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.
Category: Politics
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).
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.
One Data Indonesia: A National Data for Public Service Revolution Hidden in Plain Sight
In an age when data underpin everything from economic planning to public services and artificial intelligence (AI), Indonesia has quietly been pursuing one of its most ambitious governance reforms. Yet, despite its potentially transformative impact, few Indonesians have ever heard of One Data Indonesia (also known domestically as Satu Data Indonesia).
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.
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.
Philippine President Marcos Intensifies Flood Mitigation Amid Waste Crisis
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. intensified the government’s flood response and mitigation efforts this week, warning that mounting garbage in Metro Manila is worsening flooding and disrupting critical drainage infrastructure.
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.
Thailand Separates US Defence Ties From Trade Talks Amid Tariff Pressure
On August 12, Thailand has rejected reports that it is considering using its longstanding defence cooperation with the US as leverage in negotiations over President Trump’s tariffs, stressing that economic and security relations with Washington will remain separate.