Thailand tightens inspections of illegal migrant workers and workplaces
Undocumented foreign workers face fines of THB5,000–50,000, deportation, and a two-year ban on applying for a work permit. Employers hiring illegal workers are subject to fines…
Policy Matters
China’s anti-graft efforts deepen in 2025, with 115 senior officials probed
In 2025, 983,000 individuals received disciplinary punishments for various issues, marking an increase from the 889,000 people disciplined the previous year.
Protest articles in Indonesian penal code stir unease among activists
With vague rules on what counts as ‘chaos,’ Indonesia’s new penal code has the public questioning their right to protest.
Philippines grants 14-day visa-free privilege to Chinese visitors
The visa-free privilege, however, will apply only to Chinese nationals who travel to the country either for business or tourism and through the following points of entry: Ninoy…
ASEAN must balance AI with cybersecurity
According to the writer, our region has seen a sharp rise in cyber threats, with attacks growing in scale and sophistication.
China’s top anti-graft watchdog pledges to step up efforts
Efforts include the regulation of rural collective resources, medical insurance funds, and elderly care services.
Over 1,900 commodities set to become cheaper as Bhutan adopts GST
Finance Minister Lekey Dorji said that 1,522 commodities previously taxed at 10 percent BST should see noticeable price reductions under GST. These include footwear, clothing and…
Indonesia President Prabowo turns lush, private sanctuary into command outpost
Located some 60 kilometres from Jakarta, the Hambalang estate has served as his sanctuary for years.
Government panel says foreign nationals must learn Japanese to live in Japan
The panel suggested the government launch a program for foreign nationals to study Japanese and Japanese social norms and require those who want to live in Japan for more than a…
Bhutan’s city farms grow, but support stalls
Concerns are being raised over a lack of continuity, institutional backing, and long-term planning.