Fast, factual wire coverage from across Malaysia and the region.
Thailand is positioning itself as a key player within BRICS, viewing the bloc as essential for expanding trade and investment flows. Deputy PM Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasises cross-border infrastructure like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway as vital to linking Southeast Asia with South Asia.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has called for a stronger, more resilient ASEAN centred on delivering tangible benefits to citizens. Speaking in Jakarta, he stressed the need for flexible regional solutions to shared challenges as the bloc approaches its 60th anniversary.
Indonesia and Thailand have adopted a strategic partnership roadmap targeting US$20 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. The framework encompasses food security, energy collaboration, digital economy initiatives, and the halal industry, with both nations establishing their first-ever Joint Trade Commission.
ASEAN's top official has highlighted journalism's essential role in building regional identity and public engagement as the bloc pursues its 2045 vision, while warning of growing misinformation threats.
The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office has called for deeper regional integration in artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure, and digital payments to curb growing dependence on the US dollar as AI reshapes global commerce.
Malaysian lawmakers will tackle the Malaysia-Thailand Border Economic Zone's progress and fallout from the Strait of Hormuz tensions, two issues with significant regional trade and security implications.
Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam has stressed that the Malaysia-Singapore relationship rests on shared history, mutual trust, and commitment to dialogue. Speaking ahead of his state visit, he highlighted infrastructure projects, digital economy cooperation, and people-to-people engagement as keys to strengthening ties.
China recorded 45.91 million foreign arrivals in the first half of 2026, with visa-free policies driving a 20.6% year-on-year increase. The trend reflects Beijing's strategic push to enhance regional connectivity and soft power.