Asean

NEW GLOBAL ORDER

Singapore can be Asia’s ‘super-connector’ and strengthen global trade

More than a hub connecting trade and investment, the Republic is shaping the rules for connectivity

Surging demand from data centres, electric vehicles and green industrial parks is placing unprecedented strain on power systems.

The next phase of South-east Asia’s energy transition: Fixing the grid

Renewables are growing fast, but the region’s push to boost green power hinges on upgrading ageing infrastructure

Delegates attending the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue on May 30.
SHANGRI-LA DIALOGUE 2026

Commentary: The US says ships and submarines trump summits. South-east Asia politely says ‘no’

“(Peace) requires defence, yes, but it also requires prevention,” says the Timor-Leste president

Eight Asean defence ministers gathered at a breakfast on May 30 hosted by Singapore Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing.
SHANGRI-LA DIALOGUE 2026

Asean defence ministers reaffirm commitment to free flow of trade through international corridors

The eight leaders stressed the need to uphold the right of transit passage under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

The Rain Rave Water Music Festival in Kuala Lumpur drew criticism from conservative groups as not reflecting Malaysia’s identity.
NEWS ANALYSIS

The tourism tug-of-war – concerts, cash and culture wars in Malaysia

The industry is booming again, but so are tensions over culture and identity

Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling (left) and SCCCI president Kho Choon Keng at the investment guide's launch.

SCCCI launches strategic investment guide to support Chinese businesses in Singapore

It also gives China-based companies insights into Asean market opportunities

On the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange, IT companies have a representation of only around 5%, compared with 35% on the US’ S&P 500 index.

Vietnam records strongest private capital rebound in years despite zero IPO exits

Current initial public offering pipeline is set to be the first private sector-led cycle since 2018: report

A view of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Japanese companies typically use the market as a manufacturing and production hub.

Japanese mid-sized firms flocking to South-east Asia for growth

Overseas expansion is no longer optional given shrinking growth at home, says an M&A consultant

A cargo ship docks at the Dammam Port in Saudi Arabia. Middle Eastern nations have been doubling down on trade with Asean and the broader Asian continent.

Asean will benefit from breakthrough trade deal between UK and Gulf states

Britain and the Middle East states have a shared interest in the Asian region