The government of Timor-Leste has approved a major fuel procurement plan on April 1, aimed at safeguarding national energy supplies amid continuing instability in the Middle East.
Category: Politics
Vientiane launches new water plant amid ongoing supply shortages
Residents in several areas of Vientiane have reported prolonged disruptions to tap water supply, with some communities saying their water has not been running for weeks.
Kitchen suspended after food poisoning linked to free meals program
Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency has confirmed a food poisoning incident linked to the government’s Free Nutritious Meals programme in East Jakarta, leaving more than 70 teachers and students ill and prompting the suspension of a food preparation facility.
Myanmar junta leader “elected” as civilian head in military-engineered transition
Myanmar’s newly-elected parliament initiated the selection of a new state president on March 30, marking the first such process since the military junta took over power in the 2021 coup.
Malaysia announces WFH scheme to ease fuel consumption
Malaysia will introduce work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for government institutions from April 15 as part of efforts to conserve fuel and safeguard national energy supplies, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on April 3.
Philippines seeks Iran’s assurance for energy security amid Hormuz blockade
On April 1, the Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teresa Lazaro, along with Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE) Sharon S. Garin, convened a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador Yousef Esmaeilzadeh to discuss the country’s energy lifelines.
Laos and Vietnam launch inter-provincial partnership
On March 29, the Laos provinces of Champasak, Salavan, Xekong and Attapeu signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Gia Lai province in Southern Vietnam.
South Korea and Indonesia expand cooperation on minerals and technology
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung held talks in Seoul on April 1 with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, with the two leaders agreeing to expand cooperation in critical minerals, technology and clean energy, according to the Office of the President of South Korea.
More Indonesian peacekeepers killed in Lebanon blast
Two Indonesian peacekeepers were killed and two others were injured after a blast of explosion hit the UN Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) logistics convoy on March 30 near Bani Hayyan, destroying their vehicles. This was the second incident within the past 24 hours following the Ett Taibe incident that killed one peacekeeper.
Myanmar’s junta leader steps down to run for presidency
On March 30, Myanmar’s junta leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, has stepped down as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces seat to run for the presidential race.