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.
Author: Zarah Ysabel Tortocion
Defence and Politics Correspondent, SEA Daily
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.
Philippine Authorities Tighten School Security Measures After Zamboanga School Shooting
Philippine authorities are strengthening school security and firearm accountability following a deadly shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) on August 18, alongside other recent incidents involving firearms issued to government personnel.
Philippines’ Marcos Administration Moves to Address Flood Control Gaps After Ghost Project Probe
On August 20, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said flooding remained a persistent problem despite years of government spending on flood control projects. She said recent investigations had revealed alleged deficiencies under both the current and previous administrations.
Mass Student Protest Hit Jakarta Over Government Policies After Indonesian President Prabowo’s State Address
On August 18, Students from University of Indonesia (UI) and members of the National Student Front (FMN) staged a demonstration in Jakarta, four days after Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto outlined an agenda centred on economic self-reliance, stronger state intervention and national resilience in his State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Vietnam Calls for ASEAN-Led AI Governance Framework in Lawmaking as Regional States Digitalise
The Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Lê Tiến Châu has called for ASEAN to establish common principles for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in lawmaking and legal enforcement, as regional countries seek to adapt their legal systems to rapid technological change.
Cambodia Launches 2026–2033 Road Strategy to Advance Development and State Connectivity
On August 17, Cambodia officially launched its Rural Road Infrastructure Development Strategic Plan 2026 to 2033, following months of consultation aimed at creating a long-term framework for improving rural connectivity, road quality and climate resilience.