Far From Home: For Southeast Asia’s migrant workers, returning for good can be just as hard as leaving abroad

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One evening, a companion reached out to Miranda, offering her to come to a revealing conference organised by a group of original immigrant workers. &nbsp,

” Sharing my story with people who understand or have similar experience helped me cope with the problems I feel inside”, Miranda said, adding that ever since she has been attending related classes and workshops organised by the party: Sandigan. &nbsp,

The group was founded in 2020, at the top of the pandemic, when the Philippines saw an influx of returning immigrant workers because they either lost their jobs or feared that they would not be able to return home as host countries began closing their territories. &nbsp,

Also, support groups in Indonesia likewise began cropping off during the pandemic, particularly in areas with a big migrant worker people. &nbsp,

” Some of these parties started as informal groups of friends and neighbours. Most disbanded after one or two classes but there are those which are still effective today”, said Wahyu Susilo, executive director of Indonesian-based non-profit company, Migrant Care. &nbsp, &nbsp, &nbsp,

In Dadap- a town in the southern region of West Java where almost 80 per cent of its households have at least one member of the family who have worked abroad – for group began as an impromptu snack-making workshop again in 2020. &nbsp, &nbsp,

” A lot of people, get it returning immigrant workers or those who stay in Indonesia, fell on hard times during the epidemic because there were no employment both internationally or at home”, said Elly Kusumah, the representative of the island’s Migrant Workers ‘ Empowerment Group. &nbsp,

” We have a lot of cassavas in our village, so why not try to turn them into cards? We have a lot of fruits, so why not change them into jam”?

As more original workers participated in the program, they began interacting more strongly with each other. Elly noted that many were facing problems readjusting to living in Indonesia. Although Elly was not a migrant employee herself, she sympathised with their sufferings. &nbsp,

” Some felt they were ridiculed by community members because they now speak with a Malaysian voice and sounded like Upin Ipin”, she said, referring to a Malaysian film project common in both Malaysia and Indonesia. &nbsp,

” Another shared about struggling to communicate with their children after being absent for so long. The difficulties varied”.

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Commentary: Has Grab hit a turning point in its quest to become profitable?

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Grab’s problem has been to shift from emphasis on extreme subsidies toward a model based on healthy growth and administrative efficiency. Taking the reported measures together, they suggest that Grab’s functional changes are beginning to pay off and consumers are responding effectively to its strategy. &nbsp,

A Dynamic SOUTHEAST ASIA LANDSCAPE

Despite its development, Southeast Asia remains a highly competitive market. In freedom, Grab has successfully fended off low-cost companies like InDrive and Maxim, although the dynamic pressure persists.

In the food supply section, Grab leads in all its industry, with industry promote also being more unified among the second-largest players such as ShopeeFood and LineMan. According to a Momentum Works statement released in February, in Indonesia, ShopeeFood slowly achieved an 18 per cent market share in 2024 and is poised to challenge existing officials.

This information underscores that even in areas where Grab now leads, aggressive dynamics are continuously evolving.

Customer incentives remain important for customer acquisition and retention but is weaken margins if not managed properly. This may require careful measurement of special saving while maintaining a product mix that continues to attract and meet a diverse client base.

Its tiered service offering has allowed Grab to extract incremental value from each customer group by charging according to their willingness to pay. The company reported an increase in users opting for” saver” and “priority” deliveries, the least and most costly delivery fee tiers respectively.

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Malaysia deploys team to Myanmar as Southeast Asia offers condolences and help to quake-hit neighbours

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Several South Asian nations have also extended condolences to people affected by the collapse.

” On behalf of Malaysia, I extend our deepest sympathies to all those who have lost loved ones, and our blessings go to those injured and displaced”, said Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on social media on Friday.

Anwar said Malaysia is also strongly monitoring developments in Yunnan in southern China, where spasms have been felt and structural damage reported.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto sent sympathies and offered support to Myanmar and Thailand.

” Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of both places during this difficult day”, he wrote on X on Friday night.

” Indonesia stands ready to provide all needed support for recovery efforts in the damaged places”.

The Philippines sent condolences to Myanmar and Thailand and said it is ready to help, authorities from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Health said Saturday, reported GMA News Online.

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MyIX announces key industry advancements as Malaysia’s internet traffic continues to surge

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  • MyIX has increased DWDM power, boosting information speeds and effectiveness.
  • Significant progress has been made to meet the growing demand for high-speed online.

The MyIX Committee at the conclusion of its 17th Annual General Meeting 2025, with hairman Chiew Kok Hin (seated, centre) and MCMC head of Technology Development Mohamed Hakim Othman (seated, centre-left)

The Malaysia Internet Exchange ( MyIX ) has completed its 17th Annual General Meeting ( AGM ) for 2025 ), reaffirming its commitment to bolstering the country’s digital transformation and advancing its internet infrastructure.

The AGM acknowledged in a speech that the company had made considerable progress over the past year, especially in responding to the nation’s growing need for high-speed, reliable internet access.

MyIX experienced a 17 % year-over-year increase in internet traffic in 2024, bringing the number to an all-time high of 2. 6 terabits per second ( Tbps ). This growth, according to the organization, is a result of Malaysia’s growing emphasis on its peering equipment, which is being driven by companies, content providers, and consumers.

The rapid expansion of Malaysia’s electronic economy is a clear sign of the country’s continued boom in internet traffic, according to MyIX chairman Chiew Kok Hin. The country’s modern transformation quest, where businesses, content providers, and consumers are more connected than ever, reflects the country’s growing dependence on firm, high-speed connectivity. This development is also a testament to the shared efforts of business players, the authorities, and regulatory bodies in creating a suitable digital ecosystem.

Chiew also praised the state for its strategic measures and efforts that have enabled businesses and the citizens of Cambodia to effortlessly adopt digitalization.

He said the government’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital economy has been instrumental in spurring its progress by promoting forward-thinking laws, putting forth forward-thinking initiatives, and encouraging public-private partnerships. These work” create more opportunities for businesses to scale and develop in an increasingly global landscape while enhancing global connection.”

In order to increase the volume of traffic, MyIX has increased its Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing ( DWDM) capacity, boosting the speed of data transmission between key network nodes and improving efficiency. The trade likewise keeps putting safety first, conducting regular system audits, including infiltration testing, web application security assessments, and system architecture reviews.

As a result of its people ‘ ongoing support, MyIX introduced a number of port fee reductions efficient from April 1 to improve the availability and cost of peering for both businesses and network operators.

By providing cost-effective communication options, MyIX is promoting digital equality and making sure that all businesses can benefit from high-speed web exchange services, Chiew said. One of the most economical exchanges in Southeast Asia today and one of the most important in terms of visitors and robustness is MyIX.

As Malaysia moves toward digitalization and the implementation of 5G, MyIX continues to be committed to ensuring a stable, resilient, and future-ready internet infrastructure that supports businesses and communities across the country, according to Choiw.

MyIX, a project launched in 2006 as part of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, aims to “bridging systems, empowering areas.”

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Thai Cabinet approves draft law for casinos, with limits for local gamblers 

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Bangkok’s Cabinet approved a draft law for casinos and entertainment complexes on Thursday ( Mar 27 ), as the government works to boost tourism and establishes a significant gaming sector.

Other than the state-controlled horse racing, the jackpot, and some sports, playing is largely outlawed in Thailand. However, successive governments have pressed for legislation to permit casinos to attract more foreign visitors and generate more jobs and state income. &nbsp, &nbsp, &nbsp, &nbsp, &nbsp,

However, the most recent document, which was approved by the Cabinet, may significantly restrict how many Thai gamblers can gamble at games, with a 5, 000 baht ( US$ 150 ) entry price and at least 50 million ringgit in bank reserves. This will effectively obstruct large segments of the population, whose per capita gross domestic product is about US$ 7, 300.

The requirement for Thai citizens ‘ property would be dropped because it would enlist too many people, according to a deputy finance minister earlier this month. &nbsp, &nbsp, &nbsp,

A federal declaration also states that the game area may only hold up to 10 % of the total area of an entertainment challenging. &nbsp,

The Senate and the king will need to approve the document legislation, which will then be sent to Parliament. &nbsp,

The law’s specifics, according to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, are still a mystery because Parliament would have the ultimate state. &nbsp, &nbsp,

According to a Citi statement from late last year, about quarter of Thai adults aged 20 and older may be casino players, making Thailand a potential third-largest gambling destination.

The Pheu Thai party, under the leadership of the populist government, hopes to entice at least 100 billion baht in new casino and entertainment establishment investments and see a 5 % to 10 % increase in foreign arrivals each year, while generating more than 12 billion baht in annual revenue.

In Thailand, illegal activities have been operating for years despite the majority of betting and gambling being outlawed.

However, a poll in Thailand in January revealed that the plan was opposed, and some political parties have argued that creating a gambling industry would only make societal issues worse. &nbsp,

While many nations in Southeast Asia have legalized casinos, only a few like the wealthy Singapore have been successful in attracting big players like Las Vegas Sands to the country on the back of stringent laws.

Thailand, Southeast Asia’s second-largest market, is a major force behind hospitality. The state anticipates 38 million international arrivals this year, breaking its pre-pandemic report of nearly 40 million tourists. &nbsp,

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Commentary: The Philippines walks a tightrope with Chinese aid

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That is not the entire history, though. According to preliminary data from the future 2025 Lowy Institute Southeast Asia Aid Map, Chinese disbursements have increased steadily under Marcos compared to his father, though from a small base, as a result of new China Eximbank infrastructure loans, totaling about US$ 200 million thus much, with more potential on the horizon.

This suggests that the Marcos government is now slowly orienting its policy toward a more opportunistic, selective approach: properly accepting Chinese funding when necessary while reversing its position on strategic and security issues.

It’s a line move. The Philippines has fewer options as China asserts itself in the area and the West cuts back on its contribution to international aid.

Manila needs power plants, bridge, and roads in addition to asserting its independence. Development financing decisions are influenced by pragmatism rather than philosophy.

The Philippines ‘ ability to continue moving along this great line: benefiting from China’s development assistance without being constrained by Beijing’s strategic goals. That’s not an easy process. However, it might be the only option left in a region where economic opportunity and political tension are extremely dominant.

Alexandre Dayant is the Lowy Institute’s Indo-Pacific Development Centre’s senior scholar and Deputy Director. Grace Stanhope works at the same institution as a study affiliate. The Lowy Institute’s website, Interpreter, was the first to feature this remark.

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Thai cabinet approves casino bill

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Thai gamblers still need B50 million in the bank, but that could change.

PUBLISHED: 27 Mar 2025 at 13: 15

Casino protesters gather at Government House on Thursday when the cabinet approved a bill on entertainment complexes which will include casinos. (Photo: Apichart Jinakul)
Casino activists gather at Government House on Thursday as a expenses for entertainment compounds, which will include casinos, was approved. ( Photo: Apichart Jinakul )

As Thailand’s government works to boost tourism and establish a significant gambling sector, the government on Thursday approved a document law for gambling and entertainment complexes.

However, the most recent draft approved by the government may significantly restrict how many Thai gamblers is gamble in casinos, with a 5, 000 bass entry fee and evidence of at least 50 million baht in bank deposits, properly excluding a sizable portion of the population.

Julapun Amornvivat, the deputy finance minister, earlier this month, predicted that the Thai citizens ‘ asset requirements may likely be dropped because it would restrict the number of people who would be able to attend. He claimed that officials had chosen to accept the review in its present form and to consider possible amendments afterwards.

The law’s specifics, according to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, were never final, as congress would have the final say, according to Shinawatra’s statement to reporters on Thursday.

The Senate and His Majesty the King will need to approve the costs, and it will go to the House of Representatives if it is approved.

A federal declaration also stated that the game area may only hold up to 10 % of an amusement complex’s entire space.

Other than the state-controlled horse racing, the jackpot, and some sports, gambling is largely outlawed in Thailand. However, successive governments have pressed for legislation to permit casinos to attract more foreign visitors and generate more jobs and state income.

According to a Citi record from late last year, about quarter of Thai adults aged 20 and older may be casino players, making Thailand a potential third-largest gambling destination.

The government hopes to attract at least 100 billion baht in new casino and entertainment complexes, and to see a 5 % to 10 % increase in foreign arrivals annually, while generating more than 12 billion baht in annual revenue.

Due to stringent rules, many countries in Southeast Asia have legalized gambling, but only a few like rich Singapore have been successful in attracting international players like Las Vegas Sands.

According to Bloomberg, 80 % of respondents to an online people experiencing expressed support for the bill on Tuesday, according to the Ministry of Finance.

During the reading time from February 28 to March 14, more than 70, 000 persons gave their opinions and recommendations, according to a state speech.

However, a recent poll of the common revealed that the majority of people were concerned about the adverse effects of legalized gambling.

Additionally, the opposition Party pointed out that legalizing gambling might have a negative impact on tourism if China discourages its people from visiting Thailand as a result.

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‘Question of life and death’: NGOs in Southeast Asia fear the worst for vulnerable groups amid sharp USAID cuts

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Arlina and Pereira both acknowledged that some factors are more difficult to fund than others when it comes to obtaining money from politicians, brands, or businesses.

In contrast to, say, ecology, Pereira said, human smuggling is typically” not so beautiful, or doesn’t provide the PR image that a lot of contributors are looking for.”

Pereira fears that if there aren’t enough labor rights organizations working to protect migratory staff ‘ happiness, the US may reverse its decision to suspend foreign aid.

He said,” We are not overdependent on US aid; it’s just the nature of the development world,” calling on the governments of Asia and Africa to help bridge the funding gap by funding their own civil societies.

HOW CHANGES WORLD AID

According to Pereira and other experts, the global humanitarian aid system needs to change in order for it to continue operating responsibly.

Most foreign help is currently” sucked up” by local NGOs and UN organizations, Pereira noted, with little passing down to smaller rivals on the ground.

Rosalia Sciortino, the founder and director of SEA Junction, added that the current system has far too much waste and much money going to tiny civil society organizations.

She stated at the panel discussion in Bangkok that” we need to acknowledge that there was a need to offer more to nearby societies and organizations.”

” We as civil society must all learn about saving and reducing waste in our wasting,” he continues. Therefore, it’s not just the cash we receive; it’s also how we use it, making sure our organization’s conservation is attained.

Reformation may be challenging in an environment of blanket breaks, according to John Luke Chua, a member of the USAID-funded Asia Counter Smuggling in Persons job.

” I’ve heard requests for localization, more flexible financing, and stronger help for the community. Otherwise, he told the board, “what we have best nowadays is a strong centrist change that prioritizes political expediency over evidence-based impact.”

” Funding choices are no longer influenced by whether programs actually accomplish what they set out to do, but rather by whether or not they coincide with short-term social calculus.”

Sara Piazzano, a freelancer and project manager, observed greater changes occurring as governments around the world are more willing to offer concessional mortgages in place of their own.

These types of loans are typically low- or zero-interested, and can be obtained from institutions through specialized programs and partnerships with international organizations, including multilateral institutions. They reached record highs in value worldwide in 2023.

Japan is carrying that out. Nearly all of the development aid was relocated there. China, of course, has always followed this strategy. According to Piazzano, “perhaps this is the future that we are going to see,” noting that Indonesia, Vietnam, and India are the main recipients in Asia.

” I was anticipating that Bangladesh would have a significant impact without USAID.” However, she said,” USAID is nothing if you compare what they are getting from the World Bank.” &nbsp,

According to data, Bangladesh’s World Bank funding was five times higher than USAID’s in 2023.

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