16 October 2026
INDONESIA
1. Prabowo Approves Regional Assistance To Combat Wildfires — Antara
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to accept assistance from neighbouring countries to tackle forest and land fires, according to Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir.
2. New LPG Facility Opens In West Java With 52,800-Tonne Capacity — Antara
Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia has officially opened a new liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) facility in Cilamaya, Karawang District, West Java.
LAOS
1. Laos Moves To Strengthen Civil Aviation Safety — Vientiane Times
The Laotian government is pursuing improvements to aviation safety and industry modernisation through proposed amendments to its Law on Civil Aviation. The changes aim to promote safer and more transparent operations among civil aviation businesses.
2. Laos Plans Higher Age Limit For Farm Workers Bound For South Korea — Vientiane Times
Laos intends to increase the maximum age for agricultural workers seeking employment in South Korea while introducing quotas for married couples. Applicants with experience in crop cultivation will receive priority under the proposed measures.
MYANMAR
1. UNDP Supports Communities Across 54 Villages In Kachin State — The Global New Light Of Myanmar
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is providing assistance to communities across 54 villages and 96 camps in Kachin State. The initiative focuses on restoring livelihoods, delivering emergency aid and rehabilitating essential services and infrastructure.
2. Myanmar Marks 11th Anniversary Of Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement — The Global New Light Of Myanmar
Government representatives, political organisations and ethnic armed groups have commemorated the 11th anniversary of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement. Efforts are continuing to encourage additional ethnic armed organisations to join the peace process by signing the accord.
PHILIPPINES
1. Philippines Criticises Chinese Ambassador Over Remarks On Use Of Force — Philippine News Agency
The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has criticised Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan over remarks suggesting that China could easily prevail if it resorted to force. The department described the diplomat’s choice of words as inappropriate and cautioned foreign diplomats in the country.
2. Philippines Seeks Wider Toll Rebates For Agricultural Truckers — Philippine News Agency
The Philippine Department of Agriculture is pursuing an expansion of toll rebate assistance for agricultural truck operators. The initiative is being developed in cooperation with tollway operators to provide greater support for the country’s agricultural transport sector.
SINGAPORE
1. Singapore Investigates Companies Linked To Haze-Causing Fires — CNA
Singapore is investigating companies potentially responsible for forest and peatland fires in Indonesia that have contributed to worsening haze conditions. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said legal action could be considered against those found responsible.
2. Singapore Tourism Receipts Fall 6.2% In Second Quarter — The Straits Times
Singapore’s tourism receipts declined 6.2 per cent year-on-year to S$7.21 billion in the second quarter of 2026, according to figures released by the Singapore Tourism Board on Oct 15. The downturn occurred amid continuing global uncertainty.
THAILAND
1. Flood Warnings Issued As Lam Taphoen Reservoir Overflows — The Nation
Authorities have urged residents in Nong Prue and Bo Phloi districts in Kanchanaburi to prepare for possible flash floods following an overflow at the Lam Taphoen Reservoir spillway. Residents have been advised to move belongings to higher ground as a precaution.
2. Royal Crematorium Construction Reaches More Than 90% Completion — Bangkok Post
Construction of the royal crematorium for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother has progressed beyond 90 per cent completion, according to the Fine Arts Department. Final finishing work is expected to be completed by the end of October.
VIETNAM
1. Hanoi Tightens Controls On Industrial Solid Waste — VietnamPlus
Hanoi plans to strengthen industrial waste management by ensuring that solid waste generated in high-tech parks, industrial parks and industrial clusters is properly collected and treated. Authorities also intend to enhance oversight of scrap collection, storage and recycling operations.
2. Flood Season Tourism Highlights Mekong Delta Traditions — VietnamPlus
The annual flood season in An Giang is attracting attention for its distinctive tourism experiences, including bathing in flooded fields and reconnecting with childhood traditions. The seasonal activities also provide opportunities for community interaction and appreciation of the Mekong Delta’s river-based culture.
-BERNAMA
