As Southeast Asia increasingly becomes the centre of flashpoints between major global powers, the region is often discussed through the lens of geopolitics, economic growth, or regional diplomacy. But as we celebrate the 59th ASEAN Day—which marks the establishment of the regional bloc that unites 11 member states on August 8, 1967—we celebrate Southeast Asia through its cultural expressions. Beyond official statements and policy debates, the region’s complexities are perhaps best understood through the stories its people choose to tell. Cinema has become one of the most compelling mediums for examining how Southeast Asian societies grapple with history, identity, inequality, faith and the legacies of conflict and colonialism.
Author: Sadina Aimee
Culture and Society Correspondent, SEA Daily
Indonesia Net-Zero Summit 2026 Explores Practical Solutions for Climate Transition
On August 1, the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI) held the Indonesia Net-Zero Summit (INZS) 2026, the country’s largest independent climate forum, bringing together more than 10,000 participants, including policymakers, business leaders, academics, youth representatives, civil society organisations and climate practitioners. Commenced at Balai Kartini in Jakarta, this year’s summit carried the theme “It’s Time to Deliver!”, highlighting the need to translate global and national climate commitments into concrete and measurable action.
The Missing Piece of Climate Action is Delivery
For years, we’ve seen governments effort to bold their commitment for climate change through Net-zero targets, signed international agreements and pledged billions of dollars for the energy transition. Yet despite those promises, the world continues to grapple, with rising emission, and more fragile geopolitical tension. These urgencies depict that we breathe in a nature that clearly moves like a ticking time bomb and it’s unfolding behind our eyes.
Laos Begins Three-Month Buddhist Lent with Nationwide Temple Observances
On July 29, thousands of Buddhists visited temples across Laos to commemorate Boun Khao Phansa, the annual festival that marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent and the three-month Rains Retreat.
Myanmar Approves Death Sentence for Cybercrime Offences
On July 28, Myanmar’s military-backed Union Parliament passed a green light to an “Anti-Online Scam Bill,” a law that regulates capital punishment for those who run online scam centers and force, violate or torture another person to commit to the scam.
Indonesia’s Bintan Hosts Annual Durian Festival to Promote Culinary Heritage
On July 26, hundreds of visitors gathered in Bintan, Riau Island Province, Indonesia, for the 2026 Bintan Durian Feast and Festival, an annual event aimed at celebrating the island’s renowned durian daun (Durio oxleyanus) while promoting its tourism and cultural heritage.
Malaysia Reaffirms Israeli Entry Ban, Dismissing US Call for Review of Bilateral Ties
Malaysia has once again defended its longstanding policy of barring Israeli citizens from entering the country after several US lawmakers called on Washington to review its security and economic ties with Kuala Lumpur over the issue.
Thailand to Launch World Travel & Culture Expo 2026 to Boost Regional Tourism
Thailand has announced the launch of the World Travel & Culture Expo (WTCE) 2026, an international exhibition aimed at expanding tourism, trade and investment while strengthening the country’s position as a regional hub for tourism and entertainment.
25 Foreign Nationals Held in Phnom Penh Following Online Scam Raid
On July 22, Cambodian authorities detained 25 foreign nationals after uncovering what investigators describe as an illegal online investment scam operating from a villa in Phnom Penh.
Indonesia Seeks Return of Cultural Artefacts Held Overseas
On July 23, the Indonesian government reaffirmed their commitment to repatriate several Indonesian cultural artefacts which had been illegally smuggled overseas. Speaking at a press conference in Jakarta, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon stressed that the authorities were still working to secure the return of numerous artefacts currently held abroad.