Sup-SEAkers April #4 – A weekly roundup of news from different regions

(Credits: Tempo)

On April 27, 2024, Thailand emphasizes the need for ASEAN to play a more significant role in resolving the crisis and facilitating dialogue between Myanmar’s military junta and pro-democracy groups. It is worth noting that this call comes amidst escalating violence and political turmoil in Myanmar since the military coup in February 2021. Thailand’s push for ASEAN involvement reflects growing concerns among regional neighbors about the instability in Myanmar and its potential impacts on the broader Southeast Asian region.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. (Credits: The Star)

Indonesia’s Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, affirmed that Indonesia must join multilateral efforts to prevent Southeast Asia from becoming a safe haven for human traffickers targeting Indonesian citizens. She highlighted a rising trend of recruiting foreigners, including Indonesians, to be employed in online scam operations in Southeast Asia over the past years. She further stresses the need for collaboration among Southeast Asian nations and international partners to address this issue effectively.

Members of the Philippine Coast Guard stand alert as a Chinese Coast Guard vessel blocks their way to a resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. (Credits: Yahoo News)

The Philippines on Saturday denied striking a deal with Beijing regarding the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. It refutes reports suggesting that the Philippines agreed to allow China to maintain its presence at the shoal in exchange for economic benefits. The Philippines asserts its sovereignty over the area and reiterates its commitment to pursuing peaceful resolutions to maritime disputes.

(Credits: J&T Express)

According to VNA, Vietnam has the potential to emerge as a leading force in e-commerce within Southeast Asia. It is further noteworthy that Vietnam’s digital economy is rapidly growing, driven by factors such as increasing internet penetration, a young population, and rising consumer demand for online shopping. Moreover, this growth is also attributed to the government’s efforts to promote e-commerce through favorable policies and infrastructure development. Furthermore, significant investments by domestic and foreign companies in Vietnam’s e-commerce sector are mentioned, indicating a promising future for the country as a regional e-commerce powerhouse.

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Sup SEAkers is a weekly roundup of news from different regions that aims to inform and educate the general public. Follow us every Sunday to stay updated about what happens in our region. This week, we are highlighting four major news that happened in ASEAN.

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