Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) has introduced a temporary ban on the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages during the election period to curb vote-buying and prevent disorder linked to impaired judgement.
Author: Sadina Aimee
Indonesia to expand free nutritious meals programme for the elderly
Indonesia’s Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has announced plans on February 5 to expand the Free Nutritious Meals programme to reach up to 400,000 elderly citizens and around 36,000 people with disabilities this year.
Nearly 180 Myanmar nationals detained in Cambodian scam compound raid
Around 180 Myanmar nationals were among more than 2,000 foreign citizens detained by Cambodian authorities during a raid on an online scam compound in Bavet, a border city in Svay Rieng province on January 31.
Indonesia inks joint security treaty with Australia
Indonesia and Australia strengthened bilateral ties on February 6 by signing a joint security treaty at Istana Merdeka in Jakarta.
Champasak Province marks milestone in tourism growth
Champasak Province in southern Laos recorded strong tourism growth in 2025, welcoming nearly 730,000 visitors, 207% growth of its annual target, provincial authorities reported on February 6.
Philippines to review US-led Board of Peace invitation amid budget concerns
US President Donald Trump has invited the Philippines to join his proposed Board of Peace, Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel Romualdez said on February 5. Trump had written to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and that Manila is reviewing the invitation, including the level of commitment required.
Thailand tightens sugar standards in beverages
Thailand’s high-street coffee chains will introduce a new national standard for freshly brewed drinks from February 11, requiring “normal sweetness” orders to contain only 50% of the original sugar level.
Brunei launches tourist guide manual to raise industry standards
Brunei’s Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism has launched a new Tourist Guide Manual aimed at improving safety standards and service quality across the tourism sector.
Cambodia to host major ASEAN educational tourism event in April 2026
Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism Huot Hak has held discussions with representatives of KRYA Global on January 27, leading to a proposed educational tourism initiative aimed at strengthening regional travel to the Kingdom.
Singapore wildlife parks welcome around 1,000 animal births in 2025
Singapore’s five wildlife parks recorded around 1,000 animal births across more than 150 species in 2025, according to Mandai Wildlife Group, marking a strong year for conservation efforts.
