U.S., South Korea agree on five-year plan to share defence costs. The United States and South Korea reached a new five-year agreement to share the costs of maintaining U.S. troops in South Korea. For 2026, South Korea's contribution will increase by 8.3% to 1.52 trillion won ($1.13 billion). The deal was finalized after eight rounds of talks, ensuring a smoother negotiation process before the U.S. elections. This agreement supports the 28,500 U.S. troops stationed in South Korea to deter threats from North Korea. The United States and South Korea, Reuters, October 4
India’s foreign minister becomes the first such dignitary to visit Sri Lanka since the election. Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar met with Sri Lanka's newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in the first high-level visit since the new government took office. The two discussed strengthening bilateral ties amid Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic challenges and balancing relations with India and China. Jaishankar also emphasized India’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. Bharatha Mallawarachi, AP News, October 4
Guo mulls running for old post. Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, is considering running for her old position in the 2025 elections, according to her lawyer. Despite her removal from office over alleged involvement in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has stated it cannot cancel her candidacy. Critics, including Sen. Risa Hontiveros, have expressed concerns about her potential return to public office, calling it an insult to Philippine institutions. Aric John Sy Cua, The Manila Times, October 4
Malaysia PM Anwar Ibrahim to visit Bangladesh, focus on labour issues. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, during a visit to Dhaka, announced plans to admit 18,000 Bangladeshi workers who missed a previous employment deadline. His visit highlights growing bilateral ties, with discussions also addressing the Rohingya refugee crisis. Bangladesh urged Anwar to raise the issue of Rohingya repatriation at the upcoming ASEAN summit. Anwar reiterated the need for fair treatment of migrant workers, stressing transparency in recruitment processes. Ruma Paul, Reuters, October 4
Malaysian billionaire hotelier charged in Singapore in relation to ex-minister’s wrongdoings. Ong Beng Seng, a Malaysian businessman, was charged for allegedly obstructing justice and aiding former Singapore Transport Minister S. Iswaran, who was sentenced to a year in prison for accepting illegal gifts. Ong is accused of helping Iswaran with trips and accommodations in connection to a Formula 1 race deal. The case has caused embarrassment for Singapore's government, which prides itself on clean governance. AP News, October 4
Ishiba expected to endorse LDP candidates tied to fund scandal. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba plans to approve election endorsements for Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers disciplined in a fund-raising scandal. Despite initially suggesting he might withhold support, Ishiba opted for swift elections, citing time constraints. The LDP will endorse these candidates, requiring them to pledge against future misconduct. Public dissatisfaction remains, with 75% of respondents in a survey urging further investigation into the scandal. The Asahi Shimbun, October 4
Coalition eyes charter change talks. Thailand’s ruling Pheu Thai Party plans to meet with coalition partners next week to discuss amendments to the 2017 constitution. The talks follow the Senate’s decision to retain the double majority requirement for passing a charter referendum, potentially delaying the process. Pheu Thai seeks solutions to expedite the rewrite, though Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul expressed reservations, citing other urgent matters like flood relief. Civic groups also called on the House to speed up the charter rewrite. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, October 4
Marcos, South Korea's Yoon to hold talks. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will meet with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on October 7 during Yoon's state visit to the Philippines. The discussions will focus on key regional and international issues, reinforcing the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations. The talks come as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation on defense, security, and economic matters. Both leaders will also be accompanied by their spouses during this high-profile meeting. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, October 4
Japan’s new leader expresses regret for governing party slush fund scandal, vows stronger defense. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his first policy speech, expressed regret over a slush fund scandal involving his predecessor and promised transparency. He outlined plans to strengthen Japan's defense amid threats from China, Russia, and North Korea, while emphasizing the importance of the Japan-U.S. security alliance. Ishiba also vowed to boost the economy with sustainable wage growth and expanded use of nuclear energy. Mari Yamaguchi, AP News, October 4
Kazakhstan’s police step up patrols near synagogues and Israeli diplomatic facilities. In response to heightened tensions in the Middle East, Kazakhstan has increased police presence around synagogues and Israeli diplomatic sites. The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed these measures to ensure public safety amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Patrol routes have been adjusted, and surveillance enhanced around sensitive areas. The move follows Iran's recent attacks on Israeli targets, raising concerns about potential unrest in Central Asia. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, October 3
RI, Germany wrap up talks on development cooperation. Indonesia and Germany concluded negotiations on development cooperation, with Germany committing €56 million in grants to support Indonesia's energy transition, forest conservation, and sustainable urban development. This brings Germany's total contribution to €431 million. Key initiatives include technical cooperation for renewable energy and sustainable land use, as well as results-based payments linked to Indonesia’s environmental goals. Antara News, October 4
Indonesia hosts international meeting on Myanmar with UN, junta rivals, sources say. Indonesia is hosting talks involving the UN, ASEAN, the EU, and Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG) to address Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflict. The meeting comes as ASEAN’s peace efforts falter, with Myanmar’s military government refusing to engage with opposition groups. Details of attendees and proposals have not been fully disclosed. The talks occur ahead of an ASEAN summit in Laos, where Myanmar's crisis will be a key topic. Shoon Naing and Poppy McPherson, Reuters, October 4
N. Korea launches apparent trash balloons toward S. Korea: JCS. North Korea launched another batch of trash-filled balloons toward South Korea early Friday, marking the 24th instance since May. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff alerted citizens, particularly in northern Gyeonggi Province, to avoid contact with the balloons. The South has responded with anti-North Korean broadcasts but refrains from shooting down the balloons due to safety concerns. The military has vowed "stern" actions if the campaign causes harm. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, October 4
Property tycoon Ong Beng Seng charged with abetting public servant to obtain valuable things, obstructing justice. Ong Beng Seng, the Singaporean businessman behind the Formula 1 race, was charged with providing gifts and travel benefits to former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, who was sentenced to prison for accepting illegal benefits. Ong is accused of arranging flights and accommodations for Iswaran in exchange for favors, and attempting to obstruct justice. His case will return to court on November 15. The scandal has sparked scrutiny over Singapore's political transparency. Koh Wan Ting and Vanessa Lim, Channel News Asia, October 4.
Viral video of teacher assault sparks Uzbek-Russian row. A video showing Uzbek teacher Ozoda Ravshanova hitting a student for asking to speak in Russian has sparked diplomatic tension between Uzbekistan and Russia. Russian officials, including Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, demanded action, while Uzbek authorities condemned the foreign interference. Ravshanova has since been fired. The incident points to underlying sensitivities around language use and Russian influence in Uzbekistan, highlighting the complexities of post-Soviet identity and governance. Eurasianet, October 4
Marking time: The ASEAN summit in Laos. The ASEAN Summit in Laos shows regional tensions but is not expected to yield substantial progress. Key issues include Myanmar’s ongoing conflict and the South China Sea dispute, particularly China’s pressure on the Philippines. Political uncertainties in the U.S. and Indonesia complicate discussions. Laos, a weaker ASEAN member, is seen as a transitional chair, with attention shifting to Malaysia’s 2025 leadership. Despite the lack of concrete outcomes, ASEAN’s convening power remains crucial amidst global political divisions. Susannah Patton, Lowy Institute, October 4
Japan’s Aging Society as a Technological Opportunity. Japan's rapidly aging and shrinking population presents major economic and social challenges but also creates an opportunity for technological innovation. The country's advancements in robotics, automation, and healthcare technology are increasingly geared towards addressing the labor shortages and rising healthcare needs that come with an aging society. These innovations position Japan to lead globally in sectors like eldercare robotics and medical technologies. Government initiatives, such as the "Moonshot" program, aim to foster disruptive technologies that can revolutionize industries and improve the quality of life for the elderly. James Schoff, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, October 3
Labour exploitation lies downstream of Indonesia’s nickel boom. Indonesia’s nickel boom, driven by the demand for electric vehicle batteries, has led to increased scrutiny of labor conditions in the sector. While nickel mining boosts the economy, it also fosters poor working conditions, with reports of exploitation, underpayment, and safety issues in processing plants, particularly affecting migrant workers. The government's push for nickel downstreaming through industrial parks has attracted foreign investment but left labor rights inadequately protected, sparking concern over worker exploitation and environmental harm. Wayne Palmer, East Asia Forum, October 5
The good, the bad and the ugly of Yoon’s Korean unification vision. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol's new unification vision, revealed on August 15, 2024, promotes freedom and prosperity while calling for cooperation with North Korea through an inter-Korean working group. However, Yoon’s failure to emphasize peaceful unification and his hawkish rhetoric have raised concerns about regime change motives. Domestically, his attacks on political opponents during Liberation Day celebrations have deepened divisions and bolstered North Korean propaganda. Abhishek Sharma, East Asia Forum, October 4
The United States Must Exercise Leadership to Help Myanmar’s Flood Victims. Myanmar is experiencing devastating floods that have caused over 300 deaths and affected over a million people. Infrastructure damage, food insecurity, and health risks from waterborne diseases are growing concerns. Myanmar’s ongoing political instability has hindered aid efforts, leaving many without essential services. The U.S. is urged to take a leading role in coordinating international humanitarian assistance, rallying support from allies and local civil society groups to ensure aid reaches those in need.
Derek Mitchell and Jack Myint, CSIS, October 4
China’s Balancing Act With the ‘Axis of Upheaval’. China faces a delicate challenge in maintaining ties with Russia, Iran, and North Korea, balancing economic and strategic relationships while avoiding deeper involvement in their conflicts. Despite its partnerships with these nations, China is cautious about being drawn into confrontations that may disrupt its global economic interests, especially in Europe and the Middle East. The balancing act includes managing relations with Western nations, while benefiting from trade with sanctioned states like Russia and Iran. François Godement, The Diplomat, October 4
What Is Ishibanomics? "Ishibanomics" refers to the economic policies of Japan's new Prime Minister, Ishiba Shigeru, focused on revitalizing the economy through measures like regional revitalization subsidies, raising the minimum wage, and fighting deflation. Ishiba's approach builds on the policies of his predecessor but includes plans for wage hikes, corporate tax adjustments, and fiscal reforms. His economic vision will be crucial in Japan's upcoming snap election, which will determine whether these policies gain broader support. Daisuke Akimoto, The Diplomat, October 4
Japan shouldn’t work with the Taliban, not even to build schools. Japan’s aid engagement with Afghanistan under the Taliban raises ethical concerns, especially regarding women's rights. Since the Taliban regained control in 2021, their policies have severely restricted freedoms, particularly for women and girls. Japan’s involvement, even for humanitarian purposes like building schools, risks legitimizing the regime without addressing the Taliban's human rights violations. Sadiq Amini, The Japan Times, October 4
Everyone Everywhere All at Once: The Rise of Digital Nomads in Southeast Asia. Southeast Asia is witnessing a surge in digital nomads, individuals working remotely while traveling. Countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia have introduced special visas to attract these workers, boosting local economies. While they contribute economically and culturally, challenges arise, such as increased rental prices and potential cultural clashes with locals. Governments must balance the benefits of attracting nomads with the need to protect local communities and ensure sustainable development. Lance Wu, Fulcrum, October 4