s China Desk looks into the recent activities of Li and his group of companies amid a turbulent economic environment.

Vietnam’s concerns about a China-backed canal project in Cambodia are making some waves. Cambodia’s new leader has a chance to calm the waters.

Japanese academic Shin Kawashima notes that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s recent visit to the US has ruffled China’s feathers, but that does not necessarily mean that Japan will shift its diplomatic approach.

Chongqing’s Dongjiaxi flea market has been a hotspot for the discerning consumers, in particular youths, who are seeking cost-effectiveness without sacrificing quality and style. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Edwin Ong speaks with shoppers and shop owners to find out more about this thriving industry in the city.

Japanese academic Takao Komine explains the reasons behind Japan falling behind Germany in the GDP rankings and discusses the possible implications of this trajectory.

In analysing Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun’s article on “new quality productive forces”, academic Erik Baark notes that the word “quality” between the phrases “new productive forces” and “new quality productive forces” may make all the difference in China’s efforts to boost science and technology for high-quality development.

Academic Chen Gang believes that while there does not exist a multilateral security mechanism among the US’s allies in the Asia-Pacific region, decision makers in the US want to strengthen its strategic alliances in the East Asia region, and to push for the forming of a multilateral security mechanism akin to NATO in order to more effectively contain China. In such a case, Japan could see its role in regional and global affairs increase, but at the risk of deteriorating relations with China.

Commentator Qinglian He says that while US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen spoke of “problems” with China on her recent visit, such as a weak economy and cheap Chinese goods, closer analysis seems to suggest that perhaps the problems are not China’s, but the US’s, in terms of equipping its people with the skills necessary to boost manufacturing and other sectors.

Did you know that some of China’s retirement homes offer singing lessons, buffet spreads, VR devices or eSports classes? Despite this, lingering stigma complicates the decision to reside in such facilities. Here’s what the elderly think about living in retirement homes.