ASEAN is one step away from implementing its first digital economy pact, the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), which is set for signing at the 49th Summit in November this year.
Category: Economy
Brunei expands fintech sandbox eligibility in push for digital innovation
On May 21, the Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) officially amended its Guidelines on FinTech Regulatory Sandbox. This instrument was intended to be “a catalyst for innovation in the financial sector”.
Timor-Leste races to build a post-oil economy before the fund runs dry
Timor-Leste has recently been on a flurry of high-level engagements.
Canada and Timor-Leste elevate ties to strategic partnership as Ottawa eyes investment push
Timor-Leste and Canada have agreed to elevate their bilateral relations into a special strategic partnership, with Ottawa placing considerable emphasis on expanding investment into the country.
Malaysia faces steep costs after Norway revokes arms export deal
On May 19, Malaysian Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin commissioned the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) to research alternative missile vendors, following Norway’s revocation of their bilateral defence agreement signed in 2018.
Migrant labour shortage threatens Thai economy, businesses warn
Thailand is facing a migrant worker shortage that authorities must urgently address to prevent wider economic strain, Thai business leaders have warned.
Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand form joint committee to ease cross-border trade
Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) Joint Business Council (JBC) has established a Cooperative Joint Committee (CJC), aimed at enhancing business collaboration and eliminating trade barriers between the three countries.
Bangkok establishes national committee to fast-track OECD accession
As Thailand aims for full membership status to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) by 2028, the Thai Cabinet approved the establishment of a national committee to fast-track its accession on May 19, during its weekly meeting.
When Policy Signals Shape Market Perception
Across Southeast Asia, governments today are not short of policy ambition. New industrial strategies, investment reforms, digital economy roadmaps and public health interventions continue to emerge across the region.
The Illusion of Insulation: Why the Weak Rupiah Hits Rural Indonesia
On May 16, 2026, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto responded to concerns over the weakening rupiah with a seemingly simple remark: “People in the villages don’t use dollars, do they?” He also assured the public that food and energy supplies were secure.