On September 2, the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group arrived in Laem Chabang, Thailand for a scheduled port visit as the US and Thailand continue their longstanding defence and maritime cooperation.
Author: Zarah Ysabel Tortocion
Defence and Politics Correspondent, SEA Daily
Vietnam Revises Cross-Border Trade Rules Following US Trade Review
Vietnam will introduce revised regulations governing cross-border trade from September 5, alongside a new prohibition on imports of goods produced wholly or partly using forced labour under Decree No. 292/2026/ND-CP.
Thailand to Revive 450-Baht Tourist Entry Fee for High-Value Tourism
Thailand, one of the most visited destinations in Southeast Asia, is attempting to leap to the next stage of tourism development by shifting its focus towards enhancing travel quality and safety. A chief endeavour currently underway is a proposal to revive an entry fee for foreign visitors, amounting to 450 Thai baht (17 US dollar).
Singapore, Japan Strengthen Naval Cooperation Through Exercise Singapan
On August 28, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) concluded Exercise Singapan, a bilateral naval exercise aimed at strengthening operational cooperation and supporting efforts towards a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
Thai PM Anutin Reviews Navy Readiness Amid Thailand’s Maritime Security Focus
On August 27, Thai Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul visited a Royal Thai Navy training exercise in the Upper Gulf of Thailand as the navy reviews its readiness for maritime and national security missions.
Australia, Philippines and US Strengthen Maritime Coordination in the South China Sea
Australia, the Philippines and US conducted a seven-day Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in South China Sea from August 19 to 25.
Indonesia Advances Giuseppe Garibaldi Transfer Ahead of TNI Anniversary Debut
Indonesia’s newly acquired aircraft carrier, the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, is expected to make its debut as KRI Gajah Mada during celebrations marking the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) in October 2026.
British Patrol Vessel HMS Tamar Makes First Ream Port Call as UK-Cambodia Naval Ties Expand
On August 20, the Royal Navy offshore patrol vessel HMS Tamar arrived in Cambodia for its first visit to Ream Naval Base, marking a new step in defence cooperation between the United Kingdom and Cambodia. The visit is also the Royal Navy’s third to Cambodia since 2023, following two calls by HMS Spey at Sihanoukville.
Brunei, Malaysia Strengthen Bilateral Security and Connectivity Cooperation
Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence, border security, energy, connectivity and economic development during the 27th Annual Leaders’ Consultation on August 22.
Vietnamese Lawmakers Advance Property and Budget Reforms Amid Renewed Nuclear Push
On August 22, Vietnam’s 16th National Assembly is debating proposed changes to real estate regulations, public financial management and the implementation of the Ninh Thuận nuclear power project during its extraordinary session in Hanoi.