Malaysia and Indonesia leaders meet to discuss impact of US tariffs on ASEAN

13 Sept 11:03 Key points summarised by AI

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto convened to address the significant impact of new US tariffs on ASEAN member states.
The meeting followed a virtual discussion among five ASEAN leaders, including Anwar and Prabowo, aimed at coordinating a collective regional response to the US tariff policy.
Anwar pledged that Malaysia, as ASEAN chair, would lead efforts to present a united regional front, maintain resilient supply chains, and ensure ASEAN's collective voice is strongly heard internationally.
Discussions with Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also focused on joint ASEAN action, prioritizing negotiations, avoiding disputes, and diversifying supply chains to enhance regional economic resilience.
The new US tariff policy imposes substantial duties on various ASEAN exports, with Indonesia facing 32%, Malaysia and Brunei 24%, and other member states experiencing similar or higher rates.

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.