Third phase of handout to cost B140 billion

By:
On:
In: South-East Asia

According to the lieutenant finance minister, 14 million people will receive funding in Q2 of next year.

Discussed: 20 Nov 2024 at 14: 11

Eligible recipients queue at a Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives branch to withdraw cash given under the first phase of the state-sponsored handout programme last month.
To remove money from donations made during the first step of the state-sponsored flyer program, ready consumers waited at a Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives tree next month.

According to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, the Thai government plans to give 14 million persons 140 billion ringgit as part of its cash-handout trigger program in the second quarter of next year.

” Growth can be pushed up by the various stimulus measures in the upcoming year to over 3 %.” We are very convinced of that”, Mr Julapun said on Wednesday, adding that full-year progress in 2024 did not reach 2.8 %.

About 14.5 million poor and disabled individuals have so far received a settlement of 10, 000 ringgit, out of an estimated 45 million who are expected to be take part in the Pheu Thai-led government’s unique system.

In January, 40 billion baht will be transferred to the old, followed by 140 billion ringgit in the second quarter to others who have registered, Mr Julapun said.

He added that the government intends to invest 40 billion baht by the start of the year to reduce producers ‘ production costs.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy grew by 3 % in the July-September period this year, the fastest rate in two years, the National Economic and Social Development Council ( NESDC ) said this week.

The agency forecast growth of 2.6 % this year and 2025 growth in a range of 2.3 % to 3.3 %.

Last year’s growth of 1.9 % lagged regional peers. Due to high household debt, higher borrowing costs, and clunky demand from China’s major trading partner, the economy has struggled.

The Bank of Thailand ( BoT ) unexpectedly reduced its policy interest rate last month following sustained government pressure. Dec. 18 is when it’s second rate meeting, but it’s already said nothing will change.

Continue Reading

Fox companies Good Foodie Media and Involve Asia are driving the MarTech industry forward

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • MarTech-driven e-commerce projected to reach US$ 7.88B by end-2024
  • Both businesses are driving business growth through MDEC’s Wolf Programme

Rene Menezes, president and co-founder of Involve Asia (1st from right) and Lim Pinn Yang, co-founder and CEO of Good Foodie Media (2nd from left) were panellists at the recent Endeavor Future Forum 2.0. (Picture credit: MDEC)

The evolving integration of technology across a range of industries to stay ahead is what is driving the modern economy’s transformation. With Malaysia’s aim for the digital economy to contribute&nbsp, 25.5 % to the nation’s GDP by the end of 2025, it underscores the crucial role of businesses including marketing technology ( MarTech ) and digital creative content in driving this upward trajectory.

The digital creative content segment alone generated an impressive US$ 1.2 billion ( RM5.6 billion ) in 2021 and the ecommerce sector, driven by MarTech, is expected to reach US$ 7.88 billion ( RM35.2 billion ) by the end of the year.

The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC )’s national strategic initiative, which offers a myriad of enabling incentives for Malaysian businesses and Rakyat to play a leading role in the global digital revolution and digital economy, is a catalyst for the growth of these crucial digital economy segments.

The Founders Centre of Excellence ( FOX ) program, a bespoke program designed for specific businesses that showcase high-growth growth with the potential to become the next scaleup tech icons, has also been introduced in conjunction with the MD initiative. Important MarTech industry players, such as MD standing companies Good Foodie Media and Involve Asia, have been identified by MDEC as being at the forefront of the digital revolution and using their expertise to form and shape the online landscape.

The electronic economy is inventive

The expansion of information development during the pandemic opened up new opportunities for collaboration with in-demand designers. Through a varied approach that involves both publishers and articles creators, Good Foodie Media, a media company focused on food and cooking online content, has benefited from this synergy to assist brands promote their products. Consumer reliance on digital communication was further increased as a result of the pandemic, increasing Good Foodie Media‘s reputation as a reliable source of high-quality content.

The team behind Good Foodie Media unwinding at their recent company annual dinner after a successful year (Picture Credit: Foodie Media)

” During the epidemic, there were movements power purchases,” according to our advertising section. We changed our websites so that internet marketing could be implemented. In doing so, we were able to increase our profit and survive the challenging time. This has taught us to use our already-available tools in times of difficulty, according to Nicholas Lim Pinn Yang, co-founder and CEO of Good Foodie Media.

By properly integrating native consumer behavior with regional consumer behavior in the food and beverage sector, the system that seamlessly integrates articles with commerce has gained widespread support.

The platform has seen considerable success over the years thanks to the major success it has experienced since Lim’s founding in 2017 and several other co-founders since then. After receiving their first cash from an angel investor, they expanded into Kuala Lumpur, expanding from a 1, 000-strong fan base focused on the Penang cooking field to over 30 million users today.

With the major traction we had, we were able to rapidly rise up the ranks and gain access to Johor. He continues,” We therefore diversified our platforms to different verticals to meet people in different consumer demands, including Malaysia Homie, Bangkok Foodie, ChiHou, and Halal Foodie,” he adds.

” We’re working on creating a software program that seamlessly combines commerce and content with the goal of streamlining local consumer behaviour in the F&amp, B room,” according to our strategic hinge. With our 30 million-strong captive audience, we see this as a key opportunity to create an integrated experience that enhances engagement and drives growth in this sector” ,&nbsp, Lim said.

The second installment of Good Foodie Media’s advertising campaign, which partnered with Funding Societies, was launched in association with Maybank and PayNet in 2024. To time, Good Foodie Media has aided over 15, 000 MSME.

In the same year, MDEC gave Good Foodie Media the distinction of being a significant person in the country’s modern economy.

The online advertising market is on the rise.

The most popular online marketing and partner control program in Southeast Asia through the Squirrel program, Involve Asia, has revolutionized how brands and advertisers collaborate with publishers and influencers to create performance-based advertising campaigns. The platform has empowered over 500 brands to reach millions of consumers through its network of 400, 000 affiliate partners, driving a total transaction value of over US$ 1.5 billion ( RM6.7 billion ) since its establishment a decade ago.

Rene Menezes, president and co-founder, Involve Asia (2nd from right) receiving the Malaysia’s Affiliate Marketing Pioneer Award from Amiruddin Abdul Shukor, head of Corporate Services of MDEC. (Picture credit: MDEC)

” What sets Involve Asia off is its&nbsp, commitment to transparency, performance monitoring, and data-driven insight, making it a trusted partner for organizations looking to expand their digital footprint across the place”, says Rene Menezes, president and co-founder of Involve Asia.

Backed by popular opportunity capital and private equity firms like 500 Startups, OSK Technology Ventures, and Bintang Capital Partners, the company has established a solid presence across Asia, with offices across six countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Last year alone, Involve Asia raised over US$ 10 million ( RM44.6 million ) in funding to fuel its expansion and product development. The company’s remarkable achievement led to a 150 % annualised growth rate from its beginning stages to pre-IPO success.

The potential of MarTech has been successfully used by Involve Asia to spur growth and spur innovation in digital marketing. By integrating sophisticated equipment, Involve Asia optimises strategy management, enabling detailed targeting and real-time efficiency analytics. These abilities have enabled the business to implement effective strategies that have constantly yielded higher ROI for their clients, including data-driven influence marketing campaigns and highly personalized affiliate programs.

Their creative thinking and creative use of technologies have not only provided thousands of SMEs with new opportunities, but they also established new standards for the environment. The MarTech and online innovative industries act as catalysts for a more diverse and robust digital economy in addition to being growth drivers. These companies are maximizing the full potential of these sectors with MDEC’s proper support, ensuring overall financial growth. &nbsp,

These organizations are poised to remain at the forefront of the online business, supporting progress and enabling businesses to grow in an extremely competitive and technologically connected world as they continue to embrace and progress with the most recent developments in MarTech and electronic information.

For Malaysian online standing companies, MDEC offers a variety of programs. Work for this Malaysia Digital Status.

Continue Reading

‘We want to have a say’: PM Wong on the importance of summits like G20

By:
On:
In: South-East Asia

ASEAN, GERMANY AND FRANCE This means we need to” strengthen our own neighbourhood”, Mr Wong said, referring to the&nbsp, Association of Southeast Asian Nations ( ASEAN ). He highlighted the job done between ASEAN members in some areas, including&nbsp, modern and efficient communication, a regional energy grid and transaction systems.Continue Reading

Friend or foe? Southeast Asia braces for Trump 2.0 – Asia Times

By:
On:
In: Asia

BANGKOK – As Southeast Asian nations grapple with US President-elect Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant language and business war threats, the approaching party’s next trip will set the region’s trade-dependent nations on edge and its autocratic regimes at ease.

” In his first term, he]Trump ] did not exhibit interest in the promotion of democracy or human rights”, Kantathi Suphamongkhon, a former Thai foreign minister and trade representative, said in an interview. ” This trend is expected to continue.

” Administrations in Southeast Asia will feel less or no stress on this front,” sage Kantathi predicted.

Those officials, including in Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, all seen as leaning toward China, can expect less clash from Washington in responding to their lack of good votes, free speech and other animal rights-related issues, which Democrat administrations like the cheerful Joe Biden state generally emphasize.

Provincial leaders reportedly change their political stances in response to Trump’s unpredictable behavior.

” Under his strongman administration, a personal connection with him has heightened price,” Kantathi said”. The advantage will be those who can accurately compliment Trump. Charm offensive abilities may be made more valuable.

The former leading minister added that “government officials who favor a transactional approach and dedication to work toward a deal harmony with the US will be seen in a good light.”

As businesses seek to relocate their operations from China to Southeast Asia in order to avoid Trump’s tariffs, Trump’s return to power could lead to a US-China trade war, according to analysts.

A first trade war salvo on a few Chinese goods, which Trump had previously won, spooked many businesses and prevented them from entering Southeast Asia and from China to avoid tariffs and quotas on “made-in-China” goods and services. Vietnam was one of the victims of that migration, but others might benefit from a larger exodus in the future.

If US President-elect Donald Trump follows his threat to radically increase tariffs on Chinese goods, Cambodia could be a major winner, according to a recent online article from the Phnom Penh-based Khmer Times. According to the statement,” US companies are already looking for alternative sources of goods to shift their production from China to the kingdom [Cambodia].”

Cambodia Chamber of Commerce vice president Lim Heng told the local publication,” We know all about the]trade ] war threat between China and America. Chinese companies will be more reliant on this threat to invest in Cambodia.

He predicted that” chinese businesses and regional businesses will invest in Cambodia and export to the US, Europe, and other countries.”

Cambodian exports of clothing, electrical goods, raw materials, and travel accessories could benefit from new US tariffs, which Trump has suggested will rise to 60 % for all goods made in China and 20 % elsewhere.

Still, regional countries will rue having to make the push-comes-to-shove choice of backing either the US or China if the world’s two biggest economies wage an all-out trade war.

Some people worry that Trump’s tariffs will put more of China’s excess goods in nearby Southeast Asian markets, putting more low-cost, competitive pressure on local manufacturers and businesses.

A Bangkok Post editorial warned on November 8 that the Thai government should be careful not to be perceived as having an unfavorably close relationship with China or acting as a hub for Chinese investors.

” We want to be loved by China. We want to be loved by America”, said Thailand’s Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan in September before Trump’s election win.

However, some in Asia believe that America, which is battling hostilities and wars across the globe and that needs friends and allies, is becoming increasingly desperate.

According to Wanwichit Boonprong, a lecturer in political science at Bangkok’s Rangsit University,” Southeast Asia now has more bargaining power than before and sees that the United States will re-enter the conflict in the South China Sea.” Therefore, America’s position is not as strong as before.”

Indeed, China appears to be gaining in regional influence.

” He]Trump ] should know that in recent years, Chinese capital has had a huge influence in]Southeast Asian ] countries, both legally and illegally, and many countries are happy to accept it because of their geopolitical location that is very close to China, coupled with the fact that many countries have Chinese descent, and in terms of culture or tradition it is easy to accept being Chinese,” Wanwichit said.

For instance, during the anti-communist purges and extrajudicial killings that targeted ethnic Chinese throughout the archipelagora during the old Cold War, China was Indonesia‘s adversary.

Today, Beijing has built a Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail as part of its global Belt and Road Initiative infrastructure-building program and has poured billions into the nation’s nickel industry, a key element in the global transition to electric vehicles ( EVs ).

He should be aware that several Asian nations have increasingly sought to maintain balance between China and the US as a result of the rise of China in the [Southeast Asian ] region and what appears to be Washington’s diminished interest there. This includes Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia,” Paul Chambers, a Southeast Asian security affairs specialist at Naresuan University, said in an interview.

Regional nations that believe China exerts excessive pressure on itself for power and influence may concur with Trump’s resumption of the presidency.

” Given Trump’s demonstrated anti-China policy in his first term, his return to office in 2024 points to more economic and security benefits for countries feeling bullied by China in Asia, namely Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, and South Korea,” Chambers said.

” Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia are the frontline states in the eyes of the United States as a result of China’s aggressive behavior in the South China Sea,” Kasit Piromya, another former Thai foreign minister, said in an interview.

Washington and Bangkok enjoy close diplomatic, economic, and, especially, military relations – all of which are expected to continue under Trump.

” If Trump offers positive inducements to the Thai military, relations will improve,” Chambers, an expert in the Thai military, said.

Thailand, a non-NATO US treaty ally, excels at balancing its relations with China and the US delicately by looking for the advantages that each superpower offers the country.

Trump’s return to the White House coincides with the US Pentagon’s hopes to sell Lockheed Martin’s F-16 warplanes to Thailand against strong competition from Sweden’s Saab-made Gripen E/F fighter aircraft.

Eight AH-6″ Little Bird combat helicopters are currently being built by US defense contractor Boeing for the Royal Thai Army, and Thai pilots will soon be trained at Yuma Proving Ground in Mesa, Arizona.

In July, a couple of Beechcraft/Textron AT-6TH Wolverine light attack aircraft were delivered from its Providence, Rhode Island-based factory to Thailand’s air force.

Possible options include arming the Wolverines with laser-guided bombs, AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and other weapons. A dozen patrol boats were given to the Thai Marine Police by the US a year ago.

In October, US Ambassador to Thailand Chusak Sirinil, a minister, met with the prime minister’s office to discuss how the US is ready to work with Thailand in a number of areas, including modernizing the military, battling drugs, and strengthening economic ties. Chusak said”, Thailand remains a steadfast ally of the United States.”

Countries like Cambodia could face new scrutiny for their close financial ties with Chinese companies that have profited from the nation’s real estate, natural resources, tourism, and other industries if Trump adopts a targeted hard line against Beijing and its regional allies.

US-Cambodia relations are already strained by Washington’s criticism of Phnom Penh’s slide toward authoritarianism and human rights clampdown. Cambodia has accused the US of interfering with its internal affairs and even suggested that the country attempted to start a” color revolution” to overthrow previous Prime Minister Hun Sen’s regime.

Additionally, according to Phnom Penh’s repeated denials, the US believes that Cambodia has entered a secret pact that grants China access to its Ream Naval Base along the Gulf of Thailand.

Senate President Hun Sen, who allegedly hoped to bolster ties with Trump, optimistically posted on his Facebook page:

” Before the election, Donald Trump sent a message to the American people and around the world about loving peace, war-hating, ]and ] so-called pacifism. Trump’s victory demonstrates that Americans prefer peace over a direct conflict with Israel and Ukraine.

Since 1978, Richard Ehrlich has been a foreign correspondent for the American government in Bangkok. Excerpts from his two new nonfiction books”, Rituals. Killers. Wars. &amp, Sex. — Tibet, India, Nepal, Laos, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka &amp, New York “and” Apocalyptic Tribes, Smugglers &amp, Freaks “are available <a href="https://asia-correspondent.tumblr.com/”>here.

Continue Reading

Keyto MY launches advanced fluid facility in Batu Kawan, boosting Malaysia’s high-tech manufacturing

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • Expected to earn US$ 14.5 million in revenue over the course of three times.
  • Committed to fostering native talent, supporting a green high-tech ecosystem

Keyto MY launches advanced fluid facility in Batu Kawan, boosting Malaysia’s high-tech manufacturing

Keyto MY Sdn. Bhd., a company of Shenzhen Keyto Fluid Technology Co. Ltd., has inaugurated its state-of-the-art smooth systems manufacturing plant in Batu Kawan, Penang. With Keyto MY’s new service set to expand the nation’s commercial capabilities and expand its high-tech manufacturing business, this important purchase underscores Malaysia’s growing importance as a global hub.

The plant is projected to generate sales revenue of US$ 14.5 million ( RM65 million ) over the next three years, reflecting its robust growth potential.

The state offers a vibrant commercial habitat that naturally attracts buyers, according to Chow Kon Yeow, deputy minister of Penang. He continued,” Keyto MY marks the company’s primary overseas manufacturing facility, located in Southeast Asia, and also its first appearance there.”

The new production service, spanning over 3, 540 square metres, may focus on producing liquid control systems and precision components necessary for applications in medical devices, life science instruments, and environmental monitoring systems. The plant will be crucial in strengthening Malaysia’s place on the worldwide market for superior solvent power answers by addressing the growing need in these sectors. Its projected sales revenue of US$ 14.5 million ( RM65 million ) over the next three years highlights the strong market potential for high-precision fluid technology.

Zhang Cheng, president of Shenzhen Keyto Fluid Technology Co. Ltd., emphasised the strategic value of the Batu Kawan ability to Keyto’s international development. ” This new plant marks a significant milestone in our global growth”, Zhang said, adding,” Malaysia’s strategic location, coupled with its skilled workforce and business-friendly environment, provides us with the ideal platform to deliver advanced fluid technology solutions to customers worldwide”.

The second step of the service will focus on manufacturing a range of smooth management options, including high-performance pumps, valves, and smooth systems. With Malaysia’s growing strength in high-tech manufacturing, Keyto MY is well-positioned to become a critical player in the region’s supply chain for fluid technology, meeting rising demand for advanced systems across multiple industries.

As a subsidiary of Shenzhen Keyto Fluid Technology Co. Ltd., a company with a strong international presence, Keyto MY brings extensive expertise, industry knowledge, and a global perspective to drive both local and international business success. Innovative technologies will be used at the plant to maximize production efficiency, maintain stringent quality control, and promote sustainable manufacturing practices.

Keyto MY’s presence in Penang has a long-term impact beyond just economic expansion. ” Our investment is not just in physical infrastructure, it’s about empowering Malaysia’s next generation of engineers and professionals”, Zhang said, highlighting the company’s commitment to nurturing local talent, fostering innovation, and contributing to the development of a sustainable high-tech ecosystem.

According to Invest Penang, the state’s strategic advantages – its well-established industrial base, skilled workforce, and proximity to key global markets make it an ideal location for high-tech industries. The company noted that Malaysia’s investment is in line with its ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen its position within the world’s high-tech manufacturing landscape.

Continue Reading

CBRE hires Hugh Macdonald as Apac head of capital advisers | FinanceAsia

By:
On:
In: Asia, Finance, South-East Asia

CBRE, a US real estate and investment firm, has appointed veteran investment banker Hugh Macdonald as head of capital advisers for Asia Pacific.

Starting his role in Sydney on November 18, Macdonald will relocate to Singapore in the first quarter of 2025, according to a company media release. 

Macdonald (pictured) is joining CBRE from Deutsche Bank, where he was most recently head of investment banking coverage and advisory for Australia and New Zealand. He was at the German bank for over 16 years, according to his LinkedIn profile. 

He has previoulsy worked at Citi, Morgan Stanley and Bankers Trust, and has experience in real estate, gaming, leisure, and lodging sectors across M&A, financing, and capital markets.  

Macdonald has originated and executed many large transactions across Apac and will report to Leo van den Thillart, global head of investment banking, and Greg Hyland, head of capital markets, Apac.

Commenting in a media release, Hyland said: “Our capital advisors business has experienced exceptional growth in Apac, raising over $3.5 billion of capital in the past 18 months. With Hugh’s established relationships, we are confident in expanding our investment banking services across the region, providing top-tier capital markets, M&A, and strategic solutions to our clients.”

Macdonald added: “I’m eager to collaborate with my new colleagues to enhance the value we provide to our clients, meeting their diverse capital requirements and driving business growth throughout the Apac region.”

For more FinanceAsia people moves click here. 


¬ Haymarket Media Limited. All rights reserved.

Continue Reading

War ‘no obstacle’ to ramping up relations

By:
On:
In: South-East Asia

On Tuesday, Ukraine and Russia’s issue actually begins its 1,000th day, but Kyiv continues to work with nations in Southeast Asia to establish new partnerships and receive additional assistance to bring the war to an end and ensure justice for its citizens.

The recently appointed Russian head of affairs in Thailand, Viktor Semenov, stated in an interview with the Bangkok Post that despite the country’s longstanding commitment to intensifying its cooperation with Asean countries in places such as complex, agricultural, and people-to-people cooperation, Ukraine has always been locked in a state of conflict with Russia.

The dedication, he said, reflects the growing significance of the area in the Russian government’s proper calculations.

On Feb 29, the Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry presented a policy paper titled “Ukraine-Asean: Vision of Cooperation” that outlines the present state of relations, as well as the leads for potential cooperation between Kyiv and the bloc’s people.

At present, both countries have active participation in the fields of food and agriculture, digital economy, business, strength, disaster management and demining operations. According to Mr. Semenov, Kyiv and Bangkok are even engaged in a number of social jobs.

In an effort to develop the relationship with Asean, Ukrainian politicians also made an official visit to Laos ‘ 45th General Assembly in October.

” Asean is a very important region, not only for the world, but also for Ukraine. ]As for, ] we would like to become a Regional Dialogue Partner of Asean”, he said.

He claimed that because of companionship and mutual understanding, Thailand’s marriage with Ukraine is still strong despite the conflict with Russia.

Mr. Semenov continued,” We look forward to enhancing the democratic discourse between Ukraine and Thailand.”

Far-reaching consequences

Although the battle is far from Thailand, it has affected the country’s relationship with Ukraine, as the conflict has disrupted trade and other actions between the two countries.

The battle, for instance, has affected Ukraine’s ability to export vital agricultural goods, such as grains and flower seeds, to Thailand.

Commercial airlines are compelled to evade Russian airspace because of the risk of being hit, and Russian airspace is impacted by sanctions, which also cause delays in traveling between the two nations.

The conflict also poses a major threat to the environment, particularly with the nuclear power plant’s seizure, which Kyiv fears could lead to a global nuclear disaster that would affect both Ukraine and its neighbors as well as nations on the other side of the world, such as Thailand.

” Radiation has no frontiers”, he said.

Mr. Semenov urged Thailand to increase its involvement in international peace activities.

We are very appreciative of Thailand’s participation in the first international peace conference and the conferences on food security and economic safety, which are both important contributions from the kingdom to finding a just and comprehensive solution for Ukraine’s long-lasting peace, he said.

” There must be two foundations upon which to restrain the harmony in Ukraine. Second, there should be no debate about Ukraine without Ukraine]involvement].

” Minute, the drive may be based on the UN Charter and respect the independence and dignity of Ukraine’s internationally recognised edges, “he said.

We want to expand our political dialogue with Thailand and expand our democratic consultations at the minister and other levels. We are now working on these concerns, “he added.

Windows of opportunity

According to Mr. Semenov, both governments may encourage closer economic ties because both Thailand and Ukraine have substantial potential for shared economic development.

A Joint Trade Commission may be established to identify the top focus areas for common participation.

” I will attempt to encourage]both countries ] to increase investments, especially in the green energy, technology and agriculture sectors, “he added.

At the same time, he would like to enhance technical cooperation between the armed forces, as well as in the fields of science and technology, space exploration, and cultural diplomacy.

” We are currently working on a Ukrainian-Thai poetry collection. For the first time, Ukrainian poems are being translated into Thai, “he added.

Ukraine’s citizens are living in constant danger of a Russian military assault, and they still require additional humanitarian aid and technical assistance.

He went on to say that guided missiles have been used to attack various important infrastructure, most notably the nation’s power grid.

Some assistance in protecting the nation’s energy security will be especially useful, especially during the winter, he said.

” In the meantime, we need humanitarian, financial and technical assistance as we continue to fight for our independence and territorial integrity, “he added.

He added that more and more Ukrainians require mental health care as a result of the war’s significant trauma to both individuals and society as a whole.

” I would like to underline that, of course, we are eager to strengthen cooperation with Thailand in different spheres. I’m confident that we have a great chance of expanding our partnership despite the difficulties that the war has presented us with, he said.

Ukrainian Chargé d'Affaires Viktor Semenov.

Ukrainian Chargé d’Affaires Viktor Semenov

Continue Reading

Commentary: Learning poetry by heart has its place in modern Singapore

By:
On:
In: South-East Asia

Renaissance OF Attention IN POETRY MEMORISATION

Given these advantages, it’s no wonder interest in writing memorisation is reviving worldwide. Youth have become more popular with writing reading events like Poetry Out Loud in the USA and Poetry by Heart in the UK.

In Singapore, I collaborated with a group of volunteers to organize the first National Poetry Recitation Opposition as part of the monthly Poetry Festival Singapore, a literary festival that promotes literature in all of our nation’s languages.

Over 120 participants took part in workshops on writing memorisation at the National Library before the competition, many of whom shared how greatly moved they were by the lyrics.

The Path No Taken, a father’s account of how his brother and his son learned from it. Another young woman discovered her new abilities, surprising herself with her recitation of Lee Tzu Pheng’s Singapore River.

These activities illustrate how memorised writing flames conversations, inspires trust and fosters personal connections.

REIGNITING POETRY’S ORAL ROOTS

At the contest finals, participants showcased their enthusiasm for literature, performing their favorite poems aloud with assurance.

Many people emailed me about how poetry has come to mean something to them. One contender claimed that meditating on Psalm 23 helps him focus while taking difficult exams. Another expressed how Maya Angelou’s film Phenomenal Woman supports her female identity and helps her get her voice.

Promoting writing in schools and spreading poetry-related awareness via social media may increase poetry appreciation. Students are exposed to Singapore’s rich cultural heritage in addition to bilingual shows like those at the Poetry Festival Singapore.

In the end, understanding what it means to get people implies something more profound than simply learning poetry by heart.

Continue Reading

Bringing Buddhism back as a component of India’s strategic culture – Asia Times

By:
On:
In: Asia

Can Eastern foreign relations be reshaped by postcolonial values? India is already practicing Buddhism in response to that issue. Some context: While India has a majority Hindu population, its national emblem and the choice of its flag ( specifically the white band ) were adopted from Buddhist symbols at the time of independence.

Over the last few years, the International Buddhist Confederation, composed of a network of researchers, has been at the vanguard of India’s referral to the Buddhist earth. India’s growing relations to the world’s Buddhist area are being strengthened by the IBC. &nbsp, The force of the work, which is sponsored by India’s Ministry of Culture, is to investigate alternative types of wedding based on Buddhist rules and postcolonial links. India and its Asian supporters are collaborating to create a new model that will guide international cooperation on growth issues, starting with Buddhist values.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly that it had chosen the Buddha over Yuddha ( the word for war or conflict ), citing Buddhism as a pillar of India’s global identity and a path to peace. In subsequent global speeches, he has reaffirmed this point, citing Buddhism as central to New Delhi’s political strategy and reply to global tensions.

All political parties across the intellectual spectrum acknowledge that Buddhism is a central component of Indian and Asian social discourse, despite Prime Minister Modi’s and Bharatiya Janata Party’s well-known ties to Hindu nationalism. &nbsp,

India’s democratic administration has repeatedly revived this aspect of its commitments with Asia, and the degree of Buddhist civilization’s expansion across Asia is well known. Simply put, there is a discussion among Asian nations about adopting some standards for global conduct given the current world situation. A significant portion of the Modi government’s funds has been allocated to making these issues work for a long time. &nbsp,

Importantly, Buddha’s doctrines of reasoning, kindness and the interconnectedness/interdependency of all things and beings resonate strongly in India’s renewed drive for a new ethical conversation at the international stage. These rules are seen as a basis for local cooperation, consensus-building and fight protection.

Buddhism serves as a political tool for promoting interconnectedness and prosperity in India and as a spiritual tradition. This reflects New Delhi’s wider global aspirations, which are to achieve regional cooperation and happiness in Asia.

Buddhism has a major role played in Indian foreign policy for a long time. Indian nationalists ‘ critical analysis of India’s spot in Asia reflected the traditional extent of Buddhist effect there.

Buddhism was also viewed by Hindu philosophers and reformers as a potent countermeasure to social injustices and as a unified power in Asia during the colonial era. While it sparked intellectual debates among Hindu nationalists, there remains wide consensus on its value in shaping India’s part in Asia, promoting peace and cooperation.

In recent years, India’s international coverage has focused more on soft power in its relations with Asia. Despite having a history of hegemonic ties and practicing Buddhism before it was granted its independence, New Delhi’s development initiatives and diplomacy now speak for themselves more clearly.

Buddhism, which has shaped the cultural and social fabric of India and Asia for decades, is key to this plan. Important activities include the&nbsp, International Buddhist Circuit, remnant exhibitions, &nbsp, recovery of Buddhist churches across Asia&nbsp, and the&nbsp, return&nbsp, of some Buddhist objects to India. &nbsp, &nbsp,

It is already obvious how effective this approach is. In March this year, remnants of Lord Buddha and his two main followers were displayed in Thailand, where they&nbsp, attracted&nbsp, over four million followers. A similar museum in Mongolia in 2022&nbsp, received state-level accolades. More lately, in June 2024, Modi attended the opening of Nalanda University, the highest core of Buddhist learning in ancient days.

The biography of Guru Padmasambhava, the Indian spiritual who introduced Buddhism to Tibet and the Himalayan place, is gaining in popularity among researchers. His influence, earlier understated, is then gaining renewed interest. Padmasambhava ( known as the” second Buddha” ) is credited with establishing Tibet’s first monastery and shaping the region’s arts and architecture, including in Bhutan and Nepal. It is thought that he used his mountain runs as a means of propagating Buddhist traditions.

Furthermore, the ancient Pali language has become a focal point for the Indian government, due to the publication of key Buddhist texts, including the&nbsp, Tripitaka&nbsp, ( the earliest texts that make up the Buddhist Canon ), in Pali. Actually the language of the common people in Buddha’s period, Pali evolved into a complex language as it spread to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, &nbsp, influencing languages&nbsp, including Sinhalese, Burmese, Thai and Khmer.

In October 2024, Pali was &nbsp, declared a” classical language of India”. Modi marked the occasion by addressing a large gathering of Buddhist monks, many from Southeast Asia, reaffirming&nbsp, India’s commitment&nbsp, to preserving” the words of Lord Buddha with their original values”.

In recent years, New Delhi has hosted major international Buddhist summits ( with IBC as the nodal knowledge partner ), bringing together diplomats, scholars, monks and monastic heads from across Asia. These events, inaugurated by India’s top leadership, foreground Buddhism’s growing centrality in India’s foreign policy. &nbsp, &nbsp,

For instance, following&nbsp, the First Global Buddhist Summit&nbsp, hosted by India’s prime minister, India hosted the&nbsp, First Asian Buddhist Summit&nbsp, in 2024, with the president of India as the chief guest, reinforcing India’s” Act East” policy. This strategy emphasizes regional development through cultural ties, including the restoration of historic sites, student scholarships, and a redefining of economic cooperation grounded in civilized values. The Asian Buddhist Summit concluded with the announcement of the&nbsp, Delhi Declaration, which outlined a framework for cooperation among Asian nations guided by Buddhist&nbsp, principles. &nbsp,

Beyond cultural diplomacy, Buddhist teachings are being applied to contemporary challenges facing the environment, mental health issues and combating disinformation. The September 2024 International Buddhist Media Conclave in New Delhi, which brought together world-wide Buddhist media outlets and businesspeople to discuss technological advancements and novel methods of preventing disinformation, is a notable example.

Buddhism’s long influence in Asia has shaped the region’s art, architecture, ecology and spirituality, encompassing all aspects of life. These initiatives align India’s development objectives with those of the region by highlighting India’s soft power and reintroducing Buddhism into Asia’s strategic culture. This method aids in the conceptualization of a global order based on the Buddha’s teachings.

Prateek Joshi, a graduate student at Oxford who is currently working as a media executive for the Indian Buddhist Confederation, an independent ministry of culture organization that aims to foster a lively dialogue between Asian governments and Buddhist scholars, is a graduate student at the University of Oxford.

Genevieve Donnellon-May is a researcher at Oxford Global Society and a fellow at the Indo-Pacific Studies Center. She was named a young leader for the 2023 Pacific Forum and serves on Modern Diplomacy’s advisory board.

Continue Reading

Peninsular Malaysia’s oil and gas production dropped by half over last decade: Economy Minister

By:
On:
In: Asia

SINGAPORE: Peninsular Malaysia’s oil and gas production has dropped by half in the last century, with new deposits now concentrated in Sabah and Sarawak.

From 700, 000 barrels a day 10 years ago, production in the peninsula has decreased to 350, 000 barrels daily, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said on Sunday ( Nov 17 ) at his ministry’s engagement session in Kelantan with the state government.

According to Mr. Rafizi, Malaysia needs to accelerate its shift to clean energy because oil and gas are still significant contributors to its economical growth and income distribution. The oil and gas industry accounts for 20 % of Malaysia’s monthly gross domestic product, according to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.

The transition to power in the country may be made more quickly. In this framework, the government needs to employ particular policies, including payment reform”, Mr Rafizi said without elaborating.

In his budget speech last month, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a rebate cut for Malaysia’s top 15 % money group’s RON95 gasoline. &nbsp,

” In the coast, 30 per cent of our oil is imported to generate power for business and if no actions are taken, we will be increasingly rely on foreign places”, Mr Rafizi added.

According to him, the state may have to deal with a major problem as a result of the peninsula’s declining oil and gas extraction, particularly in terms of funding distribution and allocation.

Malaysia is the second-largest oil producer in Southeast Asia and the world’s third largest exporter of liquified natural gas ( LNG ), with the country’s oil reserves mainly located off the coasts of Kelantan, Terengganu, Sarawak and Sabah.

According to the national government, Sarawak’s plausible and proven reserves of petroleum represent 60.87 per share of Malaysia’s full reserves, while Sabah’s make up around 18.8 per cent.

Continue Reading