Laos launches WB-funded transport development project

According to VNA, The Lao Ministry of Public Works and Transport on September 21 launched the World Bank-funded Southeast Asia Regional Economic Corridor and Connectivity Project, which is expected to improve climate resilient, transport connectivity, and regional trade along an east-west corridor through Lao northern provinces.

Designed to complement the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Master Plan on Connectivity, the new project will upgrade Lao National Road 2, which runs from east to west, connecting Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, thus building a corridor that links with existing north-south routes in mainland Southeast Asia. 

The upgraded road’s design will protect it from the storms, floods and landslides which are becoming more frequent because of climate change.

Other activities within the project include the development of dry ports, marketplaces, trucking terminals, and locations where farmers can bring their produce for transport to national and foreign markets.

The project is expected to be completed in May 2028.

World

Philippines intensifies crackdown on illegal gamers
World

Philippines intensifies crackdown on illegal gamers

Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos on December 12 ordered the police and law enforcement agencies to intensify the crackdown on illegal gaming and cyber cam hubs that continue to operate despite the ban, which will take effect by the end of December, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

Malaysia eyes to become global medtech hub
World

Malaysia eyes to become global medtech hub

Malaysia is on track to become a global medical technology (medtech) hub with its strong policies in attracting and executing the right investments, including the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), said Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Southeast Asia poised to become global AI hub
World

Southeast Asia poised to become global AI hub

In the first half of 2024, Southeast Asia (SEA) attracted over 30 billion USD in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure investments, according to the 2024 e-Conomy SEA Report from Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company.

Trends drive job openings in Thailand
World

Trends drive job openings in Thailand

Thailand reported 414,000 unemployed people in the third quarter this year, up from 401,000 year-on-year, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).