Southeast Asia

Sustainability is a key priority for ASEAN as Southeast Asia is highly vulnerable to climate change, says Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

The United Nations says border towns in Thailand, Laos and Myanmar have become regional hubs for telecom and other online fraud.

Unilever faces backlash in Muslim-majority countries over perceived support for Israel's Gaza military offensive through business activity.

Lonely Planet describes Penang a vibrant blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, showcased in its food, architecture and traditions.

The Southeast Asian neighbours first agreed in principle to jointly develop the economic zone a year ago.

To mark International Migrants Day on the 18th of December, today we reflect on the millions of workers who have left their homes and families to cross borders in search of better opportunities. In Budget 2025 the Malaysian government unveiled a bold proposal to extend mandatory EPF contributions to non-citizen workers. The move is seen as a step forward in improving worker welfare and aligning Malaysia closer to international labour standards. But for business owners, the measure raises red flags about increased costs and potential economic impacts. On this episode of #ConsiderThis Melisa Idris speaks with Professor Niaz Asadullah, Southeast Asia Lead of the Global Labour Organisation.

The new duties extend the United States' anti-dumping regime in Southeast Asia to solar cells, from just finished modules previously.

ASEAN is stepping up to create a more secure regional cyberspace.

Teenagers and young adults are becoming prime targets for a new wave of cyber scams, a trend raising alarm bells across Southeast Asia.

As one of the regions most exposed to climate risks, Southeast Asia faces significant economic, social and natural challenges.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlights Malaysia's key role within ASEAN, focusing on easing trade flows and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.

Only 2.3% of venture funding currently goes to women-led startups and that figure has remained stagnant at 2% for years. And often, female entrepreneurs receive smaller amounts of funding—enough to survive but not to invest significantly in strategic initiatives that could propel the business forward. The Aurora Tech Award is an international prize founded by the global ride-hailing service, inDrive, and designed to support women founders in IT by helping them gain visibility and attract investment. On this episode of #TheFutureIsFemale Melisa Idris speaks with Shaerine Irwina Kaur, Communications Manager for Southeast Asia for inDrive.

Malaysia and Indonesia are advancing green finance to tackle climate change, but face hurdles like unclear standards and public awareness.

As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia hopes that the US will reinvigorate its engagement with Southeast Asia.

The Philippines calls on Southeast Asian leaders and China to urgently speed up negotiations on a code of conduct for the South China Sea.

For four years, the bar at Trump International Hotel in downtown Washington was the place to be seen for Donald Trump's circle of allies.

By the end of year, the island could be producing up to 1,400 tonnes of trash a day, overwhelming its sole landfill, deputy mayor says.

Joe Biden's record on the world stage is likely to be heavily defined by his handling of the 15-month war in Gaza.

This leaves the incoming Donald Trump administration to make the decision, according to a White House official.

#AWANITonight with Faye Kwan

- M’sia to continue engaging with both U.S. and China - PM
- Thai PM reassures Chinese tourists over safety concerns

#AWANIEnglish #AWANINews

The US is set to roll out strict export controls on advanced AI chips. National AI Office Head Sam Majid says the impact on Malaysia will remain minimal for now.

Apple has been dethroned as China’s top smartphone seller, plunging 17% in 2024. Local brands Vivo and Huawei have overtaken the tech giant, bringing it now to 3rd place.

Thailand is stepping up security for tourists to restore confidence among Chinese visitors, with PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to record a message in Chinese to reassure tourists of their safety.

Malaysia will continue its approach in engaging both the U.S. and China. PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says the U.S. remains the largest source of foreign direct investment for the country.

If successful, the ceasefire would halt fighting that has razed much of heavily urbanised Gaza, killed over 46,000 people.