ASEAN needs to utilize its 650 million people –Malaysian PM Mahathir

13 Sept 09:55 Key points summarised by AI

Malaysian PM Mahathir urged ASEAN nations to harness their combined 650 million population to establish a powerful domestic market, drawing parallels with China's economic success through population utilization in the digital era.
He stressed the critical role of digital technology and the Fourth Industrial Revolution in accelerating economic growth, advocating for widespread education on the digital economy's potential across ASEAN.
Mahathir called for ASEAN unity, emphasizing the necessity for member countries to adopt a single, unified voice on trade and international matters to counter protectionism and strengthen their collective stance.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.