Asean Morning News
Compiled by AEC News Today @aecnewstoday
Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Thailand’s traditional New Year festival marked in HCMC
The traditional New Year festival of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand was celebrated in a ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City on April 12th.
– Vietnam Times
What Is Driving Consumer Spending In ASEAN?
ASEAN is the world’s third largest consumer market, just behind China and India. Nomura, the Japanese investment bank, forecasts spending in the five largest ASEAN countries can grow by 50% by 2020. This equates to an annual spending growth of nearly 17%.
— Frontera News
FEATURE: Asean ‘not ready’ for uniform wages
A regional minimum benchmark could harm efforts to close the development gap between Southeast Asian countries.
— Eleven
ASEAN Regulatory Brief: Singapore-Ghana DTA, Philippines Tax Amnesty, and ASEAN Banking Sector Integration
Singapore and Ghana have signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTA) on March 31, 2017. The agreement aims to reduce double taxation and tax disputes by clarifying the taxation rights on all types of income flows arising from cross-border business between the two countries. The DTA aims to reduce trade and investment barriers and increase trade flows between the two countries.
— Asean Briefing
ASEAN meetings to proceed in Bohol after Abu Sayyaf incident: governor
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit meetings set in Bohol later this month will push through even as the province is reeling from a firefight between government forces and the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group, local officials said Wednesday.
— ABS-CBN
Asean summit to discuss South China Sea rows
PRIME MINISTER Prayut Chan-o-cha will attend the Asean summit in Manila on April 29 to discuss community building as well as regional and global issues, the Foreign Ministry said yesterday.
— The Nation
Trade and investment liberalisation in the Asia Pacific
With the Trans-Pacific Partnership (the TPP) coming to a dramatic end, and further liberalisation of trade regulation through the World Trade Organisation unlikely, regional and bilateral agreements will be the focus in the Asia Pacific. This article considers recent developments and future prospects for liberalisation of trade and investment regulation across the Asia Pacific.
— Lexology
GE to open Asian digital hub in Singapore
MULTINATIONAL GIANT GE is set to boost its presence in Singapore with a new Asia Digital Operations Centre. The centre will be the first of its kind in Asia for GE to support the group’s global IT services and operations. It will also mark the start of GE’s investment and commitment to develop digital industrial capabilities in Singapore, the New York-listed group said yesterday.
– The Nation
SE Asia stocks higher but geopolitical risks cap gains
Most Southeast Asian stocks settled higher on Wednesday as energy shares climbed on reports that Saudi Arabia was lobbying oil producers to extend an output cut, but the rising geopolitical woes curbed gains.
– Bangkok Post
Introducing The AEC News Today Mobile App
See full details, including our AEC News Today Mobile App Privacy Statement here: Stay up to Date With The AEC News Today Mobile App
Download the AEC News Today mobile app from Google play or the App stores by clicking the icons below.
Cambodia Morning News
Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat
Investment in Cambodia’s construction dips in Q1
Investment in Cambodia’s construction sector saw a 22-percent decline in the first quarter of 2017 compared with the same period in 2016, the Khmer Times reported on Wednesday, citing government figures.
— Xinhua
Chosen by Angel for Bumper Crop, Banana Prices Rise for New Year
Khmer New Year could bring a fruitful financial harvest for sellers of bananas—this year’s divinely selected crop—but some vendors say their sales have not yet ripened.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
Xi manual on ruling is now printed in Khmer
In another sign of Cambodia’s deepening affinity with China, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s book on governance, which showcases the leader’s ruling philosophy, has been translated into Khmer to be used as a guide for the
Kingdom, Prime Minister Hun Sen announced yesterday.
— The Phnom Penh Post
Government to Hold Monthly Press Conferences for the First Time
The Cambodian government has announced it will schedule monthly press briefings, following meetings with German officials.
— VOA
Court to Hear Witness Testimony in Case Against PM’s Son
Two key witnesses in a lawsuit against General Hun Manet, Prime Minister Hun Sen’s eldest son, are due to appear in a U.S. court on Thursday, more than a year after a civil case was filed against the deputy military commander.
— VOA
Sokha Says Most Cambodians Looking for ‘Positive Change’
Opposition leader Kem Sokha on Wednesday maintained that a majority of Cambodians are yearning for political change, a claim a ruling party spokesman branded a lie.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
Thousands of Election Body Workers Missing Weeks of Wages
Tens of thousands of workers contracted by the government to prepare Cambodia for the June 4 commune elections, many of whom are still waiting to be paid for work in February, will have to wait for their March and April salaries until after Khmer New Year.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
Cambodia Court Bars Supporters From Visiting Detainees Ahead of New Year
Supporters of four civil society workers and an electoral official held in pre-trial detention on bribery charges were blocked from visiting them at a prison in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh Wednesday, drawing criticism from a rights group which called the decision an “act of intimidation.”
— Radio Free Asia
Xi’s book on governance launched in Cambodian language
The Cambodian version of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s book on the governance of China was released on Tuesday in the capital of Cambodia.
— Pakistan Observer
Charity begins with sport
Khmer Beverages Co., Ltd. is organizing Cambodia Charity Run & Ride 2017 – a fund-raising event in Phnom Penh.
— The Phnom Penh Post
A guide to spending Khmer New Year in Phnom Penh
One of the biggest holidays of the Cambodian calendar, Khmer New Year, kicks off this week, as people around the country prepare to eat and drink with family, play traditional games, and visit a pagoda with food as a blessing.
— The Phnom Penh Post
Migrants Say Thai Authorities Charged for Deportation Rides
A group of four Cambodian “illegal” migrants jailed in Thailand say they were forced to bribe authorities there to take them back to Cambodia, officials said this week.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
*AEC News Today wishes all of its Cambodia morning news readers a safe and enjoyable Choul Chnam Thmey. Happy New year!
Indonesia Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Exclusive: Indonesia’s Muslimarket.com raises Series A from 500 Startups, others
Muslimarket.com, one of Indonesia’s upcoming e-commerce Muslim marketplace platform, has closed its series A funding, that values the company at around $10 million. The startup raised the series A funding from seed stage venture capital firm 500 Startups, a local investment firm, and few unnamed individual investors.
— Deal Street Asia
Indonesia Construction Industry Investment Analysis forecast 2016-2021
Indonesia is known as the second most productive and profitable construction market in Asia, where a huge number of construction projects are undergoing in both residential as well as non-residential sectors.
— NewsMaker (press release)
Credit Cards To Be Removed From Obligatory Tax Report For Expats
New rules will make filing tax returns and obtaining an exit visa a little easier for expats.
— Indonesia Expat
Colony NorthStar (CLNS) Reaches $12.85 After 3.00% Up Move; Aberdeen Indonesia Fund Has 0.57 Sentiment
Aberdeen Indonesia Fund, Inc. is a non-diversified closed-end, management investment company. The company has market cap of $67.96 million.
— Key Gazette
Indonesia’s Pertamina plans to import up to 7.5 mil barrels of gasoline in May
Indonesia’s Pertamina plans to import 6.8-7.5 million barrels of gasoline in May, down 11%-19% from the 8.4 million barrels estimated as April imports, according to market sources.
— Platts
Stephen Grenville: Better financing can turn Indonesia’s infrastructure mess into an opportunity
In October 2018, Indonesia will host the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in the Balinese resort area of Nusa Dua. This is an important occasion: These annual talks take place outside Washington only every third year and involve thousands of high-level participants from across the globe.
— Nikkei Asian Review
Ant Financial brings mobile payments to Indonesia
In its latest foray outside of China, Ant Financial has teamed up with Indonesia’s Emtek Group on a mobile payments and financial services joint venture.
— Finextra (press release)
Rocket-backed ZEN Rooms closes $4.1 m series A led by Korean funds
Rocket Internet-backed South East Asia’s budget hotel company, ZEN Rooms, has closed its $4.1 m series A round, led by Korea’s Redbadge Pacific and SBI Investment Korea.
— Deal Street Asia
Indonesia offers 225 projects to IDB
The Indonesian government has offered 225 projects to the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) during the third IDB Sovereign Investment forum in Bali.
— The Jakarta Post
Future of cloud and data centres in Indonesia
THE Indonesian digital ecosystem is increasingly moving towards utilising cloud and data centres in the government and private sectors to increase transparency and offer faster access.
— Digital News Asia
Indonesia DB: Panorama-JTB close deal; Eagle High share transfer to Felda begins
Panorama Sentrawisata (Panorama Group) announced today that the agreement to divest 30.1 per cent shares of its unit Panorama Tours Indonesia to Japan’s JTB Corporation has officially been completed. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) has reportedly begun the process of transferring shares of Eagle High Plantation to FIC Properties.
— Deal Street Asia
BREAKING: Search for Missing Cessna Aircraft in Papua
A Cessna C208 Caravan aircraft of Spirit Avia Sentosa airlines, known as Flying SAS, disappeared from radar screens in Papua on Wednesday (12/04).
— Jakarta Globe
Jakarta Police Form New Team to Tackle Traffic Jams
The Jakarta Police have established a new team to tackle increased traffic congestion in the capital city.
— Jakarta Globe
Indonesia Can’t Figure Out Why it’s on Trump’s Trade Hit List
Indonesia is seeking to stay out of U.S. President Donald Trump’s bad books, using a visit by his deputy Mike Pence next week to reassure on its commitment to free and fair trade.
— Bloomberg
Alfamart Operator Plans Rp 1t Bond Issuance, Set Aside Rp 2.9t Capex in 2017
Publicly listed retail store chain operator Sumber Alfaria Trijaya is planning to raise Rp 1 trillion ($75 million) from a bond sale to refinance debt, the company announced on Wednesday (12/04).
— Jakarta Globe
RPT-Indonesia eyes truce with Freeport as losses mount for both sides
Losses amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars appear to be pushing the Indonesian government and mining giant Freeport McMoRan to resolve a row that has crippled operations at Grasberg, the world’s richest copper mine, for three months.
— Daily Mail
Jakarta to have hundreds of low-entry buses
Bus operator Transjakarta has announced a plan to take into serve as many as 300 low-entry buses this year to serve passengers outside the designated busway lanes.
— The Jakarta Post
Govt refuses to implement moratorium on death penalty
Attorney General Muhammad Prasetyo indicated that Indonesia would continue to execute convicts when he confirmed that the government would not implement a moratorium on the death penalty despite mounting calls from human rights groups.
— The Jakarta Post
Bank Danamon pays Rp 934.15 billion dividend
Private lender PT Bank Danamon Indonesia will pay Rp 934.15 billion (US$70.36 million) dividend or Rp 97.48 per share to its shareholders.
— The Jakarta Post
Saudi Arabia deports 200 Indonesian umrah pilgrims
Saudi Arabia authorities have deported 200 Indonesian umrah (minor haj) pilgrims for allegedly violating immigration laws by working illegally in the country, which hosts the largest number of Indonesian migrant workers.
— The Jakarta Post
Police hunting assailants of top Indonesian graft buster
The National Police have launched an extensive manhunt across the country to track down the drive-by assailants who threw acid into the face of prominent Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigator Novel Baswedan early on Tuesday morning.
— The Jakarta Post
Govt Will Evaluate Palm Oil Exports to Europe
Indonesian Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman will evaluate the export of palm oil and palm oil-based biodiesel to Europe in response to the European Parliaments allegations which harms the national palm oil industry.
— Tempo.co
Jakarta police to anticipate terrorist attacks
Jakarta Police Chief Inspector General M. Iriawan has passed order for closer watch around the city police headquarters to forestall terror attacks.
— Antara News
Saudi Arabia to build university in South Sulawesi
The Saudi government is looking into the possibility of establishing a university in the Indonesian province of South Sulawesi.
— Antara News
Indonesian BNPT, PPATK cooperate to prevent terrorism financing
The National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) and the Financial Transactions Analysis and Reporting Center (PPATK) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen efforts to prevent and eradicate terrorism financing.
— Antara News
Indonesia bailout fund too small for bank restructuring mandate
Indonesia’s bank deposit insurance agency is discussing ways to bolster its 75 trillion rupiah (S$7.88 billion) war chest which a top official says is insufficient for its new mandate of restructuring banks on top of bailing out depositors.
— The Business Times
Indonesia’s largest telco Telkom unblocks Netflix after new partnership
Telkom users in Indonesia can now enjoy Netflix after the streaming giant signed an agreement with the largest telco in Indonesia, according to an e27 report.
— The Drum
Soft Start Seen For Indonesia Stock Market
The Indonesia stock market on Wednesday ended the three-day slide in which it had given away more than 50 points or 0.9 percent. The Jakarta Composite Index now rests just shy of the 5,645-point plateau, although the market may hand back those gains on Thursday.
— Nasdaq
Indonesian volcano in fresh eruptions
A volcano on Indonesia’s Sumatra island spewed hot smoke and ash high into the air Wednesday (Apr 12), in its latest violent eruptions.
— Channel NewsAsia
Introducing The AEC News Today Mobile App
See full details, including our AEC News Today Mobile App Privacy Statement here: Stay up to Date With The AEC News Today Mobile App
Download the AEC News Today mobile app from Google play or the App stores by clicking the icons below.
Lao PDR Morning News
Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat
More Chinese-Owned Banana Plantations to Close in Laos
Lao government orders closing down environmentally destructive Chinese banana farms, first reported in January in Bokeo province, are now in force in six other provinces in the Southeast Asian country, sources say.
— Radio Free Asia
Chinese embassy presents office equipment to Lao defense ministry
The Chinese embassy in Laos presented office equipment to Lao Ministry of Defense on Tuesday. A ceremony was held in Lao capital Vientiane with the participation of Zhao Chenggang, Charge d’affaires of the Chinese embassy in Laos and Lao Deputy Minister of Defense Onsy.
— ecns
Taiwan to expand visa privileges for Southeast Asian visitors
Taiwan will expand visa privileges for visitors from Thailand, Brunei and the Philippines and streamline the visa application process for visitors from other Southeast Asian and South Asian countries, the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs said Wednesday.
— Focus Taiwan News Channel
*Lao Morning news is restricted in content today due to the Lao New Year. AEC News Today wishes all of its Lao morning news readers a safe and enjoyable Pii Mai. Happy New year!
Malaysia Morning News
Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat
P2P platform aims to disburse up to RM20mil to local SMEs
Peer-to-peer (P2P) financing platform Funding Societies aims to disburse between RM10 million and RM20 million to 100 to 200 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) here this year.
— New Straits Times
RHB joins P2P arena with Funding Societies
RHB Banking Group has joined Funding Societies Malaysia, a P2P financing platform, in a partnership to expand funding opportunities for SMEs in the country.
— New Straits Times
SP Setia tops Singapore property bid
SP Setia Bhd is said to be the highest bidder for a residential project in Toh Tuck Road in Singapore with an estimated bid of S$265mil (RM837.66mil).
— The Star Online
Bond selldown to be more gradual
Portfolio adjustments among foreign funds could see a further selldown in Malaysian Government bonds, but this could be more gradual than in recent months.
— The Star Online
Telco, construction firms among tax dodgers
The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) is set to come down hard on 20 large companies that owe the government RM1.4 billion in taxes.
— Malay Mail Online
100pc penalty next year for income tax dodgers
Beginning Jan 1 next year, the Inland Revenue Board (IRB) will impose a 100 per cent penalty on the tax of individuals and companies dodging payment or filing incorrect income tax returns.
— Malay Mail Online
Heineken reports satisfactory first quarter performance
Heineken Malaysia Bhd has reported a satisfactory performance for its first quarter ended March 31, 2017 despite challenging market conditions compounded by economic pressures.
— The Star Online
Positive stance on construction sector stays
While it has maintained its positive stance on the construction sector, MIDF Research cautioned that the current “risk-taking mode” sweeping the market should be tracked closely.
— The Star Online
‘Missing’ Malaysian activist seen in Thailand
Mr Peter Chong, a former city councillor and social activist who was reported missing since last Friday, has been spotted crossing the border by bus into Thailand, Malaysia’s Inspector-General of Police said yesterday.
— The Straits Times
‘Special functions’ role for Malaysia Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein
Prime Minister Najib Razak appointed his cousin, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, “Minister with Special Functions” yesterday, a move that immediately set tongues wagging after recent discord between the Malaysian leader and his deputy, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
— The Straits Times
Heineken Malaysia 1Q net profit down 3.7% on soft consumer sentiment
Heineken Malaysia Bhd saw its net profit fall 3.7% to RM48 million in the first quarter ended March 31, 2017 (1QFY17) from RM50 million a year ago, on lower revenue.
— The Edge Markets
Eversendai sees 27.4pc revenue jump
EVERSENDAI Corp Bhd said its revenue should grow more than 27 per cent to RM2 billion this year, although a local research house is not as optimistic.
— New Straits Times
CIDB chief says sector to grow 8pc to RM170b this year
The construction sector is expected to grow eight per cent to RM170 billion this year, said a top industry executive.
— New Straits Times
Customs reduces excise duty to 60pc for 2WD, 4WD not exceeding 1,500cc
The government has agreed to streamline the excise duty rate for two-and four-wheel drive vehicles with engine capacity of not more than 1,500cc to 60 per cent effective immediately.
— Malay Mail Online
Budget 2018 to lay foundation for TN50, Treasury sec-gen says
One of the main thrusts in Budget 2018 is to lay foundations for the National Transformation 2050 (TN50) plan envisioned by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, said Treasury Secretary-General, Tan Sri Dr Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah.
— Malay Mail Online
Why Japan’s crown prince holds up Malaysia as a ‘model for the international society’
Japan’s Crown Prince Naruhito said Tuesday that he believes Malaysia’s success is based on its diversity and tolerance, and the country can be a model for a world faced with conflicts.
— Christian Science Monitor
Introducing The AEC News Today Mobile App
See full details, including our AEC News Today Mobile App Privacy Statement here: Stay up to Date With The AEC News Today Mobile App
Download the AEC News Today mobile app from Google play or the App stores by clicking the icons below.
Myanmar Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Trade Between Myanmar and Middle East Tops $300m
Total trade between Myanmar and Middle Eastern countries reached $332.874 million in the first 10 months of this fiscal year, 2016-2017, official media reported.
— Consult-Myanmar
453 from Insein Prison included in pre-Thingyan prisoner release
Prior to the Myanmar New Year Thingyan Festival, 1,883 prisoners who have observed the rules and behaved well in various prisons and detention camps had their sentences reduced in order for them to be released yesterday morning, and included 453 from Insein Jail.
— Global New Light Of Myanmar
Scotland’s Energy Expertise, Whisky and Tech Embrace Myanmar Amid Brexit
Scotland and Myanmar boast historic links which dates back to 1886, when a Scottish firm arrived in then-Burma to drill oil.
— Consult-Myanmar
US Ambassador to Burma: ‘We Urge All Parties to End the Fighting Now’
In an interview at the US Embassy in Rangoon in February, The Irrawaddy’s English editor Kyaw Zwa Moe talked to the US Ambassador to Burma Scot Marciel about the country’s troubles and achievements over the past year.
— The Irrawaddy
Myanmar Capital Markets Essential for Private Sector: IFC
International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Myanmar (SECM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in March to strengthen corporate governance regulatory standards and practices in Myanmar.
— Consult-Myanmar
Trial pumping of imported crude oil to China via South East Asia pipeline
The crude oil tanker United Dynamic, carrying 130,000 metric tons of crude oil, arrived in Made Island, Kyaukpyu Township, Rakhine State from the Middle East on 10 April and discharged its cargo into crude oil storage tanks yesterday morning, completing the first step toward a trial pumping of crude oil through a pipeline across Myanmar into China.
— Global New Light Of Myanmar
Myanmar residents shown simple solutions for clean water
In Hlaing Thar Yar township of Yangon, dirty water has been a problem for a long time. Local residents like Aung Soe Min have to buy drinking water from shops, resulting in a substantial financial burden.
— Mizzima News
19,000 tonnes of teak, hardwood to be sold
The Myanma Timber Enterprise (MTE) announced on 11 April that 19,408 tonnes of teak and hardwood logs will be sold by the open tender system.
— Global New Light Of Myanmar
Media Spread Rumors to Trigger Military Actions on Rohingyas
A Burmese language media called ‘Thit Htoo Lwin’ published a report on April 8 alleging the Rohingya villagers in southern Maungdaw held meetings for days to form an armed outfit.
— Rohingya Vision
Tenders to be invited for 10 projects including upgrading of Yangon circular railway
Tenders will be invited for 10 projects including the upgrading of the Yangon circular railway this month, said an official from Myanma Railways.
— Global New Light Of Myanmar
1,883 prisoners released in Myanmar to greet new year Thingyan festival
A total of 1,883 prisoners were released on Wednesday ahead of Myanmar new year water festival which is to start on Thursday, Myanmar State Counselor Office announced.
— Global Times
EMG cut out from digital broadcasting content provider list
Eleven Media Group, a well-known media organization, have not been given rights to one of the five private digital free-to-air channels to be allowed by the government.
— Eleven
Myanmar Investment Rules
On 30th March 2017, the Ministry of Planning and Finance published Notification 35/2017, the final version of the Myanmar Investment Rules (MIR) issued under the Myanmar Investment Law 2016 (MIL). We have already commented on the draft versions of the MIR, click here to read our previous alert on this topic.
— Lexology
*AEC News Today wishes all of its Myanmar morning news readers a safe and enjoyable Thingyan. Happy New year!
Philippines Morning News
Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee
Philippines: Accion, DeepBlue upsize First Circle’s seed fund to $2.5m
Global venture capital firms Accion Venture Lab and DeepBlue VC have led an investment round into Philippine-based online lending startup First Circle, bringing the fintech company’s total seed funding to $2.5 million.
— Deal Street Asia
Philippine’s Duterte retracts vow on Spratlys flag
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday (Apr 12) pulled back from a vow to place his country’s flag on an island in the Spratlys chain claimed by China and other regional states.
— Channel NewsAsia
Saudi business deals signed during state visit seen worth $470M
Seven business-to-business deals worth an estimated $470 million are to be signed by Filipino and Saudi businessmen during President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s three-day state visit here.
— BusinessWorld Online
DOLE allocates P10-M fund for completion of OFW IDs
he Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has allocated P10 million to fund and complete the development of its new overseas Filipino workers (OFW) ID this year.
— Manila Bulletin
Investors shift to RTBs from term deposits
Investors continued to ignore the auction of term deposits as funds shifted to retail treasury bonds (RTBs) offered by the government as well as the foreign exchange market.
— Phil Star
Rice shortage, price hike loom – FEF
The Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF) is warning of “significant shortages” and “increased rice prices” in the country following President Duterte’s recent order to suspend rice importation.
— Phil Star
Benham expedition deferred due to LPA
The government has deferred its plan to embark on another exploratory trip to the 13-million-hectare Benham Rise this week due to an expected low-pressure area in the vicinity.
— Phil Star
Duterte’s anti-crime campaign to draw Saudi investors to PH – Palace
President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against criminality and corruption could further convince Saudi investors to establish businesses in the Philippines, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.
— Inquirer.net
Philippines Shuts Down Boiler Room Scam
The Securities and Exchange Commission in the Philippines has closed down a boiler room operation being run by foreign nationals.
— finews.asia
Fierce firefight as ASG rebels invade popular tourist destination in Bohol
Government security forces clashed with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in a town in Bohol on Tuesday, leaving 14 people dead, including four government troops, The Manila Times Online reported on Wednesday.
— Thai PBS
Tax amnesty plan faces hurdles – Credit Suisse
Investment bank Credit Suisse said an effective tax amnesty program would face hurdles in the Philippines due to the country’s strict banking secrecy law.
— Phil Star
Pinay in UAE death row won’t be executed, Bello claims
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello on Wednesday said Jennifer Dalquez, the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who is currently on death row in Abu Dhabi, will be spared from execution.
— ABS-CBN
Finance chief cites ‘hostile environment’ for tax reform bill
TAX REFORM — which the government, multilateral lenders and credit raters regard as indispensable support for efforts to spur state spending — currently faces “a pretty hostile environment” due to populist pressures lawmakers could succumb to, the Finance department said in a statement on Wednesday.
— BusinessWorld Online
BIR lists down individual taxpayers required to file tax return
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has listed down individual taxpayers who are required to file income tax returns (ITR) even as the deadline for its submission is on Monday (April 17).
— Manila Bulletin
Bulacan cops report 11 deaths in 3-week drug operations
A drug suspect was killed in a police operation early Wednesday (April 12) in Hagonoy town, one of the 11 suspects who fired at policemen and were killed in Bulacan’s anti-drug campaign for the last three weeks, police said.
— Inquirer.net
Facebook takes down CPP page
Social media giant Facebook has suspended the accounts maintained by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
— Phil Star
Introducing The AEC News Today Mobile App
See full details, including our AEC News Today Mobile App Privacy Statement here: Stay up to Date With The AEC News Today Mobile App
Download the AEC News Today mobile app from Google play or the App stores by clicking the icons below.
Singapore Morning News
Compiled by Leakhena Khat @leakhenakhat
Singapore central bank keeps policy settings unchanged as expected
Singapore’s central bank kept its exchange-rate based policy unchanged as expected on Thursday, saying a “neutral” stance will be needed for an extended period of time.
— Reuters
Singapore Q1 GDP contracts 1.9 pct qtr/qtr, in line with forecasts
Singapore’s trade-reliant economy shrank 1.9 percent in the first quarter from the previous three months on an annualised basis, weighed by contractions in manufacturing and services, preliminary data showed on Thursday.
— Reuters
Quick take: Singapore economy hinges on durability of export recovery
SINGAPORE’S economy grew 2.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2017 compared to a year ago, after easing 2.9 per cent from the fourth quarter of 2016.
— The Business Times
Singapore, Shanghai deepen ties amid fresh commitments by banks
FINANCIAL institutions from both Singapore and Shanghai signed several agreements on Wednesday amid efforts to enhance capital markets, boost ties between banks and corporates, and raise collaborations with financial technology (fintech) firms.
— The Business Times
Singapore: Rickmers Maritime to shut operations after failing to reach deal with lenders
Rickmers Maritime, a Singapore-listed trust that operates container ships, said it would be wound up after it was unable to reach an agreement with its
lenders to restructure its debt or raise new equity.
— Deal Street Asia
Singapore’s GDP growth eases to 2.5% in Q1: Flash data
Singapore’s economy grew a slightly less-than-expected 2.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2017 from a year earlier, easing from the 2.9 per cent growth in the previous quarter, according to advance estimates released by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) on Thursday (April 13).
— The Straits Times
Singapore moves six F-15s to Guam for joint training with US forces
Singapore has deployed its Boeing F-15s to Guam for training with the United States Air Force for the first time, according to the Southeast Asian island state’s defense ministry.
— Defense News
Corruption cases in Singapore fell to record low in 2016, says CPIB at launch of new anti-bribery standard
The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) said the number of cases registered for its investigation hit the lowest last year.
— The Straits Times
Singapore still most liveable city for Asian expats, but air quality waning:Survey
The gong of most-liveable city for Asian expats remains Singapore’s, for the 18th year, but the Republic’s lead has been narrowing because of worsening air pollution, an annual survey by consulting firm ECA International shows.
— Today Online
Corruption complaints drop 11 per cent to record low
The number of graft complaints registered for investigation hit a record low last year, with the 118 cases representing an 11 per cent drop from 2015.
— Today Online
AHTC’s financial statements presented to Parliament
The Ministry of National Development (MND) has presented to Parliament the Aljunied-Hougang Town Council’s (AHTC) audited financial statements for the financial year ending March 2016, as required by law.
— The Straits Times
MAS keeps Singdollar exchange rate policy unchanged
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is keeping its exchange rate policy unchanged amid modest improvements in both economic growth and inflation.
— The Straits Times
New trains boast information displays and brighter LED lighting
On Sunday (April 16), commuters on the North-South Line may be riding in the first of a fleet of new trains, outfitted with fresh features, ranging from more comprehensive information displays to brighter LED lighting.
— Today Online
Slew of initiatives to attract, retain talent in social service sector
Finding the right staff is always a challenge for social service organisations, as they are often viewed as financially constrained and offering lower pay than the commercial sector, said Dr Victor Tay, president
of the Association for Persons with Special Needs (APSN).
— Today Online
MAS keeps S$ policy band at neutral for an extended period
SINGAPORE’S central bank opted to keep its neutral policy stance of zero per cent appreciation of the S$NEER (Singapore dollar nominal effective exchangerate), adding that such a stance is needed for an “extended period”.
— The Business Times
Singapore e-commerce firm Y Ventures bets big on big data
A SINGAPORE company is making waves in the world of e-commerce – and doing it by using big data.
— The Business Times
HDB flats ‘good store of asset value’ for those who plan ahead: Lawrence Wong
A Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat is a “good store of asset value” for those who plan ahead and make prudent housing decisions, National Development Minister Lawrence Wong said.
— Channel NewsAsia
Shanghai Pudong Development Bank sets up Singapore branch
Shanghai Pudong Development Bank (SPD Bank) announced Wednesday that it had established a branch in Singapore.
— Xinhua
Thailand Morning News
Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo_journ
PM urges all Thais to celebrate Songkran traditionally
The Prime Minister has urged all Thais to celebrate Songkran traditionally while safeguarding the nation’s key institutions.
– NNT
THAI wants more time on bribe probe
Thai Airways International (THAI) has asked to extend its investigation into the Rolls-Royce bribery scandal involving former executives to the end of this month, Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittiyapaisith said.
– Bangkok Post
Cabinet approves rice-assistance programs
The cabinet has approved three programs aimed at developing rice production output, with a budget totaling over 25 billion baht.
– NNT
Ministry tells public to shun on social media three lese majeste suspects
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has urged members of the public to stop following on social media three persons who regularly posted messages deemed to violate the lese majeste law.
– The Nation
Army insists Section 44 is ‘vital for security’
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha needs to retain his wide-reaching Section 44 powers for the sake of security and for maintaining peace for the late King’s royal cremation as well as the coronation of His Majesty the King, army chief Chalermchai Sittisat says
– Bangkok Post
Public debt up 0.5% in February
THAILAND’S public debt outstanding as of February 28 was Bt6.09 trillion, up Bt30.58 billion or 0.5 per cent from January 31, while the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) has maintained Thailand’s credit-rating ceiling at “A+” with “stable” outlook, the Finance Ministry’s Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) reported yesterday.
– The Nation
Consumer Protection Board launches investigation in Japan tour scam
The Office of Consumer Protection Board has launched an investigation into the recent Tour to Japan scam in Nakhon Sawan Province, while Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, has advised citizens to seek extensive information before making purchase decisions.
– NNT
Transport minister: New rail project well on track
Bidding for construction of the Thai-Chinese joint rail development scheme is expected to take place during July-August, Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said.
– Bangkok Post
Election process to begin next year: PM
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha urged all political stakeholders to have patience, saying that election process will begin next which is still within the 8-month timeframe.
– Thai PBS
Ministry of Agriculture unveils e-card program for communicating with farmers
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is developing an e-card program for farmers, in order to provide convenient government information to cardholders, as part of the government’s Smart Farmer program.
– NNT
BMTA scraps NGV bus deal with Bestlin Group
Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, the operator of city bus service, has scrapped its contract to procure a fleet of 498 NGV buses from Bestlin Group effective as of Wednesday.
– Thai PBS
Thailand sends first cooked duck to New Zealand
Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) has been the first food company in Thailand to exploit New Zealand’s policy change that allows imports of cooked Thai duck for the first time ever.
– Global Meat News
U.S. beef gains expanded access to Thailand
The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) reported that U.S. beef has gained expanded access to Thailand now that bovine spongiform encephalopathy-related import restrictions have been lifted.
– Feedstuffs
Over 2,400 wanted for alleged involvement in illegal money lending syndicate
The Department of Special Investigation plans to seek warrants for the arrest of over 2,400 people suspected of involvement in a major illegal money lending syndicate said to have networks throughout the country.
– Thai PBS
10 Facts about the 10 April Crackdown: 7 years of unhealed wounds
2017 marks the 7th anniversary of military operations against red shirt protesters in April 2017. Though many years have passed, justice for the deceased and injured victims of state-sanctioned political violence has yet to come.
– Prachatai English
EA joint venture aims to propel renewables
SET-listed Energy Absolute Plc (EA) will join a Taiwan-based subsidiary and a Chinese company to develop a plant to produce batteries for renewable power systems and electric vehicles.
– Bangkok Post
Migrants Say Thai Authorities Charged for Deportation Rides
A group of four Cambodian “illegal” migrants jailed in Thailand say they were forced to bribe authorities there to take them back to Cambodia, officials said this week.
– The Cambodia Daily (paywall)
Thai start-up in line for major funding
Somsak Boonkam’s start-up Local Alike, which matches foreign tourists’ interests to specific experiences being offered locally, is one of 10 companies selected for an “accelerator programme” in sustainable tourism being organised by Booking.com.
– The Nation
So much to see in upcountry Songkran festivities
You can spend “Songkran in the Ancient Capital” at the Ayutthaya Historical Park tomorrow through Saturday (April 13-15), where elephants with trunk-loads of water are sure to get you in the mood.
– The Nation
*AEC News Today wishes all of its Thailand morning news readers a safe and enjoyable Songkran. Happy New year!
Introducing The AEC News Today Mobile App
See full details, including our AEC News Today Mobile App Privacy Statement here: Stay up to Date With The AEC News Today Mobile App
Download the AEC News Today mobile app from Google play or the App stores by clicking the icons below.
Vietnam Morning News
Compiled by Leakhena Khat @leakhenakhat
Logistics association to assist in national plan on competitiveness
The Việt Nam Logistics Association (VLA) on Wednesday launched a ceremony to implement the Government’s first national action plan to improve the country’s competitiveness and its logistics sector by 2025.
– Viet Nam News
Firms are both victims and causes for corruption in Vietnam
In recent years, Vietnam has demonstrated its determination to improve the business environment through measures such as institutional reform and simplification of administrative procedures. However, these efforts have not been effective because they are limited to the areas of business registration, investment procedures.
– Vietnam Times
Deputy PM urges faster sale of State capital
In the next round of equitisation, State capital must be sold faster, at higher value, and the enterprises’ corporate governance must further improve, Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue has said.
– VietnamPlus
Hanoi strives to attract $3 billion of foreign investment capital
Accordingly, Hanoi calls for large-scale, high value-added investment projects using modern and environmentally-friendly technologies. The focus of investment attraction includes: Urban infrastructure, Nhat Tan – Noi Bai axis projects, clean agricultural infrastructure with high technology, retail, health care, education and culture.
– Hanoitimes
Apple takes actions on unauthorised VN shops
Apple Inc’s legal representative in Viet Nam, VOTRA Co Ltd, recently sent documents to Vietnamese phone stores on their illegal use of the brand’s trademark on shop banners and advertisements without Apple’s permission.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
VN Railways lays tracks to free market success
Optimum use of infrastructure, diverse, quality services and increased turnover are some of the measures planned to get the railways industry out of its current slump, Vũ Anh Minh, new chairman of the Việt Nam Railway Corporation (VNR) tells the Vietnam News Agency.
– Viet Nam News
Laws urgently needed for bad debt settlements: PM
Streamlining legal regulations and making a specific law on restructuring of credit institutions and settling bad debts are very necessary and must be done urgently, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Vietnam probes protest in province hit by Formosa’s toxic spill
Police in Vietnam’s central province of Ha Tinh have launched criminal investigations into a recent protest which involved around 2,000 people and has caused public disorder, a police officer said.
– VnExpress
Central Highlands develops large-scale cattle farming
The Central Highlands provinces have transformed cattle farming from a traditional, extensive grazing smallholder system to a more intensive, large-scale production to improve income of many local ethnic minority households.
– VietnamPlus
March sales of cars up 52 per cent
The Vietnamese auto market sold nearly 26,900 cars in March, an increase of 52 per cent compared with the previous month, according to a Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association report.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Deputy PM calls for sustained growth effort
Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung revisited the themes of macroeconomic stability and sustainable development yesterday as he urged a concerted effort to reach future growth targets.
– Viet Nam News bizhub
Vietstar to wait until Tan Son Nhat airport expansion is completed
Vietstar Airlines, a military-run company, will have to wait for the completion of an expansion project at Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat airport before it can get a license to transport passengers and cargo, the Vietnamese government said.
– Vietnam Times
Philippine ban worries Vietnamese rice exporters
The recent suspension of rice importation by the Philippines, a major market, has sparked concern among Vietnamese rice exporters.
– VietnamPlus
Competitiveness of logistics sector strengthened
The Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) on April 12 launched the implementation of the Prime Minister’s decision approving an action plan to improve competitiveness and development of logistics services by 2025.
– VietnamPlus
Hà Nội’s sidewalks are clean, next the skies
Oversized billboards featuring popular brands have been common in Hà Nội for a long time now. However, removing these illegal billboards is trickier than erecting them, needing committed enforcement and companies to follow regulations.
– Viet Nam News
Uber Vietnam allowed to pilot e-cab service
The Ministry of Transport has approved Uber Vietnam’s pilot project on applying technology in the management and connection of under-contract passenger transportation.
– Vietnam Times
Solutions sought to develop herbal medicinal materials
Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc has urged ministries, sectors and localities to seek measures to promote traditional herbal medicines, to take advantage of the country’s potential in the field.
– Viet Nam News
Businesses more aware of CSR: Vietnam Report
A survey by Vietnam Report JSC revealed today that leading firms in Việt Nam are more aware of the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) for their growth and prosperity.
– Viet Nam News
HCM City makes plans to improve PCI ranking
HCM City officials held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss what steps to take to improve the city’s Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI), which dipped last year.
– Viet Nam News
Introducing The AEC News Today Mobile App
See full details, including our AEC News Today Mobile App Privacy Statement here: Stay up to Date With The AEC News Today Mobile App
Download the AEC News Today mobile app from Google play or the App stores by clicking the icons below.
Asean Morning News is the most comprehensive selection of reports on what you need to know from around the Asean Economic Community (AEC) published. All articles are hand curated by the team at AEC News Today. It is published M-F by AEC News Today: Governance, not government; policies not politics.