The article by Zeng Han-Jun highlights the importance of recognizing underdogs, who often possess resilience, creativity, and valuable perspectives overlooked by conventional leaders. Using the examples of Howard Schultz and innovative entrepreneurs, it emphasizes that spotting potential requires a shift from traditional criteria to acknowledgment of curiosity and determination, which can drive transformative change.
Author: Juliana Rodriguez, Senior Editor
Malaysia’s GEAR-uP Initiative to Position Bumiputera Firms for International Market Leadership
The GEAR-uP program in Malaysia aims to enhance Bumiputera participation in capital markets, addressing the imbalance where only eight out of over 230 public companies are Bumiputera-owned. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance and key investment firms, GEAR-uP focuses on capacity building, strategic support, and fostering competitive enterprises in the public market.
Vietnam-Nvidia’s AI Alliance Could Rewrite Asia’s Tech Map
Vietnam’s partnership with Nvidia symbolizes its ambition in the AI landscape. The strategy focuses on developing a Vietnamese language model, enhancing infrastructure, nurturing talent, and fostering global integration. Minister Vu Hai Quan stresses the need for actionable plans. Success hinges on converting this initiative into a strong advantage for regional AI leadership.
The Sustainability Crisis Behind Thailand’s Digital Ambitions
Thailand’s data center industry is evolving rapidly, with over 530 billion baht invested in early 2026, reflecting its goal to be a Southeast Asian digital hub. However, challenges around regulation, energy sustainability, and workforce readiness loom. Balancing growth with environmental concerns will be crucial for the country’s competitive future in this sector.
Thailand’s Jasmine Rice Strategy Meets the Philippines’ Food Security Imperatives
In August 2026, Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce aimed to enhance its agricultural export strategy, particularly rice, by collaborating with the Thai Rice Exporters Association to engage stakeholders in the Philippines, the top rice importer. With significant export increases and shifting consumer preferences for premium rice, Thailand seeks to secure and expand its market share, despite fierce competition.
Honda’s Thai Gambit: Investment, Tariffs, and the Battle for Fair Competition
Honda plans to invest Rp 6.4 trillion in Thailand while requesting a review of the country’s high import tariffs on vehicles from Japan. This move aims to enhance competitiveness against EVs benefiting from lower tariffs. Balancing investment attraction with local industry protection poses a complex challenge for Thai policymakers.
Thailand Charts a Modern Path for Labor Rights and Welfare Expansion
Thailand’s Cabinet has approved four draft laws aimed at enhancing labor protections and welfare coverage. Key measures include integrating seafarers into the social security system, extending protections to home-based workers, and aligning state benefits with the Equal Marriage Law. The reforms aim to modernize labor legislation, promote equality, and adapt to changing employment models.
Thailand’s Artificial Intelligence Gamble in the US–China AI Divide
Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasizes that tariff negotiations with the U.S. will remain distinct from geopolitical pressures related to the AI rivalry with China. His position reflects challenges faced by mid-sized economies in balancing technology, security, and commerce while maintaining strategic flexibility amidst competing global demands.
Guocoland Exits Bursa Malaysia in Strategic Move Toward Private Growth
Guocoland (Malaysia) Bhd will exit Bursa Malaysia on August 18, 2026, due to a privatization move via a capital reduction scheme. This shift reflects new strategies in managing real estate portfolios, enabling greater flexibility and long-term value creation beyond public market pressures, while integrating within the Hong Leong Group ecosystem.
Indonesia’s Bold Leap Into Electric Mobility with MOLINAS
Indonesia has launched the Motosikal Elektrik Nasional (MOLINAS) initiative to transition toward electric transportation, aiming to reduce fuel imports and drive economic growth. President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the goal of achieving energy independence through electric motorcycles and vehicles. The program involves substantial private-sector collaboration and plans for an EV manufacturing complex, with significant market potential projected.
The Business Global Magazine 