Licensed agencies implicated in large-scale fraud
Authorities in the Philippines have ordered the closure of several licensed travel and recruitment agencies linked to an illegal recruitment scandal that defrauded overseas jobseekers.

Investigators found evidence of falsified documents and exorbitant fees charged to workers lured with false promises of employment abroad.

Officials have vowed stricter enforcement to protect workers and restore trust in the country’s vital overseas employment industry.
French swimmer clocks 1:52.69 at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore
France's Léon Marchand shattered the world record in the men’s 200-meter individual medley at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, finishing in a blistering 1 minute, 52.69 seconds.

The remarkable performance reinforces Marchand’s status as one of the sport’s brightest talents, following his earlier triumphs in breaststroke and freestyle events during the tournament.
High-profile tournament to return amid strong fan support and growing regional interest
LIV Golf has announced it will return to Singapore in the 2026 season, following the success of its previous events in the city-state.

The decision highlights Singapore’s growing status as a key destination for global golf tournaments, with organizers citing enthusiastic local support, excellent facilities, and regional market potential as decisive factors in the event’s renewal.
Missoula swimmer continues strong showing at World Aquatics Championships
American swimmer Katharine Berkoff has secured a spot in the women’s 50-meter backstroke finals at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.

Representing Missoula, Berkoff’s consistent performance in the preliminary rounds underscores her growing prominence on the international stage and boosts Team USA’s medal hopes in the sprint event.
Investors watch closely as market indicators suggest potential recovery
Market analysts suggest the Singapore stock exchange may be poised to halt its recent downward slide, with signs pointing to stabilization following weeks of decline.

While economic headwinds remain, improved investor sentiment and anticipation of stronger corporate earnings in the second half of the year have led to cautious optimism that the bourse could find firmer ground in the coming trading sessions.
World record holder fails to qualify at Singapore championships
In a stunning turn at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, Chinese swimming sensation Pan Zhanle failed to qualify for the final of the men’s 100-meter freestyle.

The world record holder’s unexpected exit has sent shockwaves through the competitive swimming world and opened the field for other top contenders in the closely watched event.
New campaign aims to boost travel to Singapore with exclusive offers and events
Online travel agency Agoda has unveiled a major campaign to promote tourism in Singapore, coinciding with the nation’s 60th anniversary of independence.

The initiative includes special promotions, travel deals, and curated experiences designed to attract international visitors and celebrate the country’s milestones through culture, food, and heritage tours.
President of Singapore invites brave workers who saved woman from collapse site
Seven Indian migrant workers who courageously rescued a woman from a sinkhole in Singapore have been officially recognized by the President.

The men, whose quick actions helped save a life, were honored for their bravery and invited to the presidential residence as part of a gesture of appreciation, sparking widespread praise across the country.
Analysts forecast a drop to $3.45 billion amid export softening
Indonesia's trade surplus for June is projected to shrink to 3.45 billion US dollars, according to a Reuters poll of economists.

The expected decline reflects a slowdown in export demand and a possible uptick in imports, driven by increased domestic consumption and higher global commodity prices.

The upcoming data release will be closely watched for its implications on fiscal planning and monetary policy.
Domestic tax rises to 0.21%, offshore transactions taxed at 1% starting August
Indonesia will significantly raise taxes on cryptocurrency transactions starting August 1st, with domestic trades taxed at 0.21 percent and offshore transactions at one percent.

The overhaul is part of a broader effort to align with global standards, boost revenue, and regulate the country’s rapidly expanding digital asset market.

The move also includes a 2.2 percent value-added tax on crypto miners, while eliminating VAT for crypto buyers, signaling a pivot in regulatory strategy aimed at tightening oversight while supporting certain aspects of the industry.
Extraterrestrial enthusiasts gather for annual event
Hundreds of UFO enthusiasts converged in Indonesia for the country’s annual UFO Festival, celebrating the enduring fascination with extraterrestrial life.

Dressed in alien costumes and adorned with interstellar art, attendees took part in skywatching, panel discussions, and themed exhibitions.

The festival, held in a rural setting under open skies, aims to promote both scientific curiosity and cultural expression around the mysteries of the universe.
Currency support measures activated after rupiah weakens
Bank Indonesia intervened in the currency market as the rupiah fell to its weakest level in a month.

Officials cited global financial volatility and external pressures as key reasons for the intervention, which included selling foreign exchange reserves and conducting market operations to stabilize the local currency.

The central bank reiterated its commitment to maintaining rupiah stability amid ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties.
Eastern regions on alert following 8.7-magnitude quake in Kamchatka
A tsunami warning was issued for parts of eastern Indonesia following a powerful magnitude 8.7 earthquake off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula.

Authorities urged coastal residents to remain vigilant and evacuate to higher ground as a precaution, although no significant wave activity was immediately reported.

The warning comes amid heightened seismic activity in the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Indigenous drone marks milestone in defense technology
Indonesia’s Elang Hitam surveillance drone completed its first flight, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to develop homegrown defense technologies.

The unmanned aerial vehicle, designed for intelligence and reconnaissance missions, was developed jointly by the Ministry of Defense and state-owned aerospace firms.

Officials hailed the successful test as a step toward enhancing national security and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Agreements avert punitive tariffs under Trump’s August 1 deadline
The United States has successfully reached trade agreements with both Thailand and Cambodia just before the implementation of new tariffs, according to U.S. officials.

The last-minute negotiations followed intense talks spurred by the looming August 1 deadline set by former President Trump.

The deals are expected to secure favorable terms for Southeast Asian exporters and prevent disruptions to bilateral trade.
Bangkok rejects call for immediate repatriation amid rising diplomatic strain
Cambodia has formally demanded the release of 20 soldiers it claims were detained by Thailand during recent border clashes.

Thai authorities have so far declined to repatriate the troops, citing ongoing security assessments and cross-border tensions.

The issue threatens to complicate the already fragile truce established between the two countries earlier this week.
China-brokered agreement brings tentative calm to conflict zone
Thailand and Cambodia have reaffirmed a fragile ceasefire following days of violent clashes along their disputed border.

The truce, brokered by China during talks in Shanghai, marks a significant de-escalation after both nations accused each other of violations.

Observers warn that while fighting has ceased, deep-rooted tensions and unresolved territorial disputes continue to threaten long-term peace.
Authorities investigate cause of blast in central region workshop
At least nine people have been killed in a massive explosion at a fireworks factory in central Thailand.

Emergency services rushed to the scene as the blast destroyed the facility and damaged nearby structures.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the explosion, which has raised renewed concerns about safety standards in the country's pyrotechnics industry.
New EV3 and EV3.5 measures aim to stimulate investment and production
Thailand has announced significant adjustments to its electric vehicle policy, lowering production requirements under its EV3 and EV3.5 programs to attract greater investment and expand export capacity.

The move is part of the government's broader strategy to position Thailand as a leading EV hub in Asia, with industry investment now surpassing 137 billion baht.
Diplomatic effort praised by US for regional peacekeeping role
Malaysia has taken the lead in mediating ceasefire talks between Cambodia and Thailand after deadly border clashes entered their fifth day.

The United States has publicly thanked Kuala Lumpur for its diplomatic role, underscoring Malaysia’s growing influence in Southeast Asian security affairs.
Positive revision signals international confidence in recovery trajectory
The International Monetary Fund has revised Malaysia’s economic growth forecast upward for both 2025 and 2026, citing stronger-than-expected trade performance and ongoing reforms.

The upgrade reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s fiscal outlook amid global economic headwinds.
Prominent businessman's spouse kidnapped outside luxury residence
A high-profile kidnapping in Malaysia has shocked the nation after the wife of a prominent tycoon was abducted in broad daylight outside their luxury residence.

The bold incident has raised serious concerns about public safety and law enforcement capabilities in one of Southeast Asia's most developed economies.
13th Malaysia Plan targets equitable growth through 2030
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has tabled the 13th Malaysia Plan, a transformative RM611 billion economic blueprint aimed at rebuilding trust, enhancing social mobility, and narrowing income disparities by the end of the decade.

The plan prioritizes sustainable growth, digital transformation, and inclusivity.
Bilateral agreement expected following last-minute phone call
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held a phone call with former US President Donald Trump on the eve of a critical tariff deadline, paving the way for a trade agreement expected to be announced imminently.

The deal is anticipated to protect Malaysian exports amid growing global protectionism.
MICE sector drives VND 22 trillion in record monthly earnings
Ho Chi Minh City recorded a 45 percent surge in tourism revenue in July, reaching VND 22 trillion, fueled primarily by growth in meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions—known as the MICE sector.

Local officials credit infrastructure improvements, digital booking platforms, and coordinated event programming for the milestone.
Government aims to bolster DePIN growth and investor confidence
Vietnam has introduced a legal framework to regulate digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and decentralized physical infrastructure networks, or DePIN.

The move is designed to enhance transparency, attract responsible innovation, and support Southeast Asia’s growing digital economy while positioning Vietnam as a hub for compliant blockchain development.
Infrastructure and energy sectors identified as strategic priorities
India’s Adani Group is planning up to $10 billion in investments in Vietnam, focusing on port development, renewable energy, and industrial infrastructure.

The commitment follows high-level meetings with Vietnamese leaders and reflects growing economic ties between the two countries amid regional diversification efforts.
Three major cities selected for initial rollout of ethanol blend
Vietnam will launch a pilot program for E10 biofuel in three major cities beginning August 1, as part of its transition toward cleaner energy sources.

The ethanol blend aims to reduce carbon emissions and lessen reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with Vietnam’s broader environmental and sustainability goals.
Move signals deeper defense ties between Hanoi and Beijing
Vietnam and China have concluded their first joint military training exercise, aimed at improving coordination and reducing regional tensions.

Defense officials from both nations described the drill as a milestone in military diplomacy, reflecting efforts to enhance trust and stability despite historical and territorial complexities.
Vietnamese automaker plans 35 outlets across India by year-end
Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast has opened its first showroom in India, launching operations in Gujarat as part of an aggressive expansion strategy.

The company aims to establish 35 dealerships across the country by year-end, leveraging growing demand for EVs and government incentives to gain a foothold in South Asia’s largest auto market.
First-half figures driven by recovery in manufacturing and logistics
Vietnam’s exports rose by 14.7 percent year-on-year from January to mid-July 2025, reflecting robust recovery across key industries including electronics, textiles, and agriculture.

Economists attribute the upswing to improved global logistics, favorable trade agreements, and strong demand from Asian and Western markets.
Country attracts strategic investment amid realignment of tech production
Vietnam is rapidly positioning itself as a crucial node in the global semiconductor supply chain, driven by a surge of investment from multinational firms seeking to diversify away from China.

Industry leaders point to the country’s stable infrastructure, skilled workforce, and favorable trade environment as factors fueling its rise in the high-tech manufacturing sector.
ICE seeks partners for expanding high-speed mobile networks
Vietnam’s state-owned telecom operator has launched a new tender to advance the country’s 5G infrastructure, seeking strategic partners to boost connectivity and technological competitiveness.

The initiative aims to extend high-speed mobile access to underserved regions, aligning with national goals for digital transformation and economic modernization.
Partnership to enhance flight connectivity across Asia
Vietnam Airlines and China Southern Airlines have announced a joint venture to improve connectivity between Vietnam and China, with expanded code-share routes and integrated booking systems.

The collaboration is expected to streamline travel and cargo operations, contributing to post-pandemic recovery in regional aviation.
Skirmishes and accusations continue despite ceasefire agreement
Thailand and Cambodia are exchanging fresh allegations of ceasefire violations, even as both nations insist they remain committed to halting conflict.

Despite the ceasefire announcement, reports of cross-border fire and military movements have surfaced, with each side blaming the other for renewed instability in the volatile frontier region.
Evacuees return to scenes of destruction as calm tentatively restored
Civilians who fled the recent border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia are beginning to return to their homes, many of which were damaged or destroyed during the conflict.

Aid agencies have mobilized to provide food and shelter, while authorities urge continued caution amid lingering fears the ceasefire may not hold.
Shanghai meeting results in mutual pledge to uphold truce agreement
Thailand and Cambodia have reaffirmed their commitment to a fragile ceasefire following high-level talks brokered by China in Shanghai.

Both governments pledged to halt hostilities and restore diplomatic engagement after days of deadly clashes along their disputed border.

Observers welcomed the move, though concerns persist about the ceasefire’s durability amid ongoing mistrust.
Heightened caution urged for American citizens in affected areas
The U.S. State Department has issued an elevated travel advisory for Thailand and Cambodia in light of the ongoing border conflict, urging American citizens to exercise increased caution.

The advisory cites the risk of sudden violence, limited access to consular services, and uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of the ceasefire currently in place.
Allegations surface of foreign involvement in drone operations
Thailand is investigating claims that Russian mercenaries may have supported Cambodian military operations during recent clashes, including allegations of technical assistance in drone warfare.

The Defense Ministry has not confirmed the reports but stated that any foreign interference would constitute a serious breach of regional norms.
Beijing commits to fostering regional peace and dialogue
China has welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia and pledged continued support for peace mediation efforts.

Officials in Beijing credited the informal trilateral meeting in Shanghai with easing hostilities and reaffirmed China’s commitment to stability and regional diplomacy in Southeast Asia.
World body expresses concern over damage to historical sites
UNESCO has announced its readiness to assist Thailand and Cambodia in safeguarding cultural heritage sites endangered by recent cross-border clashes.

The agency expressed deep concern over reports of damage to ancient temples and called for both nations to ensure the protection of irreplaceable historical assets during ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
Government announces recovery plan targeting damaged border communities
The Thai government has approved a reconstruction package worth 771 million U.S. dollars to rebuild infrastructure and support displaced communities following the recent conflict with Cambodia.

The funds will be used to repair damaged roads, restore utilities, and provide housing assistance, as authorities move to stabilize the region and prevent future unrest.
Fresh allegations emerge just hours after truce was announced
Thai authorities have accused Cambodia of violating the newly agreed ceasefire for the second time in as many days, claiming that Cambodian forces crossed into contested territory and engaged in provocative maneuvers.

Cambodian officials denied the charges, calling them baseless, while international observers expressed concern over the truce's increasingly fragile status.
Authorities work to return citizens exploited in cross-border labor schemes
Several Mozambican nationals who fell victim to human trafficking operations in Laos remain in government care as repatriation efforts continue.

The victims, lured under false promises of employment, are now receiving consular support and awaiting safe return, as international agencies push for stronger protections against trafficking in Southeast Asia.
Official visit aims to deepen strategic cooperation and bilateral support
Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing strategic ties with Russia ahead of an official visit, underscoring shared interests in energy, education, and infrastructure.

The visit is expected to reinforce longstanding political and economic cooperation between the two nations, amid growing calls for multipolar diplomacy across Asia.
Public discontent grows amid enforcement gaps and sanitation concerns
Trash continues to pile up along a newly opened road in Vientiane, despite the presence of warning signs and hefty fines meant to deter littering.

Authorities face criticism for poor enforcement and lack of collection infrastructure, with residents voicing frustration over sanitation and the city’s growing waste management issues.
China Increases Use of Exit Bans Amid Rising U.S. Tensions
IMF Upgrades Global Growth Forecast as Weaker Dollar Supports Outlook
Procter & Gamble to Raise U.S. Prices to Offset One‑Billion‑Dollar Tariff Cost
House Republicans Move to Defund OECD Over Global Tax Dispute
China’s Demand for Imported Durians and Coconuts Drives Southeast Asian Exports
Hong Kong Reports 12% Surge in Tourist Arrivals in First Half of 2025
Trump Steamrolls EU in Landmark Trade Win: US–EU Trade Deal Imposes 15% Tariff on European Imports
Thailand and Cambodia prepare for ceasefire talks as clashes intensify
The British propaganda channel BBC News lies again.
Trump: Leaders of Thailand and Cambodia agree to meet for ceasefire talks
Thai Acting Prime Minister Condemns Cambodian Military Action, Citing Civilian Deaths and Hospital Strikes
Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa delivers his message boldly, clearly, and truthfully.
Deputy attorney general's second day of meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell has concluded
Intel Reports Revenue Beats but Sees 81% Rise in Losses
CAMBODIA VS THAILAND: AIR POWER? WHAT AIR POWER?
Politics is a good business: Barack Obama’s Reported Net Worth Growth, 1990–2025
Cambodia Fired First: A Minute‑by‑Minute Account From Thailand’s Frontline
Two Peaceful Buddhist Nations Now Trading Airstrikes Over the Hindu Preah Vihear Temple—A 1,100-Year-Old Shrine to Lord Shiva
Thai Civilian Death Toll Rises to 12 in Cambodian Cross-Border Attacks
Thailand Under Fire: Defending Sovereignty Against Cambodia’s Political Provocation
Cambodian forces initiated firefight near Ta Muen Temple in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province
UN's Top Court Declares Environmental Protection a Legal Obligation Under International Law
Thailand recalls ambassador to Cambodia amid border tensions
Gulf Development Acquires Full Ownership of Pak Lay Hydropower Project in Laos
New Landmine Blast Escalates Thailand–Cambodia Border Tensions
"Crazy Thing": OpenAI's Sam Altman Warns Of AI Voice Fraud Crisis In Banking
The Podcaster Who Accidentally Revealed He Earns Over $10 Million a Year
Trump Announces $550 Billion Japanese Investment and New Trade Agreements with Indonesia and the Philippines
Two more landmines found along border disputed by Cambodia
Civil Court Orders Return of ฿4.5 Billion to Brokers in Major Thai Stock Manipulation Case
Thai Police Deploy High-Level Border Security in Four Thai Provinces Near Cambodian Frontier
Thailand's Industries Face Transition Risks Amid Rising Chinese Imports
Thailand Targets Cambodian Casino Tycoon in Nationwide Cybercrime Crackdown
Severe Flooding in South Korea Claims Lives Amid Ongoing Rescue Operations
Japanese Man Discovers Family Connection Through DNA Testing After Decades of Separation
Switzerland Implements Ban on Mammography Screening
President Trump Diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency After Leg Swelling
CEO Resigns Amid Controversy Over Relationship with HR Executive
Man Dies After Being Pulled Into MRI Machine Due to Metal Chain in New York Clinic
NVIDIA Achieves $4 Trillion Valuation Amid AI Demand
Tulsi Gabbard Unveils Evidence Alleging Political Manipulation of Intelligence During Trump Administration
Thailand to Repatriate Four Orangutans to Indonesia as Diplomatic Gesture
North Korea Restricts Foreign Tourist Access to New Seaside Resort
Cathay Pacific Apologizes After Technical Issues Leave Passengers on Bangkok-Bound Flight Without Air Conditioning
Trump Announces Coca-Cola to Shift to Cane Sugar in U.S. Production
Thailand Proposes National Crypto Sandbox to Facilitate Tourist Spending
US-China Chip War Intensifies Over Export Curbs
"Can You Hit Moscow?" Trump Asked Zelensky To Make Putin "Feel The Pain"
Superman Franchise Achieves Success with Latest Release
China and U.S. Diplomatic Engagement at ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting