#Asean Morning News For April 27, 2017

Asean Morning News

Compiled by AEC News Today @aecnewstoday

Challenges faced by Asian capital markets present unique opportunities
The economies of South and Southeast Asia are all in their own unique stages of development, and each capital market faces a different set of challenges. A common theme, however, is that new business opportunities are cropping up across the region.
– Nikkei Asian Review

Asean summit to ease up on Beijing’s South China Sea policy
Southeast Asian nations plan to adopt a softer than usual tone about South China Sea disputes at a leaders’ summit on Saturday in Manila, and exclude references to militarisation or island-building, according to a draft of the chairman’s statement.
– Bangkok Post/ Reuters

Asean prioritises RCEP as US rethinks policy
Southeast Asian countries will prioritise creating an Asia-focused trade pact this year that includes China, India and Japan, while trade issues with the United States will be put on the back burner, the Philippine trade minister said.
– Bangkok Post

15th edition of awards recognises 60 businesses for their ethical practices
FOR the 15th year running, worthy businesses were honoured for their ethical practices at the Asia Pacific International Honesty Enterprise – Keris Award 2017.
– The Star Online

Exclusive: Industry builder REAPRA targets to invest $46m in SE Asia this year
Active business builder REAPRA Pte Ltd targets to invest up to $46.6 million (S$65 million) more in Southeast Asia this year and plans to become a $2-billion industry builder company in the next 10 years, said founder and CEO Shuhei Morofuji, and director CFO Takeo Matsuda in an interaction with DEALSTREETASIA.
— Deal Street Asia

Thailand’s Muslim-friendly travel application now available in Arabic and Bahasa Indonesia
A special travel application launched by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to help Muslim travellers in Thailand has been enhanced with translations into Arabic and Bahasa Indonesia. Along with the original Thai and English; this means the application is now available in four languages.
– Travel Daily News

Govt probing dumping of chemicals from Indonesia, Thailand, Saudi, Malaysia
The government has initiated a probe on the alleged dumping of a chemical used in pharmaceutical and agriculture sector from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
– The Hindustan Times

BCPG to invest in I’nesia geothermal power
RENEWABLE-POWER company BCPG plans to invest in geothermal power business in Indonesia through acquisition of equity in Singapore-based Star Energy Group Holdings, with total power production capacity equivalent to 995 megawatts.
– The Nation

Vietnamese consumers the most socially-conscious in Asia-Pacific
Vietnamese consumers are the most socially-conscious in Asia-Pacific according to the Corporate Sustainability Report from Nielsen released on April 26.
— VIETNAMNET Bridge

ASEAN Continues To Progress As Long As Members Maintain Ties, Cooperation – Najib
ASEAN will continue to progress and succeed as long as its members maintain close ties and cooperation, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
– Malaysian Digest

Asean security measures forgot portable toilets
In the heat of security and logistical preparations for the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit, they apparently forgot one thing: portalets.
– The Nation

ASEAN rice reserve available during emergencies
The Philippines and other member countries of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) may now buy rice from the reserve in case of emergency and natural calamities.
– Philippine Daily Inquirer / Philippine News Agency

Asean can cut poverty as world’s food bowl
ASEAN should leverage its well-deserved reputation of being the “food bowl of the world” to cut poverty incidence in the region and wipe out hunger, according to analysts.
– Business Mirror

Asean maps out region’s economic growth
IT was during the 27th Summit of the Asean in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in November 2015, that the “Asean Community Vision 2025” was signed and endorsed by the leaders of the region.
– Business Mirror

Immunization can save a million and a half more lives in WHO’s Western Pacific Region
Despite the proven effectiveness of vaccines and the tens of millions of lives they have saved, an estimated 400 000 people die needlessly every year in the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Western Pacific Region from diseases that vaccines could prevent.
– ReliefWeb

Ezyhaul takes ‘Uber model’ to meet shippers’ needs
THREE friends from three countries have come together to create an “Uber-like technology platform’’ that can match the needs of shippers with transport companies in Malaysia and Singapore.
– The Nation

Asean statement to go easy on China
While Southeast Asian leaders are expected to express “serious concern” over recent developments in the South China Sea during their summit on Saturday, they are likely to avoid directly criticizing China’s “escalation of activities” including its building of island fortresses in disputed waters.
— The Philippine Star

ASEAN-Canada Ties in the Spotlight With Defense Minister’s Malaysia Visit
Harjit Singh Sajjan just concluded the first ever trip by a Canadian defense minister Malaysia this week in the 60-year history of the bilateral relationship. His visit is testament to both Canada’s growing involvement in Southeast Asia as well as the importance it attaches to the its ties with Malaysia and in the defense realm in particular.
— The Diplomat

NFA to lead discussion on ASEAN food security situation
State-run grains agency National Food Authority (NFA) is now the forefront of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) discussion on the current food situation in the region, with a specific focus on the region’s rice reserve mechanism.
— Manila Bulletin

Tech start-ups need help in ASEAN says Silicon Valley accelerator
Traditional funding institutions in the Philippines and ASEAN need to better understand technology start-ups, according to a businessman who helps small technology companies secure funding and grow.
— ABS-CBN

China initiative ‘could bridge Asean infrastructure gap’
China’s One Belt, One Road initiative could not only boost infrastructure throughout South-east Asia, but also create more widespread benefits across multiple industries, according to participants at an HSBC discussion yesterday.
— The Straits Times

Kaspersky Labs joins Interpol for cybercrime operation involving ASEAN countries
Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab has joined the world’s largest police organization Interpol in a cybercrime operation involving public and private sectors across the ASEAN region, the company said on Tuesday. So far, Kaspersky Lab has identified nearly 9,000 botnet command and control servers and hundreds of compromised websites, including government portals.
— BGR India

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Cambodia Morning News

Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat

E-commerce slowed by government: report
The key ingredients for e-commerce adoption are in place in Cambodia but many specific measures need to be addressed by both the private and public sector before the Kingdom can tap into the huge opportunities offered by a digital economy, according to a new report released by a UN agency yesterday.
— The Phnom Penh Post

Investment down by $1B
Local and foreign investment in the Kingdom declined by nearly $1 billion last year, with the bulk of losses coming from fewer infrastructure and agriculture projects, while the manufacturing and tourism sectors continued to post massive gains, according to the Council for the Development of Cambodia’s (CDC) annual report published yesterday.
— The Phnom Penh Post

Lack of Incentives Leaves Low-Carbon Energy in Question
Cambodia’s possible pursuit of lower carbon-emitting energy sources appears to have waned after government officials this week cited a lack of incentives and higher-priority energy goals, a stance that a researcher and an activist respectively said was “short-sighted’ and the “wrong decision.”
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Over 400 illegals from Cambodia nabbed in Wang Nam Yen district
Over 400 illegal immigrants from Cambodia believed to be duped with false job opportunities in Thailand have been rounded up near the Thai-Cambodian border in Wang Namyen district of Sa Kaew province.
– Thai PBS

ADB gives Kingdom $9.2M loan for solar farm
The Asia Development Bank (ADB) announced yesterday that it will provide a $9.2 million loan to Singapore-based energy provider Sunseap Group for the construction of Cambodia’s first large-scale solar farm.
— The Phnom Penh Post

Kem Sokha Plans US Trip for Fundraising, Meeting With Officials
CNRP President Kem Sokha is headed tomorrow to the U.S., where he will meet key officials in the administration of President Donald Trump and raise funds and awareness among Cambodians in cities across the country.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Asylum seekers forcibly returned as bridge built between Vietnam and Cambodia
AS Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen praised his country’s relationship with Vietnam after the construction of a new bridge to boost trade this week, Vietnamese refugees claim they were forcibly returned from Cambodia by the United Nations.
— Asian Correspondent

The Hidden Cost of Cambodia Downgrading US Military Ties
There are real lives being affected by Phnom Penh’s decision to suspend the Seabees program.
— The Diplomat

US plugs value of stronger IP protection
Safeguarding intellectual property rights plays an important role in drawing foreign investment to Cambodia, but enforcement remains weak, US Embassy officials said yesterday on the occasion of the World Intellectual Property Day.
— The Phnom Penh Post

Judge to Extend Detention of Cambodia’s Adhoc 5
A judge yesterday told court officials that he would further extend the detention of four senior staffers of rights group Adhoc and an election official who already have been jailed for nearly a year without trial, in a
case that has drawn international criticism from human rights defenders.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Video From Hun Sen’s Office Warns of War Similar to Syria
CNRP rule would send Cambodia into a spiral of war and ruin similar to what has happened in Syria, according to a video released on Wednesday by the Council of Ministers and refuted by the opposition.
— The Cambodia Daily (paywall)

Cambodia, El Salvador, Egypt Human Rights Defenders Are Martin Ennals Award Finalists
Ten of the world’s leading human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have chosen three human rights defenders from Cambodia, El Salvador and Egypt as this year’s finalists for the prestigious Martin Ennals Award.
— VOA

Ancient Angkorian Jewelry Set Recovered From UK Art Dealership
A set of ancient Angkorian gold jewelry that found its way to a London art dealership will be returned to Cambodia after the government intervened to stop a planned sale.
— VOA

Teen’s New Year Electrocution Brings Safety Concerns to the Fore
The fatal electrocution of a teenager in Siem Reap during Khmer New Year has once again raised concerns over safety at crowded public events in the kingdom.
— VOA

Interview: ‘Our Family Has Not Received Justice Yet’ for Chut Wutty’s Murder
Environmentalist Chut Wutty of Cambodia’s Natural Resources Conservation Group was investigating illicit logging operations in the Mondul Seima district of southern Cambodia’s Koh Kong province when he was fatally shot on April 26, 2012.
— Radio Free Asia

Cambodia wants US deportation deal renegotiated
Cambodia on Tuesday said it will renegotiate a deal with Washington where convicted criminals with Cambodian heritage are deported to the Southeast Asian nation, retracting an earlier statement that the deportations had been suspended.
— The Nation

Indonesia Morning News

Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee

Indosat Eyes Rp 3t From Bond Sale in May to Repay Debt, Expand Network
Indosat, Indonesia’s second-largest telecommunications operator, plans to raise Rp 3 trillion ($226 million) from a bond sale next month to repay debt, expand its mobile network and pay frequency spectrum usage fees to the government.
— Jakarta Globe

Indonesia Aims for 5.6 Percent Economic Growth in 2018
Indonesia is aiming for 5.6 percent economic growth in 2018. The government will turn its focus to six sectors to achieve the target. “[There are] six sectors, namely processing industry, particularly non-oil and gas, agriculture, trade, information and communication, construction, and financial services,” the National Development Planning Minister Soemantri Brodjonegoro said yesterday.
— Tempo.co

Indonesian construction firm Totalindo taps IPO route to raise $120m
Indonesia-based construction firm Totalindo Eka Persada is slated to raise Rp 1.5 trillion ($120 million) from a planned initial public offering (IPO) soon, in what could be the country’s largest issue this year.
— Deal Street Asia

SCG staking out Indonesia petrochemical complex
Siam Cement Group (SCG), the industrial conglomerate, is setting its sights on developing a petrochemical complex in Indonesia.
— Bangkok Post

Three jailed, fined for smuggling 700 birds to Indonesia
Two Indonesians and a local were sentenced to a year in jail and fined RM10,000 each for smuggling 700 White-Rumped Sharma (Burung Murai) into Indonesia.
— The Borneo Post

Ahok to Receive Verdict on May 9: Judge
North Jakarta District Court judges have scheduled Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama to receive his verdict on his long-running blasphemy case — in which the charges have been downgraded to publicly expressing feelings of hostility, hatred or contempt against one or more population groups — on May 9.
— Jakarta Globe

Police Urge Implementation of Nationwide CCTV Network
National Police spokesman Insp. Gen. Boy Rafli Amar has called for a nationwide implementation of an integrated network of Closed Circuit Television system, or CCTV, to be manned at its headquarters in Jakarta.
— Jakarta Globe

Sandiaga to provide entrepreneurship program for thugs
Jakarta deputy governor-elect Sandiaga Uno said he plans to reach out to thugs in Kalijodo park, North Jakarta, who reportedly illegally ask for parking fees from visitors, to participate in his signature entrepreneurship “OK OCE” program, in hopes of giving them a chance to engage in positive activities.
— The Jakarta Post

Malaysia, Indonesia to counter EU decision to ban palm oil-based biofuel
Malaysia and Indonesia will send a joint mission to Europe next month to counter the European Union (EU) resolution which proposed to curb the use of oil palm-based biofuel by 2020.
— The Star Online

Powerphase to Implement Turbophase Dry Air Injection in Indonesia
Powerphase signed a memorandum of understanding with PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara, the state power company of Indonesia, on a phased implementation of the Turbophase Dry Air Injection system. The deployment will begin with a feasibility study at two 50 MW projects, followed by full implementation of 2 GW of additional power at existing PLN assets over the next two years.
— Power Engineering Magazine

BCPG plans Bt12-bn investment in geothermal energy in Indonesia
BCPG plans to invest in the geothermal power business in Indonesia through equity acquisition in Star Energy Group Holdings, which is engaged in geothermal power generation and steam production, with an equivalent total power production capacity of 995 megawatts.
— The Nation

Indonesia‘s Automotive Production Market Reaches 1.1 Million Units
The country has become the automotive investment destination, with the national production target set at some 2.5 million units in 2020, Indonesian Minister of Industry Airlangga Hartarto stated.
— Netral English

Minimum Wage 2017 Industrial Sector Jakarta Determined
Recently, Jakarta Governor’s Regulation no. 20 of 2017 regarding the Minimum Wages for the Industrial Sector (Regulation 2017) was issued. The minimum wages for the industrial sector are set on annual basis. Regulation 2017, replaces and repeals Governor Regulation no. 8 of 2016 (Old Regulation). In this column we discuss the new wages set by the Regulation 2017 for each specific industrial sector in Jakarta.
— Indonesia Investments

Solid Corporate Earnings of Indonesia’s Large Cap Stocks in Q1-2017
A number of Indonesian big cap stocks have already released their first quarter 2017 corporate earnings. Most of them show good results and therefore the majority of analysts agree that full-year 2017 corporate earnings of Indonesian companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange should, generally, be good, especially considering economic growth of Indonesia is expected to accelerate further in the remainder of the year. However, some stocks have become expensive particularly after the recent strong performance of Indonesian stocks.
— Indonesia Investments

KOMINFO Indonesia providing ICT infrastructure and support for Ultra-Micro Financing programme to enhance financial inclusion
The Ministry of Communications and Informatics in Indonesia (KOMINFO), the Government Investment Unit of Indonesia (Pusat Investasi Pemerintah or PIP; a sovereign wealth fund managed by the Ministry of Finance), BP3TI (Central Provider and Financing Manager of Telecommunication and Informatics or Balai Penyedia dan Pengelola Pembiayaan Telekomunikasi dan Informatika; an implementing agency under Kominfo) are collaborating to enhance access to ultra-micro financing (pembiayaan Ultra Mikro or UMI) across the country.
— Open Gov

Eminent Indonesian Quran reciter passes away live on air
Prominent Indonesian Quran reciter Sheikh Ja’far Abdulrahman has passed away while reciting verses from Islam’s most revered book during an official ceremony.
— Press TV

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Lao PDR Morning News

Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat

Major deals signed as Vietnam PM visits
Laos and Vietnam have inked deals worth multi-millions of US dollars during a two-day official visit by Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc from April 26-27 that concludes today.
— Vientiane Times

Opportunities in Laos for Vietnamese companies
The Vietnam Trade Fair – Laos in 2017 will be held from June 29 to July 3 in Vientiane, capital of Laos, as part of the celebration of the 55 th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and the 40 th of the Treaty Friendship and cooperation Vietnam -Laos.
— The Vietnam Courier

KOICA pledges US$5m for skill development in Laos
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) will provide grant aid of over 40 billion kip (US$ 5 million) to facilitate skills development in Laos.
— Vientiane Times

Lao Exports Increase Last Year and Get Trade Surplus
The country’s exports to neighboring countries last year reached over US$4.1 billion. The Minister of Planning and Investment, Mr Souphanh Keomixay, made a statement at the 3rd Ordinary Session of the National Assembly on April 25.
— Lao News Agency

Ministry Committed to Eradicating Malaria by 2020
The Ministry of Public Health has set an ambitious plan to reduce the number of malaria infections and deaths over years to come.
— Lao News Agency

Laos to Raise Standards with First National Food Safety Laboratory
As of this week, Laos has launched its first official National Food Safety Laboratory in Vientiane.
— The Laotian Times

Laos Gains Access to Seaport in Vietnam
A private-state joint company has been given permission by the cabinet to develop the Vung Ang seaport project following Vietnam’s consent for Laos to utilize its’ seaport in Ha Tinh province.
— The Laotian Times

Is Laos’ New Leader Really a Reformer?
Thongloun Sisoulith is trying his best to appear modest. He never expected to become Prime Minister of Laos, he says, speaking to a Thai journalist some months ago, and was unprepared when the Central Committee elected him to the position at the last Party Congress, in January 2016.
— The Diplomat

Laos registers trade surplus in first quarter
Laos has registered a US$95 million trade surplus in the first quarter of 2017 following an historic trade surplus over the 2015-2016 fiscal year, the government told the National Assembly this week.
— Vientiane Times

Tobacco control needs further improvement: Minister
Laos needs to improve tobacco control so the nation can reduce the number of deaths from smoking-related illnesses, according to a leading official.
— Vientiane Times

6th European Food Festival to be Held in Vientiane
The 6th European Food Festival will be held in the parking area of the National Cultural Hall in Vientiane Capital on May 6.
— Lao News Agency

Job Fair to Help Businesses Recruit Graduates
The 6th Job & Education Fair has been scheduled to take place on May 19 from 8:00-16:00 at the National University of Laos’ Faculty of Engineering in Vientiane to help businesses recruit newcomers to pursue their business growth.
— Lao News Agency

WWF continues to promote sustainable aquatic development in Laos
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in Laos has agreed to launch the second phase of a project promoting the management and sustainable use of fisheries and aquatic natural resources in Siphandone, known as “the four thousand islands” in English.
— Xinhua

Lao Government Should Grant Concession Leases Based on Investment: Former Official
The Lao government must grant land leases based on type of investment, according to a former official, who said a recently amended law that limits leases to 50 years would do little to curb the ill effects of gambling at
concessions where casinos are located.
— Radio Free Asia

Prime Minister and spouse begin Laos visit
This is the first official visit to Laos since Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc took office and it is an important diplomatic event to herald the Vietnam-Laos Friendship and Solidarity Year 2017.
— VIETNAMNET Bridge

Chinese company to build modern agricultural industrial park in Laos
Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China’s Xuanye (Lao) Co., Ltd/AVIC International Beijing Co., Ltd on a modern agricultural industrial park project in Laos.
— ecns

Malaysia Morning News

Compiled by Vat Vin @vin_vat

AmBank: Malaysian bonds to rally after selldown
Malaysia’s sovereign bonds will rally in the next three months, spurred by demand from local insurers and pension funds, and an accommodative interest-rate policy, according to the nation’s top debt arranger.
— The Star Online

TM to complete broadband speed upgrades by year-end
Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) aims to complete broadband speed upgrades by year-end in line with the government’s Budget 2017 mandate to double broadband speeds.
— The Star Online

TM banking on Webe wireless service take-up to skyrocket in 2017
Telekom Malaysia Bhd is planning to broaden the appeal of its wireless service, Webe with the development of additional packages for the government and entrerprises segments in coming months.
— New Straits Times

Moody’s: Stable outlook for Msian banking system for next 18 months
The outlook for Malaysia’s banking system will remain stable over the next 18 months, says Moody’s Investors Service.
— New Straits Times

1MDB-IPIC deal not lessening risks to Malaysia — Moody’s
Uncertainties over how government strategic investment fund 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) will settle its bond payment obligations in its settlement of a debt dispute with Abu Dhabi’s International Petroleum Investment Co (IPIC) will still pose a lingering risk to Malaysia, said Moody’s Investors Service yesterday.
— The Edge Markets

PetChem plans RM4bil capex
Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd (PetChem) expects to spend RM4bil in capital expenditure (capex) for the year, with the bulk of the funds to be channelled to its investments in the Pengerang Integrated Complex.
— The Star Online

Ringgit opens lower against US dollar
The ringgit opened lower against the US dollar this morning as the greenback held steady against other currencies after the announcement of US tax reforms yesterday.
— New Straits Times

RTD targets RM4b revenue collection this year
The Road Transport Department (RTD) targeted to collect RM4 billion in revenue this year for all the services offered in accordance with key performance indicators (KPI) set at five per cent increase (of collection) every year.
— New Straits Times

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia reports 11% sales growth
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia reported a 11% sales growth by delivering 2945 units to customers.
— Marketing Interactive

Oversight body necessary for patient data collection, government told
Concerned about ethical and legal implications related to patient confidentiality, a Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) member called for statutory oversight of the Health Ministry’s (MOH) patient health records system.
— Malay Mail Online

Internet-related rapes involving minors rose 300pc in five years
Rape cases involving children and the use of the Internet increased fourfold between 2010 and 2015, a survey has revealed.
— Malay Mail Online

Yinson wins 10-year RM4.4bil contract from Talisman Vietnam
Oil and gas services provider Yinson Holdings Bhd has been awarded a RM4.4bil Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) contract from Talisman Vietnam BV.
— The Star Online

Malaysia schoolboy ‘beaten by warden’ dies in hospital
A Malaysian schoolboy whose legs were amputated after allegedly being beaten by a staff member has died in hospital, local media report.
— BBC

Malaysians’ response to big China presence shows concerns
Many colleagues were surprised when a Hong Kong-based newspaper last month claimed that mainland Chinese are migrating to Malaysia “by the thousands”. The report stated that last year alone, more than 1,000 had utilised the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme to migrate there.
— The Straits Times

What’s happening to us Malaysians?
As a young child growing up in an emerging town in Perak, I recall being surrounded by a supportive, close-knit and value-oriented community. Easy-going conversations with fellow Kamparians sparked bright moments, as smiles were carved all around.
— Free Malaysia Today

Private school system needs relook, say groups
The authorities must look into regulating schools which are not registered to prevent a repeat of a case similar to that of Mohamad Thaqif Amin Mohd Gaddafi.
— Malay Mail Online

Dewan Negara approves amendments to Bankruptcy Act
The Bankruptcy (Amendment) Bill 2016 which was approved in the Dewan Rakyat on March 29, which among others, provide bankruptcy protection to social guarantors, was passed in Dewan Negara today.
— Malay Mail Online

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Myanmar Morning News

Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee

Telecom operator Ooredoo prepares to launch mobile money services in Myanmar
Ooredoo, one of the three telecom providers in Myanmar, is gearing up to launch mobile money services in the country.
— Deal Street Asia

Yangon Power Company Readies Budget for System Improvements
The Yangon Electricity Supply Corp (YESC) will spend Ks 17,618.473 million on power distribution in fiscal 2017-18.
— Consult-Myanmar

Yangon MP targets corruption
Government staff in Yangon Region are involved in the misuse of public finances, according to regional MP Than Naing Oo, representing Pabedan constituency no.1.
— Eleven

Myanmar sees gains in rice, corn production
Rice and corn production in Myanmar is expected to increase in the 2016-17 marketing year, while production of wheat is forecast to fall, according to an April 20 report from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
— World Grain

Kian Joo prioritizes Myanmar for foreign expansion
Kian Joo Can Factory Bhd will focus its attention on firming its Myanmar foothold, where it has begun building the two manufacturing plants, before tapping to different foreign markets, says Ooi Teik Huat, its group chief financial officer. The manufacturing plants are situated in the Thilawa Special Economic Zone. The two plants are for Kian Joo’s Can production and subsidiary Box-Pak Bhd’s making corrugated containers.
— New Delhi Times

AccorHotels expands base in Myanmar, to open 5 new hotels by 2019
International hotel chain operator AccorHotels plans to open five new properties by 2019 in Myanmar as part of its strategy to expand its base, said a top company executive.
– The Economic Times

Indian Government Considering Afghanistan, Myanmar’s Proposal to Boost Pharma Exports
India is examining a proposal from Afghanistan to help set up a manufacturing base for pharmaceutical products, along with another proposal from Myanmarto supply generic drugs, as part of its efforts to shore up declining exports.
— Consult-Myanmar

Myanmar’s education authorities encourage students for ASEAN scholarship applications
Myanmar’s education authorities have encouraged outstanding high-school students to apply for ASEAN scholarship to further study in Singapore, a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Xinhua reported on 25 April.
– Mizzima

Mosque Imam in Rathedaung Charged with Causing Fire by Negligence
Myanmar’s authorities charged an Imam (Islamic Prayer Leader) with causing fire on a mosque through negligence in Rathedaung Township on Wednesday (Apr 26), according to reliable sources.
— Rohingya Vision

Monetary help for pregnant women, Rakhine State given high priority
The Union government announced that it will further expand care for its people by providing monetary assistance to pregnant women, with the people of Rakhine State one of the first states to receive this money.
— Global New Light Of Myanmar

Kachin govt to restore jade land with private company
The Kachin State government is cooperating with a private company to repair the jade-rich Hpakant and Lonekhin townships, sources say.
— Eleven

Yangon Region govt to invest Ks 64 billion in squatter housing
Housing projects for squatters around the Yangon area will be carried out at the end of April and the Yangon Region government will invest Ks 64 billion on these projects according to Yangon Chief Minister Phyo Min Thein.
— Eleven

Myanmar Police Investigate Country’s First Ever Homemade Porn Flick
Police in Myanmar are looking into the producers of a pornographic movie, said to be the first ever commercially produced in Myanmar.
— Sputnik International

MPs voice discontent on YBS
A total of 26 MPs supported Wai Phyo Han’s proposal concerning the Yangon Bus Service (YBS) in parliament on April 24.
— Myanmar Times

Amnesty calls on authorities to take immediate action over threats against Sittwe-based journalist
Amnesty International has launched a campaign in support of journalist Nay Min Aung, who has been receiving death threats for his reporting on the Arakan Army (AA).
— Coconuts Yangon

Magwe Chief Justice: Misuse of Public Funds Could Finish USDP
The chief justice of Magwe Division said the former ruling Union Solidarity and Development Party’s (USDP) spending of a public fund was illegal and could lead to the party’s cessation.
— The Irrawaddy

Customs donates a ship to Myanmar to combat narcotics trade
The Australian Border Force (ABF) gifted a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) to the Myanmar Police Force (MPF) to assist in disrupting organised crime groups smuggling illicit narcotics on the Yangon River and delta regions.
— Transport and Logistics News

Resolve Rohingya crisis bilaterally
China, which has strong relations with both Myanmar and Bangladesh, has asked Bangladesh to resolve the current diplomatic tension with Myanmar over Rohingya crisis bilaterally.
— The Daily Star

Philippines Morning News

Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee

Manila set to confiscate properties of 89,000 delinquent tax payers
Thousands of real properties in Manila are set to be confiscated by the local government and auctioned off if their owners fail to pay their taxes until June.
— Inquirer.net

Philippines: Phinma to divest stake in Fuld US for $3.6m
Phinma Corp, a listed holding firm in the Philippines, is divesting its shares in global consulting firm Fuld and Co Inc (Fuld US) for over $3.6 million.
— Deal Street Asia

San Miguel sets P554-billion toll road expansion
SAN MIGUEL Corp. (SMC) is embarking on a P554-billion expansion of toll roads under its joint venture with state-run Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC), with the development of these infrastructure projects set to start as early as next year.
— BusinessWorld Online

PHL expects conclusion of 3 agreements, declarations during ASEAN chairmanship
The Philippines is optimistic that two to three high-level agreements or declarations, including the framework for a code of conduct in the West Philippine Sea (WPS)/South China Sea, will be reached during its ASEAN chairmanship this year.
— Philippines News Agency

BFAR, NBI halt sale of corals in Pasay City
The joint team of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) stopped the illegal sale of assorted corals and other prohibited species in Cartimar, Pasay City.
— Business Mirror

Philippines pins hopes on diaspora as US protectionism threatens
STRONG DEMAND for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East should keep remittances flowing and help soften a possible blow from protectionist policies in the United States, a senior central bank official said.
— BusinessWorld Online

Metrobank sees robust commercial loan growth on gov’t infrastructure thrust
TY-LED Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) is bullish on the growth of its commercial loans for 2017, with its lending activities expected to get a boost from the government’s aggressive infrastructure spending.
— BusinessWorld Online

Free tuition only for smart poor students
Poor but “academically able” college students, especially those under the student financial assistance programs (Stufaps) and whose households are included in the conditional cash transfer program, will enjoy tuition-free schooling this year, according to the free college education policy.
— Inquirer.net

Q1 govt budget back to deficit after March slide
THE national government’s budget deficit came close to tripling in March from the preceding month as expenditure increased by twice the speed of growth in revenue collections, pulling the first-quarter position back into negative territory.
— The Manila Times

SM Investments shakes up management, prepares 3rd generation
Harley Sy, 57, handed on Wednesday, April 26, the chief executive role of SM Investments Corporation (SMIC) to Frederic DyBuncio, leaving the group’s senior management team without a member of the Sy family and preparing the 3rd generation to lead in the “near future.”
— Rappler

DA OKs import of 7M kilos of pork to stabilize market prices
Following the continued tight supply of pork, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has allowed the private sector to import approximately seven million kilograms of pork.
— The Philippine Star

SMC, PNCC ink P554-B deal for Skyway expansion
The infrastructure arm of San Miguel Corp. (SMC) and state-run Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC) have signed an agreement to expand the Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 and 4 and other projects for P554 billion.
— The Philippine Star

Philippines set to have first subway system
The Philippines is set to have its first subway system as part of a 3.6 trillion peso (S$100 billion) three-year development programme that President Rodrigo Duterte hopes will kick off a “golden age of infrastructure”.
— The Straits Times

Philippines government agency to force online gambling firms out of Manila
In the Philippines, the government agency tasked with accrediting buildings for the nation’s numerous special economic zones has reportedly revealed that it wants to stop online gambling operators and their ancillaries from setting up shop in its certified Manila locations.
— World Casino Directory

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Singapore Morning News

Compiled by Stella-maris Ewudolu @Estee

New S$1 billion innovation fund to drive enterprise growth
The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (Ipos) and home-based private equity firm Makara Capital launched a S$1 billion fund on Wednesday (April 26), with aims to invest in companies with strong intellectual property focus, to help them expand into global markets after their initial start-up phase.
— Today Online

International tourists spend most in Singapore among APAC destinations in 2016: Report
International tourists spent the most in Singapore among Asia Pacific destinations last year, coming in ahead of other hotspots such as Bangkok and Tokyo, according to the latest findings from Mastercard released on Wednesday (Apr 26).
— Channel NewsAsia

Singapore ranked world’s top maritime capital, but another city is quickly on the ascent
Singapore has emerged as the world’s top maritime capital in a report launched Wednesday, by Norwegian consulting firm Menon Economics.
— CNBC

Manufacturing output expands in March
Manufacturing output rose 10.2 per cent last month, beating economists’ expectations of a slower pace of expansion after February’s double-digit growth.
— Today Online

Commercial vehicles’ COE prices lowest in 6 years
Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices for commercial vehicles tumbled to their lowest in almost six years at the wrap of the latest bidding exercise on Wednesday (April 26), the last before a bumper supply of COEs for this category of vehicles kicks in next month.
— Today Online

Explosive electronics demand expected to propel Q1 GDP growth
SUSTAINED strong demand for electronics in the region has led to a faster-than-expected expansion in Singapore’s manufacturing output – and potentially its economy.
— The Business Times

China coal miner vying for Singapore mobile carrier M1
A coal producer based in China’s Shanxi province and China Broadband Capital are among bidders for US$1.4 billion Singapore wireless carrier M1 Ltd, according to people with knowledge of the matter.
— The Business Times

TransferWise sets up Asia-Pac hub in Singapore
TRANSFERWISE, a remittance start-up valued at more than US$1 billion, on Thursday said Singapore will be its Asia-Pacific hub, with the firm already having offices in Sydney and Tokyo. The company expects to have 30 people in Singapore by the end of 2017.
— The Business Times

TransferWise Expands Money Remittance Service to Singapore
TransferWise Ltd., the London-based startup backed by investors including Peter Thiel’s Valar Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz, is bringing its international money transfer service to Singapore, aiming to shake up banks’ dominance of the market.
— Bloomberg

Immersive ‘Downton Abbey’ Exhibition Tour to Begin in Singapore
NBCUniversal International Studios and Imagine Exhibitions announced Wednesday the June 17 launch of “Downton Abbey: The Exhibition” at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
— Variety

Singapore invests in regional talent development
The Singaporean government has announced two initiatives to fund internships for its students in Southeast Asia and India, in a drive to develop talent to fuel the growth of Singaporean businesses in the region.
— The PIE News

New troop to shore up public order operations
If another riot were to break out here, the police would be better equipped to handle it. This is because of the new police national servicemen Public Order (PNSmen PO) Troop
– The New paper

Catalist index up 16% since January
At first glance, it is puzzling to think that a China-based dental services firm, a large-scale concert organiser and a local coffee shop chain would have anything in common.
— The New Paper

Probability of getting in a car accident in Singapore
Singapore is known for its law abiding citizens and high safety standards. But are Singaporeans also safe drivers? How safe is it to drive in Singapore, and how does driving in Singapore compare with other countries? The ValuePenguin team took a look at official traffic accident statistics from Singapore and other countries around the world to answer this question.
– TOC

Made-in-Singapore VR whisky tasting experience to tour US
A Singapore-based independent studio’s virtual reality whisky-tasting is gearing up to tour the United States following a successful launch in Asia last year.
– Mumbrella Asia

Raffles Medical Group’s staff cost falls 1% in Q1
Whilst Raffles Medical Group saw a drop in revenue for Q1, down 1.7% to $114.9m, it did manage its cost well, pushing net profit up 0.1% to $15.5m
– Singapore Business Review

Why CapitaLand needs to be more aggressive in replenishing its land banks
CapitaLand is now on the prowl for opportunities across Singapore, China, and Vietnam, as it recorded strong residential sales in the said areas.
– Singapore Business Review

Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust’s Latest Earnings: DPU Rises 2.3%
Yesterday, Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust (SGX: T82U) released its 2017 first quarter earnings report. The reporting period was from 1 January 2017 to 31 March 2017.
– The Motley Fool

Singapore hotels a bane for CDL Hospitality Trust
Whilst CDL Hospitality Trust (CDHLT) posted a healthy net property income for the past quarter, up 6.4% to $35.9m, it has continually faced challenges with its Singapore portfolio. –
– Singapore Business Review

First batch of public order police to be formed by Sept next year
The inaugural batch of public order troops comprising police national servicemen will be formed by September next year, and they will be fully rolled out by 2023, the police announced on Wednesday (April 26).
– Today Online

Singapore Banks’ Hong Kong Envy
Stable oil prices are fine, and a recovery in the Baltic Dry Index can’t hurt. But seriously, how long can Singapore’s banks remain hostages of the island’s shipping and offshore marine services industry?
– Bloomberg Gadfly

According to Anthony Bourdain, Changi Airport’s secret staff canteens have the best airport food
We’ve all heard TV host/food connoisseur Anthony Bourdain express his disgust for airplane food — which is quite a big deal, coming from the man who’s spent years travelling across the globe to try all kinds of weird and wonderful cuisines. But in a recent interview with The New York Times, the host of CNN‘s Parts Unknown — who lives out more than 200 days on the road each year — revealed that he’s “tragically familiar with the offerings at just about every airport in the world.”
– Coconuts Singapore

Thailand Morning News

Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo_journ

Thailand Broadens Powers of Internet Censors
Alphabet Inc.’s YouTube, Facebook Inc. and other internet companies will face stricter content limits in Thailand next month when a law that curbs criticism of the monarchy and government takes effect.
– Bloomberg BNA

Producers, importers and distributors of internet TV boxes must get permits
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission has issued an announcement requiring producers, importers and distributers of Internet TV boxes to get permits from the broadcasting regulator or face two-year imprisonment and/or a maximum fine of two million baht.
– Thai PBS

Thailand ready to answer Trump probe
Thailand is ready to submit details on factors causing its trade surplus with the US, as requested by an executive order from the White House.
– Bangkok Post

Experts push for inquisitorial system of justice
Experts at a seminar on constitutional procedure in the organic law related to the Constitutional Court expressed the need to emphasise on the inquisitorial system over the adversarial legal system as well as allow the public to bring constitutional dispute cases to the Court.
– The Nation

Car shipment woes linger in March
Thailand’s car exports continued to decline in March despite reaching their highest volume in more than six months, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
– Bangkok Post

Land lease protest starts to heat up
Activists from the Network of Special Economic Zone Watch pledged Wednesday to petition the Administrative Court to interpret whether the eastern special economic development zone bill has been drafted correctly, if the government refuses to consider hosting a public hearing on it.
– Bangkok Post

Live and death: Facebook sorely needs a reality check about video
It’s barely a week since Facebook streamed the murder of 74-year-old grandfather Robert Godwin and the social network is reeling from another tragedy: a father in Phuket, Thailand, used Facebook Live to broadcast him killing his 11-month-old daughter before killing himself. Two harrowing clips of the incident were accessible to users on his Facebook profile for about 24 hours and were together viewed almost 400,000 times.
– The Guardian

ACT demands ‘secret’ sub buy details
Anti-corruption advocates have demanded the government and Royal Thai Navy disclose information on its “secret” submarine purchase to ensure the transparency of the deal.
– Bangkok Post

TDRI: Thais more aware of corruption problem
The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has indicated higher awareness of corruption among Thai people while suggesting that the government revise related laws for more efficiency.
– NNT

Not good enough, Ghosn tells Nissan
NISSAN has done poorly in Thailand and will need to fill in unused capacity at its assembly plants here, said Carlos Ghosn.
– The Nation

Junta to pass bill allowing police to intercept communications
The junta has given the green light to a new version of the Criminal Procedure Code that allows police to intercept communications.
– Prachatai English

BMTA expects to receive the first lot of 50 electric vehicles in December
Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is expected to wrap up the result of the second round of public forum regarding the acquisition of electric vehicles this week before going ahead with the holding of an auction to procure a fleet of 200 electric vehicles to replace the ageing buses.
– Thai PBS

Access to information very important for the people of Thailand: #RadioAsia2017
he minister attached to the PM’s office, Ormsin Chivapruck welcomed delegates on behalf of the Thai Prime Minister at the opening ceremony of Radio Asia in Bangkok.
– Asia Radio Today

PM opens WTTC 2017 Global Summit
The Thai Prime Minister has presided over the opening ceremony of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) 2017 Global Summit, during which he invited more tourism investment from overseas.
– NNT

Thailand To Make U-Tapao Airport A Third Bangkok Airport
Thailand is planning to make U-Tapao International Airport a third airport for Bangkok, as part of an ambitious government plan to beef up infrastructure in the eastern part of the country.
– MRO-Network.com

Smart farm project proves successful in Yala
A smart farm project, which was initiated by the Southern Border Province Administration Center (SBPAC), has proved successful in helping farmers in Krong Pinang district of Yala province supplement their monthly incomes.
– NNT

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Vietnam Morning News

Compiled by John Le Fevre @photo_journ

Foreign investors pour $11 bln in Vietnam in 4 months
Foreign investors have poured 10.95 billion USD into new and operational FDI projects and to buy stakes in local companies in the first four months of 2017, up 40.5 percent from the same period last year, according to the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA).
— VIETNAMNET Bridge

New Zealand provides dam safety expertise to Vietnam
New Zealand will spend $5.4 million in the latest phase of a project that will this country’s expertise to help ensure dam safety in Vietnam.
— The National Business Review

Oxford Business Group issues VN report
Việt Nam’s steady transition to a liberalised economy is the subject of a wide-ranging analysis in a new report by the global research and consultancy firm Oxford Business Group (OBG).
— Viet Nam News

VN firms struggle in transparency
Vietnamese enterprises can meet some international standards of transparency, however, large companies still disclose little information about anti-corruption programmes, said Nguyễn Thị Kiều Viễn, executive director of Towards Transparency Việt Nam at a workshop in Hà Nội.
— Viet Nam News

PH, Vietnam tackle export collaboration
Officials representing Vietnam and the Philippines held a joint trade committee (JTC) meeting earlier this week, discussing a possible collaboration in the manufacturing of garments for exports and the further expansion of
their current markets.
— Inquirer.net

Angola and Vietnam Relaunch Joint Bilateral Commission
The joint bilateral Angola and Vietnam commission should meet this year to re-launch cooperation between the two states.
— AllAfrica.com

PHL in talks with Vietnam to maximize available trade deals
THE PHILIPPINES is calling for closer trade ties with Vietnam to widen the two countries’ domestic and export markets while making the most of the advantages offered by their separate trade agreements with other territories.
— BusinessWorld Online

Poor air quality in Vietnam over half the year
In four years, from 2011 to 2015, more than 50 per cent cent of all monitored days in Việt Nam posted low air quality.
— AsiaOne

How can the ‘pavement economy’ contribute to the national economy?
The expansion of the ‘clearing pavement campaign’ in Hanoi and HCMC means fewer vending stalls in the cities.
— VIETNAMNET Bridge

Online shoppers use mobile phones more than computers
There are more people using mobile phones to shop online than those using desktops or tablets, reported Bizweb at a recent mobile e-commerce event.
— VIETNAMNET Bridge

Garment exports grow despite hurdles
The domestic garment industry has faced many challenges in exporting to key markets, such as the European Union (EU) and the United States, but it still has a chance of achieving its export target this year, according to experts.
— Viet Nam News

Nurturing special Việt Nam-Laos relationship a top priority, leaders agree
Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc and his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith yesterday agreed to accord top priority to nurturing ties of traditional friendship and special solidarity, saying this would be decisive in ensuring victory of either country’s revolutionary cause.
— Viet Nam News

Seeing Vietnam through a new lens
Earlier this year, local photographer Herb Way, 67, traveled to the nation that’s eponymous with the war that polarized the U.S. during his early adulthood – Vietnam.
— Black Mountain News

Enduring Vietnam: An American Generation and Its War
The Vietnam War is largely recalled as a mistake, either in the decision to engage there or in the nature of the engagement.
— New Hampshire Public Radio

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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.