Southeast Asia News Roundup
Cambodia
Cambodia was elected to the Organisational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission for the 2025-2026 term during the 54th Plenary Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. The Peacebuilding Commission assists conflict-affected areas.
Additionally, Cambodia has pledged to resolve all border and territorial issues peacefully without compromising its sovereignty and independence. The Cambodian Border Committee ensures the Kingdom’s territorial integrity and people’s interests are well protected.
Indonesia
President Prabowo Subianto’s recent remarks about his plan to pardon corruption convicts were intended to shift the focus toward asset recovery as a central strategy in Indonesia’s fight against corruption, a senior minister has said.
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has urged citizens to tap into the full potential of mosques, broadening their functions beyond religious purposes.
Myanmar
The Myanmar Edible Oil Dealers’ Association has delivered cooking oil to over 420,000 households through a daily home delivery system as of November. The association works with oil millers, wholesalers, retailers, importers, and transporters to ensure consumers can purchase easily.
The government is prioritising the development of the agriculture sector to ensure the country’s food security and boost exports. Key goals include increasing crop yields, supporting farmers, implementing advanced farming technologies, and expanding the cultivation of raw materials for industry.
Thailand
The Thai government’s latest debt-relief proposals are expected to have minimal impact on banking-sector credit metrics in 2025, according to a statement released this week by Fitch Ratings.
Airports of Thailand (AoT) expects a 13.32 per cent surge in the number of domestic and international flights to and from Don Mueang airport during New Year, with about 717,002 passengers expected through the gates.
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City’s Metro Line No. 1 officially launched operations on Sunday morning, marking the completion of a 12-year construction. The RM8 billion (US$1.72 billion) project features 11 elevated stations and three underground stations, connecting Ben Thanh Market to Suoi Tien Theme Park.
Vietnam and India conducted joint maritime exercises to tackle maritime security challenges such as search and rescue operations, oil spills, and environmental hazards at sea. Code-named "Sahayog–Hợp Tac", the exercise was conducted off the coast of Kochi, Kerala in India.
Conclusion
This Southeast Asia news roundup highlights significant developments in Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. From Cambodia’s election to the Peacebuilding Commission to Vietnam’s launch of its Metro Line No. 1, these countries are making strides in various fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Peacebuilding Commission?
A: The Peacebuilding Commission is a United Nations agency that assists conflict-affected areas.
Q: What is the Myanmar Edible Oil Dealers’ Association doing to ensure cooking oil supply?
A: The association is delivering cooking oil to over 420,000 households through a daily home delivery system.
Q: What is the focus of Indonesia’s fight against corruption?
A: Indonesia is shifting its focus toward asset recovery as a central strategy in its fight against corruption.