I figure, it's a World Wide Web

I have never understood how the government bodies worldwide arrive at figures.

Over at China, this top woman, on account of strong political pedigree and connections, still decides to retire, leaving a vacuum that no female official is likely to fill. With women gaining ground at both the higher and lower reaches of politics, I won't be surprise if they'll pick a woman minister "just to demonstrate that women have a place in politics". Let's just be realistic, it has happened somewhere. Political figures: The proportion of female officials has increased by more than 17 percentage points.

After one that is technically accurate but misleading, we have this omnipresent war going on between countries - the war for young talents. It is reported that Japan might soon lag behind its neighbors economically as its students prefer studying in the local institutions. What's with going abroad nowadays? It's the idea of survival I suppose. Just glad we're recognized as one, abroad that is. Int'l figures: US govt International Information Programme ranking, 1st India, 2nd China, 3rd South Korea, 4th Japan.

For a country still reeling from bloody political riots, more suicide attacks continue to deepen sense of instability in Pakistan. I hope they stop terrorizing soon, for the peaceful ain't afraid, they just thought it's wrong and childish to engage in such senseless rampage. Sad figures: Suicide attacker set off bomb which ripped through a crowded hotel restaurant killing at least 24 people and wounding 25.

It has somehow occurred to me that how they derived these figures ain't that important after all. The message hidden in these figures is clear and precise, someone out there needs your thoughts and help to get 'em through. You just have to make yourself heard.

By the way, they've finally decided to do something about the Taj Mahal. I hope they succeed in their restoration of the building's alabaster facade.