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.
Category: Business
Mitsui Kinzoku Bets Big on Malaysia’s AI Future
Japan’s Mitsui Kinzoku plans to build a factory in Malaysia, focusing on high-performance copper foil for AI and semiconductor industries. Set to operate by 2031, it will enhance global production capacity. This move highlights Malaysia’s growing role in advanced manufacturing and Mitsui Kinzoku’s commitment to expanding its technological footprint.
Indonesia’s Creative Leap Forward
Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy has launched the Creative Economy Master Plan (Rindekraf) 2026–2045 to drive economic growth, targeting a 6 percent expansion by 2027. This strategic framework emphasizes regional development and transforms creativity into a key economic driver, fostering innovation and supporting diverse communities across the nation.
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.
Indonesia’s BRI Bank Drives SME Transformation with Trillion-Rupiah Credit Program
PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is committed to enhancing Indonesia’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) by disbursing Rp 103.81 trillion in Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) to over 2 million borrowers by June 2026. Focused on agriculture and trade, BRI aims to support sustainable economic growth and housing development while maintaining responsible lending practices.
Thailand Government Slashed Diesel Prices by Tapping on Refinery Profits
Thailand’s Energy Policy and Planning Committee has approved a plan to allocate 4.475 billion baht from refinery profits to reduce diesel prices by 2.40 baht per liter for a month. This initiative is part of a broader effort to alleviate energy costs amidst fluctuating global markets and reflects the government’s commitment to benefiting citizens.
Vietlott Employee Income Reaches New Heights in 2025
In 2025, Vietlott reported a significant increase in employee earnings, averaging 547 million VND annually. The compensation structure chiefly comprises salaries and bonuses, with senior executives earning notably higher. The company surpassed financial targets, contributing significantly to the state budget and awarding substantial jackpots since 2016.
No Registration Costs Until 2030: Vietnam Bets Big on Electric Cars
Vietnam has extended the exemption of registration fees for electric vehicles until 2030, enhancing affordability for consumers and attracting international manufacturers. This strategic move supports the country’s environmental goals toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. However, experts urge additional measures, such as improving charging infrastructure and modernizing the electricity grid, for effective transition.
