OPINION: PM Truss - be careful what you wish for

13 Sept 17:36 Key points summarised by AI

PM Liz Truss's election brings new concerns to Southeast Asia regarding the UK's future role, particularly due to her previously hawkish foreign policy views on the Indo-Pacific and China.
Her past advocacy for a 'global NATO' and a network of democracies against authoritarian states is met with apprehension in Southeast Asia, fearing it could drag ASEAN into superpower rivalries and disrupt regional stability.
The article cautions Truss that her 'one-size-fits-all' approach and potential disruption to ASEAN's stable economic engagement with China could negatively impact the region's recovery and the UK's own diplomatic ties.
Truss must move beyond past rhetoric to genuinely strengthen economic cooperation with ASEAN, acknowledging its diversity and critical reliance on stable external relations, rather than imposing divisive geopolitical stances.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.