The Thai Royal Government announced the death of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati on June 12, as Thailand enters a period of national mourning. The eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn or Rama X passed away at the age of 47 after spending nearly four years in a coma.
Author: Sadina Aimee
Culture and Society Correspondent
Indonesia’s free nutritious meal programme undergoes restructuring amid cost concerns
On June 11, the Indonesian government announced it expects the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to require less funding than previously planned after reviewing its management and operations.
Cambodia showcases 136 Khmer artifacts in Shanxi Museum
On June 9, a collection of ancient Khmer artifacts from Cambodia spanning from prehistoric times to the post-Angkorian era was transported to China to be showcased at the Shanxi Museum for a five-month exhibition.
Vietnam reaches new milestone in MICHELIN Guide 2026
On June 4, several restaurants in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang were included in the MICHELIN Guide 2026, further highlighting Vietnam’s growing reputation as a culinary destination. For more than a century, the prestigious dining guide has recognised outstanding restaurants around the world and remains one of the hospitality industry’s most respected benchmarks of quality.
At least 32 dead following powerful earthquake in southern Philippines
On June 8, a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines, with its epicentre located off the coast of Mindanao island. The earthquake caused massive casualties and widespread destruction, collapsing buildings, triggering landslides and leaving 32 victims dead.
Timor-Leste showcases marine heritage on National Ocean Day celebrations
A series of environmental, educational and cultural activities will take place across Timor-Leste from June 3 to 8 as the government prepares to commemorate National Ocean Day and promote greater awareness of marine conservation.
Thailand and Bhutan reinforce sustainable tourism cooperation
Thailand and Bhutan have reinforced their tourism partnership through a series of reciprocal familiarisation trips held in May 2026, as part of the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative aimed at promoting high-value and sustainable travel.
France and Indonesia deepen ties on scientific and research collaboration
On June 4, France and Indonesia deepened ties on scientific and research collaboration in order to support their newly established strategic global partnership, with the aim to expand cooperation in innovation, education and sustainable development.
Over 100 Indonesians held in Cambodia following cyber scam raid
On June 3, more than 100 individuals were detained in Cambodia following a large-scale operation targeting an alleged online scam network in the coastal city of Sihanoukville. A total of 111 individuals were arrested. According to officials, 108 of those detained are Indonesian nationals, including 37 women.
Five survivors evacuated from Laos flooded cave, two remain missing
On May 30, rescue teams evacuated five local villagers after they were trapped for 10 days inside a flooded cave in Xaysomboun Province, Laos. All survivors have already received appropriate treatments. However, the challenge still persists. As of June 3, the rescue team is still underway to locate two other villagers missing in a steeper area.