Malaysia's economy projected to grow faster in 2026
Despite the positive outlook, economists cautioned that downside risks remain in the second half of the year, requiring Malaysia to closely monitor geopolitical developments and uncertainties in global trade.
Indonesia eyes larger share of global Muslim tourism market by 203007/07/2026 00:15Indonesia boasts strong advantages in developing the sector as the country is home to 11. 3% of the world's Muslim population, 17% of Asia's, and 86% of ASEAN's. Nineteen provinces have Muslim populations exceeding 90%, providing a solid foundation for tailored tourism products. Thailand attracts over 4. 1 billion USD in EV investment06/07/2026 23:05In 2025, electrified vehicles accounted for more than 44% of new vehicle registrations in Thailand, up sharply from 3% five years earlier. Hybrid vehicles represented 21. 8% of new registrations, followed by BEVs at 19. 6% and PHEVs at 2. 9%. Malaysia accelerates efforts to equip workforce for AI era06/07/2026 20:31Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim said rapid technological advancements are reshaping industries and creating new opportunities, making it imperative for the country’s education and training ecosystems to adapt. Laos' 10th National Assembly opens first extraordinary session06/07/2026 17:21The 10th National Assembly of Laos officially opened its first extraordinary session on July 6 in Vientiane, focusing on several key national issues, including the Government's report on the implementation of the national socio-economic development plan, the state budget and monetary policy during the first half of 2026, as well as priorities for the remainder of the year. Thailand steps up security in 21 border provinces06/07/2026 17:13The Border Security Coordination Centre, chaired by Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Gen. Ukrit Boontanon, has agreed on measures to tackle three pressing security threats along the country's borders: call centre scam syndicates, online gambling, and human trafficking and drug-related crimes. Singapore, Indonesia work on carbon credits, cross-border trade06/07/2026 16:54The two countries will collaborate on carbon credits under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on July 6 at the annual Singapore – Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat held in Jakarta, where Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. FAO helps Laos push chilli exports06/07/2026 15:51Through the FAO-supported initiative, Laos aims to develop a modern chilli pepper industry that complies with international standards, expands exports and raises farmers' incomes. Malaysian manufacturers call for balanced US approach to tariffs06/07/2026 15:34Many Malaysian manufacturers currently operate under rigorous compliance requirements imposed by customers, including regular audits, supplier codes of conduct and supply chain traceability obligations. Thailand targets up to 1 trillion THB in realised FDI for 202606/07/2026 14:40The Thai government aims to use stronger FDI inflows to drive economic growth and enhance the country's long-term competitiveness. Thailand wins UN public service award for inclusive education06/07/2026 08:25Thailand has received the top honour at the 2026 United Nations Public Service Awards in the category "Delivering Inclusive and Equitable Services for Leaving No One Behind. "India pushes for upgrade of ASEAN-India trade pact06/07/2026 05:35The upgrade of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement requires consensus among all ASEAN members. New Delhi is maintaining regular dialogue with regional partners to advance the negotiations while continuing to strengthen bilateral ties with individual ASEAN countries. Malaysia, Belgium seek to deepen bilateral cooperation06/07/2026 03:01Trade between Malaysia and Belgium reached 9. 74 billion MYR (about 2. 4 billion USD) in 2025. Malaysia exported goods worth 6. 85 billion MYR to Belgium while importing 2. 89 billion MYR. Thailand, Kazakhstan upgrade ties to strategic partnership05/07/2026 05:42Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said Kazakhstan serves as a gateway to Central Asia while Thailand plays a similar role in ASEAN, creating new opportunities for trade and regional supply chains. Laos intensifies anti-corruption campaign04/07/2026 23:19Party General Secretary and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith said inspection work should go beyond recognising good practices to uncovering shortcomings, misconduct and law violations, while fully assessing the losses caused to the State, organisations, individuals and the legitimate interests of citizens. Thailand hosts ASEAN Youth Road Safety Conference 2026 in Bangkok04/07/2026 15:09The conference aims to raise road safety awareness among ASEAN youth and promote the use of technology and creative media in effective public communication campaigns. Venezuela honours international rescue teams, sends thanks to Vietnam’s top leader04/07/2026 15:05Through Vietnamese Ambassador to Venezuela Vu Trung My, Acting President Delcy Rodriguez sent a letter of gratitude and presented the "Hero of Venezuela" medal to Party General Secretary and State President To Lam. Malaysia's healthcare sector projected to approach 40 billion USD by 202904/07/2026 07:51The industry's growth is being driven by four key factors: an ageing population, the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the continued expansion of the private healthcare sector, and the accelerated adoption of digital health technologies. Singapore's manufacturing activity expands faster on AI-related tailwinds03/07/2026 22:21According to data released on July 2 by the Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management (SIPMM), the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose 0. 3 point to 51. 3, marking the 11th consecutive month of expansion and its highest reading since November 2018. Indonesia aims to create up to 3. 5 million jobs in 202703/07/2026 20:29The employment target is aligned with the Indonesian government's goals of achieving economic growth of 5. 8–6. 5%, increasing the rate of formal employment to 40. 81%, and lowering the unemployment rate to 4. 3–4. 87% in 2027. Laos, Myanmar pledge to deepen bilateral cooperation03/07/2026 20:16The Lao and Myanmar Presidents expressed satisfaction with the steady development of the traditional friendship and cooperation between their countries, highlighting strong political ties, high-level mutual trust, effective mutual support, and frequent mutual visits by high-ranking leaders.