This week, SEAmplified: March 19th, 2024
The latest in SEA politics for the week of March 19th, 2024.
Welcome to this week’s roundup! The latest on Southeast Asian politics summed up in a neat 5-minute read, straight to your inbox every week.
News roundup
Indonesian government’s proposal to allow military and police in civilian government positions is drawing criticism. Rights groups fear a return to past military influence, despite the policy's aim of civil service reform and improved benefits for temporary workers.
Indonesia's marriage rate is falling due to social and economic challenges experienced by young adults, sparking concerns about low birth rates and economic strain. Analysts say Indonesia's situation is unique due to uneven development across regions, leading to differing views on marriage among social classes.
Philippines aims to dethrone Singapore as Asia's No. 2 casino hub. Manila is banking on new integrated resorts to boost tourism and counteract a decline in Chinese tourists. The government plans to sell state-owned casinos by 2026.
Thailand’s Chiang Mai is blanketed in toxic smog, making them the most polluted city in the world. Farmers burning crops and geography are the key contributors to the dire situation. The government recently approved a Clean Air Act, but locals report minimal support coming from the government.
Vietnam receives USD 3 billion in development assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for 2024-2026, marking 30 years of ADB-Vietnam partnership. The need for faster project delivery through improved planning was emphasized by the ADB President. Separately, the bank will mobilize funds for Vietnam's clean energy transition.
Vietnam and Laos are looking to build a joint economic zone along their border to boost trade and cooperation. The zone would combine existing areas in both countries and offer special policies and infrastructure to attract businesses. Legal frameworks and infrastructure development are key hurdles to overcome.
Community highlights
A new trade regulation on limiting goods entering Indonesia’s airports has backfired, and paternity leave for civil servants are amongst the 5 Things You Should Know About Indonesia (by Marcus Tantau) this week!
Have you heard that the Thai Election Commission is pushing for the dissolution of the Move Forward Party, while Ganjar and Anies are planning to challenge the Indonesian presidential election results at the Constitutional Court? Read what Erin Cook has to say in last Friday’s (Mar 15) Dari Mulut ke Mulut. *For paid subscribers only
In the latest edition of Vietnam Weekly, Michael Tatarski looks at how the Mekong Delta is on the verge of a saltwater intrusion crisis amidst persistent dry weather, and a persistent social housing challenge in Ho Chi Minh City, as apartment prices are expected to remain unaffordable despite a revised land law aiming to help the country’s real estate sector.
If you are a transport enthusiast, check out James Clark’s Future Southeast Asia! This newsletter rounds up the latest headlines on transport and urban development in every Southeast Asian country every week. Paid subscribers also gain access to “News Extras”, which contains exclusive notes from James’ travels around Southeast Asia.
Concerned with the environment and sustainability? The folks at Climate starts with SEA dive into issues such as food security, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and carbon emissions to inspire readers to take action against climate change.