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.
Category: Politics
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.
Laos National Assembly approves five‑year plan and railway project
Laos has concluded its first 10th legislature’s first session on March 27. Discussions covered a wide range of issues from leadership transition, approval of strategic framework and judicial mechanism.
Cambodia to host 20th Francophonie Summit
Cambodia will be hosting the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh this November. The summit is expected to strengthen economic, cultural and diplomatic ties between the country and French-speaking nations, according to a statement on March 29 by the French ambassador to Cambodia, Olivier Richard.