Singapore has shortened the application process for family offices to just three months as part of its strategy to strengthen its status as a global wealth hub, catering to the world's ultra-rich with streamlined regulatory support.

Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines have received conditional approval for their joint venture on the Singapore–Kuala Lumpur route, paving the way for coordinated schedules and pricing that aim to enhance passenger convenience and regional connectivity.

Donald Trump's pick for U.S. ambassador to Singapore, Anjani Sinha, faced a challenging Senate confirmation hearing marked by sharp questions over his knowledge of tariffs, regional alliances, and ASEAN dynamics, prompting calls for greater scrutiny of diplomatic nominees.

Singapore is set to introduce targeted grants in October to help local businesses adapt to shifting global trade dynamics and U.S. tariff pressures, underscoring its commitment to maintaining competitiveness and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) has expanded its Singapore Innovation Center with a new immersive experience hub, designed to foster creative collaboration and accelerate the development of cutting-edge flavors, fragrances, and ingredients for the Asia-Pacific market.

Maritime authorities report that piracy and armed robbery incidents in the Singapore Strait have surged to their highest level in five years, prompting calls for increased patrols and regional cooperation to safeguard one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.

Singapore Airlines has signed a groundbreaking three-year partnership with the Mandai Wildlife Group to position Singapore as a leading eco-tourism destination, combining sustainable travel experiences with conservation-focused initiatives.

Singapore has launched its first national GaN facility, the National Semiconductor Technology Innovation Centre (NSTIC), to bolster research and development in gallium nitride technologies, supporting its ambition to be a global semiconductor innovation hub.

Aster Chemicals is reportedly negotiating the purchase of ExxonMobil’s service station network in Singapore, a move that could reshape competition in the country's fuel retail sector and expand the buyer’s presence across Southeast Asia.

Facing increasing U.S. export controls and national security reviews, AI start-up Manus has moved its headquarters from China to Singapore, reflecting a broader trend of tech companies shifting operations to Southeast Asia for stability and growth.

Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in Indonesia has erupted, sending a towering ash cloud over 11 miles into the air and disrupting local air travel.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely while advising residents and travelers to stay alert to ongoing volcanic activity.

Indonesia is emerging as a major aluminum producer thanks to significant Chinese investment.

The surge in smelting capacity mirrors the country's earlier success in nickel processing, positioning Indonesia as a key player in global metals markets.

Indonesia's Tabut Festival in Bengkulu has drawn more than 206,000 visitors this year, delivering a major boost to the local economy and underscoring the country's potential for cultural tourism.

Officials say the event has become a flagship attraction for domestic and international travelers.

Oracle is moving ahead with plans to expand its cloud services footprint in Indonesia, reinforcing the country's position as a key technology hub in Southeast Asia.

The initiative is expected to enhance local data infrastructure and support Indonesia's growing demand for digital services.

Indonesia and Brazil have agreed to strengthen their defense partnership with new cooperation on missile and submarine technology.

The agreement aims to enhance both countries' military capabilities and deepen bilateral relations.

Indonesia's government is coordinating a $1 billion investment in off-grid solar and storage projects to expand access to clean energy.

The initiative aims to deliver reliable power to remote regions while supporting the country's sustainability goals.

Indonesia has reiterated its view that the European Union's deforestation law remains unworkable for its agricultural exporters.

Officials argue that the requirements place undue burdens on producers and could disrupt key trade flows.

Indonesia and the United States have agreed to intensify talks aimed at expanding their partnership on critical minerals.

Following productive discussions, both sides expressed optimism about developing stronger trade ties that benefit strategic industries.

Thailand has submitted a trade proposal to the United States, offering zero tariffs on a range of American goods.

The initiative seeks to enhance bilateral trade relations and mitigate the impact of existing trade tensions between the two countries.

Thailand is preparing a $1.2 billion stimulus package aimed at mitigating the effects of U.S. tariffs on its economy.

The proposed measures are designed to support sectors most impacted by the trade tensions, with the goal of sustaining economic stability and growth.

Thailand's tourism industry is projected to experience a 5% decline in 2025, attributed to a significant decrease in Chinese visitors and increased competition from neighboring countries like Japan and Vietnam.

The downturn poses challenges for the sector's recovery and growth.

The Bank of Thailand has revised its economic growth forecast to below 2% for the year, citing the impact of U.S. tariffs on exports.

The central bank's assessment reflects concerns over external trade pressures and their potential to hinder the country's economic recovery.

Moo Deng, a pygmy hippo at a Thai zoo, celebrated her first birthday with a special event attended by visitors and staff.

The celebration highlighted the zoo's successful conservation efforts and Moo Deng's popularity among guests.

Thailand's government has reversed its stance on cannabis legislation, now requiring existing cannabis shops to convert into medical clinics staffed by licensed doctors.

This policy shift aims to regulate cannabis use more strictly, focusing on medical applications and addressing public health concerns.

Thailand's Cabinet has withdrawn a controversial bill that would have legalized casinos, citing ongoing political uncertainty.

The decision reflects the government's cautious approach to significant legislative changes during a period of instability.

Thailand has approved significant tax incentives to promote the adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures.

The initiative is part of the government's strategy to transition towards sustainable energy sources and reduce environmental impact.

Thailand, in partnership with the World Health Organization, has launched an international training program focused on strengthening mental health capacity.

The program is designed to enhance mental health services and support across the region.

The U.S. women's volleyball team secured a victory over Thailand in the opening match of Week Three of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League.

Despite the loss, Thailand displayed commendable resilience and skill, suggesting a competitive edge in upcoming matches.

The game highlighted the U.S. team's strategic play and Thailand's determination on the court.

Malaysia’s central bank has cut interest rates for the first time in five years in a preemptive move to support economic growth as the country faces external risks, including the looming threat of US tariffs.

Policymakers say the rate reduction is designed to boost domestic demand, encourage investment, and strengthen resilience amid global uncertainty and trade tensions.

Foreign ministers from ASEAN member states have convened in Kuala Lumpur to discuss pressing regional challenges, including escalating trade tensions, maritime security concerns, and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.

The summit emphasizes the bloc’s commitment to unity and cooperation in tackling shared issues, with leaders calling for inclusive dialogue and collective solutions to safeguard regional stability.

Malaysia has expressed optimism that ongoing negotiations with the United States will lead to a resolution in the tariff dispute threatening key exports.

Officials say they are working diligently to secure an agreement before the proposed duties take effect, aiming to protect domestic industries and maintain strong bilateral trade ties while avoiding retaliatory measures.

Malaysia has confirmed that China will sign the treaty establishing Southeast Asia as a nuclear weapons-free zone once all required documents are finalized.

The announcement reinforces regional efforts to maintain peace and security while underscoring China’s support for ASEAN’s longstanding goal of preventing nuclear proliferation in one of the world’s most strategically sensitive regions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has arrived in Malaysia for high-level ASEAN meetings, where he is expected to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov despite tensions over Ukraine.

The diplomatic visit underscores Washington’s commitment to regional security while navigating complex geopolitical rivalries as leaders gather to address trade, security, and stability in Southeast Asia.

Myanmar’s military government has signed new cross-border business agreements in an effort to boost the country’s struggling economy ahead of planned elections.

Officials say the deals aim to increase trade and investment despite ongoing international sanctions and criticism over the junta’s human rights record, with observers skeptical about the credibility of the upcoming polls.

The United Nations has released its latest situation report detailing the impact of a recent earthquake in Myanmar, describing widespread damage to homes and infrastructure as well as persistent humanitarian challenges.

Aid agencies warn that the disaster has compounded existing crises in conflict-affected regions, leaving thousands in urgent need of shelter, medical care, and clean water as relief efforts continue.

ASEAN foreign ministers have underscored the need for stronger regional unity and decisive action to address the deepening crisis in Myanmar during high-level talks in Kuala Lumpur.

Officials expressed alarm over continued violence, political instability, and humanitarian suffering, calling on all stakeholders to work toward inclusive dialogue and durable peace to safeguard regional security.

China has issued warnings to militias in northern Myanmar over control of rare earth mining, highlighting growing concerns about global supply chain risks as rebel groups consolidate power in mineral-rich regions.

Analysts say Beijing's pressure underscores its determination to secure critical resources while navigating complex security dynamics along its southern border.

The United States has imposed a 40 percent tariff on imports from Myanmar as part of a sweeping set of new trade measures affecting 14 nations.

The Biden administration framed the tariffs as necessary to counter what it called unfair trade practices and protect domestic industries, but critics warn the moves could deepen global tensions and hit vulnerable economies particularly hard.

Vietnam has reaffirmed its commitment to green energy development by pledging support for major foreign investments in renewable power.

Officials highlighted ongoing collaboration with international partners to accelerate wind, solar, and grid infrastructure projects as part of the nation's broader climate strategy.

Vietnam has approved a new resolution designed to position the country as an international financial centre.

The policy outlines incentives and regulatory reforms to attract global investors, improve market transparency, and enhance the country's competitiveness in regional and international finance.

Vietnam's central bank has pledged to prioritise economic growth for the remainder of the year despite ongoing global uncertainties.

The bank signalled readiness to maintain supportive monetary policies to sustain domestic demand, encourage lending, and help businesses navigate challenges posed by slowing global trade and inflation pressures.

Vietnam has introduced an anti-dumping tariff on hot-rolled steel imports from China to shield local manufacturers from underpriced competition.

Trade officials said the move followed an investigation confirming that imported products were harming the domestic industry by being sold at unfairly low prices.

Vietnam Airlines has welcomed its 350 millionth passenger, marking a major milestone in the airline's 30-year history.

The achievement underscores the carrier's role in connecting Vietnam to global destinations, supporting tourism, and contributing to the country's economic development.

Vietnam has mobilised over $7 billion to advance its Just Energy Transition plan, marking a significant commitment to meeting international climate targets.

The funds will support renewable energy projects, grid improvements, and workforce retraining as the country moves to reduce reliance on coal and embrace a low-carbon future.

Vietnam Airlines has announced a new codeshare agreement with Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia.

The partnership will enhance connectivity between Southeast Asia and the Middle East, offering passengers more seamless travel options and boosting tourism and business ties between the two regions.

Vietnam's textile and garment exports rose 12.3% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year.

Industry analysts attribute the growth to sustained demand from major markets, competitive production costs, and efforts to diversify export destinations despite headwinds from global trade tensions.

Vietnam's government has confirmed it will roll out measures to address newly announced US tariffs that threaten key export sectors.

Trade officials say the strategy will focus on diversifying markets, upgrading product quality, and strengthening domestic production to ensure resilience against the 50% tariff rates due to take effect on certain goods starting August 1.