Asean Morning News For March 9

The Asean Morning News Roundup presents a selection of reports on what you need to know from around the Asean Economic Community (AEC) and is the most comprehensive Asean Morning News Roundup published. All articles are hand curated by the team at AEC News Today.

Asean Morning News

Compiled by AEC News Today @aecnewstoday

India proposes smallest duty cuts for China, highest for ASEAN in RCEP pact
India has offered least tariff concessions to Chinese goods under the proposed free trade agreement between 16 Asia-Pacific countries including China and Australia.
— Economic Times

Economic ministers, senior trade officials now in Manila for ASEAN meet
Economic ministers and senior trade officials of 10 member states of ASEAN are now in Manila for the 23rd ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Retreat and Related Meetings from March 8 to 10.
— Philippine Canadian Inquirer

Is Indonesia Choosing the Indian Ocean Rim Association Over ASEAN?
From March 5 to 7, Jakarta played host to the leader’s summit of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), which was also commemorating its 20th anniversary. Given the chance to lead the summit, Indonesia has pursued significant initiatives, including the enactment of the IORA Concord, or so-called Jakarta Concord.
— The Diplomat

Asean deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, says Kishore Mahbubani
Asean’s success in ensuring peace and economic and socio-political progress in the world’s most diverse region should merit a Nobel Peace Prize as it marks its 50th anniversary this year, according to a new book.
— The Straits Times

Asean bats for migrant workers’ protection, civil service professionalization
Ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) are pushing for the adoption of policies and measures to protect migrant workers, and the professionalization of the civil service
among member countries.
— Inquirer.net

EU commissioner to discuss Asean trade relations in Manila
European Union (EU) Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström is set to visit Manila on Friday for the 15th ASEAN Economic Ministers – European Union Trade Consultations, to primarily discuss trade relations as well as the goal of a Free Trade Agreement with her ASEAN counterparts.
— Inquirer.net

Cambodia To Host World Economic Forum On Asean In May
Cambodia will host the World Economic Forum on Asean for the first time in its capital city Phnom Penh on May 10-12, where 700 business leaders from various sectors are expected to fly in.
— Malaysian Digest

Cambodia Morning News

Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat

Cambodia to Host World Economic Forum on Asean in May

Cambodia will host the World Economic Forum on Asean for the first time in its capital city Phnom Penh on May 10-12, where 700 business leaders from various sectors are expected to fly in.
— Jakarta Globe

Inside the world of Cambodia’s child sex trade, as told through the eyes of a survivor
At first glance, 22-year-old Sokha Chan might seem like your average young California girl. She has a lap dog named Chica, and her own car that she bought herself.
— ABC News

Local airlines to face headwinds
Cambodian airlines trying to grow and capture a slice of the more promising Chinese market will face stern competition from more-established international carriers, while new startups could struggle to gain a foothold in the Kingdom’s relatively small market, according to new research by the Centre for Aviation (CAPA).
— The Phnom Penh Post

PPAP to pay out dividends
Phnom Penh Autonomous Port (PPAP) will distribute a cash dividend of 1,059,039,488 riel ($261,148), or 256 riel per share, to its private shareholders for its 2016 operations, the port operator said in a filing to the Cambodian Securities Exchange (CSX).
— The Phnom Penh Post

PM Defends Alcohol Culture at Brewery Event
Prime Minister Hun Sen on Tuesday defended the nation’s drinking culture, arguing that consuming alcohol was not unique to the current generation or the country, while also advising citizens not to drink and drive.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Agreement Allows South Korea to Manage Forests
South Korea will manage the replanting of trees on former economic land concessions—with an eye toward eventually entering Cambodia’s logging industry—under a tentative agreement between the two countries, Agriculture Minister Veng Sakhon said on Wednesday.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Green Light: New Signals to Speed Up City’s Traffic Prospects
As part of an ongoing Japan-funded project to reduce congestion in the capital’s clogged streets, City Hall turned on three new traffic lights on Wednesday in Phnom Penh—with two more set to follow today.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Path Into Politics Still Limited for Cambodian Women: Politicians
The number of qualified female candidates able to run in the forthcoming commune elections in June remains low, politicians from both sides of the aisle have said.
— VOA

Cambodians, Speaking Out Against Thai Slave Labor, Seek Justice in United States
Thailand’s seafood industry has supplied the global market with about $7 billion dollars annually. Half of that is shrimp products destined for supermarkets in the US, Europe, and Japan.
— VOA

Cambodian Union, Civil Society Groups Urge End to Violence, Discrimination Against Women
Leaders of a Cambodian workers’ union on Wednesday urged an end to workplace violence and discrimination against women, while civil society organizations called on the government to take measures to protect female workers.
— Radio Free Asia

KDIC opens office in Cambodia
South Korea’s state-run deposit insurer said Thursday it has opened a branch office in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to help recover local property assets once owned by bankrupt Korean savings banks.
— Yonhap News Agency

Five female politicians in Southeast Asia you should know
Cambodian politician and activist Mu Sochua made her name in the 1990s as a founder of Khemara, the country’s first organisation dedicated to advocating on behalf of women.
— Southeast Asia Globe

Trials and tribulations in Cambodia
By dismissing the case against Im Chaem, Cambodia’s government has shown that it is willing to draw a line that international justice cannot cross when it comes to making former high-ranking members of the Khmer Rouge accountable for their past crimes.
— New Mandala

Air France to service Angkor Air’s A320s
Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance has signed a memorandum of understanding with Cambodia Angkor Air (CAA) to service its fleet of A320s, according to a recent press release.
— The Phnom Penh Post

Finnish firm to assist with 150MW coal plant
Finish energy consulting firm Pöyry Global has secured an engineer services contract from Cambodian Energy II Co Ltd (CEL2) for its new 150-megawatt coal-fired plant, the company said yesterday in a press release.
— The Phnom Penh Post

Parties Pledge More Power For Women
For the ruling CPP, the promise was to appoint a woman as governor for one of the country’s 25 provinces. For the opposition CNRP, its boast was having 60 female commune chief candidates—up from fewer than 10—to run in Cambodia’s 1,646 communes for this year’s elections.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Cambodian cop gets 25 years for shooting dead Vietnamese gold shop owner
A Vietnamese court has sentenced a Cambodian police officer to 25 years in prison for killing a local gold shop owner and injuring another in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang in 2016.
— VnExpress.net

Indonesia Morning News

Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee

Second shipment of Australian buffalo sent to Indonesia since 2011 live export suspension
Australian buffalo have been exported to Indonesia for the first time in more than three years, a move that has been welcomed by industry.
— ABC Rural

Corruption in Indonesia: DPR the Most Corrupt Government Institution
The latest survey of Berlin-based Transparency International confirms that Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR) is perceived – among Indonesians – as the most corrupt institution in the country.
— Indonesia Investments

Asian Games: Indonesia shrugs off graft, organisation woes
Organisers of Indonesia’s 2018 Asian Games insisted Wednesday preparations were on track after the build-up was hit by corruption allegations and concerns about faltering organisation.
— The Business Times

Indonesia power sector: New regulation on utilisation of natural gas for power generation
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia (MEMR) recently issued MEMR Regulation No. 11 of 2017 on the Utilisation of Natural Gas for Power Generation (Regulation 11/2017).
— JD Supra (press release)

Indonesia Digest: BRI Agroniaga’s $75m rights issue; TBL $200m global bond
Indonesian lender BRI Agroniaga is planning to raise Rp 1 trillion ($75 million) via a rights issue to strengthen capital structure.
— Deal Street Asia

UK tourism arrivals to Indonesia boom in 2016
Figures released by the Ministry of Tourism for the Republic of Indonesia have shown an impressive 17.37% increase in visitor arrivals from the United Kingdom, year on year.
— Travel Daily Media

DBS to launch mobile-only banking service in Indonesia
The Development Bank of Singapore (DBS) plans to introduce a smartphone-based mobile banking option for the Indonesian market as a way to further digitalize the banks’ operations and utilize digital innovation to its advantage.
— The Jakarta Post

Telkom spreads SME products worldwide
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) currently serve as the backbone of domestic economy.
— The Jakarta Post

Papua’s economy slowing down due to Freeport saga: Bank Indonesia
The prolonged contractual dispute between the government and PT Freeport Indonesia, which has prompted the giant miner to temporarily suspend production, has resulted in weakening economic growth in Papua, especially in the mining sector.
— The Jakarta Post

Indonesia aims high package transactions, best title at world’s leading travel fair
Indonesia aims to net US$470 million of tourism package transactions in the world’s leading travel fair event of Internationale Tourismus Borse (ITB) in Messe Berlin, Germany on March 8-12, China’s Xinhua news agency reported.
— Astro Awani

Seven Indonesian Designers to Showcase Work Abroad
This month, seven Indonesian fashion designers will present their latest collections at four international fashion weeks.
— Jakarta Globe

Greater Jakarta: Vendors to lose stalls in C. Jakarta
Dozens of vendors at Lenggang Jakarta food court in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, could lose their stalls as the city administration is set to lease them to other parties who are more interested in opening businesses there, an official has said.
— The Jakarta Post

Omani businessmen explore investment opportunities in Indonesia
A total of 33 Omani businessmen attended the Indonesia-Oman Business Forum here on Wednesday and met 50 Indonesian businesspersons to explore investment opportunities in the country.
— Antara News

Non Performing Loans (NPLs) May Rise in Indonesia’s Banking Sector
Chances are big that the banking sector of Indonesia will see the non performing loan (NPL) ratio rise up to the range of 3.0 – 3.5 percent in 2017. Anton Gunawan, Chief Economist at state-controlled Bank Mandiri, says the rising NPL ratio is not so much caused by the lower quality of credit in Indonesia’s banking system. The bigger problem is rising “special mention” loans, a loan grade that refers to assets that pose potential weaknesses that require close attention.
— Indonesia Investments

Indonesia vows to tackle marine pollution
It is wet season in Bali, Indonesia, a popular tourist destination for Australian, Russian, German, Chinese and Japanese visitors.
— The Conversation AU

Singapore and Indonesia sharing experiences in combating cyber threats: DPM Teo
Singapore and Indonesia are sharing experiences in tackling cyber threats, said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean on Wednesday (March 8).
— The Straits Times

Indonesia urged to strengthen international counterterrorism cooperation
International relations expert Yanyan M Yani said Tuesday that Indonesia needed to strengthen its cross-sector international cooperation as part of the effort to fight terrorism.
— The Jakarta Post

Ratu Atut indicted for allegedly causing Rp 80b in state losses
Graft defendant and former Banten governor Ratu Atut Chosiyah has been indicted for allegedly inflicting Rp 79.79 billion (US$5.95 million) in state losses by allegedly abusing her authority as governor to enrich herself and other parties.
— The Jakarta Post

Indonesia Lures Middle East Cash as Trump Worries Muslim Nations
As one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and the most populous Muslim nation in the world, Indonesia is billing itself as a natural home for Middle Eastern investment at a time when the U.S. is turning inward.
— Bloomberg

Indonesia wants better trade with South Africa
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo urged South Africa to reduce trade barriers for Indonesian exports to the country, in a bilateral meeting with visiting South African President Jacob Zuma on Wednesday.
— The Jakarta Post

Indonesia’s Bali Island Refuses To Cover Statues For Saudi King’s Visit
Bali, a Hindu majority resort island in Indonesia, has refused to cover half-naked statues located in different parts of the island during a visit by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia. While the statues in the Indonesian capital and adjoining regions were covered as a mark of respect to the King of the Wahhabi kingdom, those in Bali were not.
— Swarajya

Indonesia jails leaders of ‘deviant sect’ for blasphemy
An Indonesian court has jailed three leaders of a group that Islamic clerics had called a deviant religious organisation for up to five years for blasphemy, sparking condemnation from human rights groups over the targeting of minorities.
— The Star Online

Jackie Chan, Jet Li invited to take part in upcoming Indonesian film
Jackie Chan and Jet Li have been invited to participate in Pamanca the Movie, an upcoming film by local production house Rafindo Galesong.
— The Jakarta Post

Lao PDR Morning News

Compiled by Jose Rodriguez Senas @15Souter

Foreign investors still seek solutions after business suspensions
The owners of two manufacturing plants in a Vientiane industrial park that were ordered to temporarily suspend their operations amid fears over environmental impacts are still waiting for a final answer on their case from the government.
— Vientiane Times

Vietnamese PM promises support for Laos in developing transport
The PM welcomed the minister’s proposals, noting that the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee had reached a consensus on those issues at its 39th meeting.
— VietNamNet.Bridge

Authorities hopeful of rebounding rubber price this year
Luang Namtha provincial authorities are hoping an increase in the world price of rubber will boost exports to China and local farmers’ incomes.
— Vientiane Times

Officials meet over plight of landlocked states
UN officials gathered yesterday in Hà Nội to discuss initiatives on trade facilitation for landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) in an effort to realise the UN’s development motto of leaving no one behind.
— Viet Nam News

Savannakhet, Vietnam’s Quang Tri province ink trade facilitation deal
Officials from Savannakhet province and Quang Tri province in Vietnam have signed a memorandum of understanding to increase cross-border trade facilitation at a bilateral meeting in Vietnam last week
— Vientiane Times (paywall)

President Greets Kuwaiti Counterpart
President Bounnhang Vorachit has sent a message of congratulations to his Kuwaiti counterpart Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Emir of the State of Kuwait on the occasion of his election as President of the State of Kuwait
— Lao News Agency

Phou Kout Mountain to be major Xieng Khuang tourism attraction
Authorities in Xieng Khuang province are developing the historical site at Phou Kout Mountain as a tourist attraction in the province aside from the well-known Plain of Jars.
— Vientiane Times

Xayaboury, Phayao provinces enhance cross border cooperation
Xayaboury and Phayao provinces have agreed to enhance border cooperation, aiming at upgrading some new crossing points and preventing activities that threaten border security between the two countries.
— Vientiane Times (paywall)

Lao People’s Democratic Republic Floods: DREF Operation Final Report
CHF 128,687 was allocated from the IFRC’s DREF to respond to the humanitarian needs of households affected the floods. In all, the operation utilized CHF 125,483 or 97.5 per cent of the allocation.
— reliefweb

State Attapeu Import-Export Follows PM’s Order No. 15
The wood processing business State Attapeu Import-Export Company claims that it has been focusing on translating into reality the Prime Minister’s Order No. 15 on Enhancing Strictness on the Management and Inspection of Timber Exploitation, Timber Movements and Timber Businesses.
— Lao News Agency

Lao-US alumni seek to build better communities
Hundreds of alumni from US-Lao exchange programmes gathered recently in Vientiane to share memories and connect with their fellow exchange programme participants.
— Vientiane Times

Korean foundation to continue scholarships in dentistry
Seoul National University’s Lao Foundation says it will continue providing scholarships to outstanding students enrolled in the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Health Sciences in Vientiane.
— Vientiane Times

Young business woman finds steady footing in brick business
Construction is a big contributor to carbon emissions that cause global warming, particularly through excessive use of materials such as cement.
— Vientiane Times (paywall)

Malaysia Morning News

Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat

Malaysia warns of long North Korea inquiry, China says no action yet
Malaysia has warned that an investigation into the murder of the North Korean leader’s half brother “may take longer than what we hope,” as Pyongyang ally China said on Wednesday that no international action should be considered until it is finished.
— Reuters

Malaysia reports highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu: OIE
Malaysia has reported an outbreak of a highly contagious H5N1 bird flu virus in the northern part of the country, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) said on Wednesday, citing a report from the Malaysian agriculture ministry.
— Reuters

Ringgit to pick up in second half of this year
The ringgit is expected to see a moderate recovery in the second half of this year against the US dollar following the improvement of the local economy.
— The Star Online

Malaysia needs to talk to Pyongyang and negotiate, says Najib
All 11 Malaysians in North Korea are now within the diplomatic compound of the Malaysian embassy and are all safe.
— The Star Online

Proposed IWH, IWC merger signals rise of largest property developer on Bursa
Iskandar Waterfront Holdings Sdn Bhd (IWH) has proposed to buy the remaining 61.7 per cent stake in IWC it does not already own.
— New Straits Times

GE: Malaysia remains attractive to global firms
MALAYSIA is an attractive investment destination for multinational companies (MNCs) because of its cost of running businesses, local talent and diversity, said General Electric (GE) general manager of Asia Pacific Global Operations, Yuichiro Yamaguchi.
— New Straits Times

Iflix open to raising additional capital from strategic investor: Patrick Grove
Malaysia headquartered video streaming service iflix is open to raising additional capital “if someone very strategic would be interested”, iflix co-founder and Catcha Group’s Patrick Grove has told this portal, a day after the company announced it had raised $90 million in a funding round by telecom firm Liberty Global Plc and Kuwaiti telecom operator Zain and other investors.
— Deal Street Asia

Malaysia’s Iskandar Waterfront Holdings to plan back-door listing
Iskandar Waterfront Holdings Sdn Bhd, controlled by Malaysian property tycoon Lim Kang Hoo, has offered to buy Iskandar Waterfront City Berhad (IWC) in a “back door” listing of one of the country’s biggest property firms.
— Deal Street Asia

MH370 final report will be issued next year: Malaysian transport minister
The final report on the international investigation into the vanishing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 exactly three years ago on Wednesday (Mar 8) will be issued on Jan 17 next year.
— Channel News Asia

Malaysia-North Korea spat should be resolved without extreme measures: DPM Teo
Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean on Wednesday (Mar 8) said differences of views between Malaysia and North Korea should be discussed and resolved without resorting to extreme measures.
— Channel News Asia

US backs Malaysia in NK diplomatic row, rep says
The Unites States has expressed support for Malaysia in the ongoing diplomatic row with North Korea, branding the latter’s actions as “reprehensible”.
— Malay Mail Online

MH370 ‘secret’ passenger: Missing Malaysian airlines flight had ‘ANOTHER person on board’
The jumbo-jet, which disappeared three years ago today, is believed to have gone down with all 239 passengers and crew. However, an investigator searching for wreckage has said there was another previously unknown person on the flight.
— Daily Star

Palm oil sector: ’11pc spike in global CPO Output’
GLOBAL palm oil production is expected to climb 11 per cent to 65 million tonnes this year as the near-perfect weather boosts yields.
— New Straits Times

iflix secures US$90 million in new funds to accelerate global expansion
Leading subscription Video on Demand (SVoD) service provider, iflix, has secured US$90 million to support its international expansion.
— New Straits Times

AlloyMtd eyes RM11bil Philippine ‘Putrajaya’ job
AlloyMtd Group has submitted a bid to build a new administrative centre for the Philippines Government at an estimated project development cost of RM11bil.
— The Star Online

Etiqa Insurance’s parent Maybank Ageas makes record profit
Maybank Ageas Holdings Bhd, the parent company of Etiqa Insurance Bhd, Etiqa Takaful Bhd and Etiqa Insurance Pte Ltd, made a record pre-tax profit of RM810.3mil for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2016, a 34% increase from the RM604.4mil achieved in the previous corresponding year.
— The Star Online

Myanmar Morning News

Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee

Yesterday’s ‘Genocide’ is Today’s ‘Crimes Against Humanity’: UNOHCHR Slams Myanmar on Rohingya
This was the chilling indictment of Myanmar presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR), Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein while presenting his annual report yesterday, March 8, 2016.
— AEC News Today

Violence against Rohingya may amount to ‘crimes against humanity’: UN rights chief
The severity of the reported violations against the Rohingya in Myanmar warrants the attention of the International Criminal Court, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said on Wednesday (Mar 8).
— Channel NewsAsia

Myanmar to vet state banks to protect Asia’s top-growing economy
Myanmar is embarking on the first comprehensive audit of state-owned banks in decades, part of a push to modernise the financial system and tackle risks to the nation’s rapid economic growth.
— The Business Times

Billions to be Spent Developing Towns on Outskirts of Yangon
Yangon regional government plans to spend about Ks 32 billion developing 12 Townships on the outskirts of the city’s municipal area, the Yangon Chief Minister has said.
— Consult-Myanmar

Private sector encouraged to help strengthen power generation
Officials from the Ministry of Electricity and Energy have said that there are long-term and short-term projects planned in order to meet growing electricity demand in the country.
— Myanmar Times

China offers to renovate Thatbyinnyu Pagoda
China has offered to restore and renovate the Thatbyinnyu Pagoda which was one of the few pagodas in Bagan damaged by an earthquake in August last year, Department of Archaeology, National Museum and Library (Bagan branch) director U Aung Kyaw Kyaw said yesterday.
— Myanmar Times

Thai Border Trade Tops $1.1b
Cross-border trade with Thailand exceeded US$1.13 billion this financial year until February 17, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
— Consult-Myanmar

KBZ Gateway Announces 200 Bank Branches Connected Via Satellite
KBZ Bank has hooked up 200 of its branches to satellite technology to speed up transactions and help the company with its e-commerce push.
— Consult-Myanmar

Myanmar Fishery Export Income Set to Double
THOUGH MYANMAR’S fishery export income took a dive for three straight years until 2015, industry players hold high hopes to rebound, given the slight increase last year and the potential continuation of growth this fiscal year ending on March 31.
— Consult-Myanmar

Curfew implemented in Laukkai following surprise rebel attacks
After just days of a surge in heavy fighting between ethnic rebels and police and military personnel, a curfew has been implemented in the town of Laukkai and its neighboring areas in northeastern Shan state’s Kokang region.
— Coconuts Yangon

Border Trade: MACCS to be launched in March
The Myanmar Automated Cargo Clearance System (MACCS) meeting was held at the Union of Myanmar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) on March 7, is planned launch later this month according to Win Thant, the Director of Customs Department.
— Eleven

Official graft targets Myanmar’s rich people: corruption report
More than a quarter of the people living in Asia had to pay a bribe while trying to access a public service in the past year, according to Transparency International report released on Tuesday that also called on governments to root out endemic graft in the region.
— Coconuts Yangon

Sell food with banned colouring and get shut down: MCDC
Businesses in Mandalay that are selling food containing banned food dye now risk having their shops shut down by the authorities, which have launched an operation to ensure food safety.
— Myanmar Times

Mandalay workers vow to continue protest
Without an amicable settlement in sight, Kan Kaung Chin Yadanar factory workers have vowed to continue their sit-in protest at the factory entrance in Bal Lin village of Mandalay’s Singaing township.
— Myanmar Times

No more K200 lottery tickets from June 1
K200 lottery tickets will no longer be on sale from June 1, according to the Lottery Division of Internal Revenue Department.
— Myanmar Times

Women and Girls First Initiative to be implemented in four states
Initiatives for women will be carried out in Myanmar’s four states, said Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Win Myat Aye at the celebration of the Women and Girls First Initiative in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.
— Eleven

The Myanmar-China dilemma
Myanmar is sandwiched between two very large neighbours – China and India. Relations with China are not currently cordial, especially among the Myanmar people, who retain memories of numerous undue political and economic interactions and incidents.
— Eleven

Woman with headphones on gets struck by train
A 22-year-old woman was tragically killed on the tracks near the Hledan Railway Station due to her headphones blocking out the noise of an oncoming train. The accident took place around 7 am yesterday morning, and involved a train that was heading towards Insein Station via the Yangon Circular Railway.
— Coconuts Yangon

Tribunal convinced case against Myanmar on Rohingya issue
The panel of judges of the inaugural Permanent People’s Tribunal (PPT) on Myanmar is convinced that charges of serious crime on the Rohingya and Kachin group demand adjudication by the court, based on evidence presented at the opening session on March 6 and 7 in London.
— New Straits Times

India may have more border haats for deeper ties with Myanmar
The ‘border haats’ between India and Myanmar are functioning “very well” and the government is looking at opening more such facilities on borders, Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) Chairman Najib Shah said today.
— The New Indian Express

Philippines Morning News

Compiled by Jose Rodriguez Senas @15Souter

Philippine foreign secretary dumped over US citizenship
Philippine Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay was sacked on Wednesday after lawmakers ruled he lied to them over his American citizenship, ending an eight-month stint that ironically featured outbursts against the United States.
— The Nation

Financial regulators press anew for further easing of bank secrecy
FINANCIAL REGULATORS are batting again for the repeal of the bank secrecy law to deter investment scams and corruption, among others, and to make the country more attractive to foreign investors besides.
— BusinessWorld

Philippines to propose joint patrols vs. Abu Sayyaf, pirates
Defense and security officials plan to push for a multinational task force to end cross-border kidnappings by the Abu Sayyaf group.
— Philippine Star

Philippines aims for ‘golden age of infrastructure’
Desperately needed airports and trains are part of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s envisioned “golden age of infrastructure”, but graft, red tape and other perennial problems threaten the $170-billion plan.
— Philippine Daily Inquirer

Alvarez warns execs blocking gov’t projects: We will impeach you
Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez on Wednesday warned that Congress will use its power to impeach officials who would issue temporary restraining orders (TRO) on government projects.
— Philippine Daily Inquirer

China commits $1 B agri imports from Phl
China has committed to significantly boost its imports from the Philippines as it seeks to buy $1 billion worth of local agriculture products following a recent meeting between the trade ministers of the two countries.
— Philippine Star

NFA mulls 800,000 MT rice imports
State-run National Food Authority (NFA) is mulling the importation of around 800,000 metric tons (MT) of rice via government-to-government scheme that will serve as the country’s buffer stock in preparation for the start of the lean months.
— Philippine Star

First rubber mfg plant to rise in Mindanao
The government and the private sector inked an agreement to put up the first-ever rubber manufacturing plant in the country.
— Philippine Star

BoC, BIR to hit 2017 revenue targets – DoF
The Department of Finance (DoF) is confident the government’s revenue-generating agencies will reach their collection targets this year, citing their performance in 2016 and the ongoing reforms to improve efficiency.
— Manila Times

Miti: Explore opportunities in the Philippines
The International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) has urged Malaysian corporations to explore new business avenues and collaborations with partners in the Philippines, a country currently undergoing rapid growth transformation.
— The Star

The iconic Philippines jeepney could be in trouble
Filipinos are fearful they may soon have to say goodbye to the iconic jeepneys millions of commuters ride every day.
— Quartz

Duterte appoints another Bedan to high court, CA Associate Justice Tijam
PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday appointed another San Beda Law alumnus to the Supreme Court (SC), as it welcomed Court of Appeals Associate Justice Noel G. Tijam to their bench.
— BusinessWorld

Over 400 Makati homes must move away from fault line
Makati residents whose houses sit on top of the West Valley Fault have two choices, according to the city government: They can either evacuate or stay at their own risk.
—Philippine Daily Inquirer

Aguirre spares Mighty—for now
THE Justice department has not arrested Mighty Corp. owner Alex Wongchuking for alleged tax evasion as ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte because no case has been filed against him, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II said Wednesday.
— Manila Standard

Singapore Morning News

Compiled by Leakhena Khat @leakhenakhat

Contactless ecosystem to drive Singapore closer to its Smart Nation dreams
There is indeed no stopping Singapore’s Smart Nation push. Just recently, the Land Transport Authority and Mastercard announced the pilot of Account-Based Ticketing system for public transport, allowing the usage of contactless credit and debit cards for fare payments.
— Singapore Business Review

LTA rolls out new moves as rail reliability falls short
With rail reliability still not hitting the mark, measures are in the pipeline to improve the system and prevent breakdowns, including tapping on big data and sensors to pre-empt faults and commuter congestion.
— Today Online

The Singapore and Abu Dhabi governments are working together to promote fintech
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) announced today that they’ve agreed to cooperate on projects designed to encourage the growth of fintech in both Singapore and Abu Dhabi.
— TechInAsia

Singapore creates tourism records in 2016
Despite challenging economic conditions, Singapore’s tourism sector showed positive numbers last year. Working in close partnership with industry and community, Singapore Tourism Board aims to shape a dynamic tourism landscape and differentiate Singapore as a vibrant and inspiring destination through the ‘YourSingapore’ brand.
— Media India Group

Singapore’s financial sector likely to remain cyber-attack target: Fortinet
SINGAPORE’S financial services sector is likely to remain a top target for cybercriminals in 2017 due to the sensitive nature and value of financial data that the industry holds, according to cybersecurity firm Fortinet.
— The Business Times

EU, Singapore affirm commitment to free trade agreement
Amidst a global climate of increasing calls for protectionism, Singapore and the European Union affirmed their commitment to the free trade agreement between the two parties on Wednesday (March 8).
— The Straits Times

Singapore Business Federation urges larger firms to help smaller players
Less than three weeks after voicing disappointment with Budget 2017 for the “inadequate” short-term support for companies, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) yesterday was keen to move on from its remarks: Its chief executive told TODAY that businesses here have “expressed comfort” in the government measures, and called for a mindset shift in the community.
— Today Online

Thousands Of Singaporean Troops Prep For Virtual War With Real-World Stakes
Singapore’s new Defence Cyber Organisation (DCO), which aims to strengthen the nation’s ability to deter current and anticipated threats in cyberspace, seems to have come not a moment too soon.
— South China Morning Post

Tackling disruption: Execution holds the key for Singapore
SINGAPORE businesses and the government are cognizant of disruption, according to Minister of State Janil Puthucheary. But what is more important is how they execute their response to the phenomenon, and this will determine Singapore’s success in tackling disruption.
— The Business Times

Singapore to get first solar-powered ferry terminal
Sun meets sea at the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal whose operator, Singapore Cruise Centre, has signed an agreement to power the terminal with solar energy.
— Eco-Business

Singapore changes rules to attract foreign entrepreneurs
Singapore is easing the rules on its EntrePass scheme for foreign entrepreneurs and will boost financing schemes for technology sector startups, to position itself as an attractive location for new businesses.
— Out-Law

Singapore firm proposes to Bangladesh for deal to dredge rivers in exchange for excavated sand
Bangladesh’ Water Resources Minister Anisul Islam Mahmud told reporters on Sunday (5 March) that a discussion in underway with a Singaporean company, on the dredging of its rivers in exchange for the excavated sand.
— The Online Citizen

Singapore unveils transformation map for the farming sector
With the aim of helping Singapore farmers raise their production levels, Singapore has laid out the Farm Transformation Map which identifies four key areas for development.
— Singapore Business Review

Singapore Ramps Up Its Cyber War
The city-state has begun announcing new measures to strengthen its cyber capabilities.
— The Diplomat

Khaw signals that transport fares will go up in future
Taxpayers have been increasingly subsidising the higher operating costs of the public transport network, a situation that is not sustainable going forward, Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan said on Wednesday (March 8) as he asked commuters to be “understanding” when fares have to go up.
— Today Online

Singapore and Indonesia sharing experiences in combating cyber threats: DPM Teo
Singapore and Indonesia are sharing experiences in tackling cyber threats, said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean on Wednesday (March 8).
— The Straits Times

Thailand Morning News

Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo-journ

THAI, Airbus strike investment deal
The government’s ambitious plan to make Thailand a fully fledged aviation hub in the Asia Pacific has received a boost following a cooperation agreement inked Wednesday by national flag carrier Thai Airways International (THAI) and Airbus.
– Bangkok Post

Thailand government starts digital training for officials
Thailand’s government is kickstarting its digital skills training, partnering with two local institutes to groom its civil service.
— GovInSider

Prayut vows digital transformation by 2021
The government has pledged to complete its digital transformation journey by 2021 as part of the state’s efforts to reform Thailand’s economy and society into Thailand 4.0.
– Bangkok Post

Sink or Swim: Bangkok Might Be Underwater by 2032
The future is looking dire for Bangkok as the city continues to sink and sea levels continue to rise.
– Saigoneer

Women rule banking in Thailand as men find it boring
Women account for 57% of Thailand’s finance and insurance workforce and 31% of board and executive committee members in financial services
– Mint

January passenger traffic hits 5-year high
Global passenger traffic got off to a robust start this year with demand in January showing the strongest increase in more than five years.
– Bangkok Post

Thai Border Trade Tops $1.1b
Cross-border trade with Thailand exceeded US$1.13 billion this financial year until February 17, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
— Consult-Myanmar

Exim Thailand to open Yangon rep office by April
Export-Import Bank of Thailand (Exim Thailand) is opening a representative office in Yangon by April.
— Eleven Myanmar

Booking.com, Bangkok Airways join hands
BANGKOK Airways has announced a partnership with Booking.com to connect travellers with a wide selection of places to stay through the airline’s website.
— The Nation

Cambodians, Speaking Out Against Thai Slave Labor, Seek Justice in United States
Thailand’s seafood industry has supplied the global market with about $7 billion dollars annually. Half of that is shrimp products destined for supermarkets in the US, Europe, and Japan.
— VOA

National power plan revisions afoot
Energy policymakers will revise the national power development plan (PDP 2015-36) in order to generate sufficient power for the country if plans to develop the two coal-fired power plants in the southern region.
— Bangkok Post

Thailand Wealth Management Forum 2017
We are delighted to host our 6th annual event for the wealth management community in Thailand.
— Hubbis

Officials meet on single aviation market
SENIOR officials from Asean aviation and dialogue partners are in Vientiane this week attending the 35th Asean Air Transport Working Group (ATWG) meeting and its related meetings.
— The Nation

Thailand to host women’s wheelchair basketball camp
A wheelchair basketball development camp for women will be held 16-21 April in Chon Buri, Thailand, the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) Asia-Oceania Zone (AOZ) has announced.
— Paralympic

Vietnam, Thailand enjoy growing friendship
At a reception for the group’s Chairman Sakchai Tanaboonchai in Hanoi on March 8, the NA Vice Chairman took note of the sound cooperation between Vietnamese and Thai legislative bodies, particularly at key forums, such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly.
— VietNamNet Bridge

Minister under fire
FINANCE MINISTER Apisak Tantivorawong may find himself in trouble if he fails to recover taxes from the family of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, the chairman of the State Audit Commission Chaisit Trachoetham told The Nation yesterday.
— The Nation

Survey shows women vulnerable to sexual crimes on public transport
A SURVEY has revealed shocking findings – about 2 per cent of female public-transport passengers have been sexually assaulted or raped.
— The Nation

Green Line section faces risk of delay
A section of the Green Line rail route, linking Soi Bearing and Samrong stations, due to be launched on April 1, risks delay as authorities struggle over budgetary issues.
— Bangkok Post

Dhammakaya deputy abbot stripped of his title
A Royal Command was announced on Wednesday stripping Phra Ratchapawanajarn or Phra Thattachivo, deputy abbot of Wat Dhammakaya, of his title effective as of March 7.
– Thai PBS

Vietnam Morning News

Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo-journ

C&W: Great potential in Vietnam’s manufacturing
Vietnam has ranked second in the Pioneering Locations Index within Cushman & Wakefield’s latest global Manufacturing Risk Index report, behind Costa Rica. The ranking shows that global manufacturers hold Vietnam in high regard in terms of potential.
– VietnamNet Bridge

Vietnam Emerges as the Main Production Base for South Korea’s Component Manufacturers
Many huge cranes can be seen at Samsung Display’s production facilities for modules that are located in Bac Ninh as Samsung Display is building facilities for modules in order to respond to number of demands for OLED displays that are rapidly increasing.
– ETNews

Sale of cars down despite price drop
Members of the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA) sold more than 17,600 cars in February, down 13 per cent from the previous month.
– Viet Nam News biz hub

Asian PMI readings paint a mixed picture
Business activity in Southeast Asia picked up overall in February, but manufacturers’ outlook for future output was less rosy, the latest Nikkei Purchasing Managers’ Index shows.
– Nikkei Asian Review

Đồng Nai revokes 40 delayed, abandoned FDI projects
The Industrial Zone Management Board of southern Đồng Nai Province has revoked investment permits granted to 40 FDI projects that have been abandoned or delayed for a long time.
– Viet Nam News

Airports’ agency wants VNĐ31 trillion investment
The Airport Corporation of Việt Nam (ACV), the largest enterprise in the domestic transport sector, has proposed an investment plan of VNĐ31 trillion (US$1.36 million) for the period between 2016 and 2020.
– Viet Nam News

Savills: More investment opportunities in VN
Investors need to look beyond first-tier cities and at new types of assets to make profits, including emerging markets such as Viet Nam, as the Asian property market slows.
– Viet Nam News biz hub

UK Fintech firm eyes Vietnam’s banking sector
Opportunity Network, a UK-based FinTech company that offers banks a digital business matchmaking platform, on Wednesday announced plans to engage Vietnamese commercial banks in joining its fast-growing global partner network.
– VietnamNet Bridge

Vietnam’s PV Oil in talks to sell 40% stake as state opens market
PetroVietnam Oil Corp., Vietnam’s sole crude exporter, said it’s in talks to sell as much as 40 percent to strategic investors and expects to narrow down to a list of about five potential bidders for the government this month.
– Deal Street Asia

Vietnam’s Environmental Movement Arises From Fish Kill
The Soviet Union had Chernobyl. The U.S. had Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring.” And Vietnam now has Formosa, a term quickly becoming synonymous with ecological tragedy and the birth of an environmental movement.
– Bloomberg BNA

VN leads Asia Pacific in female managers’ ratio
Việt Nam has the highest proportion of female CEOs in the Asia Pacific region at some 25 per cent, much higher than the world average of 10 per cent.
– Viet Nam News

Vietnam’s 20 most influential businesswomen
The criteria for this list are financial or positive influence and frequency of appearance in social media. Below is the list of the 20 most influential Vietnamese businesswomen and their business achievements.
– VietnamNet Bridge

ADB continues infrastructure investment in Vietnam
He suggested Vietnam pay further attention to fiscal renovation, including tax reform, spending re-orientation as well as prudence in borrowing and collecting non-tax revenues.
– VietnamNet Bridge

Vietnam’s knowledge about network security unchanged in last 20 years
Ngo Viet Khoi, a respected network security expert, said that computer and internet users lack knowledge to protect themselves from cyberattacks.
– VietnamNet Bridge

Rise in organised crime reported
Local authorities must be held accountable to the Government if they allow rampant crime in their jurisdictions, Deputy Prime Minister Trương Hòa Bình said yesterday.
– Viet Nam News

Vietnam Acquires Undersea Power
As with most countries in the Asia-Pacific littoral, Vietnam is steadily bolstering its military against an increasingly confrontational China.
–World Policy Blog

Wood processing sector has room for development
The wood processing sector will have more room for development as Vietnam participates in more free trade agreements, according to the Handicraft and Wood Industry Association of HCM City (HAWA).
– VietnamPlus

Vietnamese production base keeps costs low for Belgian insect meal producer
Entobel is aiming to achieve 100,000 tons a year of insect meal production by 2025.
– Food Navigator Asia

The Asean Morning News Roundup is compiled by the editorial team at AEC News Today: Governance, not government; policies not politics.