Due to its service-driven economy, the Philippines faces one of the highest risks among ASEAN nations for job displacement by Generative AI, highlighting a significant challenge for its workforce.
ASEAN economic ministers have expressed concerns that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could significantly impede economic growth across the Southeast Asian region.
President Marcos has issued an order requiring all government offices to play the official music videos of 'Lupang Hinirang' and the ASEAN 2026 theme song after flag ceremonies and during official government events.
MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III on Tuesday rallied young Southeast Asian lawmakers to lead efforts to ensure regional progress is shared by all by placing inclusive…
Hundreds of Civil Society Organizations in Myanmar are demanding that ASEAN reject the country's pseudo-civilian regime, highlighting ongoing political instability.
The Philippines is urging ASEAN nations to present a united front at the upcoming COP31 climate summit, particularly on the critical issue of fossil fuel phaseout. This comes after the Philippine delegation faced criticism for its previous silence on the campaign.
Slovakia aims to strengthen trade, investment, and political influence in Southeast Asia, with Foreign Minister Blanár commencing a series of historic negotiations with key ASEAN partners in Brunei.
The ASEAN Youth Fellowship program has helped three Singaporean participants find new perspectives on impact, community, and their role in the region, fostering connections among young people.
The Philippines, holding the ASEAN chairmanship, has called on Myanmar's junta to release more political prisoners, including former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. This appeal aims to de-escalate the ongoing political crisis in the country.
US interceptions of Iranian-linked tankers in Asian waters indicate a potential eastward spread of Washington’s maritime pressure campaign, posing new risks for Southeast Asian states.
The Putrajaya Forum emphasized the need for ASEAN countries to achieve information dominance and bolster climate security, especially with the rapid advancements of AI in modern warfare.
Southeast Asian nations are exploring measures to restrict children's access to social media platforms. The initiative raises questions about its potential effectiveness and implementation challenges across the region.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged ASEAN members to activate a fuel-sharing mechanism, as the Philippines supports the initiative to address the ongoing fuel crisis caused by Middle East tensions.
An academic commentary argues that ASEAN's energy crisis stems not from energy scarcity itself, but from the failure of the security architecture intended to protect energy flows in Southeast Asia.
Kavita Sanglish has urged ASEAN to transition from merely involving youth as participants to actively empowering them as decision-makers within the organization.
ISCA Academy has introduced an AI skills program specifically for the ASEAN region, aiming to enhance artificial intelligence capabilities in the area.
Vietnam has approved an action program aimed at implementing the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) plan. This initiative underscores Vietnam's commitment to regional economic integration.
ASEAN travel influencers have checked in at Beibu Gulf for a cultural-tourism exchange, highlighting 'not-so-distant destinations' and boosting regional travel.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will meet with state leaders on Thursday to discuss the global energy crisis.
A new all-rail freight train service connecting China, Laos, and Thailand has been launched, facilitating the transport of fresh fruits from ASEAN to China.
Bitcoin has demonstrated resilience during the period of Iran war tensions, leading to increased optimism regarding the adoption of cryptocurrencies in the ASEAN region.
A report from The Star indicates that the situation on the ASEAN front is currently 'quiet,' suggesting a period of relative calm or stability in the Southeast Asian region.
A prominent Chinese political scientist cautioned Southeast Asian countries against leveraging US-China tensions for short-term gains, suggesting such a strategy could backfire.
The ASEAN summit scheduled for May will proceed with a shortened, 'bare-bones' program, as confirmed by President Marcos, despite calls to postpone it to free up public funds for vulnerable sectors and citing the ongoing Middle East conflict as a reason for the reduced agenda.
Strengthening energy resilience is highlighted as a critical macroeconomic imperative for the ASEAN+3 region, extending beyond mere energy-policy priority.
Global food delivery giant Delivery Hero has confirmed the sale of its Taiwan food delivery business, Foodpanda Taiwan, to Grab for $600 million, marking Grab's first expansion beyond ASEAN, as reported by the Wall Street Journal and other sources.
An article from phnompenhpost.com discusses the legal and human casualties of the Thai-Cambodian crisis, questioning ASEAN's effectiveness in the situation.
A new framework proposed at an ASEAN ministers' meeting aims to elevate disaster management on the bloc's agenda, fostering greater cooperation and decision-making in a region highly exposed to disaster risks.
As trade tensions and new US tariff investigations rattle global supply chains, Southeast Asian economies are looking to broaden their options, but analysts say the region’s deep links with the US and China mean any shift will be gradual rather than a clean break.
The disruption could actually work in Asean’s favour, accelerating supply-chain diversification and shifting more manufacturing to the region from markets such as Europe, India and the Middle East, they say.
Economic ministers from ...
Air cargo prices are skyrocketing due to disruptions in key shipping lanes caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This has forced many carriers to reroute their vessels, leading to longer transit times and increased operational costs, which are then passed on to consumers.
ASEAN economic ministers are focusing on deepening regional integration as the economic impact of the Iran war continues to mount across Southeast Asia.
The war between the US, Israel, and Iran has intensified with heavy strikes on Iranian targets and regional expansion, leading to nearly 800,000 people displaced and a serious humanitarian emergency.
ASEAN economic managers are set to discuss strengthening cross-border digital payments and improving the mobility of digital workers, as the region's digital economy is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2030.
Angkor Beer is celebrating the successful conclusion of the Cambodia-ASEAN Business Summit 2026, indicating its involvement or sponsorship in the event.
The Philippines is actively working towards the adoption of a new disaster response framework within ASEAN, aiming for its implementation by 2026 before the country's chairmanship concludes.
The market for hard drives is experiencing scarcity and rising prices, driven by the immense storage demands of data centers fueled by the boom in artificial intelligence.
A veteran South China Sea expert has cast doubt on the prospects of finalising a code of conduct for the contested waters this year, even as ties between rival claimants Beijing and Manila show signs of improvement.
Wu Shicun, founding president of the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, said it was “100 per cent not likely” that the document would be signed this year as the Philippines takes over the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).
“I believe...
A total of 1,707 security personnel have been deployed in Iloilo City, Philippines, as it hosts the 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration from February 25 to 27.
Schools in Iloilo City will transition to online classes starting Wednesday as the city hosts the three-day 49th meeting of the high-level task force on ASEAN Economic Integration.
ASEAN economic ministers have reached an agreement to strengthen Free Trade Agreements and ratify a petrol security deal, aiming to ensure stability and predictability in cross-border trade.
Philippine President Marcos and the Climate Change Commission are advocating for enhanced collaboration and a 'whole-of-system approach' among Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members to effectively address the ongoing climate crisis.
ASEAN lawmakers have urged the Philippine government to ensure accountability following the Toboso killings. This call highlights concerns over human rights in the region.
A new regional initiative called "Scam Ready Asean" has been officially launched, aiming to enhance digital safety and raise awareness about scams across the ASEAN region.
Southeast Asian governments are increasingly seeking Russian oil and gas to alleviate fuel shortages exacerbated by the Strait of Hormuz crisis. This scramble for energy resources could potentially lead to a shift in regional alliances.
Philippine House Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III emphasized the importance of women leaders' strengths in addressing global conflicts during a virtual meeting of the Women Parliamentarians of the Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (WAIPA).
Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad, also known as Tok Mat, is set to lead Malaysia's delegation to the 25th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting. The important diplomatic gathering will take place in Brunei.
The current chair of ASEAN has called on Myanmar's military junta to release more political prisoners, specifically mentioning former leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
As Southeast Asian leaders gather for the 48th ASEAN summit, the Philippines is pushing for a year-end deadline to finalize a long-delayed code of conduct in the South China Sea, stating it is a global obligation.
Malacañang has announced that all preparations are complete for the Philippines to host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next month, despite various domestic political challenges.
A new survey of regional opinion leaders shows Singapore has overtaken Indonesia as ASEAN's natural leader, with analysts attributing the shift to President Prabowo Subianto's preference for pursuing Jakarta's ambitions outside the regional bloc.
An analysis highlights the reasons behind the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' (ASEAN) slow progress in fostering regional energy cooperation. The report examines the challenges preventing the bloc from accelerating its efforts in this crucial sector.
First Lady Liza Marcos announced that the Philippines' hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit will adopt an 'Ilocano effect,' implying a frugal approach.
A commentary piece suggests that the ASEAN bloc should be grateful it does not face the political challenges associated with a leader like Viktor Orban.
A Chinese oil tanker, subject to US sanctions, successfully traversed the Strait of Hormuz, reportedly breaching the US-imposed blockade. This incident has sparked debate over the blockade's effectiveness and legality, drawing criticism from Iran.
Hong Kong Cyberport is actively promoting technology innovation in AI, big data, and cybersecurity, while also forging connections with ASEAN, the Middle East, and mainland China to attract global innovators.
The World Bank has projected that Vietnam and Thailand are expected to face the most significant economic challenges among the ASEAN-5 nations by 2026.
South Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations held their first joint committee meeting to discuss improvements to their bilateral free trade agreement.
An annual survey reveals that most Southeast Asians would choose China as a strategic partner over the US, with analysts attributing this to geopolitical and trade uncertainties driven by Washington’s policies and concerns about Trump.
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced he will urge regional counterparts and China to expedite the South China Sea Code of Conduct at the upcoming May summit.
Singaporean students are increasingly looking beyond Western countries, exploring internship opportunities in Bangkok and exchange programs in London, as well as other regions in ASEAN and China.
Upcoming preparatory meetings for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are scheduled to take place virtually, indicating a shift in diplomatic engagement methods.
President Trump has reportedly told aides he is willing to end the ongoing war in Iran even without reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as attacks continue across the region.
The Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP HPG) will deploy 170 personnel to support security for the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit to be held in Cebu.
The ASEAN Culture House in Busan is hosting an exhibition titled “Weaving Hands, Women’s Time: Textile Crafts of ASEAN,” featuring textile traditions from 11 Southeast Asian countries.
The Philippines will scale down its hosting of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) due to the ongoing pandemic. Preparatory meetings for the event will now be conducted online.
MANILA, Philippines – Speaker Faustino G. Dy III on Saturday announced that Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) meetings this year will be scaled down by limiting…
ASEAN observers are expanding their presence to monitor a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand, as nationalist sentiments and border issues continue to be highlighted.
An ongoing energy-price shock continues to impact the global economy, burdened by debt and concerns about inflation and growth, with stocks retreating and oil prices once again pushing past $100 a barrel. Crude futures have moved higher in early U.S. trade, reflecting the persistent upward pressure on energy costs.
President Trump has extended his ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 10 days, paused attacks on its energy sector, and expressed a desire for a speedy end to the war, though he stated there is no cease-fire. Meanwhile, Israel launched more strikes on Iran, and markets have reacted to these developments, with oil falling, gold rising, and stocks finishing higher.
The Middle East conflict continues to drive global economic concerns, with Europe bracing for a supply crunch and price shock, Euro zone consumers turning gloomier, and developing Asia and Pacific facing potential inflation hikes. European shares and global stocks and bonds have slid as the crisis pushes oil prices above $105, exacerbating a war-fuelled energy crisis felt across various sectors and regions.
A new report suggests that ASEAN nations could save $67 billion by expanding solar energy infrastructure instead of relying on gas, emphasizing a need for full economic transformation away from fossil fuels.
Energy systems across ASEAN+3 are under growing pressure from climate shocks and AI expansion, leading to an "energy chaos" that Singaporean businesses are urged to quickly adapt to with "shock absorbers."
Energy systems across ASEAN+3 (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, plus China, Japan, and South Korea) are under growing pressure due to climate shocks threatening infrastructure and supply, alongside the rapid expansion of AI and digital infrastructure.
Timor Leste has ratified the ASEAN Extradition Treaty, which aims to establish a unified legal framework among ASEAN members and enhance regional cooperation in combating transnational crime. The treaty was approved with 53 votes in favor and none against.
El camino tiene algo de 'Elige tu propia aventura': se puede empezar en cualquier punto del recorrido, yendo a derecha o izquierda, y caminar el tiempo que cualquier paseante quiera
As ASEAN approaches its 60th anniversary, discussions are emerging about the critical need for a visionary secretary-general to guide the region's future development and address evolving challenges.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin is calling on the Philippine government to use its ASEAN chairship this year to advance regional energy security in response to the ongoing global oil crisis.
The world's largest one-stop jewelry marketplace has drawn approximately 80,000 buyers, with significant growth observed from ASEAN, Korea, and other regions.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations called yesterday for restraint and immediate cessation of hostilities in the Middle East, triggered by US and Israeli military strikes on Iran which…
Malaysia and France are finalizing a new agreement to strengthen their military cooperation, building on existing ties from 1993, as Paris increases its engagement with ASEAN nations.
A researcher's commentary highlights how the dispute between Myanmar and Timor-Leste brings ASEAN's traditional approaches into question and underscores Timor-Leste's distinct international identity.
An article examines the 50-year-old Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, questioning its ability to maintain regional stability in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
President Donald Trump announced plans to raise U.S. tariffs on European cars to 25%, sparking widespread concern and anger among European nations and industries. This move intensified fears of a trade war between the United States and the European Union.
ASEAN nations have pledged to refrain from imposing export bans and to share fuel resources in an effort to mitigate the impact of rising global oil prices.
Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan stated that the European Union and ASEAN must intensify their commitment to multilateralism as free trade faces increasing challenges. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two blocs in a fracturing global trade environment.
Donald Trump welcomed King Charles III to the White House, where he praised the enduring special relationship between the United States and Britain. Trump offered compliments to the monarch during the historic visit.
The South China Morning Post has selected seven stories from its coverage of Asia over the past week, including Indonesia's role as Asean leader and Bali's concerns following a Japanese earthquake.
Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos met with several ASEAN counterparts, including the vice president and foreign minister of Laos Thongsavanh Phomvihane, during his visit to Brunei.
ASEAN ministers have agreed to safeguard regional energy security through strengthened cooperation, timely policy responses, and engagement with dialogue partners, amidst Middle East tensions.
Lithuania's head of diplomacy, Kęstutis Budrys, will be on a working visit to Brunei Darussalam from April 26-28, where he will participate in the 25th ministerial meeting of the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Analysts warn that Southeast Asian nations' ongoing dependence on Russian oil and gas for short-term relief could enhance Moscow's geopolitical leverage and potentially create tensions with other international partners.
Iran has seized multiple ships in the Strait of Hormuz, with Croatia confirming two nationals were aboard one vessel. Concurrently, Tehran announced it has begun collecting its first toll revenues from the strategic waterway, escalating regional tensions.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has affected every Asean nation, with a crisis looming, according to Malaysia’s Sultan Nazrin Shah.
The Perak ruler said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East…
Reports highlight China's constructive role in fostering peace within the ASEAN region. The country's diplomatic efforts and engagement are seen as contributing to regional stability.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has highlighted the risk of an energy shock across the Asia-Pacific region, leading to increased scrutiny of debt in Thailand and ASEAN nations.
Philippine President Marcos has called on ASEAN member states to activate a fuel-sharing pact. The initiative aims to enhance regional energy security and cooperation amidst global challenges.
The Korea-ASEAN Music Festival, a cross-cultural showcase bringing together artists from across Southeast Asia, is set to be held this weekend at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila, the Philippines, after a six-year hiatus.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos stated that the Philippines' hosting of the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit will exhibit an 'Ilocano effect,' characterized by a tendency towards frugality.
A "QuickCheck" article investigates whether Malaysia attracted the most foreign tourists in ASEAN in 2025, providing a fact-check on tourism statistics.
ISCA Academy has launched a hands-on AI program across ASEAN countries to address the finance skills gap. This initiative aims to equip professionals with practical AI knowledge relevant to the financial sector.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has introduced a new trust fund specifically designed to expedite the development and integration of the ASEAN power grid, fostering regional energy cooperation.
Malaysia is exploring expanding palm-based biodiesel production to mitigate rising fuel costs, exacerbated by the Iran war, with producers now calling on the government to follow ASEAN peers in strengthening biodiesel mandates despite infrastructure challenges.
The US-Iran conflict continues to fuel a global energy shock, with oil prices surging and Asian stocks falling after Trump's vows. The UK is experiencing unprecedented fuel price rises, while Saudi Arabia explores its East-West pipeline as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz chokehold, all contributing to a broader economic slowdown and inflation.
Perched on top of a shoe shelf at the entrance of Veriff’s headquarters in Tallinn, Estonia, is a sign of a cartoon unicorn that reads “Welcome to Unicorn Land!”, serving as a reminder of the…
Myanmar's Junta Chief Min Aung Hlaing is transitioning to president, a move that has prompted ASEAN lawmakers to warn the international community against recognizing his presidency.
Penang, Malaysia, is actively seeking to attract more tourists from China, India, and neighboring ASEAN countries to compensate for a shortfall in visitors from the Middle East and Europe.
Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels have claimed two attacks against Israel within 24 hours and vowed to continue military operations in the coming days, prompting warnings to shipping in the Red Sea region from Operation ASPIDES.
Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong continues to emphasize the importance of engaging China and Japan in shaping regional affairs, following his 'meaningful' visit to Hong Kong.
An Iranian missile and drone attack targeted the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, injuring several US service members, two seriously, and damaging US aircraft. Marco Rubio claims the war is expected to end in weeks, adding to new reports confirming the extent of damage and casualties.
Singapore is experiencing a return of haze, with residents reporting a strong burning smell and fogginess. The recurring environmental issue prompts questions about whether ASEAN nations have quietly accepted the crisis as inevitable.
Some lawmakers in the Philippines are calling on the government to consider postponing the ASEAN Summit this year to reallocate public funds, citing soaring inflation and a global oil crisis.
The United States' inclusion of Southeast Asian countries in trade investigations risks alienating ASEAN, with tariffs from the Trump administration also significantly impacting US-ASEAN trade relations.
A report highlights the vulnerability of subsea fiber-optic cables, which underpin the world's digital economy, urging ASEAN and the EU to enhance their security amid increasing great-power rivalry and recent disruptions.
Air France-KLM has announced price increases for long-haul tickets, including a €50 hike for economy class, due to the rising cost of jet fuel amid the Iran war, following similar adjustments by other airlines.
China has signalled strong optimism for finalising negotiations with neighbouring Asian countries to seal a new institutional framework on contested South China Sea waterways.
At China’s annual foreign policy press conference on Sunday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi described the negotiations as having entered a “critical phase” for talks on the South China Sea Code of Conduct (CoC) – a proposed set of rules between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) at the heart of easin...
Cambodian official Chanthol addressed the EU-ASEAN council, stating that 'We cannot build Cambodia alone' as the country approaches its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, signaling a need for continued international support.
For years, debates about US-China competition have defaulted to the obvious categories: ships, chips, tariffs and security pacts. Soft power was often treated as America’s home turf, the domain of Hollywood, top universities, global brands and a political ideal that still attracts even when it disappoints.
That assumption is getting riskier.
The world has entered a new emotional weather pattern: fatigue. It’s a structural condition shaped by overlapping shocks: pandemic after-effects, inflati...
Experts in Pakistan are urging the government to establish a clear solar policy to attract Chinese manufacturers and learn from the solar boom in ASEAN countries.
A total of 181 police personnel from the Capiz Police Provincial Office have been deployed to support security operations for the ASEAN Senior Level Committee on Financial Integration and Related Meetings in Boracay.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara participated in an ASEAN forum, advocating for stronger partnerships with the private sector (PPPs) to address the classroom gap and fast-track critical education reforms in the Philippines.
NextFin Asia has announced a new dedicated fund as part of the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia Program, aimed at scaling inclusive finance fintechs across the ASEAN region.