Asia News Roundup
Singapore
For nearly two decades, the hundreds of households at Henderson Heights found at the foot of Block 93 Henderson Road a space that catered to many of their needs. The community hub at the void deck, which was a popular spot for residents to socialize and engage in activities, has been a beloved part of the community. However, it has now been closed down, leaving residents to bid farewell to their beloved community hub.
In other news, deepfake nude photos of Singapore Sports School students had been created and circulated by schoolmates, sparking concerns about the spread of explicit content online. CNA has explained the legal options available to victims of deepfake porn, including seeking legal action against the perpetrators and reporting the incident to the authorities.
Laos
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone is urging parents in underdeveloped Khammuan province to continue sending their children to primary and secondary schools. The Nongmar village, in the province, lacks basic infrastructures – water supply, education facilities, and telecommunications.
Care International in Laos and the Ministry of Health have signed an agreement to extend maternal and infant healthcare in underserved regions. With RM10 million funding from Luxembourg, they will reach 90 communities, 30 health centers, and 12 schools.
Vietnam
Vietnam and Brazil have elevated their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, with both nations celebrating their 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The upgrade in ties was announced during Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s trip to Brazil to attend the G20 Summit.
Over 300 ambassadors, diplomats, and officials from international organizations, as well as thousands of residents, participated in the fourth annual "For a Green Hanoi" cycling campaign, which aimed to promote environmental awareness in urban areas.
Indonesia
The government’s plan to raise the value-added tax (VAT) to 12 percent will negatively impact exports, reduce household income, and increase unemployment, according to an economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef). The government confirmed it will increase VAT by one percentage point starting January 1, as mandated by the taxation law passed in 2021.
The government of Indonesia, represented by special presidential envoy Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has attracted 1.2 billion euros in green financing for the power sector from German investment and development bank Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) at the 29th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The fund will be used to develop a variety of green power infrastructure to support the country’s efforts to achieve energy self-sufficiency.
Thailand
Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has revealed that the Thai stock market fundamentally hovers around 1,600-1,700 points, but it is unlikely to hit 2,000. Six airlines have agreed to add over 73,000 seats over the New Year period to ensure prices don’t surge out of control during the end-of-year holiday season.
Conclusion
This roundup highlights some of the key news stories from across Asia, covering topics such as community development, education, healthcare, and economic development. From the closure of a beloved community hub in Singapore to the upgrade in bilateral relations between Vietnam and Brazil, these stories demonstrate the diversity and complexity of the region.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the community hub at Henderson Heights in Singapore?
A: The community hub was a popular spot for residents to socialize and engage in activities, and its closure has left a void in the community.
Q: What are the legal options available to victims of deepfake porn in Singapore?
A: Victims can seek legal action against the perpetrators and report the incident to the authorities.
Q: What is the significance of the upgrade in bilateral relations between Vietnam and Brazil?
A: The upgrade in ties reflects the growing importance of the relationship between the two nations and demonstrates their commitment to strengthening cooperation and collaboration.
Q: What is the impact of the VAT hike in Indonesia?
A: The hike will negatively impact exports, reduce household income, and increase unemployment.