The Asher Report – Week 10
The Asher Report – Week 10
By Asher Moratuwa, 9MKA – Rosehill College Student Newsletter
Welcome to the third issue of The Asher Report, a student-run, fortnightly newsletter designed to keep you informed and curious about the world around you. From breaking global news to fun and fascinating facts, this issue brings together major events and unique stories.
🌏 Thailand Shaken by Myanmar Earthquake
On 28 March 2025, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar sent strong tremors across Thailand, causing widespread panic and destruction. In Bangkok, a high-rise building under construction collapsed, killing at least 22 people and trapping others under the rubble. Rescue teams, aided by trained search dogs, are working tirelessly to locate and assist survivors.
The disaster has worsened conditions for vulnerable communities, including refugees in Thai camps already affected by food shortages. Meanwhile, aftershocks continue to shake the region, with seven recorded in Thailand so far. Despite the crisis, Myanmar’s junta leader attended a summit in Bangkok—drawing criticism as his home country struggles to manage relief efforts. Rescue and recovery operations remain ongoing as both Thailand and Myanmar face the long road to recovery.
⚓ Tragic Submarine Accident in the Red Sea
On 27 March 2025, a tourist submarine named “Sindbad” sank off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, resulting in the deaths of six Russian tourists. The vessel was carrying 45 passengers from several countries, including India, Norway, and Sweden, along with five Egyptian crew members. Emergency services successfully rescued 39 individuals, some of whom sustained injuries and were transported to hospital for treatment.
The Sindbad was known for offering underwater tours showcasing coral reefs and marine life. The cause of the sinking is still under investigation by Egyptian authorities. This incident has raised fresh concerns about maritime safety in the Red Sea, a region that has seen multiple accidents and shark attacks in recent years. With tourism a crucial part of Egypt’s economy, there’s mounting pressure on the government to tighten safety regulations and rebuild international confidence.
🐈 Meet Mr Pugsley Addams: The Cat with the Longest Tail
As of March 2025, the Guinness World Record for the longest tail on a living domestic cat belongs to Mr Pugsley Addams, a two-year-old Maine Coon from Mound, Minnesota. His impressive tail measures 18.5 inches (46.99 cm). His owner, Amanda Cameron, first noticed the unusual length during an early vet check and later had it officially measured.
Known for his mischievous personality, Mr Pugsley has become something of a local celebrity. The previous record was held by Altair Cygnus Powers, another Maine Coon, with a tail measuring 16.07 inches (40.83 cm). Altair had inherited the title from his late brother, Cygnus, whose tail measured 17.58 inches (44.66 cm).
The Maine Coon breed is known for its large size and luxurious fur—often resulting in record-breaking tails. These cats continue to amaze animal lovers with their unique traits and striking features.
From the Editor’s Corner✎
Kia ora! I’m Asher from 9MKA, and I’m excited to share the third edition of The Asher Report—your go-to for global updates and interesting reads, written for students, by a student. If you’d like to contribute, I welcome article submissions (please make sure they’re appropriate for a school setting and include APA referencing). Each fortnight, I’ll choose two student-written articles to feature.
As we head into the break, I’ll leave you with this thought:
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
Enjoy a safe and restful Easter holiday. This is the final newsletter for the term—see you next time!
References📝
- Associated Press. (2025, April 3). Rescue dogs aid search efforts at site where Bangkok building collapsed after earthquake. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/thailand-earthquake-rescue-dogs-photos-building-collapse-4f2f6239075595e065a1e2b27bfecb98
- BBC News. (2025, March 27). Six dead and 39 rescued after tourist submarine sinks in Egypt, says local governor – live updates. https://www.bbc.com/news/live/clynd93449kt
- Richards, B. (2025, March 26). Pugsley the ‘Mischievous’ Cat Is the New World Record Holder for Longest Tail. It’s Over a Foot Long! People.com. https://people.com/cat-breaks-world-record-for-longest-tail-meet-pugsley-11703745
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