SOUTHEAST ASIA
Concerts hitting the right note for world travellers
Indians are increasingly traveling abroad for music concerts, driven by rising disposable incomes and a desire to see international artists. Some are even altering travel plans to attend these shows, prioritizing concert experiences over traditional tourist activities like shopping. This trend reflects a growing interest in live music events, particularly for artists who don't frequently tour in India.
From grass runway to major international gateway: How Kolkata airport became a major travel hub
Kolkata Airport celebrates its centenary on December 21st, marking its evolution from a grass runway to a major aviation hub. The celebrations will showcase its history, including its mid-20th century prominence and resurgence after a decline. Dignitaries will attend the inaugural ceremony. Modernization efforts continue with ongoing expansion projects to increase passenger capacity.
Delhi police catch scamster in Hyderabad after 2,500 km chase
Delhi police arrested Kamran Haider alias Zaidi in Hyderabad for trafficking young Indians to Southeast Asia with fake job promises. Zaidi forced them into cybercrime after seizing their passports. The NIA had placed a Rs 2 lakh reward on his head. The scam came to light after a victim filed a complaint, revealing the human trafficking and cybercrime operation.
Air India Express on expansion mode; defers Kolkata-Dhaka direct flight plans
Air India Express is expanding its fleet and adding new routes, aiming for over 100 aircraft by March 2025 and nearly double that within three years. Kolkata-Dhaka flights are postponed due to Bangladesh's political climate, but Kathmandu service begins March 2025. Expansion targets short-haul routes, connecting major cities with smaller destinations, and increasing presence in Southeast Asia and the Gulf.
Royal Enfield commences operations at Thailand-based CKD plant
Royal Enfield, a subsidiary of Eicher Motors, has launched a new CKD assembly plant in Thailand. This is their sixth international facility and aims to boost their presence in the growing mid-segment market in Southeast Asia. The plant has a yearly capacity exceeding 30,000 units and will initially focus on the Thai market before expanding regionally.
Financial and community hurdles slow geothermal energy development in Southeast Asia
Efforts to streamline financing and regulations, alongside community engagement, are key to boosting geothermal development and reducing reliance on fossil fuels in these countries.
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Tokyo¡¯s Incubate looks to take Indian solutions to Japan, Southeast Asia markets
Incubate Fund is one of the largest seed-stage funds in Japan with assets under management (AUM) of a billion dollars. The fund¡¯s cofounder Masahiko Homma, Nao Murakami, general partner and Rajeev Ranka, its India-based partner spoke with ET in Bengaluru, about its plans.
Southeast Asian defense chiefs meet in Laos as maritime disputes with China are flaring
Southeast Asian defense chiefs gathered in Laos on Wednesday for security talks amidst growing maritime tensions with China and uncertainty surrounding the upcoming U.S. presidential transition. They sought assurances from U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who recently expressed concerns with Japan and Australia over China's actions in the South China Sea.
Simplest hack for a cheap New Year's trip-go abroad
Indian travelers are opting for int'l destinations this holiday season due to soaring domestic hotel prices. Destinations like Baku, Vietnam, and Dubai offer cheaper options compared to popular Indian tourist spots. This shift is fueled by competitive airfares, relaxed visa rules, and increased flight routes to Southeast Asian countries.
Over 60 pc people with diabetes unaware of it: WHO regional director for South-East Asia
WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Saima Wazed highlighted the alarming prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes in the region, with over 60% of individuals unaware of their condition. She stressed the urgent need for increased awareness campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles and improved access to equitable and affordable diabetes care services to address the growing health burden and prevent severe complications.
India and China to shape future global economy: Experts
Singapore Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sim Ann emphasized the importance of continued engagement with China and India for regional growth. Experts at an inaugural event highlighted the two nations' economic prowess, predicting they will drive half of the world's economic growth in the coming years.
False data on Goa tourism a cause of concern: Minister
Goa's tourism minister addressed concerns about false tourism data. The state government is taking action against the misinformation. Goa's tourism is performing well. The minister highlighted the actual number of tourists. The government is working to improve the tourism experience. Goa is exploring new markets to attract more tourists.
China delimits contested South China Sea shoal in dispute with Philippines
China has asserted its claim over the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea by publishing baselines around it, escalating tensions with the Philippines. This move follows the Philippines' recent legislation defining its maritime zones in the area, which China deems a violation of its sovereignty.
Asia, the world's economic engine, prepares for Donald Trump shock
Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on Chinese goods could trigger factory relocations to other Asian countries, potentially benefiting them. However, a trade war between the US and China would destabilize global markets, impacting Asia's growth significantly due to its close production ties with China.
KKR, Singtel gets Competition Commission's approval to acquire stake in STT GDC
India's Competition Commission (CCI) has approved a significant investment deal. KKR and Singtel will acquire a stake in STT GDC, a major data center provider in Southeast Asia. The deal, valued at USD 1.3 billion with potential for further investment, marks the largest digital infrastructure investment in the region this year.
CapitaLand Investment secures S$261 million commitment from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines
CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) has secured S$261 million from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) for its Southeast Asia and India private funds. The investment will support CLI's first logistics fund in Southeast Asia, CapitaLand SEA Logistics Fund (CSLF), and its second business park development fund in India, CapitaLand India Growth Fund 2 (CIGF2).
Wealth fund INA and VC firm Granite plan to invest $1.2 billion in Indonesia tech
The firms said in a joint statement that the investments will span both equity and hybrid capital. The statement did not say how much of the $1.2 billion will be shouldered by the two entities or over what period of time the investments will be made. It also did not name any intended beneficiaries.
A 4.7-degree rise in temperature will make Indian economy sweat, ADB report reveals
A recent ADB report predicts that India could face a 24.7% GDP loss by 2070 due to climate change, with overall regional losses reaching 16.9%. Labor productivity, energy demands, and flooding are key factors contributing to these losses. The report underscores the urgent need for significant investment in climate adaptation, estimating annual costs of $102 billion to $431 billion across Asia-Pacific. Immediate action is critical to mitigate these impacts and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
China caught in a double bind between Myanmar junta and rebels
China is facing challenges in Myanmar due to the weakening military junta. While preparing to host Gen Min Aung Hlaing, Beijing struggles with its influence over both the junta and rebel groups. An attack on the Chinese consulate in Mandalay has heightened tension.
New ¡®operating system¡¯ in works to ramp up local IT hardware play
The move aims to boost domestic manufacturing of IT hardware products like laptops, tablets, and servers. While the current import management system has been extended, new guidelines are being formulated to regulate future imports.
Southeast Asia looking at India for emerging climate business models: BII Asia Chief
India is emerging as a leader in climate-friendly business concepts and attracting global capital. With a $2.3 billion portfolio, British International Investment aims to forge bankable opportunities, primarily in renewables and energy innovations, to encourage commercial investment. They've committed over $1 billion between 2022 and 2026.
Indonesia swears in former general Prabowo as prez
Prabowo Subianto has been sworn in as Indonesia's president. He aims to bolster the country's global presence. Prabowo visited China first after his election and signed a security deal with Australia. He leads a nation with a large economy and the world's biggest nickel reserves. He pledges to tackle corruption and protect democracy.
Vietnam's Michelin star restaurants are its hot new tourist attractions
Vietnam's fine dining sector is growing, drawing locals and tourists. Michelin has recognized several restaurants, highlighting the country's culinary progress. Changes include innovative uses of local ingredients and a mix of street food and high-end dining. Luxury travel and gastronomic tours are driving this development, further enhancing Vietnam's culinary reputation.
India focusses on ASEAN centrality instead of suggesting bloc to take sides
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of Asean centrality at the India-Asean and East Asia summits in Laos. Modi stressed India's support for Asean's unity and emphasized collaboration through Asean-led mechanisms. The joint statement acknowledged India's commitment to Asean centrality, reflecting India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and its focus on strong regional partnerships.
Amazon prefers renewables in Asia as nuclear still elusive
Amazon.com Inc. is focusing on wind and solar projects in Asia for green power due to current availability. In the US, companies like Amazon and Microsoft are exploring nuclear energy for data centers for consistent low-carbon power. While Asia poses challenges in sourcing green energy, progress is seen in countries like Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia, making renewables the most viable option currently.
Cyber Crime: Scammers stole up to $37 bn; intensifying operations in Southeast Asia
Cyber crime syndicates accumulated up to $37 billion last year and are increasing their activities in Southeast Asia. Despite law enforcement efforts, these groups are expanding operations using new technologies and business models. Nations like Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos are becoming major hubs for various illicit activities, creating significant financial losses.
By holidaying abroad, zindagi milegi dobara
Many Indians are choosing international travel more frequently due to increased affluence and easier access. Popular destinations now include the UAE, Vietnam, and Azerbaijan. Changing preferences involve more luxury experiences. This trend is a positive sign for domestic tourism, which can capitalize on providing similar offerings to attract travelers.
Criminal networks in Southeast Asia flourish in Telegram's 'underground markets': UN
Criminal networks in Southeast Asia are using Telegram for large-scale illicit activities, says a UN report. The app allows trading of hacked data and tools for cybercrime. Telegram's boss was charged in France for this. The report highlights how criminals have innovated with new technologies, including malware and deepfake software.
The southeast gaze part of acting east
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Brunei and Singapore highlights India's commitment to enhancing engagement in Southeast Asia. This trip follows recent visits by the Vietnamese and Malaysian PMs, emphasizing India's 'Act East' policy. The focus is on strategic, economic, and security partnerships, especially in the context of China's growing influence in the region.
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