Top News Headlines In Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand & Vietnam: April 25, 2025
Danantara's planned entry into the domestic capital market is expected to significantly help stabilise the local stocks and bonds market, especially at times of volatility, but some have also warned that the move could disrupt the sovereign wealth fund's (SWF) focus on its much needed long-term projects for the economy.
Leading telecommunications provider Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison has called on Indonesia's mining industry to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) to stay competitive and enhance productivity in line with global trends.
LAOS
1. LAOS PREPARING TO EXIT FROM LDC GROUPING -- VIENTIANE TIMES
As Laos prepares to graduate from its status as a Least Developed Country (LDC) in 2026, it aims to develop an inclusive and resilient future. The transition will result in the loss of certain trade preferences and access to grants and loans.
2.UK SHARES MORE DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE TO LAO -- VIENTIANE TIMES
The United Kingdom (UK) continues its support of Laos' development as both nations mark 70 years of diplomatic ties. Some areas of interest include handling climate change, enhancing bus transport networks and funding the removal of unexploded ordnance devices.
MYANMAR
1. NEW AIRPORT TAX FOR FLIGHTS AND PASSENGERS -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
All passengers departing from Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay airports must pay a new airport tax starting May 12, 2025. Overseas flights need to pay RM109 (US$25) and RM8.75 (US$2) for foreigners.
2. HUMAN-ELEPHANT CONFLICT DECLINES -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
Farmers in several townships are enjoying a bountiful harvest this season as elephants from the Bago mountains have avoided paddy fields. During the hot season, the elephants usually search for water and eat the paddy in nearby villages, leading to human-elephant conflict.
SINGAPORE
1.DON'T INFLAME SENSITIVE ISSUES OR USE DOMESTIC POLITICS TO DIVIDE S'PORE: PM WONG AT FIRST PAP RALLY -- THE STRAITS TIMES
Do not inflame sensitive issues or use domestic politics to divide Singaporeans, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said to opposition parties in his first rally speech as head of government.
2,GE2025: SINGAPORE NEEDS GOOD TEAM TO STAY AHEAD, TACKLING LIVING COST AND JOB CONCERNS 'MOST URGENT PRIORITY', SAYS PM WONG -- CNA
The "first and most urgent priority" for the People's Action Party (PAP) is to address cost of living and job concerns, and Singapore needs a good team to stay ahead, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Thursday (Apr 24) at his first rally in this General Election.
THAILAND
1. DON'T PANIC: THAILAND TO CONDUCT EMERGENCY ALERT TESTS VIA CELL BROADCAST NEXT MONTH -- THE NATION Residents in selected test areas will receive a test alert on their mobile phones, including both sound and on-screen message notifications.
2. ASEAN SEEKS TO STRENGTHEN US ECONOMIC TIES AMID TARIFFS -- BANGKOK POST Asean has reiterated its commitment to multilateral trade principles and does not plan to retaliate against US tariff actions.
VIETNAM
1. CLEAN ENERGY CAPTURES REGIONAL MEETING -- VIETNAM NEWS
During the Vietnam–China–ASEAN international energy forum held in Hanoi on Thursday, clean energy cooperation was the core of the discussion. Industry leaders and policymakers exchanged ideas to explore new technologies and strengthen cooperation toward sustainable energy development.
2.VIETNAM-LAO TARGETS RM22 BILLION BILATERAL TRADE -- VIETNAM NEWS
Top Vietnam and Lao leaders agreed to revitalise their economic partnership and raise bilateral trade to RM22 billion (US$5 billion) in the coming years. Cooperation will include developing the economy, infrastructure, financial, and tourism connectivity to support growth.
-- BERNAMA
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The Star
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The Star
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South Korea's Lee, Trump agree to pursue deal on tariffs in first phone call
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The Sun
2 hours ago
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S Korea's Lee, Trump agree to pursue deal on tariffs in first phone call
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