southeastasiantimes.com

GATHERINGS:
An informed guide to happenings throughout the region.

Thai senate seeks
referendum on new constitution: Lese Majeste law
From News Reports:
Bangkok, February 12: The Senate is seeking a referendum on the drafting of a new constitution as dictated by the Referendum Act after the House of Representatives voted for an opposition-sponsored motion on November 3, 2022 to seek a referendum, reports the Bangkok Post.
Senators voted 151 for, 26 against, and 15 abstentions to form a panel to study a motion to organise a referendum that would pave the way for a rewrite of the constitution that includes the Lese Majeste law.
The Senate called on the government to hold a referendum on whether a new constitution should be drawn up by a charter drafting assembly made up of elected representatives, saying "the referendum should be arranged on the same day as the next general election that has tentatively been set for May 7 by the Election Commission (EC).
Senators were critical of voting for the formation of a panel to study a motion to organise a referendum, saying "It is a tactic to stall the referendum"
Sen Kittisak Rattanawaraha said he supported a referendum on the drafting of a new constitution, saying he disagreed with organising the referendum on the same day as the general election,
"This could confuse voters," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

China calls emergency COVID-19 meeting with ASEAN in Laos
From News Reports:
Beijing, February 19: An emergency meeting of foreign ministers from China and the 10 Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) that was proposed by China is to be held in Vientiane, Laos on Thursday and Friday to discuss the COVID-19 virus epidemic.
The COVID-19 virus has so far killed 1,869 and infected 73,336 in China and has spread to the 10 ASEAN member states.
The meeting that was proposed by China is reportedly intended to share information and to improve coordination between China and the 10 ASEAN member states in order to combat the COVID-19 virus.
China Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi is reportedly to discuss China's measures in countering the COVID-19 virus epidemic at the meeting in Laos, with focus on strengthening joint prevention and control measures against the virus.
The meeting is also to explore the idea of establishing a long term and effective collaboration mechanism on public health to safeguard the region, with China Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang saying " China and Asean countries have been in close communication since the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus.
Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, who will be attending the emergency COVID-19 virus epidemic meeting, said that the meeting will be an opportunity for the foreign ministers to discuss measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
"The meeting will help strengthen cooperation between ASEAN member states in the midst of this global health threat," he said.
His said that Cambodia's participation in the emergency meeting that was proposed by China will demonstrate Cambodia’s support of China and confidence in the measures taken by the China government to address the coronavirus outbreak.
The Southeast Asian Times

Vietnam opens consulate in Macau
From News Reports:
Hanoi, January 9: Vietnam's Hong Kong Consulate General launched a consulate office in the Macau Special Administrative Region of China on Friday, reports the Vietnam News Service.
Consulate General of Hong Kong, Tran Than Huan, said at the launching ceremony that the office aims to better ensure the rights of Vietnamese citizens and tourists in the region.
He said that the consulate office in Macau will provide easier access to information about Vietnam, saying that
it would boost friendship and co-operation between Vietnam and Macau.
The Consulate General said that the office expected to recieve support from local organisations including the Vietnam Fellow Countrymen Friendship Association in Macau.
More than 20,000 Vietnamse are employed as domestic workers, in the service industry at Macau's casino's.
Vietnamese also operate tourist and services companies.
The Southeast Asian Times

US invites Vietnam Communist Party General Secretary to the White House
From News Reports:
Hanoi, July 6, 2015: The General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam will visit the United States from July 6 to July 10 at the invitiation of the United States State Department in a "landmark" visit, Rueters reports.
General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party Nguyen Phu Trong will meet United States President Barack Obama at the White House on Tuesday.
Rueters quotes a senior state department official saying that the meeting between the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party and the President of the United States "would skirt protocol" because the General Secretary is "not part of a government".
"Obama saw the visit as crucial", Rueters reports the senior state department official as saying.
Rueters also quotes the senior state department official saying that "there was a broad agreement that it made sense to treat General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party Nguyen Phu Trong as the visit of "the top leader of the country".
"It's a pretty big event," Rueters quotes the state department official as saying.
The Southeast Asian Times

France agrees to return Aboriginal remains home to Australia
From News Reports:
Canberra, November 25: French president Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott have agreed to work together to return Aboriginal remains to Australia during the first official visit by a French head of state to Australia last week, reports Australian Associated Press.
The French head of state and the Australian prime minister said that a joint expert committee is to be established to help identify the origin of the Aboriginal remains held in France.
The head of state and prime minister said in a joint statement that the identification process would respect the sensitivities and values of the two countries and consider the requests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities including the French legal system.
"The French government will examine possible solutions to enable the return of the Aboriginal human remains to their community of origin." the statement said.
Australia believes the remains of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are being held in Museum collections around the world including in Europe and the
United States.
In 2010 a British museum agreed to return 138 sets of Aboriginal skeletal remains to Australia including the severed head of Australian Aboriginal warrior, Yagan, to the Noongar of South West Western Australia after being missing in action for about 177 years. Yagan was shot dead for his resistance to British settlement on the Swan river.
The Southeast Asian Times

"No " to proposal to delete religion from Indonesian national identity card
From News Reports:
Jakarta, November 10: Islamic-based political party politicians oppose the proposal put by the newly selected Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo, that national identity cards (KTP) do not include the religion of the car holder.
Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) politician Aboebakar Al Habsy said that not to include the religion of the card holder on national identity cards (KTP)
contradicted the country’s founding philosophy of Pancasila
“If we believe that Pancasila is our state ideology and our national identity, then why should we be ashamed of including our religion on our national identity card," he said
Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo also proposed that the regious beliefs of Indonesian citizens be omitted from official government documents.
He said that the religion of Indonesian citizens on national identity cards (KTP) or in official government documents should not be imposed.
"It's up to the people", he said.
The Souheast Asian Times

The Wolf bridge: An insult to Thai monarchy
From News Reports:
Bangkok, October 31: Thai University students, Patiwat Saraiyaem, 23, and Pornthip Mankong, 26, were charged in the Ratrachada Court on Monday, with defamation of the Thai monarchy in a play titled "The Wolf Bridge" performed at the Thammasat university in October 2013, reports the Bangkok Post.
The students were charged with insulting the Royal Thai family in the fictional depiction of the monarchy in a play performed in commemoration of the 37th and 40th anniversaries of the October 6, 1976 and October 14, 1973 pro-democracy student uprisings at Thammasat University.
The prosecution cites nine passages from the plays's script, a work of fiction that depicts a fictional monarch, that allegedly insults the monarchy and as such is in violation of the lese majeste law.
Patiwat Saraiyaem, actor and Pornthip Mankong, producer of the play, in detention since arrested on 13 August, have been refused bail are scheduled to appear in court to enter pleas on December 29.
The Southeast Asian Times

World including
Asean PM's and Presidents to attend inauguaration of Indonesian president
From News Reports:
Jakarta, October 18: World Prime ministers, Presidents and State representatives including US Secretary of State, John Kerry and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott will attend the inauguaration of Joko “Jokowi” Widodo as President of Indonesiaon on Monday.
The speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Zulkifli Hasan said that representatives from the ten Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member nations have also been invited to attend the swearing in of the former governor of Jakarta, Joko “Jokowi” Widodo as president of Indonesia.
"The Prime Ministers and Presidents of Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and South Korea are also expected to attend", he said.
He said that the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has also invited "domestic VIP's" including former Presidents and Vice-Presidents.
“All chairpersons of political parties have also be invited,” said the speaker.
The Southeast Asian Times

Banned ISIS flag found flying in Aceh
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 12: The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) flag found flying from a coconut tree in Aceh on Sunday has been torn down, reports the Jakarta Post.
The discovery of the banned ISIS flag was reportedly the first in Aceh.
Police chief First Inspecter Azwan said that the flag of the nationally banned movement was discovered by chess players sitting at a food stall near the coconut tree in the Sungai Raya district of East Aceh regency in Aceh.
He said that a bomb disposal team inspected the area before the flag was taken down.
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono announced Indonesia's rejection of the State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and banned the teaching of ISIL ideology in Indonesia last month at his parliamentary state-of-the-nation address and ahead of the 69th anniversary of Indonesias Independence.
The Southeast Asian Times

Singapore passes Trans- boundary Haze Pollution Act
From News Reports:
Singapore, August, 18: The passing of the 2014 Trans-boundary Haze Pollution Act by the Singapore parliament last week will enable Singapore regulators to sue individuals or companies in neighbouring countries for causing severe air pollution in Singapore.
The Act that was first proposed in 2013 would enable Singapore to impose fines of up to S$2 million on companies that cause or contribute to transboundary haze pollution in Singapore.
Environment and Water Resources Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said that under the Act, Singapore will have the legal right under the Objective Territorial Principle to take legal action against air polluters.
"While neighbouring countries have the sovereign right to exploit their natural resources in accordance with their policies they also have a responsibility to ensure that "slash and burn" agricultural practices do not cause damage to Singapore", he said.
The passing of the 2014 Trans-boundary Haze Pollution Act gives Singapore the legal power to serve notices on those that do not have assets or a presence in Singapore.
Indonesia is yet to ratify an Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution that was signed by ASEAN member counries in November 2003 in order to
address haze pollution arising from land and forest fires.
A bill passed in the Indonesian House of Representatives in July 2013 gave the Indonesian goverment the power to seize assetts gained from illegal logging and illegal clearing of forests for palm oil plantations.
The new bill, designed to protect more than 13 million hectres from deforestation, gave the Indonesian government a mandate to establish a task force including police to monitor the prevention and eradication of deforestation.
The Southeast Asian Times

Papua Biak massacre remembered in Sydney
with 136 white carnations
From News Reports:
Sydney, July 5: A ceremony to mark the 16th anniversary of the Biak Massacre in West Papua ua on 6 July 1998 will be held at the Waverley Cliffs cemetery in Sydney on Sunday.
The Waverley Cliffs community will throw 136 white carnations from the waverley cliffs into the Pacific Ocean in memory of the Biak massacre.
A citizens tribunal, hosted by the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPACS) at the University of Sydney last year on the 15th anniversary of the Biak massacre found that 136 West Papuan protesters were thrown into the sea by Indonesian security forces.
The tribunal heard eye witness testimony that the West Papuan demand for the right to vote for independence from Indonesia was met with gunfire by Indonesian security forces.
Survivors of the massacre told the international team of jurists that the unarmed West Papuan protesters were surrounded and shot by Indonesian security forces and that survivors were thrown into the sea on 6 July 1998.
The Southeast Asian Times

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National Assembly votes to revoke Cambodian citizenship for colluding with foreign nations against Cambodia

All 125 members of Cambodia's National Assembly, Prime Minister, Hun Manet, front row second from left, votes to amend Article 33 of the Constitution that will allow the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) to revoke Khmer citizenship for Cambodians who collude with foreign nations against Cambodia on Friday July 11, 2025

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, July 14: Cambodia's National Assembly unanimously adopted the amendment to the Constitution of Cambodia that allows the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) to revoke Khmer citizenship for Cambodians, with Cambodia Senate President Hun Sen saying last month ''I’ve instructed the Justice Minister to study the possibility of revoking citizenship from Cambodians who collude with foreign nations to harm our country,'' and First Vice President of the National Assembly saying ''the amendment does not affect the monarchy,'' reports the Phnom Penh Post.
National Assembly First Vice-President Cheam Yeap, said that the amendment to Article 33 of the Constitution that allows the revocation of citizenship does not affect the monarchy or the original Constitutution, saying ''the amendement plays a key role in defending Cambodia from external interference.''
''The amendment to Article 33 of the Constitution of Cambodia particularly acts of treason and collusion with foreigners that threaten national security and interests,'' he said.
''Any Cambodian who commits treason by conspiring with foreigners to destroy the Khmer nation is no longer a Khmer citizen,'' he said.
''Acts of treason gravely endanger national security and disturb the peace of the Khmer people,'' said National Assembly First Vice-President Cheam Yeap.
Former Vice President, Eng Chhai Eang, of the 2017 dissolved opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) claims ''Cambodia has no law that allows for the revocation of birth right citizenship.''
''Birth right citizenship is granted by nature,'' he said.
Dissolved opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), former vice-president Eng Chhai Eang, said after the Cambodia’s Constitutional Council affirmed the legality to the proposed amendment to Article 33 of the Constitution on July 2.
He said a Khmer child born abroad to Khmer parents automatically holds Khmer citizenship, saying ''attempting to undo Khmer citizenship is absurd.''
''I see the attempt to undo Khmer citizenship as a manipulative political strategy,'' he said.
He said that Article 33 of the Cambodian Constitution says that ''no Khmer citizen shall be deprived of their nationality, exiled, or extradited to another country except through mutual agreement.''
He said Khmer citizens living abroad are protected by the state, saying ''the acquisition of Cambodian nationality is determined by law.''
In October 2022 the ruling Cambodia's People's Party (CPP) former Prime Minister Hun Sen, warned ahead of the 7th National Assembly elections in June 23, 2023 that he would dissolve opposition parties associated with Sam Rainsy, who founded the opposition Candlelight Party (CP) that had resumed activity in 2021 after having been inactive since 2012,
Former founder of the opposition Candlelight Party (CP) and also president of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), Sam Rainsy, who is in exile in Paris, was sentenced by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court in June, 2022 to eight years in prison in absentia for treason for plotting to overthrow the Hun Sen government, incitement to commit a felony and inciting military disobedience under Articles 453, 471, 494 and 495 of the Criminal Code.
The Candlelight Party (CP), that was formerly known as the Sam Rainsy Party and the Khmer Nation Party, was founded in 1995 and merged with other opposition forces to form the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) in 2012.
The Southeast Asian Times

Australian Foreign Minister assures ASEAN that Australia will be a dependable ally in a free market

Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, at the Malaysian Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Kuala Lumpur on Friday July 11, 2025

From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, July 13: Australia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that Australia will be a dependable ally in a free market on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Kuala Lumpur, with Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, announcing a A$1 billion AUSAID development fund to offset USAID funding that was cancelled in an U.S. Executive Order in January, saying ''We're not going anywhere,'' reports Reuters.
Australia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, said at the Malaysian Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) that the AUSAID development fund is part of Australia's commitment to fostering lasting economic prosperity, saying ''we know that there is uncertainty in development funding.''
''The impact of the USAID global cuts is not entirely yet known,'' she said.
''But at a time of disruption, Australia is directing a A$1.28 billion in AUSAID development programmes in Southeast Asia to meet your highest needs,'' she said.
Australia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, reiterated Australia's commitment to remain a strategic partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Indo-Pacific region.
''We're not going anywhere,'' she said.
In September 2023 Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released the Australia Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 at the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum at the 43rd ASEAN Summit hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta, saying "the Southeast Asia Strategy to 2040 is an ambitious plan that takes us beyond catching up, "the Southeast Asia Strategy to 2040 positions us for what's ahead."
"Australia's economic future lies with Southeast Asia, "he said.
The Southeast Asia Strategy to 2040 made 75 recommendations including streamlining foreign investment and visa processes, increasing flights between Australia and the region, and new political risk insurance to underwrite businesses expanding into Southeast Asian countries.
In November 2022 Australia Prime Minister Albert Albanese committed to development funding in the Indo-Pacific at the ASEAN-Australia summit included in the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) 40th and 41st summits in Phnom Penh, saying "Australia would advance economic growth in the Indo-Pacific."
He said that Australia would advance economic growth under Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative (Aus4 ASEAN Futures Initiative) committing AUS$470 million in development funding to support the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) initiative that would enable support for three ASEAN Community councils
The Australian support for the implementation of the Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) initiative would enable support for the
ASEAN Political- Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC).
The Southeast Asian Times

United States and Malaysia sign MoU on civil nuclear cooperation

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, left, and Malaysia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohamad Hasan, right, sign the Nuclear Cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (NCMOU) at the 58th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday July 10, 2025

From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, Saturday 12: The U.S. signed a Nuclear Cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (NCMOU)
with Malaysia for civil nuclear cooperation at the 58th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying ''signing the Nuclear Cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (NCMOU) marks an important step towards establishing a robust civil nuclear partnership between the United States and Malaysia," with Malaysia's Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, saying ''Malaysia views the exploration of nuclear energy as a key component of its long-term strategy,'' and with Indonesia ASEAN chair for 2023 calling for
Russia, China, France, UK and the United States to sign the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ Treaty), reports Reuters.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said civil nuclear cooperation between countries is possible, saying ''there are many countries that have expressed an interest in civil nuclear partnerships.''
''The Nuclear Cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (NCMOU) signed between the U.S. and Malaysia is an example of how a civil nuclear partnership can be achieved.'' he said.
The Nuclear Cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (NCMOU) will assist the U.S. to develop strategic civil nuclear cooperation relationships, support the U.S. civil nuclear industry and advance the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) goals, said the U.S. State Department in a statement.
Malaysia's Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said the Nuclear Cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (NCMOU)
represents a crucial step in a shared journey to further the Malaysia-US comprehensive partnership"
He said that Malaysia views the exploration of nuclear energy as a key component of its long-term strategy, saying ''the exploration of nuclear energy aims to ensure energy security to drive economic growth.''
In July 2023, Indonesia, ASEAN chair for 2023 called on Russia, China, France, UK and the United States to sign the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ Treaty) at the 56th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) in Jakarta, with Indonesia Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, saying "Southeast Asia is not a truly safe region as long as there are countries that have nuclear weapons."
Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, called on nuclear weapons states Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, who are five of ASEAN's 10 Dialogue Partners, to sign the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ Treaty), saying "the maintenance of peace and stability in Southeast Asia is our priority."
"It is our aim to turn the region into the Epicentrum of Growth therefore we must keep Southeast Asia free of nuclear weapons," she said.
Indonesia Minister of Foreign Affairs including the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the 10 ASEAN member states called on the five nuclear weapon states to immediately sign the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ Treaty), saying "the SEANWFZ Treaty has contributed to global disarmament efforts and to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) goals.''
"No nuclear weapon state has signed the SEANWFZ Treaty Protocol over the past 25 years," she said.
The Southeast Asian Times

U.S. presence at Malaysia's ASEAN Meeting signals renewed U.S. engagement in Southeast Asia

ASEAN Chair 2025 Malaysia PM Anwar Ibrahim opens Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Monday July 7, 2025

From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, July 11: Malaysia's Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, warned ''global trade is being weaponised'' at the opening of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Kuala Lumpur, urging ASEAN to work together to respond to tariff threats from the U.S, while Malaysia's foreign affairs, strategy and security analyst, says ''U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's presence at the meeting signals renewed U.S. engagement in Southeast Asia, reports the Associated Press.
Malaysia ASEAN chair for 2025 is also co-hosting the 4th Ministerial Meeting of the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD IV) with Japan and Palestine on Friday on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting.
''The world is now witnessing an era where power unsettles principle and where tools once used to generate growth are now wielding to pressure, to isolation andto contain,' said Malaysia Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim,''
Malaysia Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, urged ASEAN nations to work together to respond to trade threats from the U.S., saying
''Our cohesion must not end at declarations.''
He called for ASEAN members to increase intra-ASEAN trade, invest in regional integration, and reduce strategic dependencies on external powers, saying ''this is no passing storm.''
''It is the climate of our time.'' he said.
He said that ASEAN intends to reinforce its commitment to a rules-based trade order whiled resisting pressure to align exclusively with any one global power, saying ''ASEAN must be among those who choose to stand for rules, even when others choose retreat.''
The ASEAN Foreign Ministers meeting brings together about 1,500 delegates including Ministers from the ten Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), including Foreign Minister from Timor Leste as an observer, senior official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov of Russia, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will also attend the meetings.
Universiti of Malay, foreign affairs, strategy and security analyst, Collins Chong Yew Keat, said that ''U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's presence at the (ASEAN) 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur signals renewed US engagement in the region.''
He said that the presence of U.S. Secretary of State at the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers meeting and the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development(CEAPAD IV) ''will be a reminder to the region that Washington remains its most vital economic and security partner.
''But he said that U.S. support may now come with clearer expectations,'' he said.
''The U.S President Donald Trump administration is still offering the strongest military deterrence and market access, but expects ASEAN to stop exploiting this security umbrella while at the same time cozying up economically to China.''
The Southeast Asian Times

US warns increased tariffs for countries including ASEAN aligning with BRICS anti-American policies

BRICS full member countries at the XVII BRICS Summit ''Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance'' in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 6 to 7 July 2025

From News Reports:
Jakarta, July 10: The U.S. warned countries aligning with BRICS anti-American policies would face an additional 10 percent import tariff, with U.S. President Donald Trump saying ''there will be no exceptions to this policy,'' after signing the Executive Order on Monday, reports Reuters.
''Tariff rates that expired on July 9 would expire on August 1,'' said U.S. President Donald Trump.
BRICS member and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member, Indonesia Deputy Foreign Minister, Arrmanatha Nasir, said at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday, attended by Indonesia'' President Prabowo Subianto, ''BRIC Summit members have no intention to oppose the United States or other countries.''
'Indonesia harbours no ill will towards other countries, especially the United States,'' said Indonesia Deputy Foreign Minister, Arrmanatha Nasir,
Indonesia Deputy Foreign Minister, Arrmanatha Nasir, said ''BRICS’ main focus is to strengthen cooperation among developing countries in addressing global challenges, rather than to provoke any competition against major powers.''
''No agenda item at the two day BRICS Summit was designed to harm the interests of developing countries or any other nation,'' saying ''instead the topics we discussed on the agenda covered environmental and health issues.''
''We also addressed the global situation on multilateralism during Sunday's meeting,'' he said.
On Monday U.S. President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order, saying that tariff rates that expired on July 9 would expire on August 1, saying letters were sent to countries informing them of the new reciprocal tariff rates that would take effect on August. 2.
US President Donald Trump signed letters to trading partners including ASEAN member countries Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia and Thailand advising the countries of the new tariff rates that was decreased from 44 percent in April to 40 percent in August for Myanmar, decreased from 49 percent to 36 percent for Cambodia, unchanged for Thailand at 36 percent, unchanged for Indonesia at 32 percent and an increase of one percent from 24 percent to 25 percent.
Brasil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa (BRICS) original members, and Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates including ASEAN member Indonesia becoming full members January 2025, bringing the total of full members to 10, with Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Nigeria, Uganda , South Africa and ASEAN member nations Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, bringing the total of partner nations to 10, with the total 20 nations representing 56 percent of the world’s population and 44 percent of global GDP.
The Southeast Asian Times

Former Malaysia PM ordered to return embezzled funds deposited in his personal bank account

Former Prime Minister Najib Razak, centre, at Kuala Lumpur High Court for civil law suit hearing filed by Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd, on Monday July 7, 2025

From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, July 9: Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd has filed a civil law suit claiming US$1.18 billion in losses and damages from ousted former Prime Minister Najib Razak for breach of trust and abuse of power, ordering the former Prime Minister to return the embezzled funds deposited into the former Prime Ministers personal bank account, saying ''the former Prime Minister had given conflicting evidence in his testimony,'' reports Reuters.
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, is serving a six year jail term after his sentence was halved by the Federal Territories Pardons Board, for the misappropriation of funds from the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) while he was the Minister of Finance.
Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd lawyer, Lim Chee Wee, claims that former Prime Minister, Najib Razak, gave conflicting evidence for the source of funds that were deposited into his personal bank account evidence in his testimony.
He said that the various versions given by former Prime Minister Najib Razak for the source of funds that were deposited in his personal bank account includes, denial by the former Prime Minister of receiving the monies from the Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd, the assertion that his account was for corporate social responsibility purposes, the claim that he did not manage his personal account, the claim that the monies deposited into his personal account were donations, and the claim that his account was merely a flow-through entity.
Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd lawyer, Lim Chee Wee said the funds misappropriated from Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd were pension funds from the Retirement Fund Inc., (KWAP) that manages funds for Malaysia's public employees, saying ''former Prime Minister Najib Razak received US$120 million that was deposited into his personal bank account.''
''Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd became the vehicle and victim of large-scale fraud with the former Prime Minister being its primary beneficiary,'' he said.
Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd lawyer, Lim Chee Wee, said that Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd former chief executive officer Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil is at large, saying ''the former chief executive officer is wanted for allegedly conspiring with former Prime Minister Najib Razak to misappropriate funds from the Subsidiary SRS International Sdn Bhd.
In March 2024 Offshore asset recovery specialist, Angela Barkhouse, testified at the Kuala Lumpur High Court that US$120 million from the Retirement Fund Inc (KWAP) was deposited in former Prime Minister Najib Razak's personal bank account between 2011 and 2012.
''US$120 million was deposited into Najib Razak's personal AmBank account in three transactions from the company, Blackstone Asia Real Estate Partners Ltd.'' she said.
The Offshore asset recovery specialist also testified that the former SRS International Sdn Bhd funds chief executive officer, Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil had received US$82,000 from Blackstone Asia between January 27 and February 8, 2012.
In May 2021 the SRS International Sdn Bhd funds filed a civil law suit against former ousted Prime Minister Najib Razak and former SRS International Sdn Bhd funds chief executive officer, Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil alleging that Najib Razak had committed a breach of trust and abuse of power, misappropriated the company’s funds, and personally benefited from them.
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia's retired military submits petition to impeach Vice President

Indonesia's Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, centre, at the commemoration of Pancasila Day that celebrates the principles that underpin Indonesian identity and unity in Jakarta Sunday June 1, 2025

From News Reports:
Jakarta, July 8: The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) speaker and chairman claim that they have not received a petition submitted on June 2, calling for the impeachment of Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, citing alleged constitutional violations and ethical breaches, submitted by the Forum of Retired Indonesian National Armed Forces TNI Soldiers (FPP), with the speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR), saying ''the petition is still with the General Secretariat of the DPR,'' reports Tempo.
House of Representatives (DPR) speaker, Puan Maharani, said that ''all petitions submitted during the recess period are with the General Secretariat of the House of Representatives DPR, saying ''I have not seen it, it's still in the session.''
House of Representatives (DPR) chairman, Ahmad Muzani, claims that he has not received information from the General Secretariat of the House of Representatives (MPR) about the petition submited by the Forum of Retired TNI Soldiers, saying the General Secretariat of the House of Representatives has not reported the petition to him.
''I have not received any information from the General Secretariat of the House of Representatives,'' he said.
He said that there has been no communication among the members of the House of Representatives about the proposal to impeach Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, saying ''not yet, maybe there is or there isn't, I don't know.''
The Forum of Retired Indonesian National Armed Forces TNI Soldiers (FPP) representative, Dwi Cahyo Suwarsono, have given the People's Consultative Assembly and the House of Representatives (DPR) until the end of July to respond to the June 2 petition calling for the impeachment of Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.
The Forum of Retired Indonesian National Armed Forces TNI Soldiers (FPP) petitioned the People's Consultative Assembly and the House of Representatives (DPR) on June 2, citing alleged constitutional violations and ethical breaches for the impeachment of the elder son of former President Joko Widodo, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.
The Forum of Retired Indonesian National Armed Forces TNI Soldiers (FPP) cited alleged constitutional violations and ethical
breaches for the impeachment of the Vice President, saying the Constitutional Court amended the Law on General Elections to lower the minimum age from 40 to 35 years to allow Gibran Rakabuming Raka aged 35 to register as a candidate in the legislative and presidential elections in February 2024.
In October 2023 the Indonesian Constitutional Court panel of nine judges that was led by Chief Justice, Anwar Usman, who is the brother-in-law of President Joko Widodo, amended the Election Law that made President Joko Widodo s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, eligible to register at the General Elections Commission as a candidate in the legislative and presidential elections.
The Southeast Asian Times

Vietnam to initiate pilot scheme for civil rights laws to separate the prosecutor from the court

Tran Thanh Man, elected National Assembly chairman on May 20, 2024, endorsed the separation of the Supreme People's Court from the Supreme Peoples's Procuracy or prosecutor at the National Assembly on Wednesday June 24, 2025

From News Reports:
Hanoi, July 7: The Vietnam National Assembly (NA) has endorsed the resolution passed by the 15th National Assembly 9th session on June 24 for the initiation of civil rights laws as part of the restructuring of the Supreme People's Procuracy, with the National Assembly chairman saying, ''the Supreme People's Procuracy will initiate a pilot scheme for three years,'' reports the Vietnam News.
National Assembly chairman, Tran Thanh Man, said the adoption of the resolution that separates the Supreme People's Court from the Supreme Peoples's Procuracy or prosecutor will take effect on January 1, 2026, saying ''the Supreme People's Procuracy or prosecution has initiated civil laws in a pilot scheme for three years in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Can Tho, Quang Ninh, and Dak Lak. ''
''The Supreme People's Procuracy or prosecution will supervise the pilot scheme for the initiation of civil rights laws, saying ''civil rights laws protect the civil rights of human rights groups and public interest groups.''
Human rights groups including Vietnam Human Rights Network (VNHRN) and public interest groups including Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (VGCL) and Vietnam Farmers' Union, that operate under the Communist Party of Vietnam's directive will be protected under the civil rights laws.
National Assembly chairman, Tran Thanh Man, said that the National Assembly (NA) resolution defines the Supreme People's Procuracy's responsibilities as receiving and processing information on the violation of the civil rights of human rights groups or public interest groups.
In May 2024 Human Rights Watch (HRW) Southeast Asia advocacy director, John Sifton, claimed that Vietnam provides false or misleading information to the United States and other economic partners to secure or maintain preferential trade preferences.
He said after a public hearing on Vietnam's trade status held by the US Department of Commerce in Washington that ''Vietnam does not satisfy basic labour rights standards.''
''The US Department of Commerce is considering a reclassification of Vietnam under the US Tariff Law as a market economy, saying ''the reclassification would provide Vietnam with major economic benefits.''
He said that Vietnam argues that its labour law standards are in line with international standards and that wages in Vietnam are determined by free bargaining between labor and management as called for under the US Tariff Law.
''It’s patently false to claim that Vietnamese workers can organize unions or that their wages are the result of free bargaining between labour and management,'' he said.
''Not a single independent union exists in Vietnam and no working legal frameworks exist for unions to be created or for workers to enforce labour rights,'' he said.
''Human Rights Watch (HRW) takes no position on Vietnam's economic status but the re designation of Vietnam to a market economy under the US Tariff Law is legally contingent on basic labour rights protections and stated US policy on promoting labor rights,'' he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

QUAD's new Critical Minerals Initiative launched out of concern for non-market policies and practices

Indian External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, Japanese Foreign Minister, Takeshi Iwaya, and U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, at 10th Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) in Washington, D.C., Tuesday, July 1, 2025

From News Reports:
Washington, July 4: The Foreign Ministers of India, Australia and Japan met with the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday for the 10th Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to launch the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative in the Indo-Pacific, with US State Department ststement, saying ''We are concerned for the non-market policies and practices for Critical Minerals,'' reports the US State Department.
The US State Department said the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative is an ambitious expansion of the Quad partnership in the Indo-Pacific, saying ''the new Quad Critical Minerals Initiative will strengthen cooperation in secure reliable supply chains,'' said the US State Department.
The US State Department said that the new Quad Critical Minerals Initiative together with Quad programs will enable Australia, India, Japan and the United States to bring opportunity and prosperity to the Indo-Pacific.
''Australia, India, Japan and the United States are deeply concerned about abrupt constriction and future reliability of key supply chains, specifically for Critical Minerals,'' said the statement.
''We are concerned about the non-market policies and practices for Critical Minerals, certain derivatives products and mineral processing technology,'' said the statement.
The US State Department said that the Quad underscored the importance of diversification and reliable global supply chains of Critical Minerals, saying ''reliance on any one country for processing and refining Critical Minerals and derivative goods production exposes our industries to economic coercion, price manipulation, and supply chain disruptions.''
''Economic coercion, price manipulation, and supply chain disruptions harms our economic national security,'' said the statement.
In January 2024, under the administration of former US President Jo Biden administration, the United States National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, and China Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, committed to the smooth supply chain of Critical Minerals.
The United States and China agreed to implement the agreements made between former United States President Jo Biden and China President Xi Jinping at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting held in in San Fransico in November 2023
The APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting held in San Fransico endorsed the Critical Minerals Dialogue saying " the Critical Minerals Dialogue was to strengthen collaboration in the critical minerals supply chains to boost Indo-Pacific competitiveness.
On March 15, 2021 Australia, India, Japan and the US committed to cooperation in a free and open Indo-Pacific at the first Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), "The Spirit of the Quad" summit at the White House in the US, with then Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrision, saying that the meeting of Quad leaders marked a new dawn in the Indo-Pacific region.
Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrision said then that "the gathering of four leaders of the great democracies in the Indo-Pacific marked a new dawn in the region."
Australia, India, Japan and the US Quad leaders pledged cooperation in a shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific
in the implementation of ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) that includes the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 10 member countries, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam.
The Southeast Asian Times

Thailand approves new contract with China for submarines fitted with made-in China engines instead of made-in Germany engines

Deputy Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, approves new contract between Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) for procurement of submarines on Wednesday July 2, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, July 5: Thailand's outgoing Defence Minister confirmed his approval for a new contract between the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and state owned China Shipbuilding Offshore International Co (CSOC) to replace the 2017 contract for the procurement of submarines fitted with German-made diesel engines, with Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, saying "the new submarine contract required my approval as Deputy Prime Minister before the end of June,'' at the Defence Ministry in Bangkok on Wednesday, reports the Bangkok Post.
''The new submarine agreement between the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) is now on the cabinet agenda for final endorsement,'' he said.
Thailand Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has approved a new contract between the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) for the procurement of three S26T Yuan-class submarines fitted with made-in China CHD620 engines.
The 2017 contract between Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) for the procurement of three S26T Yuan-class submarines that were to be fitted with German-made MTU 396 diesel engine was cancelled by then Prime Minister Prayut
Chan-o-cha.
State-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) could not install the German-made MTU 396 diesel engines in the three made-in China S26T Yuan-class submarines as stipulated in the contract.
The German government had refused to sell the German-made MTU 396 diesel engine to China, saying " the German made MTU 396 diesel engine is designated military defence equipment."
The German government refusal to supply the German-made MTU396 diesel engines to state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) to be fitted in the S26T Yuan-class submarines built in China for the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) was based on the 1989 European Union (EU) arms embargo imposed on China.
The state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) proposed that the made-in China CHD620 engine be fitted in the three made-in China S26T Yuan-class submarines.
The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) agreement to purchase three S26T Yuan-class submarines from China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC), worth 13.5 billion baht (US$408 million), was stalled due to China's failure to obtain German-made diesel engines as stipulated in the 2017 contract.
The Southeast Asian Times

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra hears prosecution witness testimony on Lese Majeste charges at Bangkok Criminal Court

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra avoided reporters using a side entrance rather than the front entrance of the Bangkok Criminal Court on Tuesday July 1, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, July 4: Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra appeared at the Bangkok Criminal Court on Tuesday to hear prosecution witnesses testimony against the former Prime Minister for alleged violation of the Lese Majeste Law and the Computor Crime Act allegedly committed in an interview in South Korea in 2015, with defence lawyer saying his client is personally questioned prosecution witnesses, reports Bangkok Post.
Defence lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, said he was unable to provide details of court proceedings, saying ''the court proceedings were closed to the public.''
He said the court has instructed the parties involved not to disclose any details from the hearings, saying ''doing so could harm the case.''
Defence lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, said he could state the number of witnesses but could not reveal their identities, saying he could not comment on the investigation into the South Korea interview with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in South Korea.''
''The Investigation into the interview is included in the closed court proceedings,'' he said.
Defence lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, said that three witnesses were examined on Tuesday, four on Wednesday and three on Thursday, saying witnesses include a Thai speaking Korean interpreter and a lawyer who was an important witness, saying 'the translation of Thaksin's interview in Seoul, South Korea on May 21, 2015 was incomplete.''
''There was one problematic English word that led to the allegation brought against Thaksin Shinawatra,'' he said.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) prosecutors charged former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra under Section 112 of the Criminal Code 2007 for alleged violation of the Lese Majeste Law and the Computor Crime Act following a complaint lodged by the Privy Council of 18 appointed advisors to the monarchy.
The Privy Council claimed that former prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra had allegedly defamed the monarchy in a foreign media interview in Seoul, South Korea on May 21, 2015.
The Office of the Attorney-General had received advice from the Royal Thai Police (RTP) at the Technology Crime Suppression Division on a complaint from the Privy Council that Thaksin Shinawatra had accused the Privy Councillors of supporting the 2014 coup that ousted the former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who is Thaksin Shinawatra's younger sister, in the media interview in Seoul in South Korea on May 21, 2015.
In May 2016 the Department of Consular Affairs director-general, Thongchai Chasawat, issued an order to revoked Thaksin Shinawatra's Thailand passport claiming that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's interview in Soeul in South Korea had undermined "national security and dignity."
The Southeast Asian Times

Thailand Constitutional Court suspends PM from duty over phone conversation with former Cambodia PM

Thailand's Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, left, from duty on Tuesday July 1, 2025 over breach of ethical standards in phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen over Thailand Cambodia border dispute

From News Reports:s
Bangkok, July 3: Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from duty pending consideration of the Prime Ministers phone conversation with former Cambodia Prime Minister Senate President Hun Sen, with nine Consititutional Court judges unanimously accepting a petition against Paetongtarn Shinawatra continuing as Prime Minister, reports the Bangkok Post.
The Constitutional Court suspended Paetongtarn Shinawatra from duty after a petition was submitted by 36 senators accusing the Prime Minister of breaching ethical standards involved in the Thailand Cambodia border dispute.
Nine Constitutional Court judges resolved unanimously to accept the petition from the senators against Paetongtarn Shinawatra continuing as Prime Minister, temporarily suspending Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office by seven votes to two.
The senators petitioned the Constitutional Court to investigate a
The petition, initiated by 36 senators, asked the court to investigate a phone conversation between Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen on June 15.
The petitioners claim that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra made derogatory remarks about the Thailand Commander of the Second Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) Chief of Defence Forces of the (RTARF), General Songwit Noonpackdee.
The petitioners claim that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra branded the Thailand Commander of the Second Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF as an adversary.
''Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra showed a submissive tone towards Hun Sen by signalling a readiness to comply with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen's demands over the Thailand - Cambodia border,'' claim the Senators in the petition.
The Senators claim that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra lacks qualifications and integrity under Setion 160 (40 and (5) of the Constitution, saying ''the Prime Minister lacked honesty and engagement in conduct that constitutes a grave breach of ethical standards.''
Paetongtarn Shinawatra said she had phoned Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen after the Constitutional Court order to prevent more clashes with Cambodia saying ''I was thinking only about a way to prevent clashes and casualties.''
'' I insist that I had no ill intentions,'' she said.
"I apologise if the approach I took was unsatisfactory,'' said Paetongtarn Shinawatrath.
The Southeast Asian Times s

Thousands demand Thailand's PM resignation vowing continuous street protests in Bangkok

The ''United Power of the Land to Protect Sovereignty'' leader, Jatuporn Prompan, demands the resignation of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, vowing nonstop street protests at Victory Monument in Bangkok on Saturday June 28, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, Wednesday July 2: Leader of the ''United Power of the Land to Protect Sovereignty,'' Jatuporn Prompan, vowed continuous street protests after thousands protested at the Victory Monument in Bangkok on Sunday demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, saying ''the protest was not a call for a military coup,'' reports the Bankok Post
''The aim of the protest was to defend Thailand sovereignty in a peaceful way,'' he said.
The ''United Power of the Land to Protect Sovereignty'' group leader, Jatuporn Prompan, called on supporters to prepare for street camps for continuous protests, saying ''protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.''
''Their message has grown louder and their demands more direct,'' he said.
Jatuporn Prompan warned that the protests are not short-term, instructing supporters to prepare for a long-term street camps, saying ''street protests will remain until Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra resigns.''
Jatuporn Prompan, claims that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, had compromised national sovereignty in a conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister on June 15, saying ''Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, had opposed actions by the Commander of the Second Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) Chief of Defence Forces of the (RTARF), General Songwit Noonpackdee, over the Thailand - Cambodia border dispute.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had told former Cambodia Prime Minister, Hun Sen, that she opposed the action of the Thailand Commander of the Second Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) over the Thailand - Cambodia border clash that led to the death of a Cambodia soldier on May 28.
''Even Cambodian do not trust this Prime Minister.'' he said,
''Cambodia sends warriors,'' he said, ''we send Girl Scouts.''
'United Power of the Land to Protect Sovereignty'' leader, Jatuporn Prompan, said the protest against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra that was attended by thousands on Saturday is a warning to the government, saying ''the Thailand Cabinet is not working.''
In November 2013 the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague, in an unanimous decision, ruled that the immediate area surrounding the 11th century Preah Vihear Hindu temple on the Thailand - Cambodia border belongs to Cambodia.
"Cambodia holds sovereignty over the whole territory of the promontory of Preah Vihear," said International Court of Justice, Judge Peter Tomka after the court decision.
The judge, one of seventeen, said that as a consequence of the decision Thailand was now under obligation to withdraw Thailand military or police forces or other guards or keepers who were stationed in the immediate area surrounding the temple.
The Southeast Asian Times

Malaysia and Indonesia reaffirm commitment to two-state solution to resolve Israeli-Palestine conflict

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, left, and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, right, at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Friday June 27, 2025

From News Reports:
Jakarta, July1: Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members, Malaysia and Indonesia, reaffirmed their shared commitment to the two-state solution as the most viable path to resolving the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, saying ''the two state solution it the only route to a just and lasting peace for Palestine,'' in Jakarta on Friday, reports Antara.
"We continue to support Palestine's independence,'' said Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto and Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in a joint statement.
''Only a two-state solution can end this conflict," they said.
Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said that both Indonesia and Malaysia support a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Palestine, saying ''both Indonesia and Malaysia share a common desire for peace not just between Iran and Israel but across the entire Middle East.''
Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto said that Malaysia and Indonesia would continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution by all parties, saying Malaysia and Indonesia welcome the ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
''We hope this process can move forward towards lasting peace,'' he said.
''Only a two-state solution can bring an end to this conflict,'' he said.
Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto said ''Indonesia and Malaysia believe a global collective effort is essential to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict, saying ''Indonesia would continue to support Palestinian independence.''
In February 2025 the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Malaysia chair for 2025, said that Malaysia disagrees with the proposal to resettle Palestinians from Gaza following U.S president Donald Trump's proposal to resettle two million Palestinians from Gaza to neighbouring countries, with Malaysia Foreign Minister, Mat Hasan saying then, ''Malaysia strongly disagrees with the proposal to resettle Palestinians from Gaza.''
'We’re against the recommendation as it is against all international conventions, charters and treaties,'' he said in Parliament during question time .
Malaysia Foreign Minister, Mat Hasan, said that he had discussed the proposal to remove Palestinians from Gaza with ASEAN counterparts, saying ''ASEAN counterparts also disagree with the proposal.''
In January 2025 Indonesia called for support for full membership of Palestine in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) at the 19th Summit of the Non-aligned Movement (NAM), titled "Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence." in Kampala, Uganda, with Indonesia's Deputy Foreign Minister saying "Indonesia has consistently supported the People of Palestine's struggle for independence."
Indonesia Deputy Foreign Minister, Pahala Nugraha Mansury, called on the 121 Non-aligned Movement (NAM) member states that comprise of more than half of the world's population " to support full membership of Palestine in the United Nations Security Council, " saying "currently five NAM members are serving as Non-Permanent Members of the UN Security Council, and it is anticipated that they can articulate a joint NAM position on Palestine."
Indonesia Deputy Foreign Minister, Pahala Nugraha Mansury met with the Foreign Ministers of Palestine and South Africa saying "Indonesia supports the Palestinian peoples struggle to achieve a long-term solution and independence."
"Indonesia also supports South Africa's legal action against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ)," said Indonesia Deputy Foreign Minister, Pahala Nugraha Mansury.
The Southeast Asian Times

Cambodia claims Thaksin Shinawatra wore neck and arm braces in Police General Hospital to avoid prison

Cambodian Senate President former Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Sen, left, and former Prime Minister of Thailand Thaksin Shinawatra in Bangkok on Friday February 21, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, June 30: Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen claims that former Prime Minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra, was not genuinely ill during his visit to Bangkok in February 21, 2024, saying ''the former Prime Minister had a neck and arm brace merely for the sake of photographs,'' reports the Bangkok Post.
"I flew to Bangkok to visit Thaksin, He was not ill at all,'' said Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
''But when it came time to take photos, Thaksin Shinawatra asked for a neck brace and an arm brace to appear unwell,'' he said.
He said that as soon as the photos were taken, ''Thaksin Shinawatra, removed the braces and went to dine.''
''That's not illness that's theatre,'' he said.
He said that Thai people are suspicious, saying ''I'm only confirming what many have thought.''
''Both Thaksin and his daughter, Paetongtarn, are acting in bad faith,'' he said.
Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen claims that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was fully aware that her father Thaksin Shinawatra was not genuinely unwell, saying ''Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra took part in deceiving the Thailand Constitutional Court.''
''Phnom Penh governor, Khuong Sreng, was a witness to the staged illness together with several Thais who were present at the visit to Bangkok on February 21, 2024,'' he said.
In January 2025 protesters led by Jatuporn Prompan, Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom, Jade Donavanik, and Dr Tul Sittisomwong,
submitted a letter of complaint to the Office of the Ombudsman in Bangkok calling on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to separate her relationship with her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, from the administration of Thailand.
The letter of complaint protested against the Department of Corrections Thailand and the Police General Hospital in Bangkok for not cooperating with an investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Medical Council of Thailand into Thaksin Shinawatra's stay at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok for one year after his return to Thailand
Former Prime Minister, Thanksin Shinawatra, faced Lese Majeste Law and the Computor Crime Act charges on his return to Thailand from exile in Dubai and Hong Kong in August 22, 2023 after fleeing Thailand in 2008 to avoid trial for nonfeasance and malfeasance while holding the position of Prime Minister.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was sentenced to eight years in prison on his return to Thailand, reduced to one year by a royal pardon in honour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn's birthday, following the election of his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra,, as the 31st Prime Minister of Thailand on August 16, 2024.
Inmates at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok are legally permitted to receive treatment outside prison for 120 days but the Department of Corrections Thailand allowed Thaksin Shinawatra to stay at the Police General Hospital for 180 days on his return to Thailand, saying that conditions in the prison could threaten his life.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra paid all costs for his six-month stay at the PoliceGeneral Hospital in Bangkok, including a VIP room on the hospital's 14th floor costing 8,500 baht a night.
'We are fully aware that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is Thaksin Shinawatra's daughter but, as the leader of Thailand she should prioritise the national interest over family ties,'' said the letter of complaint to the Office of the Ombudsman
The Southeast Asian Times

Former ISIS terrorists renounce terrorism pledging allegiance to Indonesia and loyality to Pancasila

Thirty-four former members of the Anshor Daulah (AD) terror group pledged allegiance to the Republic of Indonesia at a ceremony held at the Riau Governor’s official residence in Pekanbaru, Riau, on Friday June 27, 2025

From News Reports:
Jakarta, June 29: Thirty-four former members of the terror group Anshor Daulah (AD) that is affiliated with the terror group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) renounced terrorism and pledged their allegiance to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and loyality to Pancasila state ideology at the Balai Serindit office of the Riau Provincial Government complex in Pekanbaru on Friday, with Indonesian National Police, Anti-Terror Squad Densus 88, saying ''the pledge marks a complete break from their past as members of the terror organization,'' reports Antara.
''Their renouncement and subsequent loyalty pledge is part of their recovery and transformation to once again stand on their own feet for the Republic of Indonesia and its ideology,'' said Indonesian National Police, Anti-Terror Squad Densus 88, Brigadier General I Made Astawa.
''Terrorism manifests not only in physical violence but also in the silent indoctrination of ideologies that justify hatred and terror in the name of religion,'' he said.
Governor of Riau Province Abdul Wahid, commended the Ministry of Law, Directorate General of Corrections (DGC) the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT), the Indonesian National Military (TNI), Indonesian National Police, Anti-Terror Squad Densus 88, and the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), for their involved in the deradicalization efforts of the thirty-four former members of the terror group Anshor Daulah (AD) reintergration into society.
Governor of Riau Province Abdul Wahid said that Riau province is proud of the 34 individuals who declared their loyality to Indonesia, saying he recognised the determination it takes to renounce terrorism.
In January 2022 the Directorate General of Corrections (DGC), Rika Aprianti, said after 122 convicted Jemaah Islamiyah (JL)
terrorists incarcerated in Indonesian prisons swore allegiance to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and loyality to Pancasila state ideology under the deradicalizing of terrorism program, ''the deradicalizing of terrorism program has been a success.''
The deradicalisation of terrorism program teaches the convicted terrorists to understand that Pancasila ideology is not just the foundation of the nation but also acts as a national ideology that unites the people of Indonesia,'' said the Directorate General of Corrections (DGC), Rika Aprianti.
"In their pledge to Pancasila ideology, convicted Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) terrorists swear loyalty to Pancasila state ideology and the 1945 Constitution and commit to protecting the nation from all acts of terrorism that could destroy Indonesia's unity," she said.
In January 2021 Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Ba`asyir, 81, the spiritual leader of Al-Qaeda-affiliate Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), who was found guilty by the South Jakarta District Court in 2011 for organising acts of terror, including the Bali bombings was released from Gunung Sindur prison in Bogor, West Java Province after pledging loyalty to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and to Pancasila state ideology.
Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Ba`asyir's arrest in 2012 was the third effort since 2000 to have the spiritual leader of Al-Qaeda-affiliate Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) convicted for terrorism.
He served almost 26 months in jail before he won his appeal in 2006 against his conviction for conspiracy following the Bali bombings of 2002 in which more than 200 people, most of them Australians, were killed.
The Southeast Asian Times

Beijing calls on Singapore to join China against United States 'hegemony'

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, left, and China Premier Li Qiang, right, in Bejing on Monday June 23, 2025

From News Reports:
Singapore, June 28: China called on Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) member, Singapore, to join China against United States hegemony and trade protectionism during Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong five day visit to Beijing, with the Premier of China, Xi Jinping, saying ''stand on the right side of history and on the side of fairness and justice,'' reports the Agence France Presse.
''The world cannot return to United States hegemony or be dragged back to the law of the jungle,'' Premier of China, Xi Jinping said at the Great Hall of the People on Monday.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said that his visit to China was the first visit to a country outside the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) since he succeeded Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien in May 2024.
''I believed the Singapore-China relationship is more important than before at this time of global turbulence and uncertainty.'' he said.
''We can work together to establish closer ties and continue to strengthen multilateralism and the rules-based global order for the benefit of all countries,'' he said.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Premier of China, Xi Jinping agreed ''on the importance of maintaining open and inclusive trade as a key driver of economic growth and stability and reaffirmed support for a rules-based multilateral trading system.''
In April 2025 the Dean of school of public policy at the China University of Hong Kong, Zheng Yongnian, warned that ''the United States would not assist the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in economic development' at the 3rd China-Asean Economic Relations Seminar, titled "High-Level Opening-Up and China-ASEAN Common Market."
''Some ASEAN countries would face stalled economic development and isolation by China if they choose to align more closely with Washington in the trade war,'' he said.
He said that China was better placed to help the 10 ASEAN member nations in realising its economic goals, saying ''China has called on ASEAN countries to establishment a China-ASEAN common market to promote trade stability and development in South East Asia amid the United States tariffs.''
He said that ASEAN member nations Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand ''face a precarious balancing act as they negotiate trade terms with the new President Donald Trump administration, saying ''ASEAN is China's largest trading partner.''
''Either scale back lucrative economic ties with China or prepare for punishing United States tariffs on critical exports,'' he said.
He said that not all countries will be pivoting towards Washington as United States tariffs cause worldwide economic uncertainty, saying "more nations will instead choose to distance themselves from the United States.''
The Southeast Asian Times

Vietnam National Assembly abolishes death penalty in eight out of 18 criminal offences

Vietnam's National Assembly legislators abolished the death penalty for eight criminal offences including embezzlement of state property and bribery of state officials at the 9th session of the 15th National Assembly in Hanoi from May 5 to June 30

From News Reports:
Hanoi, June 27: Vietnam's National Assembly legislators abolished the death penalty for eight criminal offences including embezzlement of state property and bribery of state officials, leaving ten criminal offences liable for the death penalty including treason and terrorism at the 9th session of the 15th National Assembly in Hanoi from May 5 to June 30, reports the Vietnam News Agency.
''The Communist Party of Vietnam plans to replace capital punishment with life imprisonment without parole in eight out of 18 offences,'' said Minister of the Political Bureau also the Minister of Public Security of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), Senior Lt. Gen. Luong Tam Quang, after the draft law to amend the Penal Code was submitted to the National Assembly on May 20.
The death penalty was abolished for eight criminal offences including embezzlement of state property, bribery of state officials, vandalization of state property, the manufacture of counterfeit medicine, espionage, drug trafficking, sabotage, and acts aimed at overthrowing the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) with the National Assembly legislators voting 439 for the passing of the amendments to the Criminal code with 429 against.
''The amendments to the 2017 Penal Code are no longer aligned with Vietnam's socio-economic realities or the evolving nature of crime,'' said Senior Lt. Gen. Luong Tam Quang.
He said that the introduction of life imprisonment without parole would maintain public safety, saying ''the offender would be isolated from society.''
Senior Lt. Gen. Luong Tam Quang said the draft law to amend the 2017 Penal Code that was submitted on May 20 ''exempts death row inmates from execution in specific humanitarian cases.''
''An individual with terminal-stage cancer or those living with AIDS are exempt from the death penalty.''
He said that courts have avoided handing down the death sentence for subversion and the production of counterfeit medicine, saying ''the death penalty for embezzlement of state property and bribery of state officials have been used sparingly.''
Ten criminal offences remain liable for the death penalty including murder, treason, terrorism, sexual abuse of children, drug-related offenses, crimes against national security, destruction of national security facilities, threatening peace, war crimes, and armed robbery.
The Southeast Asian Times

'Dr Air' prescribes drugs in names of deceased patients at Bangkok Police General Hospital

Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal, also known as ''Dr Air,'' psychiatrist at the Police General Hospital in Pathum Wan was arrested for misusing her credential to procure the drug alprazolam and other psychotropic drugs in Bangkok on Wednesday June 11, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, June 26: Thailand's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) have submitted evidence against senior psychiatrist Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal and seven doctors at the Bangkok Police General Hospital to the Provincial Police Region 1 for their alleged involvement in the prescription of drugs in the name of deceased patients, reports the Bangkok Post.
Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal, also known as ''Dr Air,'' who is a psychiatrist at the Police General Hospital in Pathum Wan District, Bangkok, is in Royal Thai Police (RTP) custody after her arrest on June 11 for misusing her credentials to procure the drug alprazolam and other psychotropic drugs from the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that were proscribed in the names of deceased patients.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Narcotics Control Division and Legal Affairs, director, Chatchai Panichsupphaporn, and Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) assistant Dr Thanakrit Jitareerat have submitted evidence to the Provincial Police Region 1 in Pathum Wan, Bangkok that Dr Anchulee, also known as "Dr Air" has ordered Baht15 million (US$460,000) worth of the drug Alprazolam from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2022.
Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) assistant Dr Thanakrit Jitareerat said that the evidence against senior psychiatrist Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal and seven doctors includes their alleged involvement in the misuse of 370 names of deceased patients to prescribe drugs for illegal distribution.
He said that an inspection by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Narcotics Control Division and Legal Affairs, of 13 clinics found that nine were allegedly involvement in the prescription of drugs in the names of deceased patients..
''Seven doctors including senior psychiatrist Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal were implicated in the procurement of the drug alprazolam and other psychotropic drug.'' he said.
He said an investigation into the illegal use of the identities of deceased patients to prescribe drugs for distribution revealed that six of the seven doctors are not affiliated with public hospital clinics, saying ''the six doctors work in private clinics.''
Pathum Police General Hospital psychiatrist Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal also known as ''Dr Air'' was arrested on June 11, after the Royal Thai Police (RTP) found large amounts of the drug Alprazolam stored at the Royal Thai Police (RTP) barracks.
Lawyer, Nitisak Meekhuad, for Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal said that his client had declared her intention not to apply for bail.
Pol Col Dr Anchulee Theerawongpaisal is in detention at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution.
The Southeast Asian Times

New extradition law to test Singapore's return of fugitive to Indonesian to face e-ID embezzlement charges

Fugitive Paulus Tannos, 70, also known as Tjhin Thian Po, centre, is wanted by the Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for his alleged involvement in the embezzlement of funds from the State Printing Company of the Republic of Indonesia (PNRI) from 2011 to 2013

From News Reports:
Singapore, June 25: The new extradition law between Singapore and Indonesia that came into effective in 2024 will be tested in the Singapore State Courts with the arrest of Indonesian fugitive Paulus Tannos, 70, by the Singapore Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) on January 17, after fugitive Paulus Tannos, 70, also known as Tjhin Thian Po, has repeatedly declined to surrender to Indonesia, with the Singapore State Court saying ''the hearing does not have to determine guilt,'' reports Straits Times.
The three day Singapore State Court hearing that began on Monday will decide if the evidence that includes affidavits submitted by the Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is sufficient to return fugitive Paulus Tannos, 70, also known as Tjhin Thian Po, to Indonesia.
Fugitive Paulus Tannos, 70, also known as Tjhin Thian Po, who has resided in Singapore since 2017, holds a diplomatic passport from Guinea-Bissau in West Africa, but remains an Indonesian citizen despite his attempt to renounce Indonesian citizenship.
Fugitive Paulus Tannos, 70, also known as Tjhin Thian Po, is wanted by the Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for his alleged involvement in the embezzlement of funds from the State Printing Company of the Republic of Indonesia (PNRI) from 2011 to 2013.
Paulus Tannos, 70, also known as Tjhin Thian Po, former president and director of the e-ID electronic identity card printing company, PT Sandipala Arthaputra, is wanted for his alleged involved in the embezzlement of funds from the State Printing Company of the Republic of Indonesia (PNRI) that allegedly caused Rp 2.3 trillion (US$161 million) loss to the state.
In April 2018 the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) court in Jakarta sentenced the former House of Representatives (DPR) speaker Setya Novanto, to 15 years in prison for his involvement in the procurement of e-ID cards after finding that there was sufficient preliminary evidence to charge the former speaker with corruption.
The Indonesia Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) court found that House of Representatives (DPR) speaker Setya Novanto had a key role in setting the budget for the procurement of the e-ID cards electronic identity cards between 2011 and 2012.
The budget was split with 51 percent or Rp2.662 trillion used for the procurement of the e-ID card and the balance was embezzled and divided between senior officials of the Home Affairs Ministry and lawmakers of the Commission II of House of Representatives.
The Southeast Asian Times

Cambodia claims Thailand led an army of cyclists to disputed border temple without notice

Cambodia claims Thailand has violated the 2013 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision after the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) led about 150 cyclists to the disputed Ta Moan Thom Temple without prior notification on Sunday June 22, 2025

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, June 24: Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence claims Thailand violated the 2013 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision after the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) led about 150 cyclists to the disputed Ta Moan Thom Temple on Sunday without prior notification, with the Royal Thai Armed Forces saying ''Thailand informed Cambodia of the visit to the temple on Saturday,'' reports the Khmer Times.
Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of National Defence, Gen. Tea Seiha, claims that ''Thailand has again violated its agreement with Cambodia by not giving prior notification of entry into the Temple,''
He said that Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) entry to the temple without prior notification is a clear violation of the 2013 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision that obliged Thailand to withdraw any military or police from the Ta Moan Thom temple.
''The Thailand military led about 150 Thailand cyclists into the grounds of the Ta Moan Thom Temple at about 7.30.am without prior notice to the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces,'' he said.
He said that the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces reminded the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) of 2013 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision.
''The Thailand cyclists then left the Ta Moan Thom Temple without incident,'' he said.
Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) spokesperson, Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, denied the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces claim that Cambodia had informed the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) of the cyclists visit to the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin.
''The visit to the Ta Muen Thom temple was part of a tourism event organised by the Surin Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports under the ''Cycle to Two Sanctuaries, Taste Durian of the Elephant Town Phanom Dong Rak 2025 campaign.''
He said that the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) had informed the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces on June 21 that the cyclists would arrive at the Ta Muen Thom temple on June 22, saying ''about 150 cyclists left Phanom Dong Rak District and as planned arrived at the Temple at 7.30am.
In November 2013 the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague, in an unanimous decision, ruled that the immediate area surrounding the 11th century Preah Vihear Hindu temple on the Thailand Cambodia border including the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin belongs to Cambodia.
"Cambodia holds sovereignty over the whole territory of the promontory of Preah Vihear," said International Court of Justice, Judge Peter Tomka at the court decision.
The judge, one of seventeen, said that as a consequence of the decision Thailand was now under obligation to withdraw Thailand military or police forces or other guards or keepers who were stationed in the immediate area surrounding the temple.
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia ASEAN member reinforces non-alignment in foreign policy with exchange on MoU's with Russia

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, left, Russia's President Vladimir Putin, centre, Bahrain's National Security Advisor Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, right, at the International Economic Forum (SPIEF) attended by more than 21,000 participants from 136 countries in St. Petersburg, Russia on Friday, June 20, 2025

From News Reports:
Indonesia, June 23: Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) member, Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto, exchanged Memorandum of Understanding's (MoU's) on the ''Strategic Partnership Declaration'' with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in St. Petersburg on Thursday, with President Prabowo Subianto reinforcing Indonesia's position of non-alignment in foreign policy, reports Jakarta Post.
Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto and Russia's President Vladimir Putin exchanged Memorandum of Understanding's (MoU's) on cooperation between the Indonesian Investment Management Agency for Renewable Energy Anagata Nusantara (Danantara) and the Russian Joint Stock Company Management company of Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) with Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto saying ''the age of a multipolar world was emerging.''
''Russia and China have proven themselves as leaders that do not have double standards and that defend the downtrodden and the oppressed,'' said Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto at the opening of the International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in Saint Petersburg on Thursday.
''Following the most powerful is a mistake,'' he said
Indonesia is a member of the ASEAN 10 member nations, a member nation of the 121 Non-aligned Movement (NAM) nations and a new partner in the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) with thirteen nations including ASEAN members nations Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam joining BRICS on January 1.
''Jakarta will go ahead with its economic ambitions without following the philosophies of the biggest and most powerful power in the world.''
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin exchanged four Memorandum of Understanding's (MoU) at the International Economic Forum (SPIEF) including between the Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology and the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education at the International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in St. Petersburg on Friday.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also exchanged between the Indonesian and Russian transport ministries.
The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital and the Russian Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media also exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The Southeast Asian Times

Thailand military calls for meeting of Thailand and Cambodia's regional commanders to resolve border conflict

Thailand Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, centre, Commander Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, second right, arrive by helicopter at Nam Yuen district in Ubon Ratchathani Province on the Thailand Cambodia border on Friday June 20, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, June 22: The Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) called for a meeting of the Thailand and Cambodian regional military commanders, advising Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to support the national interest with a Morality Policy to resolve the Thailand - Cambodia border dispute,'' reports the Bangkok Post.
Commander of the Second Army Area of the Royal Thailand Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang called on Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra ''to support the national interest with a Morality Policy to resolve the border dispute with Cambodia after Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had referred to the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) as the ''opposition'' and referred to the former Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen as ''uncle.''
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was accused of compromising her position as Prime Minister and damaging Thailand national interest in a telephone conversation with former Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Sen on June 15.
Commander of the Second Army Area of the Royal Thailand Armed Forces, Lt., Gen., Boonsin Padklang called on the Thailand Prime Minister ''to establish an experienced team of advisors to aid her to support the national interest with a Morality Policy to resolve the border dispute in order to rebuild international confidence in Thailand.''
He said the Prime Minister should resolve the dispute on the Thailand Cambodia border with a Morality Policy, saying he stood ready to support a moral policy that fully benefits the national interest.
Lt., Gen., Boonsin who is responsible for security along the Thailand - Cambodia border said border checkpoints that were closed after the border clash that killed a Thailand soldier on May 28, ''will not be fully operational until Thailand and Cambodia hold a Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting.
He said Thailand has called for a Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting that is chaired by Thailand and Cambodian regional military commanders, saying ''Cambodia has yet to respond.''
''The Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting is vital if Thailand and Cambodia are to end the deployment of military along the border,'' he said.
Thailand rejected the Cambodia's proposal for the Thailand- Cambodia border dispute to be settled by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague at the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting that was held in Phnom Penh on Saturday June 14.
Cambodia Senate President, Hun Sen, said ahead of the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) ''the dispute will clearly remain unresolved into the next century through the existing Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism.''
Cambodia Senate President Hun Manet said that Cambodia will ask for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague for intervention with or without Thailand’s participation, saying ''Cambodia will unilaterally submit a complaint to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the four disputed areas, Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Toch, Ta Krabey, and Mom Tei.''
In November 2013 the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague, in an unanimous decision, ruled that the immediate area surrounding the 11th century Preah Vihear Hindu temple on the Thailand Cambodia border belongs to Cambodia.
"Cambodia holds sovereignty over the whole territory of the promontory of Preah Vihear," said International Court of Justice, Judge Peter Tomka after the court decision.
The judge, one of seventeen, said that as a consequence of the decision Thailand was now under obligation to withdraw Thailand military or police forces or other guards or keepers who were stationed in the immediate area surrounding the temple.
The Southeast Asian Times

Thailand royalists demand resignation of PM for damaging Thailand national security by kowtowing to Cambodia

The Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT) royal supporters hold placard saying ''Thai government with Khmer heart Get Out'' at Government House in Bangkok Post on Monday June 16, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, June 21: Thailand's royalists demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at a Government House protest on Monday, accusing the Prime Minister of ''compromising her position as prime minister and damaging Thailand national security by kowtowing to Hun Sen,'' in a leaked audio of a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen on June 15, reports Bangkok Post.
The Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT) held placards saying ''Thai government with Khmer heart Get Out'' in reference to the alleged conciliatory tone used by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra towards former Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen in a telephone conversation over the Thailand - Cambodia border dispute.
Chulalongkorn University professor of political science, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, said that Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has compromised her position as Prime Minister and damaged Thailand national interest in her telephone conversation with former Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Sen saying ''Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra referred to the commander of the Second Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) Area as the 'opposite side'.
He said that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had asked former Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen to disregard the actions of the Thailand commander of the Second Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) Area following the Thailand Cambodia border clash that led to the death of a Cambodia soldier on May 28.
Chulalongkorn University professor of political science, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, claims that ''Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's exit is a matter of time,'' saying ''she could be liable to further charges.''
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who reportedly referred to former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen as ''uncle'' during the 17 minute telephone conversation on June 15 over the border dispute, was reportedly critical of the Commander of the Second Army Area of the Royal Thailand Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang.
Commander of the Second Army Area of the Royal Thailand Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang had reportedly
proposed to close the Thailand Cambodia border after the border clash that killed a Thailand soldier on May 28.
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had reportedly told former Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen during the telephone conversation that she was under domestic pressure from opposition political parties.
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra urged former Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen not to listen to the ''opposite side,'' referring to Commander of the Second Army Area of the Royal Thailand Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang in the proposed decision to close the border.
The Southeast Asian Times

Three Australians charged with fatal shooting of Australians in Bali villa

Australian, Coskun Mevlut, 23, centre, arrested at Singapore Changi airport on Monday June 16, 2025 for the fatal shooting of Australian Zivan Radmanovic, 32, in Bali

From News Reports:
Bali, Friday 20: The Indonesian National Police charged three Australian males with the murder of Australian Zivan Radmanovic, 32, who was shot dead in Bali on Saturdayi, with Bali Regional Police Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya, saying ''police allege the three men were directly involved in executing and preparing for the fatal shooting,'' reports Reuters.
The three Australian men, Darcy Francesco Jenson, 37, Tupou Pasa Midolmore, 37, and Coskun Mevlut, 23, who face charges of premeditated murder that carries a death sentence in Indonesia are also charged with causing serious injury to Australian, Sanar Ghanim, 35, in the fatal shooting at the Canbbu Beach villa in Kuta Utara, Badung, Bali on Saturday.
Australian, Darcy Francesco Jenson, 37, was arrested on charges of premeditated murder at the Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta on Monday .as he allegedly attempted to flee Indonesia.
Tupou Pasa Midolmore, 37 was arrested on charges of premeditated murder on his arrival at Melbourne airport by Australian Federal Police on Monday after fleeing Indonesia.
Coskun Mevlut, 23, was arrested on charges of premeditated murder on arrival in Singapore Changi airport after fleeing Indonesia on Monday.
Bali Regional Police Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya said the three Australians who had fled Bali on Monday were returned to Bali on Tuesday night, saying ''all three have been charged with premediates murder.''
Witnesses at the Canbbu Beach villa told the Bali Regional Police that two gunmen arrived at the villa in Kuta Utara, Badung, Bali on a scooter at about midnight on Saturday.
Bali Regional Police said that 17 bullet casings and two intact bullets were found in the bathroom of the Canbbu Beach villa where Australian Zivan Radmanovic, 32, was shot dead on Saturday.
Gourdeas Jazmyn, wife of Australian Zivan Radmanovic, 32, told the Bali Regional Police that she awoke suddenly when she heard her husband screaming, saying ''I hid under a blanket when I heard gunshots.''
''I later found my husband's body and saw that Sanar Ghanim was injured,'' she said.
The Bali Regional Police said that wife of Australian, Sanar Ghanim, 35, who was found seriously injured at the Canbbu Beach villa has testified to seeing the attackers who shot her husband leaving him seriously injured.
Bali Regional Police Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya said that a 9mm gun was seized at the Canbbu Beach villa, saying ''two vehicles and a motorbike that were used to flee the scene of the crime have also been seized.''
The Bali Regional Police have not given a motive for the crime, with Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya saying ''the investigation continues.''
''A further suspect could be identified as the plot's mastermind,'' he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Administrators of East Java Social
media group arrested for facilitating homosexual in-person meetings

Administrators of the social media group titled "Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" identified as MFK, 24, and GR, 36, accused of facilitating homosexual in-person meetings by Police Superintendent, Wahyu Hidayat, for Lamongan Regency, Surabaya, East Java on Monday June 16, 2025

From News Reports:
Jakarta, June 19: Indonesia National Police, in Lamongan Regency, Surabaya, East Java have arrested two administrators of the social media group titled "Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" accusing the males identified as MFK, 24, and GR, 36, of facilitating homosexual in-person meetings, with Police Superintendent of the East Java Regional Police, Wahyu Hidayat, saying ''the arrests follow a public complaint and subsequent investigation by the Directorate of Cyber Investigation of the East Java Regional Police,'' reports Jakarta Globe.
Police Superintendent of the East Java Regional Police, Wahyu Hidayat, said the ''Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" social media group allowed its 4,500 members to share content related to homosexual activities including photos and videos, saying ''the contents were shared to promote same-sex interactions between men.''
''The Directorate of Cyber Investigation of the East Java Regional Police conducted profiling and identified the administrators of the social media group titled "Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro,'' he said.
The administrators of the ''Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" social media group identified as MFK, 24, and GR, 36 were arrested under Indonesia's Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law and the Pornography Law, with MFK, 24, admitting to creating and managing the social media group.
MFK, 24, claimed that the 'Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" social media group ''was meant for enjoyment,'' saying he did not profit financially from his role as administrator of the social media group.
He said he occasionally received cigarettes as a token of appreciation when facilitating homosexual in-person meetings between members of the 'Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" social media group.
"There was no material gain, just cigarettes,'' he said.
He claimed that all members of the Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" social media group ''joined voluntarily and that homosexual in-person meetings took place either in private homes or a hotel.''
He claimed that all social media group participants were adults, saying ''there are no minors. All members are adults.''
The administrators of the ''Gay Tuban Lamongan Bojonegoro" social media group, MFK, 24, and GR, 36, are in police detention in Surabaya, facing a prison sentence of up to 12 years and fines of one billion rupiah (US$61,300)
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesian National Police Investigate environmental damage from nickel mining on World Heritage listed Island in West Papua

The Indonesian National Police (INP) Criminal Investigation Agency director, Brigadier General, Nunung Syaifuddin, centre, in Jakarta Wednesday June 11, 2025 is investigating UNESCO) World Heritage listed Raja Ampat region in West Papua, also designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark for environmental damage from nickel mining

From News Reports:
Indonesia, June 18: The Indonesian National Police (INP) Criminal Investigation Agency is investigating alleged environmental damage from nickel mining on the (UNESCO) World Heritage listed, Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua, that are also designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, reports Tempo.
The investigation of alleged environmental damage is regulated by the environmental law on Environmental Protection and Management, with Brigadier General Nunung Syaifuddin, saying ''four nickel mining permits on four Raja Ampat islands have been revoked by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of Indonesia.'''
Brigadier General Nunung Syaifuddin, said the Indonesian National Police have found environmental damage on four Raja Ampat Islands, saying ''the police have the authority to investigate allegations of environmental damage under Environmental Law No. 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management.''
He said the Indonesian National Police are investigating PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa, PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, and PT Nurham, saying ''the four nickel mines in the Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua, have had their nickel mining permits revoked.''
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, said the decision to revoke four nickel mining permits was made after the ministry conducted a field assessment, saying ''only PT Gag Nikel had obtained a Work Plan and Budget Plan (RKAB) for 2025.
''PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa, PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, and PT Nurham,'' have not applied for Work Plan and Budget Plan (RKAB) for 2025,'' he said.
He said that PT Gag Nikel has been granted a concession area of 13,136 hectares on Gag Island, saying ''Gag Island is not located within the Raja Ampat Island UNESCO Global Geopark,
''Visual and technical inspections revealed that the coastal and marine areas surrounding Gag Island remain in good condition,'' he said.
He said that that the four nickel mining permits that were revoked in the Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua were found to be in violation of the Environmental Law No. 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management.
"Some of these permits were issued between 2004 to 2006 by regional governments in accordance with the previous Mining Law,'' he said.
Nickel miner, PT Anugerah Surya Pratama on Manuran Island in the Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua, who is one of the four nickel miners to have had their nickel mining permits revoked, is a subsidiary of the Chinese company PTWanxiang Nickel Indonesia.
Chinese company PTWanxiang Nickel is the local arm of a Chinese company that operates a nickel smelter in Indonesia
The Southeast Asian Times

Singaporean, who introduced F1 night racing to Singapore, to enter plea on abetting a public servant and abetting the obstruction of justice

Singapore GP Pte Ltd chairman Ong Beng Seng, 79, left, former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 63, centre, at press conference announcing approval of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) of the first Formula One night race at the Marina Bay circuit on Sunday, September 28, 2008

From News Reports:
Singapore, June 17: Chairman, Ong Beng Seng, 79, of Singapore GP Pte Ltd the company that promotes and organises the Singapore Grand Prix and who is credited with bringing the first Formula One F1 night race to Singapore, is to enter a plea on charges of abetting a public servant in obtaining gifts and abetting the obstruction of justice next month, reports The Straits Times
Ong Beng Seng, 79, was charged on October 4, 2024 with abetting former Singapore Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 63. in obtaining gifts and with abetting the obstruction of justice that is in violation of Section 165 of the Penal Code on corruption in the public service.
Former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 63, pleaded guilty to 35 charges that include receiving a business-class flight from Singapore to Doha from Singapore GP Pte Ltd chairman, Ong Beng Seng, 79.
The Singapore Supreme Court handed a 12 month prison sentenced on October 4, 2024 under Section 165 of the Penal Code to former Singapore Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 62, for accepting gifts from Singapore GP Pte Ltd chairman, Ong Beng Seng, 79.
Former Transport Minister S. Iswaran pleaded guilty to 35 charges for receiving valuables including a business-class flight from Singapore to Doha from Ong Beng Seng, 79, chairman Singapore GP Pte Ltd.
Court documents show that Singapore GP Pte Ltd. Ong, chairman, Beng Seng, 79, had arranged for former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 63, to fly business-class on Singapore Airlines from Singapore to Doha and return including a one-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel in Doha.
Former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 63, also received tickets to theatre shows, football matches and the Singapore F1 Grand Prix, whisky, including international flights and a hotel stay with the total costs amounting to more than S$400,000.
Ong Beng Seng, 79, chairman Singapore GP Pte Ltd. reportedly alerted Singapore Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 62, that the Singapore Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau had seized the flight manifest for the December 22, trip from Singapore to Doha return.
Singapore Transport Minister S. Iswaran, 63. requested that Singapore GP Pte Ltd. Ong, chairman, Beng Seng, 79, bill the Transport Minister for the flight to avoid investigation.
Singapore GP Pte Ltd. Ong, chairman, Beng Seng, 79, who worked with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to promote the International Automobile Federation (FIA) first Formula One night race at the Marina Bay circuit in 2008, was charged on October 4, 2024 with abetting a public servant in obtaining gifts and with abetting the obstruction of justice
He was scheduled to plead on April 2, 2025 but his case was adjourned to July 3, 2025 after his lawyers requested more time to obtain a medical report.
The Southeast Asian Times

Thailand-Cambodia border dispute remains unresolved after Joint Boundary Commission meeting

Thailand Ambassador Prasas Prasasvinitchai, left, and Cambodia Minister Lam Chea, right, meet at the 6th Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) at the Sofitel in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Saturday June 14, 2025

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, June 16: Thailand Ambassador to Cambodia, Prasas Prasasvinitchai, who has rejected Cambodia's proposal for the Thailand- Cambodia border dispute to be settled by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, said ''the border dispute should be resolved by the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC),'' at the 6th Cambodia - Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting with Cambodia in Phnom Penh on Saturday, reports Reuters.
Thailand Ambassador to Cambodia, Prasas Prasasvinitchai, met with Cambodian Minister, Lam Chea, Secretariat of State of Border Affairs to discuss the resolution of the Thailand-Cambodia border conflict with Cambodian Minister, Lam Chea, Secretariat of State of Border Affairs saying after the 6th Cambodia–Thailand Joint Border Commission (JBC) meeting with Thailand Ambassador to Cambodia, Prasas Prasasvinitchai, ''the meeting went smoothly'' without releasing official details regarding the outcome of the meeting.
Cambodia Senate President, Hun Sen, said ahead of the 6th Cambodia - Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) on Saturday ''the dispute will clearly remain unresolved through the existing Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism into the next century.''
''The areas of dispute that spans over most of the 800 kilometre border between Thailand and Cambodia will clearly remain unresolved through the existing Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) into the next century,'' he said,
Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet said that Cambodia will ask for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague for
intervention with or without Thailand’s participation, saying ''Cambodia will unilaterally submit a complaint to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the four disputed areas, Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Toch, Ta Krabey, and Mom Tei.''
''The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation will send a formal letter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Sunday, June 15, 2025,'' he said.
The Cambodia Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Prak Sokhonn, claims that the Cambodian presence at the Preah Vihear province location was recorded in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on border demarcation and marker placement in 2000.
Thailand Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said that the Cambodian assertion that the disputed un-demarcated border military post in Techo Morodok village, Morodok commune, Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province belonged to Cambodia ''carries no weight or consequence.''
In November 2013 the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague, in an unanimous decision, ruled that the immediate area surrounding the 11th century Preah Vihear Hindu temple on the Thailand Cambodia border belongs to Cambodia.
"Cambodia holds sovereignty over the whole territory of the promontory of Preah Vihear," said International Court of Justice, Judge Peter Tomka after the court decision.
The judge, one of seventeen, said that as a consequence of the decision Thailand was now under obligation to withdraw Thailand military or police forces or other guards or keepers who were stationed in the immediate area surrounding the temple.
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia's military recruits 24,000 soldiers for 'Development Territorial Battalion' for rural development

Students from Trisakti University in Jakarta, Indonesia's largest private University, protest against the passing of the revised TNI law that allows the presence of Indonesian National Armed Forces on campus, at the House of Representatives (DPR) on Thursday March 20, 2025

From News Reports:
Jakarta, June 15: The Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform condemned the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI AD) plan to recruit 24,000 soldiers to form a 'Development Territorial Battalion '' with TNI AD Information Service, Brigadier General Wahyu Yudhayana, saying ''the recruits are not intended for combat purposes,'' reports Tempo.
'The soldiers recruited to form a 'Development Territorial Battalion' will be focused on food security and health services in rural Indonesia,'' he said.
He said the 24,000 recruits will be focused on supporting rural development in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and health services, saying ''the recruits are not intended for combat purposes.''
Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform, representative Indonesian Human Rights Watch (Imparsial) Director Ardi Manto Adiputra said ''soldiers in the Indonesian National Armed Forces are recruited, trained, and educated for war,''
''Not for non-combat purposes,'' he said.
He said that the recruitment of soldiers to form a 'Development Territorial Battalion '' to support rural development ''fails to maintain the demarcation between civil-military relations.''
He said that the National Armed Forces (TNI) operations in civilian society are not based in the provisions of the TNI Law, saying ''Article 7 Paragraph 3 of the TNI Law regulates the involvement of TNI operations in civil society in war only.''
''The National Armed Forces (TNI) operations in civilian society are not based in the provisions of the TNI Law, '' he said.
The Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform claim that the National Armed Forces (TNI) operations in non-military operations deviate from the National Armed Forces (TNI) mandate as a national defence force as stipulated in the constitution and TNI Law.
On June 6 the Constitutional Court dismissed five petitions that sought to repeal the National Armed Forces (TNI) Law that was passed in the House of Representatives (DPR) on March 20, 2025 that extended the role of the armed forces into government institutions with nine judges saying '' the petitioners had failed to present sufficient evidence to demonstrate their legal standing,''.
The five petitioners are the first to challenge the revision of the National Armed Forces (TNI) Law that was passed by the House of Representatives (DPR) on March 20, 2025.
The petitioners who are students from the University of Indonesia (UI) and Malang's Brawijaya University (UB), argue that ''the legislative process lacked transparency and excluded public participation.''
Justice Saldi Isra said the petitioners, "failed to show they had attempted to participate in the legislative process, whether through public discussion or essays addressed to policymakers,"
"Therefore, we concluded that the petitioners had no legal standing," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Vietnamese scammers arrested in raids on 'Romance Scam' centres in Thailand

The Metropolitan Police Bureau, a unit of the Royal Thai Police (FTP) including Emergency Response raided houses in Bangkok used by Vietnamese 'Romance Scam' operators arresting 27 Vietnamese nationals on Tuesday June 10, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, June 14: Vietnamese nationals were arrested in raids on 'Romance Scam' centres in rented houses in Bangkok for defrauding Vietnamese of more than US$1 million a month, with the Royal Thai Police (RTP) seizing 116 mobile phones, 45 computers and 5 grams of the drug Ketamine in the raid, reports the Nation.
Metropolitan Police Bureau Special Branch and the Emergency Response Unit of the Royal Thai Police (RTP), raided two houses used by the Vietnamese 'Romance Scam' operators arresting 27 Vietnamese nationals.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Nopasin Poolsawat, said that 27 Vietnamese nations were arrested at the two houses outside Bangkok on Tuesday
after complaints from the public ''about a suspicious group of foreigners occupying the rented houses.
''Investigations revealed that the Vietnamese suspects had entered Thailand from Vietnam through the Khlong Luek border checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province,'' he said.
He said that the 27 Vietnamese of five women and 22 males have been operating the 'Romance Scam' in Thailand since October 2024, saying the Vietnamese scam operators entered Thailand on 60 day tourist visas.''
He said the 'Romance Scam' operation was designed to target other Vietnamese nationals, saying ''the scammers established trust and cultivated a romantic connection.
''The scammers would manipulate victims into transferring money with made-up debts or hardships in an effort to elicit sympathy,'' he said.
He said the Vietnamese victims were lured into emotional relationships with the scammers via the Vietnamese messaging app ''Zalo''.
''Each member of the Vietnamese 'Romance Scam' operation was assigned to a dedicated computer terminal working in shifts to maintain round-the-clock operations,'' he said.
He said that the Metropolitan Police Bureau Special Branch investigation estimates that each computer generated fraudulent transfers worth about US$46,087.00 per month, saying ''the total Romance Scam operation brought in US$1,203,908.00 a month.
He said the 27 Vietnamese suspected scammers admitted to renting the two houses outside Bangkok since October 20, 2024 at US$926.00 and US$1,235.00 per month , saying ''successful scams earned bonuses of $US772.00 .''
The Southeast Asian Times

Thai arrested for Facebook photo postings of explosions on disputed Thailand-Cambodia border

Phiranya, 32, left, was charged with importing false of forged cyber photos of explosions and military casualties on the Thailand-Cambodia border under the Computer Crime Act 2007 on Monday June 9, 2025

From News Reports:
Bangkok, June 13: Thailand's Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) of the Royal Thai Police arrested Phiranya, 32, at her home in Tambon Kut Lat, Amphoe Mueang, Ubon Ratchathani Province on Monday for posting alleged false or forged cyber photos of explosions and military casualties on the Thailand-Cambodia border, after a warrant was issued by the Khon Kaen Provincial Court, reports the Bangkok Post.
Phiranya, 32, is charged with importing false of forged computer data into a computer system under the Computer Crime Act 2007 in violation of Article 14(2) and Article 20 of the Act.
Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) of the Royal Thai Police, Police Colonel Arunphan Vanichanun, said at a press conference in Bangkok on Monday that Facebook user ''Lucky Farm'' identified as Phiranya, 32, posted false information about the Thailand Cambodia border dispute.
''Facebook user ''Lucky Farm claimes that explosions and military casualties on the border led to evacuation orders,'' said Police Colonel Arunphan Vanichanun.
He said that the claims made by Facebook user 'Lucky Farm'' identified as Phiranya, 32, ''while untrue had garnered significant attention and could potentially threaten national security.''
He said that Facebook user ''Lucky Farm'' identified as Phiranya, 32 has admitted to posting the misleading content.
He said that Phiranya, 32, claims she acted on social media information, saying ''she was allegedly influenced by her personal bias regarding the border disputes,''
He said that Phiranya, 32, claims that that there was no factual basis behind her claims and denied any intention to profit from the Facebook postings.
Thailand Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said that the Cambodian claim that the disputed border military post in Techo Morodok village, Morodok commune, Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province belonged to Cambodia ''carries no weight or consequence.''
''The Thailand military acted in accordance with the rules of engagement and both international and Thailand laws during its confrontation with Cambodian troops on May 28 after the fatal shooting of a Cambodian soldier in Preah Vihear province,'' he said.
He claims that Thailand adhered to all necessary laws to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its personnel, saying ''Thailand's response was appropriate and measured.''
Thailand Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said that Thailand did not recognise the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) after Cambodia said it would refer the border dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague,''
Cambodia Deputy Prime Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Prak Sokhonn called for an investigation into the May 28 fatal shooting of a Cambodian soldier in Preah Vihear province, saying in a diplomatic note to the Thailand Embassy in Phnom Penh ''Thailand soldiers had attacked Cambodian soldiers at a Cambodian military post in Techo Morodok village, Morodok commune, Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province.
''The Royal Government of Cambodia demands an urgent and thorough investigation into the death of the Cambodian soldier on the Thailand-Cambodia border, saying ''those responsible for this cruel and illegal act must be brought to justice.''
The Southeast Asian Times

Five 'Pig butchering' scammers in Cambodia plead guilty to extracting millions from U.S victims

Ly Yong Phat, left, at ceremony for return of cultural treasures of artifact statues ceremony at Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Thursday, August 22, 2024 was sanction by the United States Treasury Department for serious human rights abuses for the treatment of workers subjected to forced labour in international cryptocurrency-based scam centres in Cambodia on Thursday September 12, 2024

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, June 12: Five scammers pleaded guilty for their involvement in an international cryptocurrency scam known as 'Pig butchering' for the extraction of USD36.9 million from United States victims from scam centres in Cambodia, with the funds transferred to a bank in the Bahamas, reports the United States Attorney's Office (USAO).
Joseph Wong, 33, of Alhambra; Yicheng Zhang, 39, of China; Jose Somarriba, 55, of Los Angeles; Shengsheng He, 39, of La Puente; and Jingliang Su, 44, of China and Türkiye were involved in international cryptocurrency scamming known as 'Pig butchering' that transferred funds from United States victims to United States banks and transfer to a single bank account in the Bahamas.
The five men extracted funds from United States victims for investment in the international cryptocurrency fraud scheme from social media interactions, telephone calls, text messages and online dating services from Cambodian scam centres.
''The scammers in Cambodia told United States victims who had invested in the international cryptocurrency fraud scheme that their investment was appreciating, when in fact their assets and funds had been stolen and not invested at all,'' reports United States Attorney's Office (USAO).
The United States victim funds were transferred from United States bank accounts to a single account at the Deltec Bank in the Bahamas and converted to stablecoin Tether (USDT).
The stablecoin Tether (USDT) international cryptocurrency was transferred to scam centres in the region including to Sihanoukville in Cambodia.
The five scammers who pleaded guilty for their involvement in an international cryptocurrency-based scam known as 'Pig butchering' are part of a larger effort by the United States Justice Department to shut down the international cryptocurrency-based scam.
The guilty plea from the five scammers operating from scam centres in Cambodia follows the United States official designation of the Huione Group also known as the Huione Real Estate Group, a China conglomerate that operates in Hong Kong and China, as an institution of primary money laundering concern and has proposed severing the Huione Group access to the United States financial system.
The United States Attorney's Office (USAO) reports that Senior Cambodian officials in the Cambodian financial conglomerate Huione Group that has been used to transfer billions through international cryptocurrency-based scam known as 'Pig butchering' have deep ties to the Cambodian ruling party Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP).
The Southeast Asian Times

''Cambodia's scam industry is now to big to fail,'' says United States report

Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) spokesman, third from left, Chea Thyrith, at meeting of 29 political party leaders in Phnom Penh agree to work together to prevent extremist politics in Cambodia in Phnom Penh Friday, May 30, 2025

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, June 11: The Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) dismissed the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) Office on Drugs and Crime report, titled ''Policies and Patterns: State-Abetted Transnational Crime in Cambodia as a Global Security Threat,'' saying ''the report’s findings are politically driven,'' with the author of the report, Jacob Daniel Sims, saying ''Cambodia’s scam industry is now too big to fail,'' reports the Cambodia Daily.
Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) spokesman, Chea Thyrith, dismissed the report titled ''Policies and Patterns: State-Abetted Transnational Crime in Cambodia as a Global Security Threat,' published on May 16, accusing the author, Jacob Daniel Sims, of ''attempting to damage Cambodia's reputation.''
Author of the report, Jacob Daniel Sims, claims that ''senior government officials in Southeast Asia including Cambodia are entangled in criminal networks that have grown increasingly powerful and difficult to dismantle.''
''Criminal networks that are often intertwined with state officials have become deeply entrenched and increasingly sophisticated,'' 'he said.
He said the report is based on interviews with almost 100 sources including diplomats, journalists, business people and researchers, claiming ''Cambodia is a key hub for transnational criminal operations.''
The report claims that members of ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) are principal offenders in human trafficking for the global cyber scam industry saying ''indictments, sanctions, visa bans and other accountability measures are recommended by the sources for 28 government officials and businesspeople.''
Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) spokesman, Chea Thyrith, claims that the global cyber scam industry is a regional problem, saying ''preventing scams is no easy task and cannot fall solely on the shoulders of one government.''
''Scam prevention requires international cooperation, and each country must educate its people about the risks to support prevention efforts,'' he said.
Jacob Daniel Sims claims that raids by the Cambodian National Police on global cyber scam industry workers in Cambodia and the creation of an inter-ministerial committee are ''rhetorical and performative'' .
'The occasional police raid and a ministerial committee shield the perpetrators, deflect scrutiny and fall short of meaningful reform,'' he said.
He said that the Cambodian government actions to date make the strongest case for the central argument in the report that ''Cambodia’s scam industry is now too big to fail.''
''The Cambodian government is too deeply invested to change course unless profound shifts in incentives occur,'' he said.
The report states that data pointing to a growing scam economy of up to 60 percent GDP, with annual revenues estimated at $12.5 billion to $19 billion, ''far exceed the garment sector.''
The Southeast Asian Times

The Southeast Asian Times wishes its readers a happy Christmas and all the best for the New Year with a special thankyou to its treasured letter writers

What they're saying open page here

MEDIA CHECK

Cambodia-China Journalist Association (CCJA) launched in Phnom Penh ...open here

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Darwin reporter John Loizou asks a survivor of the 1965 killings in Bali "why didn't you try to stop them" in "Remembering the slaughter in Paradise"
........open page here

Kang-Fu the Red Kangaroo is relentless in his fight to protect Australia's sovereignity...Open page here

Bombed by the Americans for Christmas in 1972, Ha Noi Bach Mai hospital is still a war zone...Christina Pas reports...Open page here

Indigenous Australians in the northern Queensland town of East Trinity aim for economic independence from eco-cultural tourism, reports Christine Howes in "Australian indigenous eco-cultural tourism venture wins best small project national award " ...open here

Kavi Chongkittavorn talks about the UK application to become an ASEAN dialogue partner in "New dynamics of Aseans external ties," with consensus yet to be reached on admitting a former colonial master of four ASEAN member countries into the Southeast Asian bloc....open

Esther Samboh talks about the choise between thousands dying of Covid-19 or from hunger in densely populated Jakarta in the new normal in "Medics dying, infections soaring - it's still the economy" ...open page here

Australian reporter, Chris Ray, investigates why Australia dropped five spots in the World Press Freedom Index...open

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Read what Son Nguyen has to say about the impact of China's virus on Vietnam's economy in "When the economy gets sick" open here

Has the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra suffered a fatal blow, or will it rise again? asks Australian reporter Chris Ray... Open page here

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Darwin reporter John Loizou asks a survivor of the 1965 killings in Bali "why didn't you try to stop them" in "Remembering the slaughter in Paradise"
........open page here

"Goodbye America" says B.A. Hamzah as he calls for Asians to determine their own political destiny in "Time for Asia to set it's own course, minus the U.S."...open here

Is prescribed burning of grasslands in northern Australia out of control? ......Chris Ray reports ... open page here

"Rockefeller and the Demise of Ibu Pertiwi" by Kerry B. Collison "is undoubtedly fictional but by no means improbable, " says Johannes Nugroho ....open page here

Viet Nam is planning to go nuclear by the year 2020.reports
John Loizou in "Calculating the costs of nuclear energy in Vietnam" ...open page here

The founder of the Revolutionary Front of Independent East Timor (Fretilin), Mari Alkatiri, the now former Prime Minister of Timor Leste, after losing the May 12, 2018 election to the National Congress for Timorese Reconstruction (CNRT) party, led by Xanana Gusmao, has accused the opposition of a coup attempt.
Twelve years ago Mari Alkatiri also accused the opposition of a coup attemp claiming then that the crises that led to his resignation was the result of a conspiracy. "I have no doubt about that" he told Darwin reporter John Loizou in an interview in Dili on 6 November 2006
......open page here

Cuba's 302 physicians in East Timor work at five hospitals and remote villages throughout the republic...writes Darwin reporter John Loizou ...open page here

Indonesia ready for big 'brother' role in ASEAN
By Prashanth Parameswaran .......open page here

Benedict Anderson, a man without a country, dies in Indonesia Jeet Heer reports.....open page here

Thousands of Northern Australia's indigenous rock art sites are under threat from buffalo, fire and feral animals. Tim Lee reports ........open page here

Copy of letter 29 May 2012 from Vietnam Womens Union to International Olympic Committee...open here

The Southeast Asian Times wishes its readers a happy Christmas and all the best for the New Year with a special thankyou to its treasured letter writers

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Published by Pas Loizou Press Darwin Northern Territory
Australia
PASLOIZOUPRESSDARWIN@bigpond.com

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Singapore
properties listed for sale in Myanmar
From News Reports:
Yangon, November 25: Singapore's largest property developer, the Far East Organization, is to partner with Myanmar's property sales and marketing company, Min Zin Agency, in Yangon to sell condos in Singapore.
Managing director of the Min Zin Agency in Yangon, Ko Kyaw Min Zin, said that Singapore's Far East Organization has expanded its sales and marketing efforts into Myanmar.
“The Far East Organisation has been selling their Singapore properties to Myanmar buyers since 2009,” he said.
The Far East Organisation reportedly have over 750 properties in Singapore’s residential, hospitality, retail, commercial and industrial sectors,
including 45,500 or one in every six private homes in Singapore listed with the Min Zin Agency in Yangon.
The Southeast Asian Times

China to invest in rail and road construction
in Indonesia
From News Reports:
Jakarta, November 10: Indonesia's Railway Corporation (PT KAI) and state construction company PT Jasa Marga signed a memorandum of understanding
(MoU) with China Investment Fund (CIF) to develop indonesia's railway services and toll road construction.
Witness to the signing, coordinating Minister for the Economy Sofyan Djalil, said that the MoU will provide the groundwork for further cooperation between China Railway and P KAI and China Investment Fund (CIF).
"The MoU is the first step towards further development of public services between China and Indonesia" he said.
Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, Xie Feng said that the MoU would spark more cooperations between China and Indonesia and would bring about "real benefits to the public."
The Southeast Asian Times

Penang health department shuts down soya bean factory
From News Reports:
Penang, October 19: Five Penang food factories including a 100 year old soya bean factory at Tanjong Bungah were ordered closed by the state health department for failure to observe health standards.
State health, food safety and quality division, deputy director Ku Nafishah Ku Ariffin said soya bean products were processed in an unclean "rusty and moldy kitchen".
"Our inspectors found that wet products were left to dry on "dirty" bamboo sticks along with bathing towels. The bamboo sticks were also dirty and dusty," she said.
A "sweets" factory in Teluk Kumbar, a noodle factory in Simpang Ampat and a sauce factory in Bukit Metajam were also closed by the state health department
The Southeast Asian Times

Fuel smugglers including military personnel under arrest
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 15: Riau Islands Police have arrested 30 suspects including several Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel and seized 64 cars, two boats and 106 tons of fuel.
Riau Islands Police chief Brig. Gen. Arman Depary said in Batam last week that the seized cars had been modified to hold 100 litres of fuel.
"The Military (TNI) personnel are suspected of fuel smuggling and have been handed over to the military base", he said.
TNI Commander Gen. Moeldoko said that the alleged suspected fuel smugglers are honor-based service military personnel.
The Southeast Asian Times

Thai coup blammed for fall in tourist arrivals
From News Reports:
Bangkok, August 18: The Thai tourism sector suffered its largest fall in international visitors to Thailand in June, the first month after the establishment of marshal law and the military seizure of the Yingluck Shinawatra government.
Tourism reportedly accounts for 10 percent of the Thai economy.
Data from the Thai Department of Tourism shows that inernational tourist arrival numbers in July fell by 10.9 percent compared to the same time last year.
International arrivals in July totalled 1.91 million compared to 2.15 million in July 2013.
Arrivals from China with a18 percent share of all visitors to thailand and the largest group of visitors to Thailand, fell by 25.3 percent.
Arrivals from the United Kingdom with a 4 percent share of all visitors to Thailand, was one of the few large markets to record a gain, of 6.2 percent
The Southeast Asian Times

US Senate approves sales of nuclear equipment to Vietnam
From News Reports:
Hanoi, July 31: The US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations passed legislation approving a 123 agreement on civil nuclear commerce with Vietnam at a business meeting of the committee last week.
The 123 agreement under the US Atomic energy Act of 1954 establishes a civil nuclear commerce agreement that allows the US to export nuclear reactors, research information and equipment to Vietnam.
The civil nuclear commerce agreement between the US and Vietnam is "part of Vietnam's effort to ease its shortage of energy towards meeting over 10 percent of the domestic power demand by 2030", reports the Vietnam News Service
The Southeast Asian Times

Court for construction
Industry
established
in Malaysia
From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, May 3: The first two Construction Courts for Malaysia were opened by Chief Justice Tun Arifin Zakaria in Kuala Lumpur and Shah Alam last week, reports the Star.
The courts will deal with disputes in the construction industry.
Works Minister Datuk Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof said that the establishment of the courts will transform the way the construction business in the country operates.
"The construction industry stakerholders can now have their disputes resolved by judges with expert knowledge and experience in construction industry disputes', he said.
The proposal by the Construction Industry Board (CIDB) for the establishment of the construction courts was first put to the Judiciary in January 2013.
Britain is the only other country that has a specially designated court that deals with construction industry disputes.
The Southeast Asian Times

Bali communities want larger share of tourism revenue
From News Reports:
Denpasar, April 14: Bali community-based tourism operators have called for amendments to regulations that stipulate that the local community pay the Bali regency administration 60 percent of their total tourism revenue.
Penglipuran tourist village in Bangli, community-based tourism manager, Nengah Moneng, said that he objected to the fact that his community received only 40 percent of the total revenue.
"We want to have 60 percent share of the tourist revenue to pay for operating costs", he said.
The Penglipuran tourism manager said that operating costs for trekking, traditional dance, cultural shows including religious rituals had increased.
The cost of operating lodges and community halls for tourism had also increased.
"An increase in revenue for not only the Bangli community but for tourism based communities across Bali would benefit tourism island-wide" said the tourism manager.
The Southeast Asian Times

Riau forest fires force Chevron to shut down oil wells
From News Reports:
Jakarta, March 21: PT Chevron Pacific Indonesia (CPI), the Indonesian subsidiary of US-based oil company Chevron has shut down 573 oil wells in the Riau province of Sumatra.
The deteriorating quality of air due to forest fires that have been raging for the last month has forced PT Chevron Pacific Indonesia (CPI) to shut down its oil wells and evacuate workers and there families.
Indonesia's upstream oil and gas regulator, SKK Migas, public relations officer, Handoyo Budi Santoso, said that oil assets in Riau province are important to national crude oil production.
"The biggest production loss came from the shutdown of Rokan block, operated by Chevron Pacific Indonesia, the country's biggest producer of crude oil production", he said
The Jakarta Posts reports that potential losses are estimated at about 12,000 barrels of oil a day.
The Southeast Asian Times

Sabah caters to influx of tourists from China
From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, March 5:
The New Straits Times reports that there was an 86 percent increase in tourist arrivals from China
to Sabah in the last two years.
Data from the Sabah Tourism Board reportedly shows that 193,010 tourist tourists arrived in Sabah from China in 2011 increasing to 360,361 in 2013
Sabah West Coast Coffeeshop Association chairman, Yong Chee Yun, said coffee shop operators were catering to the influx of tourists from China.
"Coffee shops displayed tourist friendly signs in Chinese saying 'how are you?' and menues included China's favourite foods", he said.
Sabah and Labuan Chapter chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels and general manager of the At Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort,
said that staff members are encouraged to learn Mandarin.
"So that they can converse better with guests" he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Pilots strike forces Merpati to cancel
flights
From News Reports:
Jakarta,January 29: A pilots strike forced State-owned PT Merpati Nusantara Airlines to cancelled all scheduled flights to Surabaya, Merauke and Timika on Saturday, reports The Jakarta Post.
Merpati corporate secretary Riswanto Chendra Putra said that the airline had not paid salaries to pilots and cabin crew for two months.
The Jakarta Post reports that PT Merpati Nusantara Airlines was required to restructure its operations.
Merpati corporate secretary Riswanto Chendra Putra says that Merpati has signed a memorndum of understanding (MoU) with PT Armagedon Indonesia and PT Bentang Persada Gemilang to restructure the company.
The airline has debts of Rp 6.5 trillion (US$533 million) reports the Jakarta Post.
"The management would pay the salaries around March or early April, said the Merpati corporate secretary.
Merpati’s workers union advisory board official, Erry Wardhana, said about 200 Merpati pilots planned to strike again next Saturday for an indefinite period.
"The pilots would strike until 1,600 Merpati employees were paid", he said.
The union advisory board official says that this is the first time that Merpati workers have gone on strike over unpaid wages.
The pilots are owed wages for December and January reports the Jakarta Post.
The Southeast Asian Times