U.S. Teacher Faces Jail for Sending Explicit Images to 14-Year-Old Student

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PENNSYLVANIA, USA – A 30-year-old middle school teacher has been arrested and faces up to seven years in prison after allegedly sending explicit images to a 14-year-old boy she once taught.

According to the New York Post (Sept. 16), the teacher, Ashley Autumn Mongell, is accused of exchanging nude photos with the student via Snapchat and making inappropriate comments about his age in their conversations.

Allegations and Investigation

Court records show that Mongell instructed the boy to delete their conversations and once wrote, “Don’t text me for nine years,” implying secrecy until the teen reached adulthood.

The Pennsylvania State Police Computer Crimes Unit began investigating Mongell on September 11 after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about suspicious online exchanges.

The 14-year-old student admitted to police that he and Mongell had shared nude photos. Investigators confirmed finding one fully nude image of the teacher on the boy’s phone.

School and Legal Response

Mongell, who taught at Connellsville Area Middle School, about 80 km from Pittsburgh, was immediately suspended from teaching after the allegations surfaced on September 12.

Richard Evans, a representative of the Connellsville School District, stated that the district is cooperating fully with state police, but could not provide further details due to the case’s legal and personnel nature.

Mongell appeared in court on September 12 and is currently being held at Fayette County Jail on a $40,000 bond. She is scheduled to return to court on September 24.

If convicted, she faces a maximum sentence of seven years in prison.

Female Traffic Police Officer in Ho Chi Minh City Uncovers Man Hiding Ketamine and Ecstasy

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HO CHI MINH CITY – A female traffic police officer leading a patrol team in Ho Chi Minh City has uncovered a man hiding ketamine (“ke”) and ecstasy pills inside a cigarette pack during an alcohol level check.

On September 16, the Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Police Department (PC08) confirmed that the patrol unit, led by Lieutenant Colonel Trần Thị Hồng Nhung, deputy head of the Bàn Cờ Traffic Police Team, detected and handed over the suspect to local authorities.

Suspicious Behavior Leads to Arrest

The incident occurred on the evening of September 6 on Ông Ích Khiêm Street, Hòa Bình Ward (formerly District 11). While conducting routine checks for drunk driving and other traffic violations, officers stopped a man riding a Honda SH.

The suspect initially tried to turn around to avoid the checkpoint but was quickly stopped. Officers noticed he appeared nervous, repeatedly holding his left hand against his chest as if concealing something.

When asked to comply with a search, the man dropped a Jet cigarette pack, inside which officers found a plastic bag containing crystalline powder and two green tablets suspected to be drugs.

The man later admitted the substances were ketamine (synthetic drug “ke”) and ecstasy pills that he had purchased for personal use.

Strengthened Patrols Against Crime

Authorities confirmed this was among the first successful cases under the city’s new strategy to combine traffic checks with criminal prevention measures. The Bàn Cờ Traffic Police Team has shifted from routine traffic patrols to an integrated approach targeting street crimes, drug trafficking, and social evils.

Moving forward, the unit will continue to strengthen patrols in key areas, working with other police divisions to ensure public safety and fight crime across Ho Chi Minh City.

Northern Vietnam to Face Strong Cold Fronts from October, Central Region Braces for Heavy Rains

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HANOI – From October 2025, northern Vietnam is expected to experience stronger cold fronts, while the central region will face prolonged heavy rainfall through the year’s end, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

Meteorologists predict that between October and December, the ENSO (El Niño–Southern Oscillation) phenomenon will remain in a neutral state, leaning toward a cooling phase but not yet reaching La Niña conditions. Average temperatures in November and December are forecast to be about 0.5°C lower than the long-term average.

Storms and Cold Spells Ahead

Between October and December, the East Sea (South China Sea) could see 4–5 tropical storms or depressions, with up to two potentially making landfall in Vietnam. Cold spells are expected to increase in frequency and intensity, with severe cold snaps likely from late December into early 2026.

The cold weather will persist into January and February 2026, before gradually weakening by March. Northern provinces may face prolonged cold waves and frost risks during this period.

Central Vietnam: Flood and Storm Risks

The central region is forecast to see widespread heavy rainfall from October to November, coinciding with the peak storm season. Areas most at risk include Ha Tinh to Thua Thien Hue, and the eastern parts of Quang Ngai to Khanh Hoa provinces.

Rainfall across most regions is expected to exceed the long-term average by 10–30%, while in December, central provinces could see rainfall higher by 50–100 mm, raising concerns of flooding and landslides.

From January to March 2026, scattered thunderstorms are also possible in the central provinces, with risks of dangerous weather phenomena such as lightning, whirlwinds, and strong gusts.

Preparedness Measures Urged

Authorities are urging local governments and residents to prepare for cold-weather impacts in the north and flood risks in the central region. Farmers and fishermen, in particular, are advised to monitor forecasts closely to minimize losses.

Vietnam Urges U.S. to Reconsider Seafood Import Ban Decision

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Hanoi (September 16, 2025) – Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hồng Diên has called on U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to reconsider a decision that could suspend imports of 12 Vietnamese seafood products starting January 1, 2026.

Minister’s Letter to the U.S.

On September 15, Minister Diên sent an official letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), urging them to review the decision rejecting Vietnam’s equivalence recognition for 12 fishing practices.

He warned that the move could cause serious disruptions to bilateral trade and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese fishermen and workers in the seafood sector.

The minister also highlighted the ongoing administrative review of U.S. anti-dumping duties on Vietnamese shrimp. He appealed for fairness, stressing that Vietnamese shrimp exporters are reliable and responsible partners in the U.S. market.

Impact on Seafood Exports

The rejection by NOAA means that key Vietnamese seafood products such as tuna, swordfish, grouper, mackerel, mullet, crab, squid, and scad would face a de facto import ban into the U.S. from January 1, 2026, under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).

The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) has warned that the measure could severely damage the country’s seafood industry and has urged immediate government action to protect exporters and maintain market access.

Strategic Partnership at Stake

Minister Diên emphasized that the decision affects not only Vietnamese businesses and fishermen but also U.S. importers, workers, and consumers who benefit from affordable and high-quality seafood.

He reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with the United States, stressing mutual trust and benefits. Vietnam, he said, will continue to facilitate U.S. businesses and investors while working closely with Washington to resolve outstanding trade issues.

Calls for Urgent Measures

VASEP has proposed short-term and long-term solutions, including closer coordination among Vietnamese ministries, agencies, and the private sector, to safeguard the country’s seafood trade with the U.S.

The association also urged investments in sustainable fishing practices, stricter compliance with international standards, and greater support for fishermen to minimize the impact of a potential U.S. import suspension.

After Expressway Crash Injures 8, Debate Erupts Over Tree-Watering Tanker Trucks on Highways

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Hanoi (September 16, 2025) – A serious traffic accident on the Phap Van – Cau Gie Expressway has reignited debate over whether tree-watering tanker trucks should be banned from operating on Vietnam’s highways due to safety concerns.

Multi-Vehicle Collision Leaves 8 Injured

The crash happened on the morning of September 15 at Km22+800 of the expressway. A tanker truck, moving slowly in the innermost lane to water trees along the median, was rear-ended by a passenger bus. Two more vehicles quickly followed, creating a chain collision that injured eight people.

According to the Traffic Police Department (C08) under the Ministry of Public Security, the incident was partly caused by drivers failing to maintain safe speeds and distances. However, the presence of the slow-moving tanker truck in the high-speed lane has also raised serious safety questions.

Experts Warn of High Risks

Transportation experts say allowing tanker trucks to water trees during the day poses extreme risks.

“Expressways are designed for high-speed traffic. A truck moving slowly in the fast lane creates deadly hazards. Just a moment of distraction is enough for tragedy,” said Nguyen Van Thanh, former chairman of the Vietnam Automobile Transport Association.

Dr. Khuong Kim Tao, former deputy chief of the National Traffic Safety Committee, agreed and proposed restricting watering operations to nighttime, when traffic volumes are lower and warning systems are more visible.

Calls to Rethink Highway Greenery

In the wake of the accident, C08 suggested that trees should not be planted in expressway medians at all. Instead, light-blocking nets could serve the same purpose without endangering traffic.

Thanh supported the idea in part, noting that while greenery improves the environment and driving comfort, safety must come first. He proposed investing in automatic irrigation systems to replace manual watering by tanker trucks.

Dr. Tao added: “Trees bring ecological benefits—reducing heat, dust, and driver fatigue—but if safety cannot be ensured, authorities must carefully weigh the risks and benefits.”

Malaysian MP Rafizi Ramli Reports Extortion Attempt Involving AI-Generated Video

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Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli — former Malaysia economy minister and opposition MP — says anonymous extortioners demanded $100,000 after sending an AI-generated sex video that appears to show him. He warns the attempt is part of a wider cyber campaign.

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 13, 2025 — Malaysian lawmaker Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has revealed he received an anonymous extortion email threatening to release a sexually explicit video fabricated with artificial intelligence. The message demanded $100,000 and included a blurred screenshot from the clip plus a QR code for payment, Rafizi said in a Facebook post.

Rafizi said the video appears to be a deepfake — created by grafting his face onto footage of another man. Within 30 minutes of his disclosure, fellow MP Wong Chen told Rafizi he had received a similar threatening email that reused imagery from the same clip, suggesting a coordinated campaign.

“I suspect the true aim is to access my phone or computer. If they succeed, they could fabricate further damaging material,” Rafizi wrote, calling the attack part of a targeted operation to discredit him and possibly others.

Repeated cyber intrusions flagged

Rafizi also reported repeated attempts to breach his Apple accounts over the past nine months. He said he received security alerts on multiple dates — including Nov. 14, 2024; Mar. 6, 2025; Jun. 25, 2025; and Sept. 3, 2025 — and credited Apple’s security systems with detecting and blocking the intrusions.

According to Rafizi, Apple notified him that those intrusion attempts bore hallmarks of mercenary spyware, surveillance tools developed to target specific individuals. He pointed to the notorious Pegasus spyware — produced by NSO Group and widely reported to have been used to surveil politicians and activists worldwide — as an example of how such tools can be abused.

Political and reputational alarm

Rafizi said the extortion attempt likely has political motives and urged the public and media to verify any suspicious media before sharing it online. “I believe these efforts to smear me via fake videos and cyberattacks will not stop,” he warned, urging caution and verification.

Cybersecurity experts say deepfake extortion and coordinated spyware attacks are on the rise worldwide, and politicians and public figures are common targets. The case underlines growing concerns about the ease with which AI can fabricate convincing but false audiovisual content and how such material can be weaponised for blackmail or political manipulation.

What to watch for

  • Verify any explicit or suspicious media before sharing.

  • Treat unsolicited payment demands and QR codes as red flags.

  • Keep devices and accounts protected with up-to-date security settings and two-factor authentication.

  • Report suspected blackmail, spyware, or deepfake incidents to authorities and platform providers immediately.

Health Minister Đào Hồng Lan: Free Healthcare Policy Is a Humane and Groundbreaking Step

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Vietnam’s Health Minister Đào Hồng Lan has affirmed that the newly issued Resolution 72 by the Politburo marks a major milestone in healthcare reform, with the “free hospital fees” policy drawing strong public attention.

Free Hospital Fees Linked to Universal Health Insurance

Speaking to the press on September 16, Minister Đào Hồng Lan emphasized that by 2030, basic healthcare costs will be waived nationwide through the universal health insurance (UHI) system.

“This is a deeply humane policy, reflecting the superiority of our system, easing financial burdens, and ensuring early disease detection,” Lan said.

The free healthcare scheme will be rolled out in stages, with the state and insurance funds covering essential medical expenses—especially for vulnerable groups, the poor, and socially disadvantaged citizens. Non-essential, premium medical services will still require partial out-of-pocket payment, encouraging responsible and efficient use of resources.

The minister stressed:

“This policy must be closely tied to universal health insurance coverage, where everyone participates in risk-sharing—those with better means support the less fortunate, and the healthy help care for the sick.”

Key Benefits for Citizens

From 2026, citizens will be entitled to free annual check-ups and screenings, supported by an electronic health record system tracking health throughout the life cycle—from prenatal to elderly care.

By 2030, all citizens will receive free basic medical treatment and services within the health insurance framework, reducing out-of-pocket costs and improving early detection.

Government funds and the Health Insurance Fund will also prioritize preventive care, chronic disease management, and early treatment to cut late-stage treatment costs and mortality rates.

Six Strategic Solutions to Realize the Policy

Minister Lan outlined six main solutions to implement Resolution 72:

  1. Reform health sector governance with transparency, accountability, and streamlined administration.

  2. Complete legal frameworks, including submitting key resolutions to the National Assembly in October 2025.

  3. Launch a Government action program for synchronized implementation nationwide.

  4. Introduce a Ministry of Health action plan to roll out crucial healthcare projects in coordination with ministries and localities.

  5. Accelerate digital transformation with nationwide electronic medical records, health ID systems, and integrated national databases.

  6. Strengthen public communication to ensure citizens understand, support, and participate in the policy’s success.

Towards Fair, Equal, and Sustainable Healthcare

Lan emphasized that the goal is not “absolute free healthcare,” but minimizing co-payments while maximizing universal access:

“Our aim is to build a fair, equal, and sustainable healthcare system where no one is left behind,” she said.

The Minister concluded with optimism:

“With collective determination, we will not only increase life expectancy and expand universal health insurance, but also ensure that these goals become reality—so our people can live longer, healthier, and happier lives.”

What Penalties Await the Man Who Blocked a Russian Embassy Diplomatic Vehicle in Hanoi?

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(Vietnam Insider) – A late-night incident in Hanoi involving a man suspected of being intoxicated who obstructed and attacked a Russian Embassy diplomatic vehicle has sparked widespread debate and raised serious legal and diplomatic concerns.

The Incident

On the night of September 13, at 68 Trần Phú Street, Ba Đình District, Hanoi, a man identified as T., from Hưng Yên Province, drove his motorbike against traffic and lightly collided with a car bearing a diplomatic license plate belonging to the Russian Embassy in Vietnam.

Instead of handling the situation civilly, T. appeared intoxicated, shouted insults, hit the car, and physically assaulted the driver. The aggressive behavior, captured on video, quickly went viral online. Police intervened promptly and took the man into custody for questioning.

The incident triggered strong public outrage, with many condemning the man’s lack of respect for both domestic law and international diplomatic protocols. Some observers noted that such actions not only tarnish Vietnam’s image abroad but also risk unnecessary diplomatic friction.

Why Diplomatic Plates Matter

Under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, vehicles bearing “NG” plates (for “Ngoại giao” – diplomatic) enjoy special protections and immunity. Any obstruction, damage, or attack against such vehicles may be considered a violation of international law.

In Vietnam, “NG” plates are reserved for embassies, consulates, and accredited diplomats. Other plates such as “NN,” “QT,” “CV,” and “HC” designate different categories of international or government use. Public misunderstanding of these designations often leads to inappropriate behavior when accidents or disputes arise.

Experts emphasize that this case underscores the need for greater public education about diplomatic and special license plates, as well as the importance of respectful conduct in traffic.

Legal Consequences

Legally, the man faces multiple possible charges:

  • Traffic violations for driving against traffic.
  • Public disorder under Article 318 of Vietnam’s Penal Code, given his intoxicated, aggressive behavior.
  • Assault, if the physical attack on the driver caused measurable injuries.
  • Interference with diplomatic immunity, which is a far more serious offense under both Vietnamese and international law.

Penalties could range from administrative fines to prison time, depending on the severity of injuries, property damage, and legal interpretation of his actions. Authorities have stressed that because the incident involves a diplomatic mission, the case will be handled with particular caution to avoid any negative impact on Vietnam–Russia relations.

A Broader Lesson

The case also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of alcohol consumption while driving. Drunkenness often leads to reckless and aggressive behavior, turning minor traffic incidents into criminal acts with international consequences.

Authorities have reaffirmed that violations of Vietnam’s Decree 100/2019 on alcohol limits for drivers will continue to be strictly enforced. The public is urged to remember: “If you drink, don’t drive.”

The investigation is ongoing, and final charges will depend on the outcome of police inquiries.

Vietnam Police Prosecute 39 Suspects in Fake Police Scam Targeting Nearly 400 Victims

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(Vietnam Insider) – Authorities in Cao Bằng Province have dismantled a major transnational cybercrime ring that defrauded nearly 400 Vietnamese citizens of more than VND 160 billion (about USD 6.3 million).

According to police, since February, the group established a “ghost company” in Svay Rieng Province, Cambodia, operating near the Bavet–Mộc Bài border gate. The gang, led by foreign nationals, impersonated Vietnamese police officers to trick victims into installing a fake version of the VNeID app. The malicious app contained spyware that allowed the criminals to take control of victims’ phones, siphon money from their bank accounts, and even liquidate their stock portfolios.

After months of investigation under Case 325L, police identified the group’s structure and methods. A coordinated operation was launched to summon the suspects back to Vietnam from multiple provinces and cities.

So far, the Cao Bằng Provincial Police have prosecuted 39 individuals on charges of “using computer networks, telecommunications networks, and electronic means to appropriate property.”

Authorities confirmed that the arrests were carried out simultaneously, swiftly, and with absolute safety. The case remains under further investigation.

Johnson & Johnson hợp tác với Bệnh viện Ung bướu TP. Hồ Chí Minh với mục tiêu mở rộng khả năng tiếp cận các phương pháp điều trị ung thư tiên tiến

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Công ty TNHH Johnson & Johnson Việt Nam (Johnson & Johnson Việt Nam) vừa ký Biên bản ghi nhớ (MOU) đầu tiên với Bệnh viện Ung bướu TP.HCM nhằm tăng cường hợp tác trong công tác phòng chống và điều trị ung thư phổi và ung thư tuyến tiền liệt – hai trong số những thách thức y tế cấp thiết hiện nay tại Việt Nam.

Cột mốc này đánh dấu lần đầu tiên Johnson & Johnson Việt Nam hợp tác cùng đối tác bệnh viện nhằm cải tiến công tác điều trị ung thư tại Việt nam. Sự kiện thể hiện cam kết của công ty trong việc ứng dụng những giải pháp y học đổi mới nhằm cải thiện chất lượng cuộc sống của người Việt, đồng thời mở rộng khả năng tiếp cận các phương pháp điều trị tiên tiến thông qua việc cộng tác chặt chẽ với hệ thống y tế trong nước.

Johnson & Johnson hợp tác cùng Bệnh viện Ung bướu TP. Hồ Chí Minh

Biên bản ghi nhớ hợp tác vừa được ký kết giữa Johnson & Johnson Việt Nam và Bệnh viện Ung bướu TP. Hồ Chí Minh sẽ tập trung tối ưu hóa phác đồ điều trị ung thư phổi và ung thư tuyến tiền liệt, từ đó cải thiện quy trình, nâng cao trải nghiệm và kết quả điều trị cho bệnh nhân. Các nội dung hợp tác bao gồm: nâng cao nhận thức và chẩn đoán đột biến chèn đoạn EGFR exon 20 trong NSCLC; mở rộng áp dụng kỹ thuật giải trình tự gen thế hệ mới (NGS), đẩy mạnh trao đổi kiến thức và đào tạo y khoa, nâng cao năng lực cho đội ngũ nhân viên y tế trong việc áp dụng các liệu pháp mới. Đồng thời, sự phối hợp đa chuyên khoa cũng sẽ được thúc đẩy, với sự tham gia của bác sĩ ung bướu, giải phẫu, ngoại khoa, chẩn đoán hình ảnh, dược lâm sàng và điều dưỡng, nhằm mang lại hiệu quả chăm sóc toàn diện. Ngoài ra, Biên bản ghi nhớ hợp tác còn củng cố hệ thống chuyển tuyến giữa Bệnh viện Ung bướu TP. Hồ Chí Minh và 13 bệnh viện vệ tinh tại khu vực Đồng bằng sông Cửu Long, Đông Nam Bộ và miền Trung, giúp bệnh nhân có cơ hội được chẩn đoán sớm và chính xác hơn.

Ông Upendra Patkie, Tổng Giám đốc Johnson & Johnson Việt Nam, cho biết: “Johnson & Johnson đặt bệnh nhân làm trung tâm trong mọi hoạt động. Nhận thức được những nhu cầu cấp thiết của bệnh nhân ung thư phổi và ung thư tuyến tiền liệt – hai trong số những căn bệnh nghiêm trọng và phổ biến tại Việt nam, chúng tôi cam kết cung cấp các phương pháp điều trị tiên tiến nhằm kéo dài sự sống và nâng cao chất lượng cuộc sống của người bệnh. Thông qua biên bản ghi nhớ hợp tác với Bệnh viện Ung bướu TP. Hồ Chí Minh, chúng tôi tự hào giúp bệnh nhân trên khắp cả nước có cơ hội mở rộng khả năng tiếp cận các liệu pháp tiên tiến, củng cố năng lực chuyên môn, và cải thiện chất lượng cuộc sống. Sự kiện hợp tác này một lần nữa nhấn mạnh cam kết của chúng tôi trong việc mang lại nhiều cơ hội hơn cho bệnh nhân, để họ có thêm thời gian sống chất lượng bên cạnh gia đình và những người thân yêu. Chúng tôi đang nỗ lực chuyển đổi công tác chăm sóc ung thư và xây dựng một tương lai khỏe mạnh hơn tại Việt Nam.”

Trên thực tế, ung thư hiện vẫn là một gánh nặng y tế lớn tại Việt Nam. Theo thống kê từ dự án GLOBALCAN, ung thư phổi đứng thứ ba về số ca mắc mới trong các loại ung thư tại Việt Nam, với hơn 24.000 ca mắc mới trong năm 2022. Đây cũng là nguyên nhân đứng thứ hai trong số các nguyên nhân gây tử vong vì ung thư, với hơn 22.000 ca tử vong mỗi năm. Đáng chú ý, khoảng 3/4 số ca ung thư phổi được chẩn đoán muộn, khi mà các lựa chọn điều trị đã bị hạn chế và tỷ lệ sống sót thấp. Ung thư phổi không tế bào nhỏ (NSCLC) chiếm khoảng 80–85% tổng số ca ung thư phổi, trong đó đa số bệnh nhân được phát hiện muộn với khả năng chữa trị thấp. Đặc biệt, bệnh nhân có đột biến gen hiếm như chèn đoạn exon 20 của EGFR phải đối mặt với nhiều thách thức hơn, do thường kháng với các liệu pháp tiêu chuẩn, dẫn đến lựa chọn điều trị hạn chế và tiên lượng xấu hơn so với các dạng đột biến EGFR thường gặp. Thực tế này nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của việc thúc đẩy xét nghiệm sinh học phân tử, cách điều trị y học chính xác và các liệu pháp chăm sóc tiên tiến.

Bên cạnh đó, ung thư tuyến tiền liệt ngày càng trở thành bệnh lý đáng quan ngại đối với nam giới tại Việt Nam. Năm 2022, gần 5.900 ca mắc mới được ghi nhận, đưa căn bệnh này vào nhóm năm loại ung thư phổ biến nhất cho nam giới và chiếm khoảng 2,3% số ca tử vong do ung thư. Những con số này cho thấy sự cấp thiết trong việc nâng cao nhận thức, tăng cường công tác tầm soát và phát triển các phương pháp điều trị hiệu quả hơn.triển các phương pháp điều trị hiệu quả hơn.

Foreign Tourist’s Bikini Ride in Vietnam Prompts Public Debate

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(Vietnam Insider) – A transport provider has issued an apology following controversy over a foreign tourist wearing a bikini while riding on the back of a motorbike in Du Già commune, Tuyen Quang province of Vietnam.

In recent days, video footage of a foreign visitor in a bikini riding along a scenic mountain road has sparked heated debate online. The road is located near Du Già Waterfall, about 2 km away, in an area known for its ethnic minority communities and cultural traditions.

According to the transport company, which offers motorbike rentals with drivers, the incident stemmed from a “lack of awareness and understanding.” A driver had filmed the tourists returning from swimming at Du Già Waterfall to their homestay, and later uploaded the video to his personal social media account. The clip quickly went viral, garnering more than 1.1 million views.

The company stressed that the tourist did not intentionally choose to wear a bikini in public spaces, and acknowledged that the images were inappropriate given local cultural sensitivities. “We sincerely apologize and will work to ensure this does not happen again,” a company representative told Vietnam Insider.

The firm has since removed the video and instructed drivers not to photograph or film customers in swimwear or other sensitive contexts, nor to post such content online.

This is not the first time such incidents have drawn criticism. In September 2023, a female tourist wearing a bikini danced aboard a boat on the Nho Quế River, prompting divided public opinion. Many argued that such attire was unsuitable since the area is not a beach destination.

Since 2018, Ha Giang province (now merged into Tuyen Quang) has enforced a Code of Civilized Conduct for tourists, which requires “appropriate and respectful clothing, especially when visiting religious sites, cemeteries, and traditional festivals.” After the July merger, Tuyen Quang authorities confirmed they would continue implementing this code.

The provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has instructed travel agencies to remind visitors of local cultural norms, encouraging respectful behavior to promote a friendly, sustainable image of the destination.

In recent years, Du Già Waterfall has become a must-visit stop for international travelers exploring the famous Ha Giang Loop. Located about 70 km from the city center, it can be reached by car or motorbike via Provincial Road 33 (Bắc Mê – Cao Bằng direction) or National Highway 4C through Mậu Duệ, then turning onto DT181 to Du Già.

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: What’s New?

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Apple’s latest flagship, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, introduces the biggest design overhaul since 2017, along with hardware upgrades that could make it one of the most compelling Pro Max models yet.

Compared to last year’s iPhone 16 Pro Max, the new version offers a refreshed design, improved durability, upgraded cameras, and a larger battery.

Design: Aluminum Returns, Bold New Look

  • Apple has replaced titanium with aluminum, making the device lighter and more comfortable to hold thanks to softer curves and a matte finish. While some may find it less “premium” without the glossy titanium edges, Apple says aluminum improves heat dissipation.
  • The rear combines aluminum and Ceramic Shield 2 glass, with the Apple logo shifted lower for the first time. This may also lower repair costs for back-glass replacements.
  • A striking new color, Cosmic Orange, debuts on the Pro line, alongside silver and blue. Black is absent this year.

Cooling: First iPhone With Vapor Chamber

A vapor chamber cooling system debuts on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, helping to quickly spread and release heat from the battery and logic board. Early tests suggest it significantly improves thermal management — a clear plus for gaming and heavy workloads.

Cameras: Sharper Telephoto, Controversial Design

  • The camera housing stretches across the back in a bold, debated design shift.
  • Triple-lens setup: wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto.
  • The telephoto camera jumps to 48MP (from 12MP), enabling better digital zoom: up to 8x “lossless” zoom in daylight and a max of 40x digital zoom. Optical zoom is reduced from 5x to 4x, but Apple promises better results thanks to the higher resolution sensor.
  • The front camera is now 18MP, with a unique square design for easier horizontal/vertical selfies. Low-light performance has improved significantly.

Display: Brighter and More Readable Outdoors

  • 6.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR, 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate.
  • Peak brightness increased to 3,000 nits (vs. 2,000 on the iPhone 16 Pro Max).
  • Added anti-reflective coating makes the screen easier to use in direct sunlight.

Battery & Charging: Bigger and Faster

  • First iPhone with a battery over 5,000 mAh — 5,088 mAh, up from 4,685 mAh.
  • Apple claims up to 6 more hours of local video playback and 4 more hours of streaming.
  • 40W wired charging (vs. 25W on the iPhone 16 Pro Max). Wireless charging remains 25W, now with Qi 2.2 support.

Performance: A19 Pro Chip

Powered by the Apple A19 Pro built on 3nm, the new chipset continues Apple’s lead in raw performance. Combined with aluminum casing and vapor chamber cooling, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is pitched as the ultimate iPhone for gamers and power users.

Pricing

  • Internationally, the iPhone 17 Pro Max keeps the same price as last year’s model, unlike the iPhone 17 Pro, which is $100 more expensive.
  • In Vietnam, however, prices are up: the Pro Max now starts at around VND 38 million (up from VND 35 million).

Here’s a quick Pros & Cons comparison table between the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro Max, optimized for quick reader reference:

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max

Feature iPhone 17 Pro Max iPhone 16 Pro Max
Design New aluminum frame, curved edges, Ceramic Shield 2 rear, new Cosmic Orange color Titanium frame, flat edges, matte glass back
Cooling First iPhone with vapor chamber cooling for better heat dissipation No vapor chamber, standard cooling
Display 6.9″ XDR, 120Hz, 3,000 nits peak brightness, anti-reflective coating 6.9″ XDR, 120Hz, 2,000 nits peak brightness
Cameras Telephoto upgraded to 48MP (8x zoom, max 40x digital), new 18MP front camera Telephoto 12MP (5x zoom), 12MP front camera
Battery 5,088 mAh (largest ever on iPhone), longer video playback 4,685 mAh
Charging 40W wired (faster), 25W wireless (Qi 2.2) 25W wired, 25W wireless
Chipset A19 Pro (3nm, faster & more efficient) A18 Pro (3nm)
Price (Vietnam) ~VND 38 million (higher than last year) ~VND 35 million

✅ Pros of iPhone 17 Pro Max: Bigger battery, faster charging, brighter display, upgraded cameras, better cooling, new design.
⚠️ Cons: Aluminum less “premium” than titanium, fewer color options, optical zoom reduced (5x → 4x), higher local price.

Verdict: The iPhone 17 Pro Max isn’t just an incremental update. With a redesigned chassis, improved thermals, upgraded cameras, and a bigger battery, it sets itself apart from its predecessor. While its aesthetics may divide opinion, performance and usability upgrades position it as Apple’s most ambitious Pro Max yet.

VN-Index Extends Winning Streak to Four Sessions

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Vietnam’s benchmark VN-Index climbed for the fourth straight session on Monday, fueled by strong inflows into steel, banking, and securities stocks, helping the market recover from last week’s sharp 70-point drop.

Ahead of the session, many brokerages expected heavy volatility and possible declines after multiple recovery days on weak liquidity. Instead, the index stayed in positive territory throughout the day and widened its gains toward the close.

By the end of trading, the VN-Index had added more than 17 points to finish just below 1,685.

On HoSE, nearly 240 stocks advanced — three times the number of decliners. Large-cap stocks also saw broad gains, with 22 rising against just six losers.

Key market movers

  • Banks in focus: BID (+3.1% to VND 42,200) was the top contributor to the index, followed by CTG and TCB.
  • Securities rally: Securities stocks surged after the government approved a plan to upgrade Vietnam’s market status. VIX hit the ceiling at VND 37,450, while VND, VCI, and HCM all rose more than 1%. SSI, initially pressured by foreign selling, reversed to end +0.7%.
  • Steel strength: The steel group gained 0.5–2.8%. HPG briefly rose 3% to near VND 31,000 before profit-taking trimmed gains to around 1%.
  • Energy stocks: Oil & gas leaders GAS (+1.1%) and PLX (+0.4%) also closed higher.
  • Other sectors: Aviation, retail, rubber, and energy names also contributed positively.

Market liquidity showed signs of improvement, with more than 1.24 billion shares traded — up 10% from last Friday. Trading value edged above VND 37.6 trillion, with large-cap stocks accounting for nearly VND 20 trillion.

HoSE saw seven stocks exceed VND 1 trillion in trading value. HPG led with VND 2.7 trillion, followed by VPB with VND 2 trillion, while VIX, SSI, SHB, and MSN also ranked high.

Despite the rebound, foreign investors extended their selling streak to a fifth session, offloading over VND 1.3 trillion net. FPT was the most heavily sold (over 6 million shares), followed by HPG, MWG, VND, and NVL.

MB Securities (MBS) expects the short-term trend to remain upward, though the market may see turbulence this week due to ETF rebalancing and derivatives expiration. Large-cap stocks could face pressure, with money likely rotating into mid- and small-cap names.

MBS identified the current support zone at 1,600–1,615 points, with resistance at 1,694–1,700 — about 10–15 points above the present level.

Russian Health Minister Saves Passenger Suffering Hypertensive Crisis on Flight to Hanoi

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Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko personally administered first aid to a passenger suffering a hypertensive emergency on a Vietnam Airlines flight from Moscow to Hanoi.

Emergency at 30,000 Feet

The incident occurred on flight VN62 on September 11, according to Vietnam Airlines. About two hours after takeoff, a 55-year-old Russian male passenger showed signs of dizziness and fatigue.

Cabin crew initiated emergency medical procedures and broadcast a call for medical assistance. Fortunately, four Russian doctors traveling with the Minister of Health were on board, including Murashko himself. They quickly examined the passenger, who was later diagnosed with an acute hypertensive crisis, as reported by Russian broadcaster RT.

A video shared on social media showed the minister alongside flight attendants as the passenger received treatment.

Successful Mid-Flight Intervention

The doctors conducted an on-the-spot consultation and administered urgent medical care. The passenger was then moved to the premium economy cabin for continued monitoring.

By the time the aircraft landed safely at Noi Bai International Airport, the passenger’s condition had fully stabilized, Vietnam Airlines confirmed.

A hypertensive crisis is a life-threatening condition where blood pressure suddenly rises above 180/120 mmHg. Without immediate treatment, it can cause severe organ damage or even death.

Who Is Minister Mikhail Murashko?

Murashko, 58, has served as Russia’s Minister of Health since January 2020. He previously headed the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare and has extensive experience in healthcare management.

The Russian Embassy in Vietnam noted that Murashko was leading a delegation on a working visit to Vietnam from September 12–14. His entourage included senior officials from national research centers, pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment firms, and Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade.

During the visit, the delegation met with Vietnam’s Ministry of Health and toured the Vietnam–Russia International Eye Hospital. The trip followed a May memorandum of understanding between the two countries to strengthen cooperation in biomedical sciences, including information exchange, training programs, and joint scientific conferences.

Viral Video on Social Media

Footage of Murashko assisting the passenger mid-flight was posted on Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) on September 15, quickly attracting more than 35,000 views.

Why International Tourists Are Flocking to Vietnam During the Low Season

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Vietnam’s tourism industry has reached an unprecedented milestone: welcoming record numbers of international visitors in July and August — traditionally considered the low season.

Record-Breaking Arrivals in Summer 2025

According to data from the General Statistics Office released on September 6, Vietnam received 1.56 million international visitors in July and 1.68 million in August. These figures surpass the country’s peak season arrivals in September–October 2024 (1.3 and 1.4 million respectively), marking the highest-ever summer visitor numbers in Vietnam’s history.

Tour operators in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Khanh Hoa also reported inbound bookings rising 15–40% year-on-year, highlighting strong international demand despite the off-peak period.

Why Tourists Choose Vietnam in the Off-Peak Season

1. Competitive Prices and Quieter Destinations
For travelers like Natacha Santos from Portugal, Vietnam’s summer offers affordable airfares and less-crowded attractions. “I enjoy visiting during the low season because it’s quieter and more authentic,” she said while exploring Ho Chi Minh City in August.

2. Tourism-Friendly Policies
Experts attribute the surge partly to government initiatives:

  • Aggressive tourism promotion through cultural and culinary events in major cities.

  • Visa policy expansion, including 45-day visa-free entry for more countries.

  • New direct flights and increased frequencies from China, South Korea, India, and Australia, boosting connectivity to destinations like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Da Nang.

3. Diversified Travel Experiences
Vietnam’s summer travel offerings have become more varied, from beach resorts in Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Ha Long to cultural tours and international festivals.

Global Travel Trends Favor Vietnam

  • Seasonal shift in Western travel habits: Many tourists now travel in summer instead of fall-winter, taking advantage of long holidays and lower prices.

  • Geopolitical and economic changes: Uncertainty in the U.S. and overcrowding in other Southeast Asian destinations (Thailand, Indonesia) make Vietnam a more appealing, affordable, and safe alternative.

  • Extreme heat in Europe: Record-breaking summer temperatures above 46°C in Southern Europe drove travelers to cooler destinations, with Vietnam emerging as a popular choice.

Key Source Markets in 2025

  • China, South Korea, and Taiwan account for 50% of summer arrivals, thanks to short distances and cost-effective travel options.

  • India and Russia showed impressive growth — up 300% year-on-year — supported by new flight routes and relaxed visa policies.

  • Europe, the U.S., and Australia also contributed strongly, with many travelers opting for off-season trips to take advantage of discounts.

A Shift Toward Year-Round Tourism

In the first eight months of 2025, Vietnam welcomed nearly 14 million international visitors, with over 3.2 million in July–August alone. Experts predict that September could see 1.8 million arrivals, continuing the growth momentum into the year-end festival season.

According to Pham Ha, CEO of Lux Group, this trend signals a transformation: “Vietnam’s tourism is moving away from short peak periods to attracting visitors year-round. This provides stability for service providers and reduces reliance on just a few months of high demand.”

Takeaway

Vietnam’s unique mix of affordable travel, improved connectivity, favorable visa policies, and diverse experiences has turned its so-called low season into a new growth engine. The country is no longer just a seasonal hotspot but an all-year-round destination for international tourists.

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