Indonesia is set to launch more than 20 energy projects in 2025, with a total investment of around 40 billion USD, as part of efforts to boost domestic refining capacity and strengthen energy security.
Among the planned projects is a coal-to-dimethyl ether (DME) initiative aimed at reducing Indonesia’s reliance on imported liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The country will also build a new oil refinery with a capacity of approximately 500,000 barrels per day and an oil storage facility.
According to Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, the projects are part of a broader strategy to drive economic growth and create jobs. Funding will come in part from Danantara, Indonesia’s newly established sovereign wealth fund, which was launched last month and oversees more than 900 billion USD in assets.
Despite being Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia remains heavily dependent on coal and is one of the world’s top greenhouse gas emitters. However, President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to phase out coal-fired power generation within 15 years and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
In addition, Prabowo has aimed to increase Indonesia’s annual economic growth from the current 5% to 8% while ordering substantial budget cuts across government agencies./.
VNA
Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni has officially enacted a law criminalising the denial of crimes committed under the Democratic Kampuchea regime, under which individuals who refuse to acknowledge the atrocities of the Pol Pot-led genocide could face prison sentences ranging from one to five years.
Thailand has announced a plan to strengthen its aviation capabilities by investing 3.6 billion THB (over 106 million USD) in advanced technology, aiming to position the country as a regional aviation hub by 2037.
The Thai Finance Ministry is assessing tax measures to support businesses to adapt to market changes for greater efficiency, such as reducing the rate of corporate income tax.
Under the scheme, a traveller pays only half of their travel costs and the government takes the financial responsibility for the rest. It is designed for domestic travel only with some conditions applied.
A Philippine Air Force (PAF) FA-50 fighter jet carrying two-member crew went missing on March 4 during an aerial support mission for ground forces in southern Mindanao.
During the 4th round of negotiations, the two sides plan to focus 17 sectors that cover goods and services, digital technology, government procurement, and economic cooperation.
The proposed service will offer an alternative mode of transport for both local residents and tourists.
The Thai PM stressed that Soft Power extends beyond cultural appeal, serving as a mechanism for job creation, investment attraction, and economic expansion.
To help maintain a stable and reliable energy supply, the DOE encouraged all consumers, including households, businesses, and government institutions to refrain from or reschedule high-energy-consuming activities during peak hours when electricity demand is at its highest.
As part of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, the campaign will run from March to September, featuring a series of festivals aimed at keeping tourism activity steady beyond peak periods.
With the emergence of a domestic component ecosystem, India is positioning itself as a crucial electronic manufacturing hub. Industry analysts project that the country could reach its component export target of 35-40 billion USD by 2030.
Currently, no suspected cases of this disease have been identified in Thailand. Nevertheless, the DDC has enhanced surveillance, prevention, and control measures, including stricter screening protocols at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched an investigation into former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob over allegations of corruption and money laundering.
Many foreigners have been caught working illegally as tour guides in Phuket and could be deported or banned from re-entering Thailand permanently.
Thailand, Myanmar, and China have convened a ministerial coordination meeting in Bangkok on collaboration to combat transnational telecom fraud crimes, with participants engaging in in-depth exchanges and reaching a series of consensuses on strengthening cooperation.
With temperatures expected to hit 33 degrees Celsius on March 3, local authorities in Manila and six other cities ordered classrooms closed as a precaution.
Under the current regulations, foreign workers must collect their permits in person at the Department of Employment, creating difficulties for those in remote areas and increasing travel expenses for both employees and businesses.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said that the Singaporean government will continue to create good jobs and opportunities for Singaporeans while pressing on with industry transformation and keeping an eye on its cost competitiveness.
A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck off Indonesia's eastern Maluku province on March 3, with the epicentre located 63km southeast of Maluku Tengah Regency at a depth of 10km.
Wong noted the ASEAN-Australia Centre’s initiatives support the implementation of Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 by fostering deeper community, cultural, and business ties between Australia, ASEAN member states, and Timor-Leste.
