Malaysia’s economy grows 6% in Q2, beating forecasts
Malaysia’s economy grew by 6% in the second quarter of 2026, exceeding previous forecasts, thanks to sustained domestic demand, strong export growth, and expansion in the services and manufacturing sectors.
Indonesia retains top spot in Southeast Asia’s aviation market14/08/2026 22:33Indonesia accounted for the largest share with 11 million seats, followed by Vietnam with 7. 3 million, Thailand with 7. 2 million, Malaysia with 5. 4 million and the Philippines with 4. 8 million. Malaysia eyes becoming ASEAN’s AI hub14/08/2026 20:41Malaysia possessed the fundamentals to emerge as ASEAN's digital and AI hub, including its strategic location, strong connectivity, growing digital ecosystem and rising investor confidence, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. Philippines proposes restricting minors’ social media use14/08/2026 17:11A bill in the House of Representatives seeks to ban social media use for children under 13 while a separate Senate proposal extends the restriction to those under 16. US imposes 10% reciprocal tariff on Indonesian goods14/08/2026 16:22The tariff came from a US investigation conducted under the Section 301 mechanism regarding the issue of forced labour. Vietnam, India emerge on Asia-Pacific aviation map14/08/2026 14:38Vietnam is considered one of the most promising markets in Southeast Asia in terms of international visitor numbers and travel demand. The country plans to increase the number of airports to 30 by 2030 to meet the needs of its rapidly growing economy. Argentina affirms commitment to strengthening cooperation with ASEAN14/08/2026 10:56Argentina is pursuing an ambitious economic integration programme with Southeast Asia, in which ASEAN plays a central role. ADB to provide 750 million USD to expand universal healthcare in Philippines14/08/2026 04:50The ADB said the funding will support Subprogramme 3 of the Build Universal Health Care Programme. Cambodia encourages localities to develop infrastructure, attract tourists14/08/2026 01:20Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on August 12 encouraged provinces nationwide to continue investing in public infrastructure and improving local tourist attractions to attract both domestic and international visitors, reported the Cambodian news agency AKP. Indonesia promotes carbon market to support emissions cuts14/08/2026 00:37Indonesia will build an integrated ecosystem to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable financing from carbon trading and results-based payments, thereby expanding programmes for beneficiaries. Indonesia targets conclusion of GCC trade talks by November 202613/08/2026 22:02Trade Minister Budi Santoso said the negotiations were expected to conclude by November at the latest, paving the way for Indonesian products to gain broader access to Gulf markets. Lao Digital Week 2026 slated for October in Vientiane13/08/2026 21:32The event will serve as a major information technology and digital innovation platform, with sidelines events including the Lao Digital Forum; seminars on e-government, digital economy, the fourth industrial revolution and smart technologies. Lao media spotlights late NA President’s deep bond with Vietnam13/08/2026 18:23The article stressed that, regardless of the position he held, Xaysomphone Phomvihane devoted to building a prosperous country and a united society. He maintained a particularly deep concern and sincere affection for the special Laos-Vietnam relationship. Thailand steps up AI adoption to drive public sector reform13/08/2026 13:09Thailand is strengthening its digital infrastructure by modernising legal frameworks, recognising electronic meetings and digital public administration, and updating laws to support electronic business transactions. Ties with Vietnam enter new phase of closer engagement: New Zealand media13/08/2026 10:59From a strategic perspective, an August 9 analysis published by the Asia Media Centre of the Asia New Zealand Foundation said the visit puts a spotlight on one of the fastest-expanding relationships in New Zealand's Asia portfolio. Thailand steps up crackdown on foreigners engaged in illegal business activities12/08/2026 22:42Preliminary inspections revealed that some hotels and establishments may have operated without licenses. Authorities also identified construction or modification issues requiring legal review, as well as possible cases of Thai nationals holding shares for foreign investors. Indonesia ranks fourth in ASEAN in F&B exports12/08/2026 21:34Speaking at the Indonesia Food and Beverage Trade Promotion Forum in Jakarta on August 11, Esti said the country's F&B exports still had significant room for growth as the Ministry of Trade encourages local businesses to expand into international markets through Indonesia's global trade network. Indonesia plans separate visa for foreign content creators12/08/2026 20:48Happy Reza Dipayuda, head of the Visa Services Sub-directorate at the Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, said the proposed C5A visa would be designed for foreigners travelling to Indonesia to produce digital content, including promotional activities and collaborations with businesses and brands. Laos holds State funeral for National Assembly President12/08/2026 19:10Xaysomphone Phomvihane was a capable revolutionary intellectual with broad knowledge and a strategic vision. Throughout his career, he remained committed to the Party's ideals and objectives, and demonstrated responsibility, flexibility and discipline in carrying out his assigned tasks. Malaysia, Australia seek to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals12/08/2026 19:07According to the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), the matter was among the key areas discussed during a meeting between Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup and Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia Danielle Heinecke on August 12. Cambodia's trade turnover reaches 44 billion USD in seven months12/08/2026 17:15GDCE data showed that exports increased 21. 3% to 20. 81 billion USD, while imports rose 21. 4% to 23. 26 billion USD, widening the trade deficit from 1. 99 billion USD a year earlier.