At HIMSS25 APAC in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, unveiled its “One Individual, One Record” initiative, a national digital health system powered by AI. The July 16 announcement marks a turning point in ASEAN’s push for tech sovereignty. This digital health boom reflects Southeast Asia’s strategic shift toward self-reliance and regional innovation.
On July 15, ASEAN finance ministers convened an emergency summit in Jakarta to address the escalating impact of U.S. tariffs on regional exports. The meeting, prompted by President Trump’s July 10 announcement of expanded duties on electronics and textiles, marks a turning point in Southeast Asia’s economic diplomacy. Indonesia and Thailand led the charge, proposing…
On July 12, ASEAN and China finalized a sweeping upgrade to their free trade agreement, expanding cooperation in the digital economy, green energy, and supply chain connectivity. The pact, along with a five-year action plan covering 40 sectors, will be submitted to leaders in October. While hailed as a milestone in regional integration, the timing…
As tensions between Israel and Iran cross new thresholds, nations across the Asia-Pacific region are rushing to bolster preparedness for economic, energy, and security shocks. The conflict escalated sharply on June 22 with reports of retaliatory strikes from both sides, including drone attacks near strategic oil shipping lanes. Japan, deeply reliant on Gulf oil, expressed…
Top news stories from America, the Philippines, China and Asia Pacific
Top news stories from America, the Philippines and Asia Pacific
Here are three major news stories from America, the Philippines and the Asia Pacific:
ASEAN Urges Unity Amid US Tariff Hikes Southeast Asian nations are calling for stronger economic integration to counter the impact of US-imposed tariffs, which range from 10% to 49%. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan emphasized the need for unity during the ASEAN foreign ministers’ summit, highlighting the ongoing US-China trade war’s disruption of global production…
ASEAN member states gathered in Manila for a maritime security dialogue, focusing on maintaining a rules-based order in the South China Sea. The discussions involved academics, policymakers, and maritime experts. The dialogue emphasized the importance of strategic autonomy, with ASEAN nations expressing their desire to address maritime security without external influence from major powers like…
Singapore – May 12, 2025 – Industry leaders worldwide have gathered at the TFWA Asia Pacific Conference in Singapore to discuss the future of travel retail amid a surge in outbound tourism from China and India. The conference, a premier event for duty-free and travel retail professionals, focuses on digital innovation, sustainability, and evolving consumer…
