Singapore’s paramount annual political address, the National Day Rally (NDR), was spearheaded once again by Prime Minister (PM) Lawrence Wong on August 23 at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) Headquarters.
Category: Economy
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.
Malaysia Increases Defence Spending to Counter Modern Security Challenges
According to statements by Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin on August 19, “the need for higher defence spending was driven not only by regional dynamics but also by emerging threats,” pointing to cyberattacks, electromagnetic threats and misinformation campaigns.
Myanmar’s Junta Visits Moscow to Bolster Russian investment in Energy and Tech
Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing departed Naypyidaw on August 17 for a trip to Russia, marking his seventh visit since he led the military coup in 2021.
Malaysia and Philippines Look to Expand Cross-Border Trade and Investment
On August 18, the Philippines and Malaysia are set to discuss ways of deepening bilateral cooperation as senior officials from both countries gather in Manila for the ninth Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting (JCM).
Thailand, Russia Expand Strategic Partnership Ahead of Diplomatic Relations Milestone
On August 13, Thailand and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations as Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, with both sides seeking to deepen political, security and economic cooperation.
President Prabowo Outlines Second Year Agenda for a Self Resilient Indonesia
On August 14, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto delivered his second State of the Nation (SONA) address at the annual session of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) and joint session of the House of Representatives (DPR) and Regional Representatives Council (DPD), outlining his administration’s achievements and priorities ahead of Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day.
Malaysia Introduces New 10-year Energy Action Plan, Projecting $21.5 bn Savings Amid Surging Intensifying Data Centre Construction
On August 11, the Malaysia’s government introduced an advanced continuity for its National Energy Efficiency Policy and Action Plan (NEEAP 2.0) that will run until 2035, projecting over 21.5 billion US dollar in utility savings over the next decade.
Unprecedented US$53.5 Billion Borrowing Plan for 2027 Awaits Philippine Congress Approval
The Philippine government is planning a massive, record-breaking surge in its national debt as a 3.3 trillion Philippine peso (54 billion US dollar) borrowing proposal awaits the congressional green light.
Thailand to Enforce Stricter Cash Checks on Multi-million Baht Transactions
Following the public hearing commenced by the Bank of Thailand (BoT) on August 5, a prominent risk management regulation was proposed. Reportedly, a specific target rule will take effect in October.