CAMBODIA
1. GARUDA MULLS CONNECTING JAKARTA-SIEM REAP -- FRESH NEWS
Garuda Indonesia plans to launch a direct flight from Jakarta to Siem Reap to facilitate tourism between the destinations. Besides AirAsia connecting Phnom Penh and Jakarta, Indonesia’s national airline is exploring the launch of a direct flight.
2. TOURISM SOARS DESPITE GLOBAL CHALLENGES -- AGENCE KAMPUCHEA PRESSE
Despite prevailing global economic uncertainties, over 1.83 million international tourists visited Cambodia in the first quarter of 2025. Cambodia plans to promote new tourism products and cultural events during the green season (wet weather) from April to October.
INDONESIA
1. WHAT MADE INDONESIA SAY YES TO TESTING BILL GATES’ TB VACCINE -- JAKARTA GLOBE
Indonesia is one of the seven countries currently conducting the Phase Three clinical trial of the tuberculosis (TB) vaccine M72, a global health project supported by the Gates Foundation. The vaccine, aimed at preventing TB infection, has already passed Phase One trials, confirming its safety, and is now being tested for its effectiveness.
2. INDONESIAN CATHOLICS WELCOME POPE LEO -- THE JAKARTA POST
Indonesian Catholics have joyfully welcomed Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from North America and the Order of Saint Augustine, expressing hope that he will continue the legacy of his predecessor by prioritising the poor and marginalised, and promoting unity within the Catholic Church.
MYANMAR
1. CHINA REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR MYANMAR’S DEVELOPMENT -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
Chinese President Xi Jinping assured Myanmar of China’s continued support for the nation’s development, sovereignty and stability. Xi conveyed the message to the State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in Moscow yesterday.
2. TOURISM TO MYANMAR RESUMES AFTER EARTHQUAKE -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has allowed domestic and international tourists to visit earthquake-hit areas and tourist spots. The move will help the local tourism industry and gain first-hand knowledge about earthquake hazards.
SINGAPORE
1. 5 FORMER SCHOOLS IN BEDOK, TAMPINES AND PASIR RIS SET TO BE REPLACED BY NEW HOMES -- THE STRAITS TIMES
Five former schools in the east that have moved or been merged with other schools are set to be replaced by new homes.
2. GE2025: PLAY NICE, FOCUS ON THE EAST AND 'KEEP QUIET' ELSEWHERE -- INSIDE THE PAP’S SUCCESSFUL ELECTORAL STRATEGY -- CNA
The People’s Action Party (PAP) may have had an uninterrupted streak of governing post-independence Singapore for almost 60 years, but this record did not stop some party activists and members from going into the recent General Election with a good amount of pessimism.
THAILAND
1. RELAXATION OF ALCOHOL SALES BAN TO BEGIN BEFORE VISAKHA BUCHA DAY -- THE NATION
According to an announcement by the Office of the Prime Minister published on the Royal Gazette website, the amendment to the prohibition of alcoholic beverage sales, which came into effect last year, seeks to align with current circumstances.
2. TARIFF HIKES TO HAVE FAR-REACHING HIT: BOT -- BANGKOK POST
The United States' tariff hikes are expected to have a prolonged and uncertain impact on Thailand's economy, particularly in key export-oriented sectors, according to the Bank of Thailand (BoT).
VIETNAM
1. FIXING GLITCHES IN DURIAN EXPORTS TO CHINA -- VIETNAMPLUS
Authorities are addressing technical issues affecting Vietnam’s durian exports to China after a big drop in shipments early this year. Exports to China were only 35,000 metric tonnes in the first quarter, only 20 per cent of the export target.
2. VIETNAM RAISES ELECTRICITY PRICE AGAIN -- VIETNAM NEWS
Vietnam Electricity announced a 4.8 percent increase in the average retail electricity price, effective Saturday. This marks the fourth price hike since early 2023. The increase is expected to have minimal impact on low-income households and beneficiaries of social policies.
-- BERNAMA
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