TOP NEWS HEADLINES IN INDONESIA, SINGAPORE & THAILAND : MARCH 12, 2025

INDONESIA

1.OUTCRY OVER ‘BLATANT’ NEPOTISM IN GOVERNMENT -- THE JAKARTA POST

A recent spate of accusations of nepotism and cronyism under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto has caused a public outcry, as experts warn of the potential impact on the government’s effectiveness and accountability.

2.GOV’T CALLS ON RIDE-HAILING COMPANIES TO GIVE 20 PCT EID BONUSES TO TOP DRIVERS -- JAKARTA GLOBE

The government has urged ride-hailing and delivery companies to provide Eid bonuses for online drivers and couriers, marking a shift in policy aimed at supporting informal gig workers.

SINGAPORE

1.GE2025: READING BETWEEN THE ELECTORAL BATTLE LINES AS MUCH AN ART AS SCIENCE -- THE STRAITS TIMES

Before every general election, there seems to always be dissatisfaction over how the battle lines are drawn.

2.GE2025: ANALYSTS EXPECT INTEREST TO HEAT UP IN THE WEST OF SINGAPORE, AS PARTIES RELOOK STRATEGIES AMID BOUNDARY CHANGES -- CNA

Political parties keen to contest in the west of Singapore will likely have to relook their strategies, with the redrawing of electoral boundaries in the region, said political analysts on Tuesday (Mar 11). 

THAILAND 

1. HOT DAY FORECAST FOR UPPER THAILAND, WET IN THE SOUTH -- THE NATION 

The upper part of Thailand will experience hot weather during the day with isolated rain in the East and some parts of the Bangkok metropolitan area on Tuesday, the Thai Meteorological Department forecast this morning.

2. ESG EXTRA FUND GETS CABINET APPROVAL FOR LTF SWITCHING -- BANGKOK POST

Investors are eligible for a total tax deduction of up to 900,000 baht from ESG (environmental, social and governance) funds this year, according to Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.  

-- BERNAMA