East Timor could join ASEAN bloc by October: minister

14 Sept 00:45 Key points summarised by AI

East Timor is on track to become the 11th member of the ASEAN bloc, with full accession potentially by October, as stated by Malaysia's foreign minister.
Dili has made "meaningful progress" on its membership roadmap, securing strong support from ASEAN foreign ministers despite existing concerns about its economic capacity.
ASEAN member states will now finalize their domestic legal procedures, aiming for East Timor's full membership at the 47th ASEAN Summit in October, which Malaysia will chair.
The youngest country in Southeast Asia, East Timor has pursued ASEAN membership since 2011, achieving observer status in 2022, with its full integration previously delayed by socio-economic challenges.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 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.