In February, Brunei Darussalam’s Ministry of Finance and Economy has introduced a new inititative which will provide a one-time financial grant of BND240 (US$189) for each eligible newborn starting on March 1.
Category: Society
Flash floods continue to affect Malaysia’s Sabah state
On February 25, the number of flood victims seeking shelter at temporary relief centres in Malaysia’s Sabah state is pset at to 2,616, after it reached a peak of over 5,000 only a day prior.
Siem Reap ancient kite festival aims to safeguard cultural heritage
More than 130 kite flyers from across the country gathered in Siem Reap yesterday for a three-day annual festival celebrating Cambodia’s ancient kite-flying tradition.
Vientiane residents face ongoing water shortages
The Vientiane Water Supply State Enterprise has warned that the dry season has lowered water levels at the capital’s main treatment plant, disrupting tap water supplies in parts of Vientiane.
Laos national dish eyes UNESCO heritage status
On February 16, Laos’ national news outlet, Laotian Times, announced that the government is in the process of inscribing the country’s national dish, larb, as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.
Ho Chi Minh City implements round-the-clock waste collection during Tết holiday
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has implemented round-the-clock sanitation measures to prevent waste build-up during the Tết holiday on Lunar New Year, allowing garbage trucks to operate during peak hours.
Champasak Province marks milestone in tourism growth
Champasak Province in southern Laos recorded strong tourism growth in 2025, welcoming nearly 730,000 visitors, 207% growth of its annual target, provincial authorities reported on February 6.
Thailand tightens sugar standards in beverages
Thailand’s high-street coffee chains will introduce a new national standard for freshly brewed drinks from February 11, requiring “normal sweetness” orders to contain only 50% of the original sugar level.
Brunei launches tourist guide manual to raise industry standards
Brunei’s Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism has launched a new Tourist Guide Manual aimed at improving safety standards and service quality across the tourism sector.
Cambodia to host major ASEAN educational tourism event in April 2026
Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism Huot Hak has held discussions with representatives of KRYA Global on January 27, leading to a proposed educational tourism initiative aimed at strengthening regional travel to the Kingdom.