Asean Morning News
Compiled by AEC News Today @aecnewstoday
RCEP needs to be more than a trade deal
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) is well on its way to becoming a global leader for regional integration and an important step in this process is fast approaching its deadline.
— Bangkok Post
Future of ASEAN, Forecast to 2025
ASEAN’s GDP is forecast to increase from $2.4 Trillion in 2015 to $5.2 Trillion in 2025, largely due to the ongoing implementation of the AEC. This study examines the potential contributions of this integration to regional growth by analysing the impact of various Mega Trends and expanding on the predictions for each sector. It also analyses the new growth drivers and the areas of innovation most likely to seen in ASEAN until 2025. The study’s time frame is from 2015 to 2025.
— Yahoo Finance
True Move dials up Asean expansion
True Move seeks to go overseas by 2018, driven by ambitions to make the country’s third-largest mobile company a regional player, says True Corporation boss Suphachai Chearavanont.
– Bangkok Post
After China, SM Prime sets sights on ASEAN
AFTER DOMINATING the Philippines and expanding in China, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. is set to brave new markets as the property development arm of the Sy family looks to kick off its foray into Southeast Asia next year.
— BusinessWorld Online
PH-ASEAN trade up by 11.3% in 2016
It’s all systems go for next week’s ASEAN Summit hosted by the Philippines, where discussions would focus on trade, maritime security and peace and stability in the ASEAN region.
— ABS-CBN
MAS teams up with UN agency to boost ASEAN digital finance
Singapore’s central bank has partnered with a United Nations agency to faciliate development and access to digital financial services among countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) grouping.
— Asia Asset Management
ASEAN Market Watch: Philippines FDI Surge, Malaysia Construction Sector, and Laos Tourism Industry
According to figures released by the Philippines’ central bank, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the country registered US$685 million in fresh Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in January, a 13.2% increase from US$605 million registered over the same period in the previous year. The foreign capital received in January is also the highest monthly FDI inflow since a US$744 million FDI inflow in November 2016. The central bank has stated that the fresh FDI surge comes as investors remain optimistic on the growth potential of the country’s economy, which is backed by strong macroeconomic fundamentals.
— Asean Briefing
ASEAN Could Take Lead on Plastic Crisis in Asia
April 22 marks Earth Day around the globe. I was in 8th grade when Earth Day was first commemorated in 1970, and to mark the day, I participated in annual trash clean-up events at my school. At that time, my world was pretty much the town where I grew up in New Jersey and I didn’t think very much about the rest of the world, I just wanted my neighborhood to be clean.
— The Asia Foundation
Trump’s attendance in November Asean meet likely
US President Donald Trump has indicated that he is coming to the Philippines for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings in November, a diplomat said yesterday.
— The Philippine Star
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Cambodia Morning News
Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat
Directive Opens Door For Surrogacy Babies to Leave Cambodia
A new directive by Cambodia’s Council of Ministers clarifies the future of dozens of unborn babies following the crackdown last year on illegal commercial surrogacy undertaken in the county.
– AEC News Today
Banking shows steady growth
Cambodia’s financial sector saw healthy growth last year with increased deposits and profits amid slower credit growth, reflecting sustainable development and increased public confidence in the sector, according to a recently released central bank report.
— The Phnom Penh Post
Japanese firms sign power line agreement
T.T. Network Infrastructure Japan, a joint venture between global electronics manufacturer Toshiba and Tokyo Electric Power Co Holdings (TEPCO), will operate and maintain 130 kilometres of a 230-kilovolt power transmission line in Cambodia, according to Japanese media yesterday.
— The Phnom Penh Post
Few Takers for Low-Interest Riel Loans From Central Bank
A pilot program providing short-term central bank funds in riel, primarily for microfinance institutions (MFIs), has struggled to attract applicants, highlighting the difficulties facing efforts to promote the local currency,
and control interest and exchange rates.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
Up to 4,000 Cambodians Working Illegally in South Korea: Envoy
Between 3,000 and 4,000 Cambodians are currently residing in South Korea illegally after their employment contracts or visas expired, leaving many of them vulnerable to exploitation by employers, Long Dimanche, Cambodia’s ambassador to South Korea, said on Wednesday.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
China-funded power transmission line inaugurated in Cambodia
A China-funded power transmission system was inaugurated here on Wednesday after three years’ construction, officials said.
— Xinhua
Cambodia destroys 25,325 marijuana plants in southern province
Cambodian police destroyed 25,325 marijuana plants in southern Takeo province during raids on Wednesday, the National Police website reported.
— Xinhua
Khmer New Year festival brings in more income
Angkor Sangkranta, Siem Reap’s largest cultural festival held over Khmer New Year, raked in a total income of $95 million on the back of 1.6 million domestic and international visitors, a 23 percent year-on-year increase, state news agency AKP said yesterday.
— The Phnom Penh Post
Kheng addresses illegal fishing before elections
Interior Minister Sar Kheng yesterday called on authorities to ramp up a crackdown on illegal fishing ahead of upcoming commune elections, prompting one fisheries activist to question whether the action would continue after it ceased to be politically expedient.
— The Phnom Penh Post
Agreement Continues to Elude Residents of White Building
A meeting between government officials and about 50 residents of Phnom Penh’s White Building housing complex on Tuesday night did little to bridge the gap between the compensation desired by residents and that offered by Japanese developer Arakawa, which plans to tear down the low-income residential block and construct an $80 million, 21-story development.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
Illegal Fishing Task Force for Tonle Sap Lake Claims Success
A government task force set up to curb illegal fishing on the Tonle Sap lake has confiscated more than 60 boats, seized thousands of meters of illegal fishing nets and arrested dozens of fishermen during its four-month campaign, the National Police reported on Wednesday.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
In Cambodia, 5 Years After Chut Wutty’s Killing, Questions Remain
The late environmental activist Chut Wutty was prepared for his own death —“any time.”
— VOA
Ahead of Local Elections, Hundreds of Elected Opposition Officials Get the Boot
In the lead up to June’s commune elections, several local opposition leaders here have lost their jobs, leading villagers to wonder why the well-liked commune chief was removed along with two councilors and other members of staff.
— VOA
Cambodia Lacks Measures to Evacuate Workers From Korea in Event of War: Envoy
As saber-rattling over North Korea continues, Cambodia’s ambassador to South Korea has said that there are no plans in place to evacuate citizens in the event of a conflict breaking out.
— VOA
US Seabees Expulsion Leaves Rural Cambodians in the Lurch
Villagers in western Cambodia’s Battambang province said Wednesday that the government’s decision to cancel a contract with a unit of the U.S. Navy for millions of dollars of humanitarian work last month has left them without
access to adequate maternal health care facilities.
— Radio Free Asia
Cambodia Bans Future Visits to Jailed Opposition Lawmakers
Cambodia’s Interior Ministry has banned future visits to political opposition officials and activists held in Prey Sar Prison, saying that a group of lawmakers had improperly allowed an RFA Khmer Service reporter to accompany
them to the prison on Wednesday.
— Radio Free Asia
Dutchman arrested in Cambodia for child porn photos
Cambodia arrested a 53-year-old Dutchman while he was photographing naked boys by a lakeside in a village in northwestern Siem Reap province on Tuesday, according to an anti-pedophile agency’s media release on Wednesday.
— Xinhua
New Cambodia border casino sparks trade war with Thailand
A controversial new Cambodia casino has sparked a minor trade war with neighboring Thailand.
— CalvinAyre.com
Going underground with Cambodia’s hard-living professional poker expats
Western players are flocking to Cambodia to exploit the country’s illegal poker scene. But in their pursuit of easy money and easy living, many fall prey to the high-stakes lifestyle that comes with the profession
— Southeast Asia Globe
Indonesia Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Deeper Capital Markets Help Indonesia Unlock $70b in Annual Funding: McKinsey
Indonesia can unlock $70 billion in additional funding annually from its capital market, should the government provide much-needed financial resources to develop ambitious infrastructure projects, according to a recent report by consulting firm McKinsey & Company.
— Jakarta Globe
Xiaomi launches Mi Roaming for Indonesia
XIAOMI announces on April 18 that it is bringing Mi Roaming to Indonesia. Making its world debut outside mainland China, the on-demand roaming data service is available for Indonesian MIUI users starting April 18.
— Digital News Asia
Beer Business Still Bubbly Despite Tough Regulation, Multi Bintang Profit Nearly Doubles
Multi Bintang Indonesia, Indonesia’s largest brewer, nearly doubled its net income last year thanks to strong sales and product innovations.
— Jakarta Globe
Indonesia: Go-Jek revs up investors to raise $1b in funding
INDONESIAN motorcycle-hailing startup Go-Jek is in talks with investors to raise US$1 billion, according to reports by The Wall Street Journal.
— Tech Wire Asia
Indonesian rupiah weakens slightly after Jakarta election
Indonesia’s currency weakened slightly on Thursday after polls showed that the incumbent governor of Jakarta had lost his bid for re-election by a big margin.
— Reuters
Asean, UN Partner to Stamp Out Poverty, Transnational Crime
High-level officials of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or Asean, and the United Nations met in Jakarta on Tuesday (18/04), where they agreed to enhance cooperation in addressing challenging issues in the region.
— Jakarta Globe
Anies Baswedan wins Jakarta election: Pollsters
A former Indonesian education minister won the race for Jakarta governor on Wednesday after a polarising campaign that cast a shadow over Indonesia’s reputation for practicing a tolerant form of Islam.
— Channel NewsAsia
Tax Hikes Weigh Down Stocks in Cigarette Companies
Stocks of cigarette producers have been performing lower than the benchmark on the local bourse so far this year amid concern among investors about the impact of the government’s tax policy on the sector.
— Jakarta Globe
Fake passports fuel child trafficking to Hong Kong, Singapore
When Siti was promised a high salary for working as a maid overseas, her parents urged her to leave their rural home in Indonesia’s rugged East Java province.
— Daily Mail
Fintech Talk: Leveraging capital market through fintech collaboration
Today’s lack of interest by local investors in Indonesia’s capital market provides a benchmark for people’s investment priorities.
— The Jakarta Post
Indonesian Women Risk Health to Supply Palm Oil to the West
Much of the palm oil used to keep our ice cream smooth, our chocolate shiny, and our margarine free of trans fats comes from the lush plantations of Indonesia and Malaysia. The big companies that produce the oil for food giants like Kellogg and Nestlé typically promise that it’s harvested in a way that protects both the environment and the workers.
— Pulitzer Center
Ahok loses governorship in Jakarta run-off
On April 19th the capital, Jakarta, went to the polls for the second time in three months to cast votes for the two remaining mayoral candidates, the incumbent governor, Basuka Tjahja Purnama (known as Ahok), and Anis Baswedan.
— The Economist Intelligence Unit
Indonesia, Brunei to hold state visits in PH next week
The Philippines will be hosting two neighboring countries in the days leading up to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next week, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Wednesday.
— CNN Philippines
Indonesia Woos Peru to Sign Trade Agreement
Indonesia has planned to improve trade relations with Peru through a trade agreement that is currently being drafted. Trade Ministry’s director general of international trade negotiations Iman Pambagyo revealed that Peru is one of the countries being approached by Indoneisia.
— Tempo.co
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Lao PDR Morning News
Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat
Tunnel works underway on Laos-China railway project
Efforts to bore tunnels for the Laos-China railway project have begun, marking a new and intensive stage to construction work underground for the landmark multi-billion dollar project.
— Vientiane Times
Business operations face high logistics costs, study says
High logistics costs in Laos are still a major obstruction for business operations throughout the domestic private sector and can also deter investors, a recent study suggests.
— Vientiane Times
1st Lao Clean Agricultural Products Trade Fair to be Held in Vientiane
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) will hold the 1st Lao Clean Agricultural Products Trade Fair (Good Agricultural Practice & Organic Products) on April 20-21, 2017 at the ministry, Vientiane Capital.
— Lao News Agency
Heads Will be Dismissed If Corrupt, says Vice President
Vice President Phankham Viphavanh has warned that organisation directors will be dismissed if it is proved that their organisations or people under their supervision are corrupt.
— Lao News Agency
Laos retrieves 6.1 mln USD from corrupt officials
The State Inspection Authority (SIA) of Laos has retrieved more than 50 billion Lao kip (6.1 million U.S. dollars) over the past two years from corrupt officials who had embezzled state properties.
— Xinhua
Laos Transforms Vang Vieng from Party Town to Ecotourism Hub
The stunning natural parks around Vang Vieng had stood unadmired by the hordes of young people who descended on the town to party.
— Latin American Herald Tribune
Love Laos: Keep it Clean
Sitting beside the Mekong River, sipping a cold drink and enjoying the scenery is a welcome break for tourists and locals alike in Laos.
— The Asia Foundation
Landlocked Laos: the hidden culinary secret
TUCKED between China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar, landlocked Laos shows its rich blend of neighboring influences in its diversity and uniqueness of food and drink.
— Shanghai Daily
Finance ministry welcomes public feedback with new hotline
The Ministry of Finance has launched the hotline number 1519 to better connect with members of the public so that consumers can more easily air complaints or provide recommendations regarding finance sector operations in the country.
— Vientiane Times
New decree strengthens environment fund
A new government decree on a key environmental fund will help bolster fundraising for the protection of environment across the country, sources say.
— Vientiane Times
Laos to Bring 5,500 Families Over Poverty Line This Year
The government has an ambitious plan to reduce the number of poor families down from 76,318 to 70,924 by the end of this year, according to an official.
— Lao News Agency
UXOs Cleared by Laos-China Railway Project in LuangNamtha
The clearance of unexploded ordnances from land allocated along Laos-China railway and its two small stations -Botene immigration checkpoint and Natuay, a loading station – in Luang Namtha Province has been almost completed.
— Lao News Agency
Mekong River survey begins despite opposition
SURVEY WORK on the Mekong River channel project officially started yesterday in Chiang Rai, and field survey by a Chinese company is expected to begin tomorrow amid strong opposition by environmentalists.
— The Nation
Malaysia Morning News
Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat
Malaysia’s inflation up 5.1% on higher cost of fuel
Higher fuel prices sent the rate of inflation for March soaring to its highest level in nearly nine years, with the consumer price index (CPI) rising 5.1%.
— The Star Online
Malaysia Airlines to track planes with satellites
Malaysia Airlines has become the first carrier to sign up to a new satellite flight tracking system for its fleet.
– BBC
Malaysia: AirAsia buys 50% in online travel planner Touristly, injects $2.61m
Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia Bhd is acquiring a 50 per cent stake in online travel planner Touristly Travel Sdn Bhd through an asset injection and loan deal valued at $2.61 million (MYR11.5 million).
— Deal Street Asia
Malaysia to see 20% digital economy contribution to GDP sooner
Malaysia’s digital economy contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP), which currently stands at 17.8%, is likely to achieve its 2020 target of 20% earlier than expected.
— The Edge Markets
Malaysia’s Public Sector Home Financing Board issues RM3.25b sukuk
Malaysia’s Public Sector Home Financing Board had today issued up to RM3.25 billion worth of Islamic bonds or sukuk to finance the provision of housing loans to the public sector employees.
— The Edge Markets
Trump’s policy bad news for Malaysia, says research house
Rising US protection will have a significant impact on Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP), according to Standard Chartered Global Research.
— Free Malaysia Today
Malakoff profits ease despite higher revenue
Malakoff Corp Bhd’s net profit eased 21 per cent to RM355.5 million in the year ended Dec 31, 2016, despite posting higher revenue.
— New Straits Times
Modenas to enter street bike market: DRB-HICOM
DRB-HICOM Bhd’s motorcycle arm, Motosikal Dan Enjin Nasional (Modenas), is venturing into the street bike sector via a pact with India’s Bajaj Auto Ltd(BAL).
— New Straits Times
Automotive industry to see gradual recovery
The automotive sector is expected to recover gradually amidst a strengthening of the Malaysian ringgit and an improvement in consumer spending, according to Affin Hwang Capital Research.
— The Star Online
MMHE eyes RM4bil contracts
Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Holdings Bhd (MMHE) is targeting to secure some RM4bil in new contracts this year, even as some of the jobs that it had eyed earlier were deferred due to the low price of crude oil.
— The Star Online
With the rise of fake news, Najib warns against ‘lies’ about Malaysia
Far from being a failed state, Datuk Seri Najib Razak said Malaysia is a thriving country that attracts huge investments and has been acclaimed by global institutions such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund for the reforms undertaken.
— Malay Mail Online
Petrol, diesel prices up
Retail prices for RON95 petrol and diesel will increase by 3 sen and 5 sen respectively tomorrow.
— Malay Mail Online
Malaysia Airlines signs up for minute-by-minute plane tracking
Malaysia Airlines has signed up to a new system to track its planes minute-by-minute, three years after the unexplained disappearance of one of its aircraft carrying 239 people, the providers of the satellite-based system said in a statement.
— New Straits Times
Meeting the needs of medical tourism
Hospitality is more vital than ever in the healthcare industry, thanks to the growth in medical tourism.
— New Straits Times
Najib: Bumi agenda not ‘zero-sum’, won’t sideline others
The federal government’s blueprint to uplift the Bumiputera community is not at the expense of Malaysia’s remaining ethnic groups, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.
— Malay Mail Online
Public Service Dept drafting master plan to meet TN50 vision, says D-G
The Public Service Department (PSD) is in the process of drafting its Management and Human Resource Development Master Plan 2050 which outlines the expertise and skills needed for the Transformasi Nasional 2050 (TN50) vision.
— Malay Mail Online
Malaysia listens to the people — but how closely?
Malaysia is embarking on a grand experiment as the writing of the government’s Transformasi Nasional 2050 document kicks into full swing.
— Nikkei Asian Review
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Myanmar Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Foreign investment booms in Myanmar telecoms
Overseas companies spent big on building mobile phone infrastructure in Myanmar over the past year, while they took a break from exploring oil and gas.
— Nikkei Asian Review
Hong Kong to Help Myanmar Set up a Gold Exchange
The operator of Hong Kong’s gold exchange is in talks to help the government of Myanmar establish a bourse in the country for trading the precious metal, according to Haywood Cheung Tak-hay, president of the Chinese Gold & Silver Exchange Society.
— Consult-Myanmar
Ethnic Militias in Myanmar Form New Committee to Handle Talks With Government
Seven of Myanmar’s ethnic armed groups formed a new committee on Wednesday to hold collective talks with the government in anticipation of the next round of nationwide peace negotiations.
— Radio Free Asia
Driving ban intensifies Myanmar logistics hurdles
Myanmar apparel makers have warned that a ban on moving lorries and trucks to seaport terminals through the busy streets of Myanmar’s commercial capital Yangon has placed a heavy logistical burden on the country’s growing clothing sector.
— Just-style
Myanmar plans to end HIV epidemic by 2030
Myanmar has drawn the National Strategic Plan on HIV and AIDS (2016-2020) announcing its commitment to ending the epidemic form of HIV, which is threatening public health, by 2030, according to the Ministry of Health and Sports.
— Eleven
Myanmar Plans Education Reform, But Critics Claim Lack of Consultation
Myanmar’s democratic government recently launched a comprehensive, multi-year strategy to reform the country’s education system, which is in a dire state after decades of neglect under the former military regime.
— Voice of America
Credit Guarantee Insurance Not Helping Small Businesses
Credit guarantee insurance was introduced under the former government in 2014 but the system has not been widely adopted by banks and businesses. As a result, financial support for SMEs remains inadequate.
— Consult-Myanmar
Myanmar, Netherlands Plant Seeds of Accord
Myanmar and the Netherlands have planted the seeds of cooperation to develop the local agricultural sector, especially the development of high yielding crop seeds.
— Consult-Myanmar
Myanmar: AIM listed MIL to form JVs in pharmaceutical, tourism sectors
Myanmar Investments International (MIL), an AIM listed Myanmar focused investment company, is finalising investment plan for two proposed joint ventures, said a company announcement.
— Deal Street Asia
Housings for government employees to be constructed in regions and states
The 2nd coordination meeting on construction of staff housing for government employees was held at the Ministry of Planning and Finance in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday afternoon, with Union Minister U Kyaw Win in attendance.
— Global New Light Of Myanmar
FDA Delays Labelling of Food Products
The Department of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that the labelling requirements for local food products will be delayed by three months.
— Consult-Myanmar
Govt plans to build new ports in Ayeyawady and Chindwin rivers
The government is planning to build new four modernized ports in Ayeyawady River and two more ports in Chindwin River and to make preservation work along the two rivers with the help of Japan and Belgium, said permanent secretary Win Khant from Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
— Eleven
SNLD’s elected MPs will submit needs for education, health to parliament
The elected MPs from Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD) will be submitting the education and health sector requirements as first priority to the parliament, according to the elected MPs.
— Eleven
Philippines Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Surging imports drive March BoP to biggest deficit in four months
The Philippines’ external payments position stood at a $550-million deficit last month, the biggest seen since the $1.671-billion shortfall recorded in November last year.
— BusinessWorld Online
Philippines: CIP to divest 65% stake in LMG Chemicals
Chemical Industries of the Philippines Inc (CIP) on Wednesday said that it is divesting its 65.92 per cent stake in LMG Chemicals Corp.
— Deal Street Asia
Online gaming firms driving up office rent in Metro Manila
Coming from a seven-year boom, Philippine landlords would continue to enjoy higher office rental rates this year as business process outsourcing (BPO) remained robust and with online gaming, an emergent sector, also joining in the chase for fast-dwindling office inventory.
— Inquirer.net
PSEi dips 0.86% as global uncertainty weighs
The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) retreated on Wednesday, losing 66 points following negative leads from Wall Street and other Asian markets, in light of geopolitical tensions and weak earnings of US companies.
— The Manila Times
PH balance of payments deficit widens to $550 million in March
The country posted a balance of payments (BOP) deficit of $550 million in March, the sixth straight month that the amount of dollars that left the economy was more than those that came in.
— Inquirer.net
Philippine senator calls for probe into police cash-for-kill claim
A Philippine senator called for a probe on Wednesday into allegations by senior officers in a Reuters report that police received cash rewards for executing drug suspects, while a police spokesman challenged the claims but said they would be investigated.
— Channel NewsAsia
100 firms set to tap CIC pilot credit data system
ONLY 100 financial entities will be able to join the pilot phase of the country’s national credit information system next month, below the Credit Information Corp.’s (CIC) 170 to 200 anticipated submitting institutions, due to delays in the submission of documentary requirements of some corporates.
— BusinessWorld Online
Manila’s renovated Quinta Market boasts food court, 100-vehicle parking lot
Nearly two years after they were displaced by its closure, around 250 vendors reopened their stalls at the newly renovated Quinta Market and Fishport in Quiapo on Wednesday.
— Inquirer.net
Focus on buying rice aggressively, NFA told
The time has come for the government to buy palay aggressively as farm gate prices have receded to P17 a kilo, which is within the National Food Authority’s support price, according to the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (Sinag).
— Inquirer.net
G7 urges compliance with UN ruling on sea row
Foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations have issued a joint communiqué calling for the implementation of a ruling by a UN-backed arbitral court invalidating China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.
— The Philippine Star
Banks swamped with P10T in deposits — PDIC
Banks are overflowing with cash with deposits breaching the P10-trillion mark last year and giving the economy enough credit to finance growth amid rising interest rates.
— The Philippine Star
Economy likely grew 7% in Quarter 1 – Pernia
The Philippine economy likely grew seven percent in the first quarter of the year, the middle point of the target range for 2017, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said.
— The Philippine Star
Rice prices may rise if imports halted: economist
The Department of Agriculture’s plan to stop rice importation in to favor local farmers could push up prices of the staple grain, an economist said Thursday.
— ABS-CBN
Taiwan grants paid leaves to OFWs, migrant workers
Overseas Filipino workers who have worked in Taiwan for more than a year are now entitled to paid leaves credit, the Manila Economic Cultural Office (MECO) said Wednesday.
— ABS-CBN
Mine review proceeds amid Cabinet row
THE NEW review of mining projects nationwide can now proceed unhindered as Environment Secretary Regina Paz L. Lopez yesterday signaled qualified support, even as she bared a spat over the issue with a fellow Cabinet member.
— BusinessWorld Online
Shoot ASG men, Duterte orders
President Duterte has encouraged the government forces as well as civilians to shoot members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) “dead or alive” following the attack in Inabanga, Bohol, during the Holy Week that left 10 people dead, four from the government forces.
— Manila Bulletin
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Singapore Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Singapore Shares May See Relief Rally On Thursday
The losing streak has hit four sessions now for the Singapore stock market, which has given away more than 60 points or 2 percent. The Straits Times Index now rests just above the 3,125-point plateau, although the market may stop the bleeding on Thursday.
— Nasdaq
Debate over stock tick size splits stakeholders
THE Singapore Exchange (SGX) proposal to widen the tick for certain stocks has sparked a debate over whether the change will improve market liquidity or simply raise profits for a select group of traders.
— The Business Times
S’pore retains 10th spot in FDI Confidence Index
BETTER economic outlook led to investors retaining Singapore at the 10th spot on the 2017 AT Kearney Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Confidence Index, even if political uncertainties wavered their confidence.
— The Business Times
SBS Transit snags Seletar bus package with S$480m bid
SBS Transit (SBST) beat nine others to clinch the third bus package put up for tender by the Government, making it the first time that a Singapore bus operator has won since the Land Transport Authority (LTA) started using the new bus contracting model.
— Today Online
‘Recession-Proof’ Student Housing Attracts Singapore Investors
Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund and the city-state-based real estate investor helped fuel a record $16.2 billion of student-housing acquisitions last year, and a further $3.3 billion of deals were struck in the first quarter of 2017, according to Real Capital Analytics Inc. Student accommodation offers better returns than offices and residential housing, making it an attractive asset for pension and sovereign wealth funds looking for stable income and higher yields in a low-return world.
— Bloomberg
Google aims to train 1,000 Singaporean business leaders by 2019
US tech giant Google will work with global training provider AVADO, SPRING Singapore and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) to launch a digital leadership and marketing programme aimed at fostering the next generation of digital leaders in Singapore.
— Channel NewsAsia
Hollywood studios lose landmark piracy case in Singapore
Internet users in Singapore have scored a landmark victory against tactics used by copyright holders fighting alleged piracy. – See more at: http://news.asiaone.com/news/singapore/hollywood-studios-lose-landmark-piracy-case-singapore#sthash.prZhnl0M.dpuf
— Asia One
Singaporean customers amongst the world’s most demanding
When it comes to customer service, Singapore is one of the most demanding globally, a study by American Express found out.
— Singapore Business Review
Fake passports fuel child trafficking to Hong Kong, Singapore
When Siti was promised a high salary for working as a maid overseas, her parents urged her to leave their rural home in Indonesia’s rugged East Java province.
— New Straits Times Online
Singapore arts festival to enchant
The spotlight is on local artists at this year’s edition of the Singapore International Festival of Arts (Sifa), which runs from June 28 to Sept 9.
— The Straits Times
Singapore Heritage Festival 2017: Spotlight on Caldecott, Little India, Bukit Pasoh and the Singapore River
SINGAPORE – Hawker stalls will line the Singapore River once again, harking back to the 1970s and early 1980s when Empress Place Food Centre was the epicentre of hot satay and cooling coconut water.
— The Straits Times
Singapore to be promoted as stopover destination
Singapore is to be promoted as an attractive stopover destination in a $34 million campaign.
— Travel Weekly UK
Thailand Morning News
Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo_journ
CCTVs around missing revolution plaque unavailable
Along with the removal of the 1932 Revolution memorial plaque, recordings from 11 CCTVs surrounding the site are also seemingly missing. The police have now prohibited photos and activities around the new ‘fresh-faced’ plaque.
– Prachatai English
Drop hunt for plaque, junta tells activists
THE JUNTA yesterday urged pro-democracy activists to end their mission to find the historic plaque that disappeared from the Royal Plaza days ago, asking them to cooperate in the interests of national reconciliation.
– The Nation
Moscow Warns Russian Tourists in Thailand of Terror Threat
Russia’s state tourism agency Rostourism on Wednesday warned Russian tourists in Thailand of potential terror threat and recommended them to avoid visiting crowded public places.
– Sputnik News
Militants launch multiple attacks in three southern provinces
Suspected southern militants launched grenade and gun attacks on 13 targets in three southernmost provinces of Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla Wednesday night.
– Thai PBS
University courses ‘not up to standard’
More than 20% of higher education courses run by Thai universities fail to meet required standards, according to the Office of the Auditor General (OAG).
– Bangkok Post
New businesses can now register online
New entrepreneurs can now register online to get their businesses started.
– NNT
CCTV excuse won’t wash
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) once again has done a disservice to its residents. As the public eagerly awaited footage from 11 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras installed in areas near and around the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and the Royal Plaza to find out who removed the memorial plague to the 1932 Siamese Revolution, City Hall yesterday simply came out to say that the CCTV cameras in the areas had been removed for repair. Thus, there is no video footage available.
– Bangkok Post
Thailand: Siam Commercial in exclusive talks with FWD to sell insurance arm for $3b
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) has entered into exclusive talks with Hong Kong insurer FWD Group to sell its life insurance arm, which could raise $3 billion for Thailand’s third-biggest lender, people with direct knowledge of the matter said.
– Deal Street Asia
Electricity bills poised for increase
Electricity bills are set to rise throughout 2017 because of rising natural gas and oil prices, says the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).
– Bangkok Post
China Town, Khao San Road areas to be transformed into organised street food areas
THE GOVERNMENT is planning to transform Bangkok’s China Town and Khao San Road into well-organised areas for street food vendors.
– The Nation
SME Bank close to achieving rehab release
The state-owned Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME Bank) is expected to exit its rehabilitation plan by June, thanks to improving operating performance and lower non-performing loans.
– Bangkok Post
Pandora plans Bt9 bn capacity expansion here
PANDORA PRODUCTION CO, which claims to be the world’s largest jewellery manufacturer and exporter, is investing more than Bt9 billion to boost its production capacity in Thailand while implementing three strategic initiatives to support increasing global demand.
– The Nation
Fintech software start-up sets up development centre in Bangkok
Scale360, a UK-based fintech start-up that develops software to power banks’ digital transformation, has established a Bangkok Development Centre to service banks’ growing need for financial technology and to develop local skills in leading global technologies.
– The Nation
Food Capitals gobbles up two firms
Food Capitals Plc, the franchise operator of Domino’s Pizza and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, has acquired two food companies for a combined 400 million baht.
– Bangkok Post
Or Tor Kor Market ranked fourth among world’s best fresh markets
Bangkok’s Or Tor Kor Market, well-known for its premium fresh fruit, vegetables and foods, has been selected by CNN as one of the world’s 10 best fresh markets.
– The Nation
Road Safety Center’s accident report on seven dangerous days of Songkran 2017
The Road Safety Directing Center has recently released a road accident report on the seven dangerous days of this year’s Songkran holiday which started on April 11th and ended yesterday, April 17th.
– NNT
No public vehicle related death during Songkran
The Department of Land Transport has thanked every sector for their efforts in helping to make public transportation safer during Songkran holidays.
– NNT
Phuket’s Songkran road-death toll spurs Governor action
Governor Norraphat Plodthong has vowed to take action to correct Phuket motorists’ wild driving habits in the hope of reducing the death and carnage on the island’s roads.
Read more at http://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-songkran-road-death-toll-spurs-governor-action-61828.php#8YC6ZAJYSi2SdqYU.99
– The Phuket News
Why Thailand’s military is trying to erase me from the Internet
The military government in Thailand has a well-established gift for Orwellian absurdity. Not long after seizing power in a 2014 coup, junta leader Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha published a song titled “Return Happiness to Thailand.” Last year officials spotted a seditious conspiracy behind a plan to distribute red bowls as gifts (presumably because the color red is associated with the opposition). Thais have been arrested for allegedly making disrespectful remarks about the king’s dog, and for eating a suspicious sandwich.
– The Washington Post
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Vietnam Morning News
Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo_journ
Government waste on the table at NASC meeting
Thrift and anti-waste work in 2016 was discussed at the ninth session of the 14th National Assembly Standing Committee in Hà Nội yesterday.
– Viet Nam News
Foreign workers may be forced to pay social insurance in Vietnam
Vietnam’s labor ministry is seeking public opinion on a new rule that would require foreigners working in the country to pay social insurance, the ministry said.
– VnExpress
Climate change threatens water security
Ensuring water security is becoming an urgent task for Việt Nam in the context of climate change impacting all aspects of life, heard a conference on Wednesday.
– Viet Nam News
Chinese automakers eager to co-operate with Vietnamese partners
Chinese automakers are seeking opportunities to co-operate with Vietnamese partners to develop the production of heavy duty truck parts.
– Vietnam Investment Review
Merger plans to create VN’s largest sugar company
Thành Thành Công Tây Ninh and Biên Hòa sugar companies plan to merge to create the largest sugar company in the Việt Nam’s stock market.
– Viet Nam News
Fast track gains seen in tax, customs procedures
The finance ministry will build on the successes it has recorded last year in implementing a Resolution on improving the business improvement, Ngô Hữu Lợi, head of its Legal Department, tells the Vietnam News Agency.
– Viet Nam News
Make tourism growth count, Binh Thuan told
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Tuesday advised Binh Thuan to ensure that its tourism sector contributes at least 15 per cent of the central province’s GDP.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Projects in hi-tech agriculture to get more support
The Ministry of Planning and Investment has drafted a Decree on encouraging businesses investing in agriculture and rural areas, which proposes assistance in investment in agriculture applying high technology, training human resources and developing consumption market.
– Vietnam Investment Review
Over 6,000 Japanese firms explore investment in HCM City
The Japanese External Trade Organisation (JETRO) representative office in Ho Chi Minh City welcomed more than 6,000 Japanese firms to study the investment environment in the southern economic hub in 2016.
– VietnamPlus
Sun Group confirmed as sole casino operator in Van Don
A recent document issued by the Quang Ninh People’s Committee stated that real estate developer Sun Group is the only one chosen to develop a casino in Van Don Economic Zone.
– Vietnam Investment Review
Banks to be more demanding in selecting customers
With credit growth accelerating in the first quarter, many commercial banks may become more demanding in selecting lending customers.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Preferential loans for manufacturing industry firms
Domestic enterprises with plans to invest in four key industrial sectors and two traditional fields will be offered low-interest loans worth up to VND200 billion (US$8.8 million) for each project.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Petrolimex’s foreign ownership cap at 20 percent
The State Securities Commission (SSC) has endorsed the ceiling foreign ownership level at the Vietnam National Petroleum Group (Petrolimex) at 20 percent as approved by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc last year.
– VnExpress
SCIC targets 7.34 trillion VND in post-tax profit in 2017
The State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) has announced that in the first quarter of 2017, it recorded 639 billion VND (28.1 million USD) in revenue, 584 billion VND (25.7 million USD) in pre-tax profit and 503 billion VND (22.1 million USD) in post-tax profit.
– VietnamPlus
Schneider Electric inaugurates $45 million factory in HCM City
Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation, inaugurated its US$45 million manufacturing plant in HCM City’s Sai Gon Hi-tech Park on Tuesday.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Work begins on Rang Dong IZ
Construction of Rang Dong Industrial Zone (IZ), a large-scale zone dedicated to the textile and garment industry, starts on Tuesday in the northern province of Nam Dinh.
– Vietnam Investment Review
End of the line: Hanoi train factory runs out of steam after century of glory
Gia Lam Train Company, once a symbol of the capital’s industrial revolution, is now in the red and has to be relocated.
– VNExpress
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Asean Morning News is the most comprehensive selection of reports on what you need to know from around the Asean Economic Community (AEC) published. All articles are hand curated by the team at AEC News Today. It is published M-F by AEC News Today: Governance, not government; policies not politics.