Southeast Asia News Update
Indonesia
KPK Searches Ridwan Kamil’s Residence Over Bank BJB Case
Former West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil confirmed that his residence was searched by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in connection with an alleged markup in advertising funds at Bank Jabar Banten (BJB).
Civil Service Recruits Protest Delayed Start
Frustration over the government’s decision to postpone the employment start date for some 1.2 million newly recruited state workers has spilled over onto the streets, with scores of recruits staging protests in several cities demanding accountability for months of lost income and financial setbacks.
Singapore
Credit Card Debt Crosses $8B; Delinquency Rate About 1 Pct to 3 Pct
The amount of credit card debt not paid by the due date hit a record high late in 2024, but the level of indebtedness is not ringing any alarm bells yet.
Chocolate Finance CEO Says Withdrawal Issues Can Be Traced Back to ‘Gaming’ of Miles Reward System
When Chocolate Finance discovered that some customers were "gaming" its miles reward system by making big payments on AXS machines, the financial services platform decided to "nip it in the bud".
Thailand
SRT Seeks Investors for THB9.2-Billion Smart Complex at Bangkok Station
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is seeking investment to develop a 51-rai (8.6 hectare) plot, including its office, a bus terminal and 4-star hotel, next to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok.
Thai Defence Minister Urges Deep South Peace Talks Review
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai called for a reassessment of the peace negotiations in the deep South, stressing the need for genuine representatives to participate in the dialogue process.
Conclusion
This update provides an overview of recent news developments in Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, covering topics such as the KPK’s search of Ridwan Kamil’s residence, the delayed start of civil service recruits, credit card debt, and more. These articles provide insight into the current state of affairs in these Southeast Asian countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current state of the KPK’s investigation into Ridwan Kamil’s residence?
A: The KPK is investigating allegations of a markup in advertising funds at Bank Jabar Banten (BJB).
Q: What is the reason for the delayed start of civil service recruits?
A: The government has postponed the employment start date for some 1.2 million newly recruited state workers, leading to frustration and protests from the recruits.
Q: What is the current state of credit card debt in Singapore?
A: The amount of credit card debt not paid by the due date hit a record high late in 2024, but the level of indebtedness is not ringing any alarm bells yet.
Q: What is the purpose of the SRT’s search for investors in Bangkok?
A: The SRT is seeking investment to develop a 51-rai plot, including its office, a bus terminal and 4-star hotel, next to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok.