On February 23, Dili held its first meeting of the National Council for Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Chairmanship led by its Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão.
Author: Protasius Isyudanto
Lead Editor
Lao PM: self-reliance central to national economy development
Laos self-reliant economy strategy discussed at government meeting led by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone in Vientiane. (Pathedlao) On February 24, two days after the country’s […]
Flash floods continue to affect Malaysia’s Sabah state
On February 25, the number of flood victims seeking shelter at temporary relief centres in Malaysia’s Sabah state is pset at to 2,616, after it reached a peak of over 5,000 only a day prior.
Southeast Asian leaders in charm offensive at inaugural BoP meeting
On February 19, Donald Trump convened the inaugural meeting of the Trump-initiated Board of Peace (BoP) in Washington, D.C., drawing representatives from its 26 full members.
Navy Chief: Indonesia to receive first aircraft carrier this year
On February 12, the Indonesian Navy Chief Adm. Muhammad Ali announced that the government is currently in talks with Italy regarding the possible acquisition of Indonesia’s first aircraft carrier, the currently Italian-operated Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Cambodia-Laos sign deal on border transport connectivity
On February 13, representatives from Laos’ southern province of Attapeu and Cambodia’s Ratanakiri province agreed to develop transport connectivity between the two countries’ borders.
Laos national dish eyes UNESCO heritage status
On February 16, Laos’ national news outlet, Laotian Times, announced that the government is in the process of inscribing the country’s national dish, larb, as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.
Philippine colonel faces court-martial over social media post
On February 16, Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarette explained that former Colonel Audio Mongao, who has been relieved from his post in January, will face court martial.
Myanmar expels Timor Leste’s representative over war crimes case
On February 15, Myanmar’s junta government announced the expulsion of Timor Leste’s top representative in the country, after Dili opened a legal case against Naypyitaw on suspicions of war crimes based on universal jurisdiction.
A Frontline Nation: The Philippines and the Rising South China Sea Tensions
The Philippines thus finds itself at a critical juncture, as evolving power dynamics in the SCS increasingly shape its sovereignty and security outlook. Without decisive policy shifts and sustained capability enhancements, current trends indicate that Beijing will continue to expand its influence and operational presence, further marginalising Manila.