Asia-Pacific Update
Indonesia
Prabowo to Run Again in 2029
President Prabowo Subianto has accepted a request by his Gerindra Party to run for reelection in the next presidential race, a move that sets early the playing field for the 2029 poll and puts a greater demand for loyalty from his supporting political parties.
Sri Mulyani: 2026 State Budget to Follow 2025 Austerity Measures
Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati has indicated that Indonesia’s 2026 state budget (APBN) will follow the efficiency measures implemented in 2025, with significant spending cuts across ministries and government agencies.
Regional Developments
Myanmar
Myanmar-China Wage War Against Cyber Crimes
Myanmar and China are discussing joint operations to combat transnational crimes like online gambling and scams. They exchanged views on taking appropriate measures to tackle online crimes, rescue operations, transfer Chinese nationals, and expulsion of foreigners who enter the country illegally.
Armed Forces Band Competition Begins
The 31st Competition of the Tatmadaw (army, navy, and air) Military Band marking the 80th Anniversary of Armed Forces Day, was held in the capital Nay Pyi Taw Transit yesterday. The competition involving 26 bands will take place until February 24.
Vietnam
VAT on Goods Imported via Delivery Services
The General Department of Customs will impose the value-added tax (VAT) on low-value imported goods sent via express delivery services from February 18. The tax exemption was earlier implemented to facilitate international trade and promote the development of express delivery services.
More Traffic Cameras to Check Offences
Hanoi Traffic Police Department has installed more another 600 surveillance cameras to curb traffic incidents since February 13. The cameras operating around the clock will record violations on the roads and transmit the data directly to the Traffic Command Center.
Thailand
BGF to Return ‘Hundreds’ of Trafficking Victims After Thai Supply Cut
Karen state’s Border Guard Force (BGF) has asked Thai authorities for help in repatriating human trafficking victims in Myanmar.
Minister Promotes New Way to Cut Power Bills
Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga has floated the idea of reducing electricity bills by nearly 0.40 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) by adjusting the gas usage of Pool Gas, leading to lower power generation costs.
Singapore
Mini-Bus Trial at Changi Airport Suspended After Drivers of Premium Cabs Voice Unhappiness
Airport operator Changi Airport Group (CAG) has suspended a trial of new mini-bus services for large groups of passengers at the airport until further notice, after simmering unhappiness among drivers of premium cabs reached a tipping point on Feb 13.
Trump 2.0 vs Global Trade: What It Means for Singapore and the World
Staying true to his campaign promises, United States President Donald Trump has spent his first few weeks in office firing an opening salvo in a potential trade war, which has sparked market jitters and caused a stir in world capitals.
Conclusion
The past few weeks have seen significant developments in the region, with various countries announcing new measures to combat crime, improve trade, and strengthen relations. As the world navigates these changes, it is essential to stay informed and adapt to the ever-changing landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the significance of Prabowo’s decision to run again in 2029?
Prabowo’s announcement sets the stage for the 2029 presidential election and puts a greater demand for loyalty from his supporting political parties. - What is the impact of the VAT on goods imported via delivery services in Vietnam?
The tax exemption was earlier implemented to facilitate international trade and promote the development of express delivery services, but the new measures aim to ensure a more balanced approach. - What are the implications of Trump’s trade policies on Singapore and the world?
The potential trade war has sparked market jitters and caused a stir in world capitals, and it is essential to monitor the situation closely to ensure the well-being of the global economy.