The Rise of the Nine Dragons – Shadows Over Southeast Asia is an epic tale of a group of individuals facing the looming threat of a powerful organized crime syndicate, the Nine Dragons Syndicate, which holds a tight grip over the economy and politics of Southeast Asia. The story follows the journey of Bintang, a former journalist, and Sebastian, a time traveler, as they confront the cunning tactics and dark forces led by influential figures like Tian Hao and Yun Feng. 
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jakarta and Indonesia's new capital (IKN), the core conflict revolves around political ambition, environmental crises, and economic manipulation. The tension arises as personal political agendas clash with the greater good, forcing Bintang and his team—comprising a former hacker, a diplomat, an environmental activist, and a conservation officer—to battle not just for justice but for the future of their land. Together, they face an enemy that wields not only power and wealth but also the ability to disrupt the natural balance.
At the same time, we have Heru, a character-driven by revenge and the pursuit of scientific advancements. His motivations create a tension-filled dynamic within the narrative, adding depth to the ongoing conflict between Bintang's team and the Nine Dragons.

The Rise of the Nine Dragons – Shadows Over Southeast Asia

As Sebastian’s team returns to IKN, the focus shifts to Bintang, Lia, and Mayang. The urgency of their mission grows as they work to expose the corruption at the heart of IKN’s development. Meanwhile, David, Thalia, and Astrid continue their investigation into the environmental and human costs of the Kayan River Hydropower Plant project, confronting the reality that entire villages, like Long Peleban, could be submerged beneath its waters. 


Bintang leaned over a table in the back of a quiet café, his fingers drumming against his coffee cup as he studied the documents in front of him. Beside him, Lia was scanning her tablet, and Mayang sat silently, her focus drifting between the scattered papers on land rights. 


This is worse than I thought," Bintang muttered. "The Land Bank has swallowed thousands of hectares. Farmers who’ve worked that land for decades are being swept aside for this development. It’s like they don’t exist." 


The Land Bank Has Swallowed