SEVERE HEATWAVES The UN’s World Meteorological Organization reported that Asia was warming at a particularly fast rate, with the effect of heatwaves in the area becoming more intense last year, reaching record highs for the area. The WMO’s State of the Climate in Asia 2023 record found Asia was warmingContinue Reading
By focusing on three important pillars: intelligence-sharing, appearance, and multilateralism, the US can strengthen faith and alliances in Southeast Asia and change the state’s prevailing attitudes toward the tremendous power.
The region is home to significant US allies and possible allies who are most susceptible to Chinese influence and power forecast, which makes perceptions especially important during this time of intense energy competitors.
According to the Yusof Ishak Institute’s” The State of Southeast Asia 2023″ record, elites in Southeast Asia now believe that China has greater economic, political, and proper influence than the US or any other country.
These perceptions have a significant impact on the decisions made by rulers and frontrunners in Southeast Asia, but the US needs to change how it is perceived. Luckily, there are a few straightforward activities that may change how Southeast Asia views the US, all of which can be put into practice almost right away.
The US does create an cleverness- sharing system with allies and partners in the Indo- Pacific, especially with Canada, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia and Association of Southeast Asian Nations ( ASEAN ) member states. This network will enable the US to immediately inform its allies about China’s revolutionary practices and increase accountability.
Each nation should be able to benefit from globalism when dealing with China. Information sharing may also show that the US is a trustworthy strategic partner who keeps the passions of allies and partners in thinking.
Through the “assertive clarity” program, where China’s intense tactics are exposed for the area and the world to see, Sealight’s Ray Powell and Dr. Benjamin Goirigolzarri have already demonstrated the effectiveness of increased knowledge sharing.
This program has encouraged cooperation between Vietnam and the Philippines and raised awareness of the presence of other East Asian countries in the fight against Chinese aggression.
Collaboration among ASEAN member states will be encouraged by the visibility of Taiwanese tactics and US-driven predictive analysis, giving them a leg up in negotiations with China that solitary states would not have to do working just unilaterally.
The US currently supports places in Southeast Asia through various means, from international aid to humanitarian aid, joint military guards, exercises, and markets. Just being there frequently paves the way for faith and confidence.
To foster connectivity and mutually beneficial relationships, we should expand the integration of military and civilian organizations with South Asian partner countries. The more people and governments in Southeast Asia see Americans as a source of support, the more likely they will consider the benefits of extending their connection with the US.
However, providing assistance and being physically present is not enough; instead, the US needs to do better by highlighting the support it offers.
The US does a bad job of marketing the support it provides, its function and influence to other countries. A country in Southeast Asia was the target of a pandemic when I collaborated with the State Department to offer a plane total of Covid products, only to have the overshadowed by a Chinese public relations campaign that highlighted a much smaller aid package.
The benefits of the support and cooperation in the Indo- Pacific may be communicated better to local audiences, the recipient country’s public and government, and the global community. Making sure nations are aware of where aid comes from will help them remember the US as a trustworthy partner.
This will win the support of the general public, which could influence government decision-makers in favor of the US.
Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi famously stated,” China is a big country and you are small countries, and that is a fact,” during a speech to the ASEAN Regional Forum in Hanoi in 2010. This covert threat was intended to ensnare the gathered countries into following China’s instructions.
To combat this, the US must support multinational corporations like ASEAN or encourage the development of what Richard Heydarian refers to as “minilateral” cooperation in order to end the region’s long-standing paroxysm on crucial issues.
By promoting and ratifying multilateral cooperation, we encourage and strengthen partner countries ‘ economies by reducing their reliance on China for economic support. This leveled the playing field and creates more opportunities for multilateral cooperation on issues involving China.
Expanding cooperation and presence, increasing intelligence sharing, and promoting multilateralism in Southeast Asia will strengthen the region’s resilience and remind them that the US is a sincere and lasting partner.
These straightforward initiatives will help to boost confidence, change perceptions in Southeast Asia, and foster trust and cooperation with the US, thereby reducing China’s influence in the area.
Major David Geaney, a Logistics Officer for the Air Force, has spent the Middle East and Pacific on numerous occasions. His articles on China have been published in the Journal of Indo- Pacific Affairs, Foreign Policy, Task &, Purpose, and Defense News. He has also appeared on Air University’s Indo-Pacific Visions and as a panelist for the International Studies Association.
The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own, do not necessarily reflect those of the US government, Department of Defense, or Air Force.
Singapore has launched its fourth Type 218SG Invincible-class submarine, christened the RSS Inimitable and designed specifically for operations in Singapore’s trade-congested waters, according to multiple media sources.
Launched at the Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) shipyard in Kiel, Germany, the submarine was designed with a low signature and air-independent propulsion system (AIP) for long underwater endurance. With a length of about 70 meters and a displacement of around 2,000 tons, the Invincible-class is currently the largest submarine built in Germany.
The RSS Inimitable will be handed over in 2025 after intensive testing. The submarine’s launch follows the launch of the RSS Invincible in 2019 and the double launching of the RSS Impeccable and RSS Illustrious in December 2022.
TKMS and Singapore’s ST Engineering signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly enhance the capabilities of Singapore’s Type 218SG submarines over their operational lifetimes.
Singapore’s submariners have undergone rigorous training to prepare for all scenarios while aboard the RSS Inimitable. The objective is to train and drill the crew until competent handling of the submarine’s subsystems becomes muscle memory.
To train the RSS Inimitable’s crew, a virtual procedural trainer (VPT) replicated about 12 million parts of an Invincible-class submarine in software, linking with other simulators such as a combat trainer, steering and diving trainer system, and a new maintenance trainer.
The Invincible-class boats are the most advanced submarines in Southeast Asia, representing a significant qualitative and quantitative advantage over models operated by other regional navies. Singapore operates eight submarines while Malaysia has two Scorpene-class boats and Indonesia four Type 209 boats.
Naval Technology says the Type 218SG is custom-made for Singapore’s particular naval needs. It has advanced capabilities, high automation levels, significant payload capacity, improved underwater endurance over the previous Archer and Challenger-class submarines and ergonomics optimized for the Asian physique.
The new Type 218SG submarines are designed with features similar to those of their predecessors, the Type 214 and Type 212A, such as X-rudders. These features allow them to maneuver easily in shallow waters.
They will also have modern combat systems, including eight 533mm torpedo tubes and a multi-purpose lock in the bow section for launching torpedoes, missiles, and special forces assault teams. There is also an option to integrate vertical multi-purpose locks for launching missiles vertically.
The Type 218SG has advanced sensors to enhance situational awareness in shallow and congested waters. Next-generation automation and sense-making systems will aid in making quick decisions.
Notably, the boats are equipped with lithium-ion battery AIP and are capable of speeds of over 10 knots surfaced and more than 15 knots submerged. Its AIP system allows it to stay submerged for approximately 50% longer than preceding Archer-class submarines, enabling it to stay underwater for 4-6 weeks without snorkeling.
Singapore’s submarine program is more advanced and capable than its neighbors and plays critical military and naval diplomacy roles.
In the 2018 book “Naval Modernization in Southeast Asia, Part Two”, Collin Koh Swee Lean mentions that while small navies usually cannot afford to operate submarines due to the complexity and costs involved, Singapore uses technology as a force multiplier to overcome manpower limitations.
He argues Singapore’s “lean and mean” submarine force serves as a credible deterrent for interdicting enemy forces in Singapore’s wide-reaching waters, the crucial Malacca Strait chokepoint as well as the South China Sea.
On submarine capability development, Koh says that while Singapore’s domestic politics and economics do not significantly influence the direction of its submarine program, its tech-savvy population and high-tech defense industry are major plus factors.
However, he points out that Singapore’s neighborhood may be a limiting factor as it angles to demonstrate its submarine program is purely defensive and has no ill-intent. In that connection, he notes that while Malaysia and Vietnam have acquired SM-39 Exocet and Klub-S submarine-launched anti-ship/land attack missiles, Singapore has not followed suit.
Koh notes that Singapore has offered to share its submarine rescue capabilities by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with Vietnam and Indonesia, highlighting the diplomatic aspect of its submarines.
At the same time, Singapore’s submarine program, alongside other defense acquisitions, provides an important insurance policy in the event of a regional or global conflict.
In March 2024, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) noted that despite Singapore being roughly the size of New York and being at peace with its neighbors, it is one of the world’s most militarized countries, spending US$11.7 billion on defense in 2022.
The report also notes that Singapore’s per capita defense spending is among the highest worldwide and possibly the most densely defended of any global country, with more troops, tanks and aircraft per square kilometer than any other nation.
Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew said if Singapore were to survive, it should become a “poisonous shrimp” with a military so powerful that larger adversaries would think twice before attacking.
From an economic perspective, WSJ notes that Singapore sees its defense spending as a signal to foreign investors that the country can be defended and that investments are safe.
While Singapore may be at peace with its neighbors, US-China tensions over Taiwan have prompted Singapore to boost its defense spending. Singapore’s Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen has recently stated that the risk of a regional or even global conflict for the next decade has become “non-zero.”
While Singapore has sought to balance its relationship with the US and China, the US can use Changi Naval Base and Changi Air Base as a transit point for its aircraft carriers in the South China Sea, potentially making Singapore a target during a US-China conflict over Taiwan.
Soft Space Sdn Bhd, a leading fintech-as-a-service ( FaaS ) provider, and JCB International Co, Ltd, the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co, Ltd (JCB), announced the launch of the first ever JCB payment gateway in Malaysia.
Following their successful central bank digital currency ( CBDC ) trial in December 2023 and the recent agreement allowing JCB acceptance for all Hong Leong Bank merchants, Soft Space said it regards this as a significant milestone in its strategic partnership with JCB.
Leveraging JCB’s strong global community and Soft Space’s technical knowledge, the JCB payment gateway aligns with the global shift towards varied electronic transactions, meeting the market’s demand for protected, innovative payment options.
In this situation, Soft Space provides an Application Programming Interface ( API ) specification that makes it possible for acquirers and payment processors to quickly and effectively give their retail merchants access to JCB’s network of over 156 million cardmembers worldwide as of September 2023 ( where annual transaction volumes exceed 43 trillion ( US$ 278 billion ) between April 2022 and March 2023 ) without having to establish a direct connection to JCB themselves.
Malaysia is the most popular nation in Southeast Asia in 2023, according to the start of the JCB pay gate. Not only will this make cross-border payments more convenient, secure and seamless, it aligns well with our broader goal to promote Soft Space’s technology in other verticals such as transit and in-flight payments globally, ” said Joel Tay ( pic ), Chief Executive Officer of Soft Space.
E-commerce merchants stand to benefit greatly from this development, especially those in the tourism sector. Japanese tourists are increasingly purchasing attraction tickets and booking accommodation via e-commerce merchants. If the merchants can start accepting JCB payments through payment facilitators, they are well-placed to capitalise on the rapidly growing international e-commerce spending by JCB cardmembers, which has increased by 52% from 2021 to 2022[1]. Figure I do not want to leave during the pandemic
Yoshiki Kaneko, President and CEO of JCB International Co, Ltd said: “Looking at the behavior of today’s shoppers, online shopping has become an essential part of their daily lives and also the primary source of growth for all companies, including JCB. This pattern is particularly prevalent since the crisis. To capitalize on the expanding business prospect in the e-commerce industry and to improve the experience for our JCB cardmembers and retailers, we are thrilled to launch the new work along with Soft Space. We can now have even greater assurance that our relationship with Malaysia’s top banking companies is essential to success thanks to this milestone in our strategic partnership with Soft Space. ”
Following the onboarding of senangPay, as the first JCB payment gateway part, Soft Space will expand the training of another acquirers and pay facilitators in the APAC area and past, promising greater effectiveness, security, and convenience for both merchants and JCB cardmembers.
By removing obstacles to making or accepting payments, we at SenangPay promote ease in business development. Integrating JCB Card understanding into senangPay’s habitat marks a major step for our stores, ” said Mansor Abd Rahman, CEO of senangPay. “Offering different payment options, while allowing consumers to pay using their desired methods, not just expands senangPay’s variety of transaction solutions, but also enables our merchants to join with Japan’s tourists and expatriates in Malaysia. ”
This achievement between Soft Space and JCB is more than just a milestone in their strategic partnership; it also demonstrates Soft Space and JCB’s shared commitment to changing the global payments landscape.
Demography and culture are quickly emerging as two of the most interconnected issues in the twenty-first era. And the world’s people are more worried about climate troubles than ever.
The earth people is also growing fast, reaching eight billion in 2022 from only one billion in 1800.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change ( IPCC ) predicts that the situation will continue to get worse in the coming years because it is well known that human activities have a negative impact on climate dynamics.
We had better know the connections between rising population expansion and weather given the strong correlation between human populace and weather.
The rise in human population has been attributed to a combination of declining child deaths, extreme poverty, and an increase in life expectancy, among other things. In change, this has led to the increased use of tools, many of which are fixed.
Additionally, since 1990, people have been consuming a whole new aspect with modernization, which has taken on a whole new dimension for their well-being.
Whereas previously, large consumer spending was generally confined to Europe and America, already Middle East, East Asia and South Asia individuals also have great client spending, according to Statista.
Regions ‘ perceptions of population growth vary. Growing population growth can present drastically different challenges, depending on the country.
For example, increasing community rates are a result of rising environmental footprints in developed nations like Germany or Singapore compared to developing nations like Mozambique or Colombia. have more effects in developed nations than in developing nations.
The latest natural imprint of Germany is 4, according to the World Population Review. 70, whereas Mozambique’s is 0. 80, meaning European citizens have an ecological effects about six days higher than people in Mozambique.
However, increasing community can also be very helpful in some places. Increased delivery rates for populace growth are now essential for the sustainability of European society, especially in Italy, which is already known as the West’s fastest-shrinking nation.
Spiritual and/or historical factors can also affect whether someone has children or not. However, in some nations or religious views, having children is seen as very significant. For some, having a big family is socially well-regarded, and for others, it brings “rezeki/fortunes, ” as in the Muslim world.
Children play a significant role in sustainable societies despite the association between people growth and natural impact.
Our World in Data predicts that the population growth will stop at the end of the 21st centuries and maintain at about 10 %. 5 billion, so the earth people may never grow indefinitely.
Since fewer than two societies does have a community that will start to decline. 1 kids per woman ( population thresholds ), children are essential for sustainable societies.
Additionally, research shows that younger generations appear to be more aware of economic issues and conservation in general. With more children in the world today, having a “green labor” for the future will enable people to take action to combat climate change and improve cultures.
The effect of having kids on the planet is a multidimensional problem, influenced by factors such as demography, climate change, socio-economic position and cultural beliefs.
While reducing birth may seem like a solution to the environment issue, it overlooks the crucial role that children play in maintaining cultures.
Instead, the emphasis should be on achieving a balance between people growth and economic conservation, while fostering a culture of responsibility and creativity.
In the fight against climate change, youngsters have the potential to become good influencers. So, the key lies in finding homeostasis, where humanity and the world can coexist perfectly.
At Sustainable Development Solutions Network Southeast Asia, a non-profit institution established by the UN, are Israruddin, Moch Ridwan, and Alexandre Desmyttere, both, Manager, Assistant Manager, and Partnerships Intern.
The need to connect the world energy system with the 1 is essential. 5°C purpose has never been more powerful. August 2023 marked the hottest month on record, surpassing even the document set in July 2023 by a substantial margin. The severity and frequency of climate change impacts are rising, highlighting the urgent need for activity.
According to the International Energy Agency ( “IEA” ), global carbon dioxide ( CO2 ) emissions from the energy sector reached a new record high of 37 billion tonnes ( Gt ) in 2022, 1 % above their pre-pandemic level, but are set to peak this decade.
Piyush Gupta, the CEO of DBS Bank, highlighted some of the important difficulties financial institutions are facing as they move to the energy market.
One important issue, according to Gupta, is the untested economy of many new technology. While some industries have fairly good systems solutions, others lack feasible options. Although hydrogen may hold promise, it is now too far beyond the reach of use. Even where there is systems, these innovative solutions ‘ cost points and economics frequently differ from those of fossil-based energy sources or different segments.
The economy are different when comparing the cost of solar production in regions with high thermal efficiency, like China or India, to those with cloud cover, like the tropic, according to Gupta. Elements such as the cost of land, which can be considerable for tasks requiring large places, and the costs associated with store, intermittency, and network upgrades further complicate the financial viability of projects.
In fact, some initiatives are not simple to finance based only on commercial viability.
Gupta was speaking at a screen debate at the Singapore state investment Temasek’s monthly sustainability-focused function, Ecosperity, from April 15 to 17.
The need for relevant infrastructure spending is the next problem identified by Gupta. While a job may be initiated, if the necessary investments in another system components, such as the network, are not made continuously, the site’s potential is compromised. Thus, it is crucial for a financial institution to take into account the wider communication and infrastructure requirements beyond the task itself in order to assess the viability of the investment.
The Asean nations ‘ risk prices, as discussed by Gupta, have an impact on project viability and prices. Foreign exchange threat and royal risk are included in these risk premiums. Some nations in the area are not regarded as investment-grade, which adds to the sovereign risk premium. Foreign trade risk is another important issue, as funding for these projects frequently is in US dollars while profits are generated in regional currency. Significant financial difficulties can be caused by this gap.
Finally, Gupta shared that project funding is influenced by the off-takers reliability, especially in the energy sector, where political considerations may affect payment reliability. Regime modifications can add another layer of complexity to venture financing by raising doubts about the off-taker’s commitment to completing its legal obligations. Together, these problems add to the difficulty and complexity of funding regional system jobs.
But, while difficulties exist, concerted efforts are underway to mitigate them, with continued growth of remedies aimed at overcoming these roadblocks.
Gupta, who spoke to FinanceAsia on the outside of the occasion, put forth one like solution, which he believes can have a significant influence on the sector’s journey to zero.
One of the most important components of a toolbox of solutions to climate change is establishing a reliable and open global graphite market. A strong global carbon market is a powerful tool for the personal sector to move money from developed to developing areas. This in turn has the potential to have a significant effect by enabling emerging markets to obtain funding for sustainable development tasks, which are required to speed up the transition to a low-carbon business. ”
According to Gupta, pursuing the implementation of cross-border and export industry also offers a considerable option. “These areas enable resource countries to develop capacity, size, and engineering without bearing the price, as other states purchase their authority, ” he noted.
To put this in perspective, the demand for coal funds could increase by 15 days or more by 2030 and up to 100 days by 2050. By 2030, the use and buying of carbon credits was reach$ 50 billion, subject to the successful implementation of the Article 6 code adopted at COP26.
Singapore’s online zero journey
Singapore has set a goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Singapore aims to have net-zero emissions from this industry by the same deadline given that its energy sector accounts for 40 % of its emissions. By importing fresh power from the Asean area, the nation intends to accomplish this goal.
Ngiam Shih Chun, chief executive, of the Energy Market Authority ( EMA ) of Singapore, said that while “Singapore has limited renewable energy resources, the country can access low-carbon electricity that is abundant in the region by connecting to regional power grids. This also encourages the growth of solar energy in the area and opens the door for the Asean Power Grid vision to become a reality. ”
The country has the target set to import up to fourgigawatts ( GW ) of low-carbon electricity by 2035, making up around 30 % of Singapore’s electricity supply then. EMA granted contingent certifications to trade up to 4 in 2023. 2 GW of low-carbon energy from Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Companies are now completing feasibility studies and obtaining regulatory approvals from transit and source nations.
The projects are physically and economically feasible, and the source nation and Singapore are working together in a beneficial way, Chun said.
As Singapore actions steps down from its energy sector, Chun mentioned that these jobs are also pioneering because cross-border power trading is now constrained in the area. Their large size is also something to keep in mind, for instance, a 1,000-kilometer high voltage direct current wire from Vietnam. They are thus facing regulatory problems.
But, once cleared, they are expected to accelerate the development of cross-border buying, according to Chun.
The Laos-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore power project, for example, took years to negotiate but is now the first successful cross-border power trading initiative across four Southeast Asian ( SEA ) countries. To improve trading volume and make multi-directional trading more profitable, discussions are currently being conducted. This advancement is in line with the Asian power grid’s goal, which promotes cross-border trading and benefits various SEA nations.
A national hydrogen strategy, which outlines the potential pathways for gas to be adopted in the energy sector, which could account for up to 50 % of the power mix, is another initiative being taken in the nation. Recognising the price differential for innovative solutions, Singapore is seeking “Pathfinder projects”. As a part of this action, Singapore aims to work with the business to experiment with and build up abilities in superior gas technologies, and identify and address any professional, protection, or regulatory issues that may arise.
Chen said that the private sector and financial institutions are closely involved in this phased approach. Currently, the focus is on shortlisting consultants and conducting pre-field studies, with funding secured to support these initiatives. The goal of the approach is to address the cost disparities brought on by new technologies and ensure the project’s viability and bankability.
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In response to the growing demand from Malaysian businesses, MADE ( Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation ) and Amazon Global Selling are collaborating more effectively to promote cross-border e-commerce in Malaysia. The two functions stated in a joint statement that they will work together to hold monthly outreach activities throughout 2024 to increase awareness of cross-border e-commerce and to assist Indonesian product owners starting their cross-border e-commerce firm with Amazon. They also intend to introduce more Malaysian brands and products to customers in the US.
In addition to increased website engagements with personalized training and content designed to help Malaysian sellers succeed on the world stage, they added that the 2024 activities will include offline events in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, as well as in-person workshops offering valuable insights and guidance to empower native entrepreneurs.
The course contents, provided to Malaysian SMEs, will cover the end-to-end journey of an Amazon seller, including account registration, product preparation, compliance, listing, shipping, advertising, and more, they said.
The most recent findings from the Access Partnership report from 2023 indicate that Malaysia’s e-commerce export value is projected to increase annually by 14 %, reaching an estimated US$ 8. 6 billion ( RM36. 2 billion ) by 2027. This projection highlights Malaysian businesses’ enormous potential to expand beyond domestic borders. 
To introduce cross-border e-commerce to Malaysian SMEs,” We are pleased to embark on this strategic partnership with Amazon Global Selling,” said Mohd. Mustafa Abdul Aziz ( pic ), CEO at Matrade.
” Through this collaboration, we aim to equip Malaysian SMEs with the necessary knowledge and resources to expand their presence on Amazon’s e-stores and grow their brands internationally, ” he further emphasizes, “This initiative perfectly complements the MADANI Economy Framework, the National Trade Blueprint, and the recently unveiled New Industrial Master Plan 2030, all of which underscore digitalisation and cross-border e-commerce as fundamental catalysts in driving Malaysia’s economic growth and resilience. “
The promising projections for Malaysia’s e-commerce export sector, according to Anand Palit, head of Amazon Global Selling in Southeast Asia, “underline the great potential that exists for businesses in the region.” We are grateful for our year-long partnership with Matrade and look forward to supporting Malaysian brand owners as they begin their global sales journey. By leveraging Amazon Global Selling’s expertise and Amazon resources, and working closely with Matrade, we hope to empower Malaysian SMEs to tap into the opportunity of cross-border e-commerce, driving growth, and enabling local businesses on their journey towards international success. ”
Amazon’s Global infrastructure and resources to facilitate this go-global Journey
Amazon is continuously investing in logistics, tools, services, programmes, and people to foster the growth of sellers worldwide. The business has a global presence in 22 countries and is able to deliver goods to customers in more than 200 nations and territories. It has more than 400 fulfilment centers across the globe and through Amazon stores, sellers, including those from Malaysia, can directly reach over hundreds of millions of active customer accounts worldwide, including more than 200 million Prime customers overseas.
Take Amazon’s ( FBA ) Fulfillment as an example. It can help sellers increase their scale by assisting them with product selection and shipping while also providing customer service and returns. Nearly 2 million SMEs are currently selling on Amazon, and these paid-for third-party services made up more than 60 % of the paid-for total in the 2019 Q4 quarter.
dedicated team to promote global expansion and client reach
The new team based in Singapore is dedicated to introducing Amazon’s cutting-edge tools and resources to Malaysian sellers and guiding them on their journey to expanding internationally and reaching customers from all over the world. Amazon’s dedicated team will be proactively engaging with Malaysian entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and resellers, actively organising workshops, events, and conferences across Malaysia aimed at fostering market awareness and facilitating cross-border e-commerce initiatives.
Advancing cross-border e-commerce step for Malaysian SMEs
There are already Malaysian sellers who have benefited from this new opportunity, and one of them is Galano Furniture, according to Amazon.
Galano Furniture’s marketing director, Alisha Tan, stated,” Our journey with Amazon Global Selling has been nothing short of transformative. With a keen focus on excellence and innovation, we’ve developed a global business, forging direct connections with consumers internationally. We have chosen Fulfilled by Amazon ( FBA ), which has given us peace of mind regarding customer care and delivery to the last mile. Additionally, FBA consistently proves to be the optimal choice, particularly for newly launched items. In 2023, we saw remarkable business growth, with sales increasing from 5-digit USD to 6-digit USD. ”
He added that frequently, the Singapore company market “has been very resilient and steady ” over the past few years.
More than 2 The Singapore company business will soon experience 4 million more advanced office space, with construction on tasks like the IOI Central Boulevard Towers and Labrador Towers set to begin this time.
Because there is still a lot of demand for Grade A office space, according to observers, this increased source is unlikely to cause book prices to rise.
Singapore, with its beneficial business environment, excellent management, and quick access to talent, remains a common location for businesses as a gateway to obtain the fast growing Southeast Asia market.
Despite the amount of source that is in, specifically for this year, I still have some optimism in the market, ” said Mr. Sim.
Singapore appears to be a pole for what we call success control, which is the cause. Additionally, Singapore seems to be more advantageous to the growth of Southeast Asia because businesses typically prefer to have Singapore as their regional ( headquarter ). ”
According to industry watchers, rents may be higher for more as demand declines after this year and increases until 2028.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has also been on a beauty rude, travelling abroad to woo high-tech opportunities.
In March, he delivered a presentation handle at the annual SME Future Day 2024 in Berlin, where he gave an open invitation to European companies, as well as businesses across Europe, to invest in Malaysia.
“We are of training at your service, we may employ. When you need ( the ) China market, then you need an important base in Malaysia, ” Mr Anwar said during the event.
Since 2021, the country has seen a steady increase in foreign direct investment ( FDI) in the tech sector, with both Intel and fellow chip tycoon Infineon Technologies investing US$ 7 billion in projects that go beyond packaging, assembly, and testing.
Hungarian software giant AT& While American intel Nvidia and native conglomerate YTL are working together to create a multi-billion money artificial intelligence fog and supercomputer infrastructure in Malaysia, S produces high-end circuit boards.
Given the fierce competition from neighboring Indonesia and Vietnam, Malaysia don’t simply implement tax incentives as it moves up the value network. Additionally, it is said to be dealing with restrictions in its native supply chains.
Former deputy minister of global trade and industry for Malaysia, Mr. Ong Kian Ming, said some businesses are struggling to find the right kind of competent and human resource to integrate into the habitat with higher value-added production or solutions.
We’ve seen instances of Taiwanese companies entering Malaysia in the past that do not totally connect with the regional supply chain, he noted.
“ What this means is that the local SMEs ( small- and medium-size enterprises ) in Malaysia and other companies, they are not able to benefit from the FDI coming into Malaysia. ”
The Indonesian government is also looking beyond its borders for opportunities to network with Indonesian businesses and investors, particularly government-linked purchase firms.
Mr Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, said the state is “institutionalising the procedure where we ask local businesses to also have a interest in the game”.
He most recently disclosed that the government is developing a proper semiconductor strategy to update existing laws and opportunity packages in order to stay competitive in the sector.
Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh stated in an exclusive interview with Bangkok Post that the country hopes to develop stronger relationships with Thailand overall.
Ms Battsetseg, the second person to be appointed to the blog, is making an official attend to Thailand from now till next Wednesday.
In light of a slew of political difficulties, she described her life and career, how Mongolia is navigating problems, and how she sees strengthening ties with Thailand.
According to Ms. Battsetseg, she has always wanted to work as a minister. This led to her enrolling in the National University of Mongolia’s mentor program in international relationships.
After graduating, she established the” Mönkhyin üseg Group” and served as the head of its board of directors from 2007–2015. She continued to advise the finance secretary until 2016 in that capacity.
Before taking the position of foreign minister in January 2021, she served as the evil minister of international relations from 2016 to 2020.
” Over the years, I have gained experience working in diverse governmental agencies, [and ] holding different political jobs, many of which were closely tied to international relations and global teamwork,” she said.
Mongolia’s world watch
The country’s foreign policy was mapped out by the State Great Hural [Parliament ] of Mongolia in 2011 as it aimed to pursue a peace-oriented, open, independent and multi-pillared approach, Ms Battsetseg said.
With regard to other nations in the region, Ms. Battsetseg cited close relationships and socially beneficial cooperation with our two neighbors [ China and Russia], as well as maintaining a “balanced and good neighborly relationship with our two neighbors,” according to Ms. Battsetseg, who also mentioned close relationships and mutually beneficial cooperation with our second neighbors.
She stated that Mongolia is engaged in international politics and has diplomatic ties with all 192 UN member states, as well as the Holy See, the State of Palestine, and the European Union.
According to Ms. Battsetseg, Mongolia is committed to promoting peace and security both in the area and around the globe.
With its single-state nuclear-weapon-free area position, the government’s dedication to the non-proliferation of atomic weapons and achieving atomic peace has been extensively welcomed and supported by the global community, she said.
In 2013, the” Ulaanbaatar Dialogue on Northeast Asian Security” program was established to handle the region’s safety issues. This community has now evolved into a popular method for governments, international organisations and education to participate, exchange views and, most important, to find common ground for probable solutions.
” Last time, we hosted the 8th period of the Ulaanbaatar Dialogue. More than 180 members, representing 30 states and over a hundred companies, attended the event. The” UBD Youth Forum,” which encouraged young experts to meet the speech, was a recent addition to the meeting, Ms. Battsetseg noted.
She said that the UN peace activities are one of the crucial means of maintaining international peace and security.
In the two years that Mongolia has participated in UN peacekeeping, over 20,000 Peoples have served as “blue hats” in 11 peacekeeping missions in hot patches around the world.
” Now, we are the 19th-largest contribution to UN security. In the Northeast and Central Asian area, we are the second-largest army source after China,” Ms Battsetseg said.
The Mongolian administration’s agenda includes promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls, especially those who live in remote regions. These initiatives have been taken to an international levels.
She noted that Mongolia has organized a number of activities to help achieve these objectives, including a global conference on expanding the role of women in peace in June 2022 and the meeting of feminine foreign ministers in June 2023.
” For this year, Ulaanbaatar will host the World Women’s Forum on August 22–23. The website will focus on the importance of women’s autonomy, gender equality, and their involvement and leadership in addressing environment change-related issues and the realization of the SDGs,” she said, referring to the United Nation’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
50 years of P2P exchanges
Ms. Battsetseg claimed that their first encounter can be traced back to a meeting of their envoys in the 13th or 14th century, despite Thailand and Mongolia officially establishing ties on March 5, 1974.
Despite their geographical dispersion, she claimed, the two sides were able to lay a strong foundation for the growth of ties by finding common ground in Buddhism as well as some aspects of their respective cultures and traditions.
Both nations have seen progress and success in various cooperating areas since Mongolia’s democratic reforms started in 1990.
People-to-people exchanges climbed, highlighted by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s visit to Mongolia in 1992 and a visit by the president of Mongolia, His Excellency Mr P O Chirbat, to Thailand in 1994.
” Many other high-level visits followed, adding momentum, enriching the scope of cooperation, and fostering friendly relations between our two countries,” Ms Battsetseg said.
Both sides have stopped issuing visas for ordinary passport holders since 2007 and introduced seasonal direct flights, which means that Mongolians are traveling to Thailand are increasing at the same time.
Thailand is also becoming a tourist destination for Mongolians, particularly medical travelers, according to Ms. Battsetseg.
In 2023 over 13,000 Mongolians travelled to Thailand, a notable increase from 8,000 the year before. Conversely, the number of Thai nationals visiting Mongolia in 2023 surpassed 2,000, marking a threefold rise from 2022.
Setting its sights on welcoming more global adventurers, Ulaanbaatar has declared 2023–2025 as” The Years to Visit Mongolia”, under the rallying call of” Welcome to Mongolia”.
The government eased the entry visa requirements for people visiting 30 countries and introduced an online visa application system that makes it simple for citizens to apply for visas in 99 countries, making the application process go smoothly.
This promotion has amplified Mongolia’s appeal as a top-tier destination, Ms Battsetseg said, and as of December 2023 the country has been witnessing a record influx of tourists.
Also, due to the country’s expanding network of air connections and enhanced road infrastructure, navigating the vast expanses of Mongolia has become more convenient.
We want to welcome more Thai visitors to our nation so they can experience the Mongolian people’s hospitality and natural beauty, according to Ms. Battsetseg.
Mutual trade and investment
Aside from the people-to-people connections, both sides are hoping to see more mutual trade and investment.
A body, according to Ms. Battsetseg, will foster regular dialogue and foster cross-sector collaboration. A framework that orients cooperation in high priority areas has also been created using a five-year work plan.
Additionally, she said, the two nations have established a Joint Trade Commission, which is essential for boosting trade and economic cooperation.
She continued,” It is crucial to maintain the momentum of our dynamic cooperation.”
The country is seeking to explore new areas of cooperation that align with Mongolia’s 2050 Vision and Thailand’s Vision 2030, she noted.
According to Ms. Battsetseg, agricultural research and development that strengthens both countries ‘ capacity for food production could be a new area of cooperation as Thailand strives to become a leading industrial hub.
She pointed out that Mongolia’s expertise in livestock farming could complement Thailand’s strengths in crop cultivation and processing.
Additionally, joint efforts to advance sustainable and organic farming practices could lead to new markets for agricultural products from both nations, particularly in those areas where organic food is increasingly in demand.
” Furthermore, we could cooperate in air cargo transportation, as our direct flights from Ulaanbaatar to Bangkok are scheduled to operate year-round starting from this year. Last year alone, 53,000 Mongolians travelled to Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya, and Thailand was one of the top destinations for Mongolians,” she added.
On top of that, with the increasing demand for digital technology and innovation, Mongolia is keen to collaborate with Thailand in promoting digital innovation and entrepreneurship through exchange programmes, joint hackathons, and startup incubation initiatives.
Working in financial technology ( fintech ) could involve sharing expertise in blockchain technology and creating financial services that are specific to the needs of both countries, according to Ms. Battsetseg.
She said it is crucial to facilitate more interactions between Thai and Mongolian businesses.
According to Ms Battsetseg, strengthening ties between the two parties ‘ respective business communities will lead to greater mutual trade and investment.
This could involve organising more business forums, exchanging business delegations, attending Mongolia’s Economic Forum and the region’s largest food and beverage trade show, THAIFEX, or other trade shows and exhibitions, and engaging matchmaking events to connect potential partners and facilitate collaboration, she said.
At the same time,” MonGolia, Always Moving” was launched as this year’s tourism campaign.
According to Ms. Battsetseg, it demonstrates Mongolia’s investment prospects while preserving the country’s traditional nomadic culture from an economic standpoint.
It serves as an open invitation at the same time as a platform for expanding tourism and attracting more investment.
We also anticipate working toward the final drafts of the pending intergovernmental agreements and treaties to enhance the legal environment. Looking ahead, I am confident that the future of Mongolia-Thailand relations is even brighter. ” Ms Battsetseg said.
Regional partners
Amid a series of ongoing global challenges, Ms Battsetseg said Mongolia recognises the importance of solidarity, interconnectedness, cooperation and multilateralism.
Thailand and Mongolia are both committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation as well as to co-operating at multilateral forums to discuss issues of common concern, she continued.
Since the 1990s, Mongolia has pursued a multi-pillar and open foreign policy, actively seeking to integrate into the Asia-Pacific region.
In 2005, Ulaanbaatar ratified the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, acknowledging the significance of Asean’s contribution to regional integration.
Ms. Battsetseg stated that it intends to actively participate in Asean and its subsidiary organizations ‘ activities going forward.
Thailand is Mongolia’s third-largest trade partner in Southeast Asia.
I want to share a quote from King Rama IX’s speech as we pause to remember the historic milestone,” Ms. Battsetseg said.
“‘Friendship between nations is important, but what is more important is people-to-people relations, which can guarantee peace and progress’. “
” I firmly believe in the significance of this statement, as it highlights the crucial role of cultivating connections between people as the foundation of achieving lasting peace and progress,” Ms. Battsetseg continued.
I’m confident that our relationship will continue to grow, and I look forward to working closely with my Thai counterparts to improve our relationship for the benefit of our respective nations and people. “