The Southeast Asian Times
NEWS FOR NORTHERN AUSTRALIA AND SOUTHEAST ASIA
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established 2000
Thursday 5 October 2023
GATHERINGS:
An informed guide to happenings throughout the region.  

Thai senate seeks
referendum on new constitution: Lese Majeste law
From News Reports:
Bangkok, February 12: The Senate is seeking a referendum on the drafting of a new constitution as dictated by the Referendum Act after the House of Representatives voted for an opposition-sponsored motion on November 3, 2022 to seek a referendum, reports the Bangkok Post.
Senators voted 151 for, 26 against, and 15 abstentions to form a panel to study a motion to organise a referendum that would pave the way for a rewrite of the constitution that includes the Lese Majeste law.
The Senate called on the government to hold a referendum on whether a new constitution should be drawn up by a charter drafting assembly made up of elected representatives, saying "the referendum should be arranged on the same day as the next general election that has tentatively been set for May 7 by the Election Commission (EC).
Senators were critical of voting for the formation of a panel to study a motion to organise a referendum, saying "It is a tactic to stall the referendum"
Sen Kittisak Rattanawaraha said he supported a referendum on the drafting of a new constitution, saying he disagreed with organising the referendum on the same day as the general election,
"This could confuse voters," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

China calls emergency COVID-19 meeting with ASEAN in Laos
From News Reports:
Beijing, February 19: An emergency meeting of foreign ministers from China and the 10 Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) that was proposed by China is to be held in Vientiane, Laos on Thursday and Friday to discuss the COVID-19 virus epidemic.
The COVID-19 virus has so far killed 1,869 and infected 73,336 in China and has spread to the 10 ASEAN member states.
The meeting that was proposed by China is reportedly intended to share information and to improve coordination between China and the 10 ASEAN member states in order to combat the COVID-19 virus.
China Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi is reportedly to discuss China's measures in countering the COVID-19 virus epidemic at the meeting in Laos, with focus on strengthening joint prevention and control measures against the virus.
The meeting is also to explore the idea of establishing a long term and effective collaboration mechanism on public health to safeguard the region, with China Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang saying " China and Asean countries have been in close communication since the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus.
Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, who will be attending the emergency COVID-19 virus epidemic meeting, said that the meeting will be an opportunity for the foreign ministers to discuss measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
"The meeting will help strengthen cooperation between ASEAN member states in the midst of this global health threat," he said.
His said that Cambodia's participation in the emergency meeting that was proposed by China will demonstrate Cambodia’s support of China and confidence in the measures taken by the China government to address the coronavirus outbreak.
The Southeast Asian Times

Vietnam opens consulate in Macau
From News Reports:
Hanoi, January 9: Vietnam's Hong Kong Consulate General launched a consulate office in the Macau Special Administrative Region of China on Friday, reports the Vietnam News Service.
Consulate General of Hong Kong, Tran Than Huan, said at the launching ceremony that the office aims to better ensure the rights of Vietnamese citizens and tourists in the region.
He said that the consulate office in Macau will provide easier access to information about Vietnam, saying that
it would boost friendship and co-operation between Vietnam and Macau.
The Consulate General said that the office expected to recieve support from local organisations including the Vietnam Fellow Countrymen Friendship Association in Macau.
More than 20,000 Vietnamse are employed as domestic workers, in the service industry at Macau's casino's.
Vietnamese also operate tourist and services companies.
 The Southeast Asian Times

US invites Vietnam Communist Party General Secretary to the White House
From News Reports:
Hanoi, July 6, 2015: The General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam will visit the United States from July 6 to July 10 at the invitiation of the United States State Department in a "landmark" visit, Rueters reports.
General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party Nguyen Phu Trong will meet United States President Barack Obama at the White House on Tuesday.
Rueters quotes a senior state department official saying that the meeting between the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party and the President of the United States "would skirt protocol" because the General Secretary is "not part of a government".
"Obama saw the visit as crucial", Rueters reports the senior state department official as saying.
Rueters also quotes the senior state department official saying that "there was a broad agreement that it made sense to treat General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party Nguyen Phu Trong as the visit of "the top leader of the country".
"It's a pretty big event," Rueters quotes the state department official as saying.
The Southeast Asian Times

France agrees to return Aboriginal remains home to Australia
From News Reports:
Canberra, November 25: French president Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott have agreed to work together to return Aboriginal remains to Australia during the first official visit by a French head of state to Australia last week, reports Australian Associated Press.
The French head of state and the Australian prime minister said that a joint expert committee is to be established to help identify the origin of the Aboriginal remains held in France.
The head of state and prime minister said in a joint statement that the identification process would respect the sensitivities and values of the two countries and consider the requests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities including the French legal system.
"The French government will examine possible solutions to enable the return of the Aboriginal human remains to their community of origin." the statement said.
Australia believes the remains of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are being held in Museum collections around the world including in Europe and the
United States.
In 2010 a British museum agreed to return 138 sets of Aboriginal skeletal remains to Australia including the severed head of Australian Aboriginal warrior, Yagan, to the Noongar of South West Western Australia after being missing in action for about 177 years. Yagan was shot dead for his resistance to British settlement on the Swan river.
The Southeast Asian Times

"No " to proposal to delete religion from Indonesian national identity card
From News Reports:
Jakarta, November 10: Islamic-based political party politicians oppose the proposal put by the newly selected Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo, that national identity cards (KTP) do not include the religion of the car holder.
Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) politician Aboebakar Al Habsy said that not to include the religion of the card holder on national identity cards (KTP)
contradicted the country’s founding philosophy of Pancasila
“If we believe that Pancasila is our state ideology and our national identity, then why should we be ashamed of including our religion on our national identity card," he said
Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo also proposed that the regious beliefs of Indonesian citizens be omitted from official government documents.
He said that the religion of Indonesian citizens on national identity cards (KTP) or in official government documents should not be imposed.
"It's up to the people", he said.
The Souheast Asian Times

The Wolf bridge: An insult to Thai monarchy
From News Reports:
Bangkok, October 31: Thai University students, Patiwat Saraiyaem, 23, and Pornthip Mankong, 26, were charged in the Ratrachada Court on Monday, with defamation of the Thai monarchy in a play titled "The Wolf Bridge" performed at the Thammasat university in October 2013, reports the Bangkok Post.
The students were charged with insulting the Royal Thai family in the fictional depiction of the monarchy in a play performed in commemoration of the 37th and 40th anniversaries of the October 6, 1976 and October 14, 1973 pro-democracy student uprisings at Thammasat University.
The prosecution cites nine passages from the plays's script, a work of fiction that depicts a fictional monarch, that allegedly insults the monarchy and as such is in violation of the lese majeste law.
Patiwat Saraiyaem, actor and Pornthip Mankong, producer of the play, in detention since arrested on 13 August, have been refused bail are scheduled to appear in court to enter pleas on December 29.
The Southeast Asian Times

World including
Asean PM's and Presidents to attend inauguaration of Indonesian president
From News Reports:
Jakarta, October 18: World Prime ministers, Presidents and State representatives including US Secretary of State, John Kerry and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott will attend the inauguaration of Joko “Jokowi” Widodo as President of Indonesiaon on Monday.
The speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Zulkifli Hasan said that representatives from the ten Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member nations have also been invited to attend the swearing in of the former governor of Jakarta, Joko “Jokowi” Widodo as president of Indonesia.
"The Prime Ministers and Presidents of Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and South Korea are also expected to attend", he said.
He said that the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has also invited "domestic VIP's" including former Presidents and Vice-Presidents.
“All chairpersons of political parties have also be invited,” said the speaker.
The Southeast Asian Times

Banned ISIS flag found flying in Aceh
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 12: The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) flag found flying from a coconut tree in Aceh on Sunday has been torn down, reports the Jakarta Post.
The discovery of the banned ISIS flag was reportedly the first in Aceh.
Police chief First Inspecter Azwan said that the flag of the nationally banned movement was discovered by chess players sitting at a food stall near the coconut tree in the Sungai Raya district of East Aceh regency in Aceh.
He said that a bomb disposal team inspected the area before the flag was taken down.
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono announced Indonesia's rejection of the State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and banned the teaching of ISIL ideology in Indonesia last month at his parliamentary state-of-the-nation address and ahead of the 69th anniversary of Indonesias Independence.
The Southeast Asian Times

Singapore passes Trans- boundary Haze Pollution Act
From News Reports:
Singapore, August, 18: The passing of the 2014 Trans-boundary Haze Pollution Act by the Singapore parliament last week will enable Singapore regulators to sue individuals or companies in neighbouring countries for causing severe air pollution in Singapore.
The Act that was first proposed in 2013 would enable Singapore to impose fines of up to S$2 million on companies that cause or contribute to transboundary haze pollution in Singapore.
Environment and Water Resources Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said that under the Act, Singapore will have the legal right under the Objective Territorial Principle to take legal action against air polluters.
"While neighbouring countries have the sovereign right to exploit their natural resources in accordance with their policies they also have a responsibility to ensure that "slash and burn" agricultural practices do not cause damage to Singapore", he said.
The passing of the 2014 Trans-boundary Haze Pollution Act gives Singapore the legal power to serve notices on those that do not have assets or a presence in Singapore.
Indonesia is yet to ratify an Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution that was signed by ASEAN member counries in November 2003 in order to
address haze pollution arising from land and forest fires.
A bill passed in the Indonesian House of Representatives in July 2013 gave the Indonesian goverment the power to seize assetts gained from illegal logging and illegal clearing of forests for palm oil plantations.
The new bill, designed to protect more than 13 million hectres from deforestation, gave the Indonesian government a mandate to establish a task force including police to monitor the prevention and eradication of deforestation.
The Southeast Asian Times

Papua Biak massacre remembered in Sydney
with 136 white carnations
From News Reports:
Sydney, July 5: A ceremony to mark the 16th anniversary of the Biak Massacre in West Papua ua on 6 July 1998 will be held at the Waverley Cliffs cemetery in Sydney on Sunday.
The Waverley Cliffs community will throw 136 white carnations from the waverley cliffs into the Pacific Ocean in memory of the Biak massacre.
A citizens tribunal, hosted by the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPACS) at the University of Sydney last year on the 15th anniversary of the Biak massacre found that 136 West Papuan protesters were thrown into the sea by Indonesian security forces.
The tribunal heard eye witness testimony that the West Papuan demand for the right to vote for independence from Indonesia was met with gunfire by Indonesian security forces.
Survivors of the massacre told the international team of jurists that the unarmed West Papuan protesters were surrounded and shot by Indonesian security forces and that survivors were thrown into the sea on 6 July 1998.
The Southeast Asian Times
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Philippines media calls for swift justice on anniversary of political execution of radio broadcaster

Radio broadcaster, Percy 'Lapid' Mabasa, 59, hosts the commentary program "Lapid Fire" that aired on Philippines DWBL 1242 radio where he delivered criticisms of alleged Philippines government abuses and irregularities
From News Reports:
Manila, October 5: The Freedom for Media Freedom for All (FMFA) coalition in the Philippines has called for swift justice on the first anniversary of the political assassination of radio broadcaster, Percy 'Lapid' Mabasa, 59, who was shot dead by a drive-by gunman in an ambush in metro Manila on October 3, 2022, reports the Philippine Inquirer.
The FMFA coalition that includes the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR), Philippine Press Institute (PPI) and Mindanao Institute of Journalism (MIJ), said "the case against the masterminds behind the political execution of the radio broadcaster could be archived."
Radio broadcaster Percy Lapid, who hosted the commentary program "Lapid Fire" that aired on DWBL 1242 radio where he delivered criticisms of alleged government abuses and irregularities, was shot dead by Joel Escorial, 39, who confessed that he was the gunman in the drive-by fatal shooting to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The FMFA coalition said that despite the surrender and confession of the drive-by gunmen, Joel Escorial, 39, who named accomplices in the killing of the radio broadcaster in his confession, that "the case against the masterminds could be archived."
The Freedom for Media Freedom for All (FMFA) calls for justice for radio broadcaster, Percy 'Lapid' Mabasa, 59, saying "the political assassination of journalists are not just issues for journalists, but for everyone who values life and freedom of the press."
National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) spokesperson said after the assasination of radio broadcaster Percy Lapid in on October 16, 2022. "the killing shows that journalism remains a dangerous profession in the Philippines.''
Joel Escorial, 39, the gunman in the fatal drive-by shooting of radio broadcaster Percy 'Lapid' Mabasa, 59, surrendered to the Philippine National Police (PNP) with the gunman Joe, saying in his confession that the order to assassinate the radio broadcaster came from the New Bilibid Prison (NBP in Manila.
Joel Escorial named his brothers Edmon, 30, and Israel Dimaculangan, 35, residents of Las Pinas, and Orlando from Batangas province as three of five accomplices involved in the killing the radio broadcaster in metro Manila on Monday October 3, 2022.
The Southeast Asian Times

Families of football fans killed in stampede at Indonesian stadium demand justice

Devi Athok Yulfitri, 44, with photos of his daughters at his home in Krebet Senggrong Village, Malang Regency, East Java, Indonesia, on Friday September 22, 2023
From News Reports:
Jakarta, October 4: Families of survivors and 132 football fans killed in the stampede at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang, East Java, Indonesia on October 1, 2022 are demanding compensation for their loss, with Devi Athok Yulfitri, 44, who lost two daughters and his wife in the stampede, saying "I will not watch football until I die,”
"It’s useless," he said.
Devi Athok Yulfitri said that families of the survivors and families of the victims who were killed in the stampede demand compensation for their loss and suffering and an apology from President Joko Widodo, saying "President Joko Widodo promised to resolve the claims of compensation swiftly and fairly."
He said that families of the victims of the Kanjuruhan Stadium stampede have appealed to the National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR) and the House of Reprentatives (DPR) legal affairs commission.
"We have not received any satisfactory response or resolution from any of the parties involved," he said.
Devi Athok Yulfitri, said that he had taken his elder daughter, father of Natasya Devi Ramadhani, 16, to watch football games since she was a baby, saying "she wanted to be a police officer."
"But she died because of the police, he said.
"Now I’m filled with regret," he said.
In October 2022 the Joint Independent Fact-finding Team (TGIPF) found that tear gas fired at spectators at the Kanjuruhan Stadium has caused the deaths of 132 football fans and injuries to 596 as they ran towards the exits of the overcrowded stadium to escape tear gas.
The crowd at the Kanjuruhan Stadium was reportedly beyond capacity on Sunday 1 October 2022 , with 42,000 tickets sold for the match in a stadium designed to hold 38,000 spectators.
The Joint Independent Fact-finding Team (TGIPF) investigation into the firing of tear gas at the Kanjuruhan Stadium found that "the failure of police to follow Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) regulations contributed to the deaths and injuries at the stadium.
The Joint Independent Fact-finding Team (TGIPF) investigation also found that Indonesian National Police officers had attempted to secure the crowd by firing tear gas indiscrimintely, saying "the indiscriminate firing of tear gas caused panic among spectators and the ensuring stampede."
The Joint Independent Fact-finding Team (TGIPF) recommended that the Indonesian National Police take action against police officers who fired tear gas and against Arema Football Club supporters who the TGIPF claim started the provocation.
Indonesian National Police officers fired tear gas to disperse Arema Football Club supporters who had run onto the Kanjuruhan Stadium field after a 3-2 home defeat to Persebaya Surabaya despite the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) governing body for world soccer safety regulations that firearms or crowd control gas should not be used at football sports stadiums.
The Southeast Asian Times

Plan to wean Vietnam off fossil fuels ends in imprisonment

Ngo Thi To Nhien, executive director of the Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition Social Enterprise jailed for three years for
misappropriation of documents Thursday September, 28 2023

From News Reports:
Hanoi, October 3: Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition (VIET) executive director, Ngo Thi To Nhien, was arrested by the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) in Hanoi last month and sentenced to three years in prison for the misappropriation of documents at the Hanoi's People's Court on Thursday, with the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) saying "Ngo Thi To Nhien was arrested on charges of misappropriation of documents related to state-owned Electricity of Vietnam (EVN), reports Thanh Nien.
Vietnam Initiative for Energy Transition (VIET) executive director, Ngo Thi To Nhien, who has worked with the European Union, World Bank and the United Nations, was working on an implementation plan for Vietnam’s Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), a US$15-billion G7-funded project to wean Vietnam off fossil fuels when she was arrested on September 15.
Ministry of Public Security (MPS) spokeman, Lieutenant General To An So, said on Saturday that an investigation of documents collected after the arrest of the executive director of Initiative for Energy Transition (VIET) Ngo Thi To Nhien, had found grounds to prosecute her for the misapproriation of documents.
"The result of the investigation of the documents collected since 2020 showed that Ngo Thi To Nhien had access to information that Vietnam and the United Kingdom were implementing a plan to develope 220 kV and 500 kV power grids for the Vietnam Electricity Corporation (EVN)," he said.
He said that Ngo Thi To Nhien had legitimised the plan to develope the power grids for the state owned Vietnam Electricity Corporation (EVN) by signing labor contracts with Duong Duc Viet and Le Quoc Anh for paid part-time work, saying "the two part-time workers had provided labor contract related to the Vietnam Electricity Corporation (EVN)."
He said that the misappropriation of information and documents of state-owned organisations and agencies is a crime, saying "these are confidential documents, not to be made public or shared."
On January 24, 2022 the former director of the Law and Policy of Sustainable Development (LPSD) lawyer and environmentalist, Dang Dinh Bach, 44, was found guilty of tax evasion under Article 200 of Vietnam’s 2015 Penal Code at the Hanoi's People's Court in a one day trial.
The Hanoi's People's Court claimed that the former director of the Law and Policy of Sustainable Development (LPSD) non-profit, Non-Government Organisation (NGO) "had contacted foreign-based organizations and received funding."
The Hanoi People's Court claimed that Dang Dinh Bach, 44 had "contacted foreign-based organizations and received their funding to implement projects at Law and Policy of Sustainable Development (LPSD) without obtaining aproval from authorities in charge."
The Hanoi Peoples Court accused Dang Dinh Bach, 44 of tax evasion of more than 1.3 billion dong (US$57,300) between 2016 and 2020.
The conviction of Dang Dinh Bach, 44, director of Law and Policy of Sustainable Development (LPSD), who is also a member of the Vietnam Environmental Network (VEN), the Vietnam Sustainable Energy Alliance (VSEA), and the Vietnam Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control Alliance (NCDs-VN), was reportedly an attempt to prevent the establishment of a network of Non-Government Organisations (NGO's) in Vietnam.
The Southeast Asian Times

Vietnam opposes China's installation of ship identification satelite in lighthouses in East Vietnam Sea

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman, Pham Thu Hang, calls on China to respect Vietnam's sovereignity over East Vietnam Sea Monday September 23, 2023

From News Reports:
Hanoi, October 2: Vietnam opposes China's installation of the BeiDou satelite network in lighthouses in the Hoang Sa ( Paracel ) reef in the East Vietnam Sea, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs saying that Vietnam considers the installation of an automatic ship identification satelite network a violation of Vietnam's sovereignty, reports the Vietnam News Service.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman, Pham Thu Hang, said "China's installation and operation of the BeiDou satelite network in two lighthouses in the Hoang Sa ( Paracel ) reef in the East Vietnam Sea is a violation of Vietnam sovereignty."
"The lighthouses at Da Bac (North Reef) and at Da Bong Bay (Bombay Reef) are connected to China's land-based BeiDou satelite network that automatically identifies ships in the East Vietnam Sea," she said.
She said that any activities in the Hoang Sa ( Paracel ) reef in the East Vietnam Sea without Vietnam's permission violates Vietnam's sovereignty and are invalid, saying "Vietnam requests that China fully respect Vietnam’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa ( Paracel ) reef and not repeat similar infringements."
China's claim of indisputable sovereignty over the islands in the South China Sea and adjacent waters was lodged with the with the United Nations in 2009.
China's claim of sovereignty was disputed by Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines in an appeal to the rule of International Law and Arbitration in the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague.
The 1982 United Nations convention on the Law of the SEA (UNCLOS) requires that the China claim to any islands meet the terms in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the SEA (UNCLOS) including the naming of a territorial sea, a contiguous zone, an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), or a continental shelf.
The United Nations Convention reportedly requirers that all maritime boundary lines be negotiated with neighbouring states.
"One country may not unilaterally establish a maritime boundary", the report states.
The report also states that the International law of the sea does not permit historical claims to override geographic boundaries, saying that the UN Convention on the Law of the SEA (UNCLOS) was designed to bring "clarity and uniformity to maritime disputes between neighboring states."
A United States report prepared by the Bureau of Oceans and International and Scientific Affairs, on the Limits in the Seas Study, released by the US Department of State, claims that almost all islands in the South China Sea as shown on Chinese maritime maps do not comply with the 1982 United Nations convention on the Law of the SEA (UNCLOS), saying "China has not clarified through legislation, proclamation or other official statement the legal basis for the map."
The Southeast Asian Times

Sulawesi miners demand Indonesia's PT Merdeka Copper Gold operator return their ancestral land

The Pohuwato community torched the Pohuwato Regents office in Gorontalo Province on Indonesia's Sulawesi island demanding the return of their ancestral land on Thursday 21 September 2023

From News Reports:
Jakarta, October 1: About 2,500 Pohuwato community members including miners torched the Pohuwato Regent office in Gorontalo Province on Indonesia's Sulawesi island after vandalising the Pohuwato Regional People's Representative Council building, demanding that PT Merdeka Copper Gold operator return their ancestral land, with special operations, paramilitary, police deployed to assist the Gorontalo Province police, reports the Jakarta Post.
Pohuwato community members and miners demanded that PT Merdeka Copper Gold operations return their ancestral land at the offices of the PT Puncak mining company in the Buntulia District, Pohuwato Regency.
Pohuwato community members demanded the suspension of PT Merdeka Copper Gold operations at the PT Pani Gold Project before torching the regents office and vandalising the Pohuwato Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), saying "there were no company respresentatives willing to meet with the Pohuwato community,"
Gorontalo provincial police spokesperson Senior Commissioner Desmont Harjendro said that "40 Pohuwato community members were arrested in the aftermath of the destructive protests," saying "police are questioning the suspects for their role in the destructive protests."
He said that Gorontalo provincial police arrested protesters who appeared to be inciting Pohuwato community members, saying "those arrested were throwing objects at police injuring 11 police officers.
He said that 200 North Sulawesi regional police (Polda) paramilitary Mobile Brigade (Brimob) were deployed to assist the Gorontalo provincial police, saying "with this assistance we were able to secure the course of the protest until it could proceed securely and under control."
Indonesia's People’s Consultative Assembly vice chairman, Rachmat Gobel, who represents the Gorontalo provincial electoral district, called for "a wise and selfless approach in resolving the complexities surrounding gold mining in Pohuwato."
"The constitutional mandates the promotion of general welfare and the elevation of the living standards of the Indonesian nation," he said.
He said that gold mining disputes have often created social conflicts between the interests of investors and the interests of local communities, saying "mining would be easier to manage if conducted on state-owned land as opposed to communal land."
The Southeast Asian Times


PM diputes allegations that Cambodia is base for Chinese military presence

Jean-Francois Tain, Minister attached to the Prime Minister, said "Cambodia's neutrality would dissolve like salt water if Cambodia was to permit a foreign military base on it's territory" at Phnom Penh International Airport on Monday September 25, 2023

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, September 30: Cambodia has called for an end to allegations that Cambodia's Ream Naval Base in Sihanouk province on the Gulf of Thailand is being used to host a Chinese military presence after newly elected Prime Minister Hun Manet disputed the allegations at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) in New York on Monday, reports Phnom Penh Post.
Minister attached to the Prime Minister, Jean-Francois Tain, said at a press conference at Phnom Penh International Airport on returning from New York that "it was the first time ever that a Cambodian leader had used the United Nations assembly floor to address allegations that the Ream Naval Base in Sihanouk province on the Gulf of Thailand is being used to host a Chinese military presence."
"Cambodia will not authorise any foreign military base on its territory as clearly stated in its constitution," said Prime Minister Hun Manet in his address at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) on Monday.
He said that allegations that "the Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand is used to host a Chinese military presence has been debated for years," saying "but this is the first time that Cambodia, through Prime Minister Hun Manet, has declared its position openly."
"Cambodia's neutrality would dissolve like salt water if Cambodia was to permit a foreign military base on it's territory." he said.
Cambodian Institute for Democracy president Pa Chanroeun said that he "welcomed Prime Minister Hun Manet's clarification of the Ream Naval Base allegations at the United Nations General Assembly."
He said that he had called on Cambodia to adhere to the essence of the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, "saying "the Paris Peace Agreement does not permit foreign military bases on Cambodia's soil."
Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet said in April 2023 after he was endorsed by his father Prime Minister, Hun Sen, as prime ministerial candidate, "in accordance with Article 53 that is newly included in the Constitution, "the policy of Cambodia is not to cling to China, nor to anyone else."
"Cambodia enjoys close ties with China, the US, Japan and many other countries, regardless of their relations between each other, under Cambodia's present foreign policy," he said.
"The present foreign policy of Cambodia in not one that shows favouritism towards China or any other country," he said.
He said that the new Article 53 included in the Constitution makes it clear that our foreign policy is one of non-alignment, saying "the new policy was one introduced by our party, the Cambodian People's Party."
In June 2021 the United States Deputy Secretary of State, Wendy R Sherman, led a delegation to Cambodia calling on Cambodia for an explanation for the demolition of the United States funded Cambodian Navy tactical headquarters facility at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand, reminding the then Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Sen, that the United States has provided $US3 billion in assistance to Cambodia since the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements.
Cambodia had reportedly signed an agreement with China that gave China exclusive rights to the Ream Naval Base in Sihanouk province on the Gulf of Thailand that includes an agreement for the construction of a large airport.
The agreement reportedly allows China to post military personnel, store weapons and berth warships at the Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand for 30 years with automatic renewal every ten years.
The United States Deputy Secretary of State, Wendy R Sherman, said in Phnom Penh at a meeting with then Prime Minister Hun Sen, that the United States sought clarification on the demolition of the United States funded Cambodian Navy tactical headquarters facility at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base that was demolished without notification or explanation in October 2020.
The Southeast Asian Times

Cambodia commits to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty in New York

Senior Minister Ouch Borith addresses the Plenary Meeting to Celebrate and Promote the International Day for the Complete Elimination of Nuclear Weapons in NewYork Tuesday September 26, 2023

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, September 29: Cambodia commits to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty at the Plenary Meeting to Celebrate and Promote the International Day for the Complete Elimination of Nuclear Weapons in NewYork on Tuesday, saying "we must redouble our efforts towards the shared objective of a world free of nuclear weapons,"reports the Phnom Penh Post.
Cambodia Standing Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Senior Minister, Ouch Borith, called for "global action to achieve a nucler-free world and demonstrate a genuine commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation" in his address at the Plenary Meeting in New York to Celebrate and Promote the International Day for the Complete Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.
"Cambodia urges all nations, including Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) to engage in meaningful dialogue and demonstrate genuine commitment to disarmament, non-proliferation, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), he said.
He said that Cambodia and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), firmly commits to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty and its plan of action, saying "Cambodia strongly encourages the Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) to support ASEAN’s efforts by signing the treaty," he said.
"We must redouble our efforts towards the shared objective of a world free of nuclear weapons," he said.
International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia director-general, Kin Phea, said that Cambodia as a signatory of the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty) has a role to play in preventing nuclear weapons proliferation in the region, saying "Cambodia has suffered from years of war."
"Cambodia does not want to see war in its own country or in the world," he said.
He said that there is a high probability of the spread of nuclear weapons through the war between Russia and Ukraine, the Australia, United Kingdom, United States (AUKUS) programme, initiated by the United States, Britain and Australia, and on the Korean peninsula.
In July 2023 Indonesia ASEAN chair for 2023 called on the Association of South East Asian (ASEAN) Dialogue Partners Russia, China, France, UK and US to immediately sign the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty at the Meeting of the Commission of the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty in Jakarta, with Indonesia Foreign Minister saying "all nuclear-weapons states must advance nuclear non-proliferation disarmament."
Indonesia Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi, called on all nuclear-weapons states to advance nuclear non-proliferation disarmament, saying "Southeast Asia is still not a truly safe region as long as there are countries that have nuclear weapons"
Indonesia Minister of Foreign Affairs called on nuclear weapons states (NWS) Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, who are ASEAN Dialogue Partners, to sign the the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty).
The Southeast Asian Times

Malaysian United Democratic Alliance calls for repeal of the Sedition Act 1948

Muslin preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin at the Kuala Lumpur Court of Appeal on Tuesday 26 September 2023 begins nine-month prison sentence for insulting the Sultan of Selangor

From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, September 28: The Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA), that withdrew from the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition earlier this month after multi-million dollar corruption charges were dropped against Deputy Prime Minister, Zahid Hamidi, who is also president of the largest political party in Malaysia, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), have called on the government to repeal the Sedition Act 1948, reports the Star.
The Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA) secretary-general, Amir Hariri Abd Hadi, called for the repeal of the colonial-era Sedition Act 1948 following the Kuala Lumpur Court of Appeal's rejection of Muslin preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin's appeal to the September 10, 2014 charge of sedition.
A panel of three Court of Appeal judges led by Justice Hadhariah Syed Ismail unanimously ruled to reinstate the Selangor state Shah Alam session court order in April 9, 2018 that sentenced Muslin preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin to nine months in prison.
"Wan Ji Wan Hussin's appeal had no merit because there was a lot of evidence showing that the appellant was the owner of the Facebook page," said Justice Hadhariah Syed Ismail.
Muslim Preacher, Wan Ji Wan Hussin, was charged for sedition on September 10, 2014 under the Sedition Act 1948 for making a statement allegedly insulting the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, on Facebook on November 5, 2012.
Muslim Preacher, Wan Ji Wan Hussin questioned whether the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah "shouldn't be the head of the state and that they were not as noble as a Muslim caliph."
The Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA), secretary-general, Amir Hariri Abd Hadi said that the use of the Sedition Act 1948 began to increase from 2012 to 2014 after the repeal of the Internal Security Act (ISA)1960.
The Internal Security Act (ISA) 1960 that was replaced by the Security Offences Special Measures Act 2012 was passed by Parliament and given the royal assent on 18 June 2012.
"Those investigated and prosecuted since 2012 are politicians and opposition activists who are now part of the government," he said.
He said that ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) leader Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahm is one of almost fifty charged with sedition in 2014.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahm was investigated for sedition on September 26, 2014 over an alleged seditious speech he made as then leader of the People's Justice Party (PKR).
On May 18, 2012 Human Rights Activist, Tenagita Executive Director, Irene Fernandex, was investigated for sedition for being unpatriotic, a traitor to her country by saying that Malaysia is not a safe country for Indonesian workers in an article published in an Indonesian newspaper.
She was later released and no charges were made against her.
On February 21, 2012 Human Rights Lawyer and Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman, Karpal Singh, was convicted of sedition for allegedly saying at his legal firm that "the removal of Mohammad Nizar and the appointment of Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir as Chief Minister by Sultan of Perak is questionable in court."
The Southeast Asian Times

New Cambodia PM addresses transition to developing status at
United Nations in New York

Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet addresses the 78th Session of the United National General Assembly in New York Friday, September 22, 2023

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, September 27: Newly elected Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, who was endorsed by his father, former Prime Minister Hun Sen as prime ministerial candidate for the ruling Cambodia People's Party (CPC), receiving royal approval on August 10, said in his inaugural address at the 78th United National General Assembly (UNGA 78) in New York on Friday "Cambodia is steadily transitioning from least developed to developing country status," reports the Phnom Penh Post.
"Like many developing countries, Cambodia has a lot more to do to reach our goal of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a resilient, vibrant and prosperous high-income country by 2050," he said.
"To this end my government is committed to taking transformative actions through our recently launched 2024-2028 Pentagon Strategy Phase I for Cambodia's socio-economic development over the next 25 years," he said.
Former Prime Minister Hun Sen said after the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) won the 7th National Assembly elections on July 23, and after he announced the succession of his son, Hun Manet, that the new government would implement the new national development strategy 2024-2028 "Pentagon Strategy Phase 1."
He said the new government would introduce new economic development policies and programs that were initiated by the Hun Sen government, saying "my government focused on "Growth, Employment, Equity and Efficiency" in its economic development."
In July 2022 the Standing Committee of the Cambodia National Assembly adopted amendments to the Cambodia's 1993 Constitution that allow the party with the majority seats in the National Assembly to appeal to the King to appoint the Prime Minister to form a government, with the Cambodian Human Rights and Development Association (ADHOC) saying "there is only one party debating the law."
He said the draft laws proposed by the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) have to be fully discussed, "saying there is only one party debating the law, the ruling party."
"We want more parties to provide input into Article 98 (1) that allows the Cambodia National Assembly to dismiss members of the Council of Ministers by a motion of censure passed by an absolute majority vote of all members of the National Assembly", he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Former PM Muhyiddin Yassin strikes out abuse of power charges brought by Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission

Former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin was charged with abuse of power by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Commissioner in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Friday March 10, 2023.

From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, September 26: Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Muhyiddin Yassin filed an application to strike out four charges of money laundering, terrorism financing and proceeds of unlawful activities at the Kuala Lumpur sessions court last week after he was acquitted of four charges of abuse of power brought by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) last month, reports the Star.
Former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin claimed when he was arrested in March, 2023 that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) charge "is aimed to humiliate me by dragging me to court, saying "this selective prosecution is a political move aimed at crippling and destroying the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (BERSATU) and Perikatan Nasional parties (NP)."
Defence council lawyer Hisyam Teh Poh Teik said the application to strike out four charges brought by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) under Section 4 (1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA) are filed under the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC).
"We will apply to the prosecution for an agreement for variation of bail and request the return of Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Muhyiddin Yassin's passport," he said.
High Court Judge, Muhammad Jamil Hussin, said "the charges brought against former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) were defective and not sufficiently clear to allow him to prepare a defense."
"In order to prevent the abuse of the court process and a miscarriage of justice, I allow the applicant’s request for the four charges to be dropped," he said.
Former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said following the High Court ruling that the dismissal of the charges proved that the charges brought by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) against him were politically motivated and an attempt to discredit him.
"The charges are meant to oppress me, these false charges that do not disclose any offense, I have not committed any wrongdoing,” he said.
In March 2023 the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) charged former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, with four charges related to the charge of abuse of power of the Anti- Money Laundering Act, with Commissioner Azam Baki saying then "the charge of abuse of power relates to the Jana Wibawa project that was planned to assist ethnic Malays during and after the Covic-19 pandemic."
Former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, who served as Prime Minister during the Covid-19 pandemic from March 2020 until he resigned in August 2021, claimed innocence to the charge of abuse of power in the Jana Wibawa project, saying "I did not have the power to approve government projects."
"That power was with the Ministry of Finance," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia President accused of abuse of power for using State Intelligence Agency for own political interests

Indonesia President Joko Widodo at the national working meeting of the National Secretariat of volunteers in Bogor, West Java, on Saturday September 16, 2023

From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 25: Indonesia's Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform has accused President Joko Widodo of abuse of power for using the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) for his own political interests, with coalition member, the Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association (PBHI) saying "this cannot be justified and represents a threat to democratic life and human rights in Indonesia," reports Tempo.
President Joko Widodo said at a working meeting of the National Secretariat of volunteers in Bogor, West Java, on September 16, 2023 that he "knows what is going on inside the political parties in Indonesa and what direction the political parties are heading."
"I know internally what the parties are like, I know, the parties, where they want to go," he said.
"The information I receive from my intelligence agencies is complete, the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), intelligence from the Indonesian National Police (Polri), intelligence from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Army's Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS), " he said.
President Joko Widodo said that he holds information outside of the intelligence agencies that includes numbers, data and surveys
saying "everything is there."
I hold all of it and this informationn only belongs to the president," he said.
Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform coalitioh member Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association (PBHI) chairman, Julius Ibrani, said "we believe this is a serious problem in the democratic life of Indonesia," saying "this isn't allowed and cannot happen in a democratic country."
"The president and his intelligence agencies are making the political parties objects and targets of intelligence surveillance," he said.
He said that the Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform believes that the president's statement at theworking meeting of the National Secretariat of volunteers indicates an abuse of power saying "intelligence institutions are formed for and in the interests of national security in achieving the political goals of the state and not for the political goals of the president."
"Data and information collection carried out by intelligence should only be used for policy making purposes, not misused to spy on all the political actors for President Joko Widodo personal political interests", he said.
Indonesian Survey and Polling Institute (SPIN) director, Burhanuddin Muhtadi, said that it is appropriate for President Joko Widodo to hold State Intelligence Agency (BIN) information, saying "we're not surprised if the President has complete information related to the political parties' direction of movement because the president is the head of state."
"The head of government has comprehensive and detailed instruments of power related to the political party movements as well as the instructions that exist under the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI)," he said.
He said that he was of the opinion that "President Joko Widodo was sending a message to the political parties that are not in line with the guidelines he wants."
The Southeast Asian Times

Philippine offshore gaming operators from China to be phased out

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order said that the report submitted on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 represents a watered-down version of the original report delivered on March 22, 2023
From News Reports:
Manila, September 24: The Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order report calls for Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) from China to be phased out within three months after a majority of senators approved the recommendations in a report submitted on Tuesday, reports the Philippine Inquirer.
Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order chairman, Senator, Sherwin Gatchalian, said that he is "releaved that the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order report has finally obtained 10 signatures for approval," saying "10 signatures is a majority of the 18 members."
The 120 page report submitted for plenary approval to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order showed that the series of hearings conducted by the committee on the social costs of Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) from China that "the ills caused by the Pogos outweighed the economic benefits."
"It is worthy to note that gambling in general has been inherently associated with crime. This poses a reputational risk for the Philippines that can affect its business and investment climate," the report said.
The report cited the Philippine National Police in the report that showed that 99 Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) related criminal activities from January 2017 to September 2022, with 30 cases of kidnap-for-ransom, 13 cases of cybercrimes, 12 cases of human trafficking, and 10 cases of serious illegal detention.
Senator, Sherwin Gatchalian, said that "the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order submitted on Tuesday represents a watered-down version of the original report delivered in March 2023, saying "the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Public Order had called for an immediate total ban on
Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos).
“My original recommendation was for a total ban, but there were other senators who preferred a gradual phaseout," he said.
In March 2023 chairman of the Senate committee on Ways and Means and Public Order, Senator Win Gatchalian, called on the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) to initiate legal proceedings against officials involved in the hiring of Global ComRCI, a third-party auditor for the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) gross gaming revenues, saying "we must prosecute government officials and employees involved in corruption to prevent such activities."
"The officials and employees of Pagcor who were negligent or colluded with Global ComRCI in the audit of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators must be held responsible for the way the contract was secured," he said.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) terminated the 10-year, P6-billion contract with third-party auditor, Global ComRCI for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) gross gaming revenues, after a joint hearing by the Senate committee on Ways and Means and Public Order found numerous irregularities in the way the contract was scured.
"The third party auditor, Global ComRCI, was not suited to the task," said Senator Win Gatchalian.
He said that Global ComR, that submitted surious documents to prove its financial and technical capability, did not secure business permits from the local governments where they purportedly operated, and did not have a proper office.
"By selecting Global ComR, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) may have violated the strict qualifications of Republic Act No. 11590 for the external auditor of POGOs, including independent, reputable, internationally known and duly-accredite by industry experts," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Royal Thai Navy seeks approval from government for purchase of made-in-China submarines

Royal Thai Navy commander-in-chief Admiral Choengchai Chomchoengpaet seeks cabinet approval for purchase of built in China submarines Thursday September 21, 2023
From News Reports:
Bangkok, September 23: The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) seeks cabinet approval for the purchase of three submarines built in China with diesel engines also built in China to be fitted in the submarines after China could not provide a German made diesel engine as stipulated in the original contract, with Royal Thai Navy (RTN) commander-in-chief Admiral, Choengchai Chomchoengpaet, saying "Germany has refused to sell its diesel engine for installation in a Chinese-made submarine," reports the Bangkok Post.
"The Thai navy has inspected and approved the Chinese-made engine, ensuring both safety and efficiency," he said.
He said that the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has agreed to fitting the S26T Yuan-class submarine it originally ordered from China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) in 2017 with a made-in-China diesel CHD620 engine.
"China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) has extended submarine diesel engine warranty from two years to eight years including upgrades as an incentive for Thailand to select the Chinese-made engine," he said.
The German government refusal to supply the German-made MTU396 diesel engines to state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) to be fitted in the S26T Yuan-class submarines built in China for the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) is based in the 1989 European Union (EU) arms embargo imposed on China.
Commander-in-chief Admiral, Choengchai Chomchoengpaet said the German government refused to sell the German made MTU 396 diesel engine to China, saying " the German made MTU 396 diesel engine is designated military defence equipment."
In 2017 the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) signed a contract with state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) without approval from the ruling Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) majority parliament led by then Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha or the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) of Thailand.
The opposition Pheu Thai Party (PTP) lawmaker, Yuttapong Charasathien, questioned in parliament whether representatives from the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and representatives of the state-owned China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC)
who signed the 2017 agreement for delivery of the submarines had the authority to do so and why the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) required the submarines.
The Southeast Asian Times

United Nations adopts Pacific proposal to adopt the whale as "Ocean Ambassador"

78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) opening session of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit 2023, at United Nations headquarters in New York Monday September 18, 2023
From News Reports:
New York, September 22: The 78th United Nations National Assembly (UNGA) has adopted the Aotearoa (New Zealand) Maori's and Pacific Islanders proposal to adopt the whale as the "Ocean Ambassador" under the Hinemoana Halo Ocean Fund (H20 Fund) initiative, with Blue Green Future co-founder Dr Ralph Chami, who presented the proposal to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, saying "when it comes to saving the planet, one whale is worth thousands of trees."
The Hinemoana Halo Ocean Fund (H20 Fund) initiative co-chair, Lisa Tumahai, said that "the Maori King, Te Arikinui Tuheitia Paki, and other leaders of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and the Pacific support the proposal for the adoption of the whale as "Ocean Ambassador" to the United Nations."
"For the first time our tribes have co-operated to work to implement Indigenous customary protections across whale migration routes between critical feeding and breeding grounds,” she said.
She said that the Hinemoana Halo Ocean Fund (H20 Fund) aims to raise $100 million for Maori and Pacific Islander led habitat ecological restoration projects, saying "this plan seeks to recover and protect whale populations across the Pacific."
"The Hinemoana Halo Ocean Fund (H20 Fund) is the Pacific's first Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC)-led climate finance mechanism," she said.
The Aotearoa (New Zealand) Maori and Pacific Islanders have pledged to collaborate in establishing the world’s largest Indigenous marine protected area network, covering an 2,200,000 km² area that will protect Aotearoa's (New Zealand) coastal waters and high seas that include exclusive economic zones (EEZ).
Blue Green Future co-founder, Dr Ralph Chami, who is also the International Monetary Fund Institute for Capacity Development, assistant director, said that he has developed a model for valuing natural assets.
He said that he has developed a framework for the development of natural capital markets for eceosystem services that include blue and green nature.
"When it comes to saving the planet, one whale is worth thousands of trees," he said.
He said that a great whale sequesters approximately 33 tons of CO2 over the course of a lifetime, saying "that's equivalent to 30,000 trees."
"Whales could capture approximately 1.7 billion tones of CO2 annually," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

New Cambodia PM announces adherence to One China Policy on official visit to Beijing

Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, in Beijing on September 15. 2023

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, September 21: Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet, who succeeded his father former Prime Minister Hun Sen and who received royal approval for prime ministership on August 10, announced in Bejing last week at the celebration of the 65th anniversary of Cambodia-China diplomatic relations that "Cambodia adheres to the "One China Policy," reports the Khmer Times.
Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet said that the purpose of his visit to Beijing was to clarify the position of Cambodia's new government to President of China Xi Jinping "on Cambodia's stance on national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and neutrality."
He said that in talks with President of China Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress in Beijing that he "reiterated Cambodia's irreversible support for the "One China Policy."
He said that from the 193 member countries of the United Nations, 181 are in agreement with the "One-China-Policy" that upholds the China claim that Taiwan, Xinjiang and Hong Kong are inalienable parts of China, saying "therefore Cambodia's stance is correct."
Cambodia Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Delegate attached to the Prime Minister, Jean-François Tain, said that Prime Minister Hun Manet's visit to China was motivated by the celebration of the 65th anniversary of Cambodia-China relations and to show gratititude for the support China has provided as its leading investor and source of developmental aid.
He said that China reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to continued economic cooperation in support of development for Cambodia that includes the continued implementation of foreign policy.
"The major principle of foreign policy are enshrined in the Constitution," he said.
He said that Cambodia does not hesitate to build relationships with countries that are beneficial to its development, saying "today, international relations are no longer based on ideological politics as was the case during the Cold War."
In April 2023 Lieutenant General, Hun Manet, said after he was endorced by his father Prime Minister, Hun Sen, as the prime ministerial candidate, that in accordance with Article 53, newly included in the Constitution, "the policy of Cambodia is not to align with China, nor to anyone else."
"Cambodia enjoys close ties with China, the US, Japan and many other countries, regardless of their relations between each other, under Cambodia's present foreign policy," he said.
"The present foreign policy of Cambodia in not one that shows favouritism towards China or any other country," he said.
He said that new Article 53 included in the Constitution makes it clear that our foreign policy is one of non-alignment, saying "the new policy was one introduced by the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP)."
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia workers call on Constitutional Court to repeal Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law

Thousands of Indonesian workers protest against emergency decree that allows employers to arbitralily determine labor's working hours and salary at the Horse Statue in central Jakarta on Thursday September 14, 2023

From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 20: Thousands of workers protested against the emergency decree signed by President Joko Widodo on March 21 that allows employers to arbitralily determine labor's working hours and salary, with the Trade Union Confederation (KSPI) and Confederation of All Indonesian Workers' Union (KSPSI AGN) that includes 32 federations calling on the Constitutional Court to repeal the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu), reports Antara.
The Trade Union Confederation (KSPI) and Confederation of All Indonesian Workers' Union (KSPSI AGN), Secretary General, Arif Minardi, called on the Constitutional Court after the protest at the Arjuna Wijaya statue in central Jakarta on Thursday.
"The signing of the emergency decree on the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu) that determines the Provincial Minimum wage (UMP) and that has revised over 70 existing laws is clearly violating constitutional provisions and the Manpower Act 2003 that protect workers’ rights," he said.
Former chief justices of the Constitutional Court of Indonesia who voted against the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu) that was first passed into law in November 2, 2021 said after the emergency decree signed by President Joko Widodo on March 21, 2023 that "signing the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu) into law by decree was a bad precedent."
Former chief justice of Indonesia's Constitutional Court Jimly Asshiddiqie said that the passing of the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu) by emergency decree by President Joko Widodo is contrary to the Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia.
He said that President Joko Widodo's signing of the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu) into law by emergency decree was a bad precedent, saying "the signing of the Omnibus Job Creation Law by decree violates the principles of the law-making process."
He said the Omnibus Law on Job Creation Law (Perpu) was in violation of workers constitution rights on various grounds including job security and workers benefits saying "the Constitutional Court stated on November 25, 2021 that Omnibus Job Creation Law was conditionally unconstitutional."
President Joko Widodo said at the passing of the emergency decree that determined the Provincial Minimum wage (UMP) and the revision of over 70 existing laws was vital to investment in the development of at least 27 industrial parks in regions across Indonesia with most outside Java.
"Industrial parks will be developed in regions across Indonesia in order to provide employment opportunities and promote equal development in all corners of the country," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Cambodia to seek return of Sam Rainsy under new ASEAN Extradition Treaty

Sam Rainsy, second right, former opposition party president of the court-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) arrives at the Kuala Lumpur international airport for a two day visit on Wednesday May 31, 2023

From News Reports:
Phnom Penh, September 19: Cambodia's National Election Committee (NEC) has ordered former opposition leader, Sam Rainsy , to return to Phnom Penh from self-exile in France to pay 20 million ($4,876) Riels in fines over election violations, saying "the National Election Committee (NEC) will seek cooperation under the ASEAN Extradition Treaty to bring him back to Cambodia," reports the Khmer Times.
National Election Committee (NEC) spokeman, Hang Puthea, said the National Election Committee (NEC) wants former opposition party president of the court-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), Sam Rainsy, to pay the fines at the Phnom Penh Election Secretariat or at the National Election Committee (NEC) office in Phnom Penh within 30 days
of receiving the order.
He said that the National Election Committee (NEC) order to pay the fines was made on the findings of the Phnom Penh Municipal Election Commission, saying "the Municipal Election Commission found Sam Rainsy and 37 former members of the court dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) guilty of inciting voters to destroy or damage the ballots during the 7th National Assembly elections on July 23, 2023."
He said that Sam Rainsy and the 37 members and activists of the court-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) were fined 10 million Riel each, saying "the National Election Committee (NEC) would seek cooperation from ASEAN countries to bring them back to Cambodia under the ASEAN Extradition Treaty."
In March 2023 the Indonesian Law and Human Rights Ministry, Director General of Legal Administrative Affairs, and chairman of the ASEAN Senior Law Officials Meeting (ASLOM), Cahyo R, said that efforts for a binding Extradition Treaty for all ASEAN member states will demonstrate ASEAN's strong commitment to working together with the international community in tackling and eradicating transnational crime."
He said that the eradication of transnational crime is vital in supporting the realization of a safe, stable, and prosperous ASEAN region," saying Indonesia encourages the realization of an ASEAN Extradition Treaty.
In November 2015 the former opposition party president of the Supreme Court dissolved opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), Sam Rainsy, fled Cambodia for France, fearing arrest after parliamentary immunity was removed and Sam Rainsy faced multiple criminal defamation charges for accusations of corruption against then prime minister Hun Sen's Cambodia's People's Party (CPP).
In June 2022 Sam Rainsy was entenced by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court to eight years in prison in absentia for treason for plotting to overthrow the Hun Sen government, incitement to committ a felony and inciting military disobedience under Articles 453, 471, 494 and 495 of the Criminal Code.
The Southeast Asian Times 

Malaysians accuse PM of helping deputy PM avoid prosecution in exchange for political support

Protesters call for charges against Deputy PM Ahmad Zahid to be reinstated in Kuala Lumpur Saturday September 16, 2023
From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, September 18: Malaysians accused Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of helping Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also president of Malaysia's largest political party, avoid prosecution in exchange for political support, calling for reinstatement of all charges at a protest in Kulala Lumpur on Saturday, reports Associated Press.
Protesters carrying placards saying "Indict Zahid - Save Malaysia," accused Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of interference in the Kuala Lumpur High Court corruption trial involving Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in the Yayasan Akalbudi (YAB) charity foundation, saying "Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has let Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad off the hook in return for political support."
The Kuala Lumpur High Court dismissed 41 criminal breach of trust (CBT), corruption and money laundering charges involved in the Yayasan Akalbudi (YAB) charity that was founded by the Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Malaysians called for the 41 charges against Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to be reinstated.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is also president of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) the largest political party in Malaysia that was formed to protect and defend the institution of the Conference of Malay Rulers and the King,
In January 2022 the Kuala Lumpur High Court ordered non-contested UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to enter a defence against 41 criminal breach of trust (CBT), corruption and money laundering charges involved in the Yayasan Akalbudi (YAB) charity foundation, with High Court judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah ruling then that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
"After conducting maximum evaluation of the evidence I find the prosecution has proven all ingredients of the charges against the accused," he said.
Ahmad Zahid Hamid pleaded not guilty to 12 criminal breach of trust (CBT) charges, eight counts of bribery and 27 for money laundering charges that he had allegedly committed between January 13, 2014 and December 23, 2016, involving tens of millions of ringgit from the Yayasan Akalbudi (YAB) charity foundation.
The High Court judge dismissed the defence argument that Ahmad Zahid Hamidi should be granted immunity from all the charges, saying he found no merit in granting immunity against the charges.
The defence had argued that Ahmad Zahid Hamidi should be granted immunity as "he had truthfully disclosed all information pertaining to the transactions involving Yayasan Akalbudi funds during investigations conducted by the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC)".
The charges, under Section 409 of the Penal Code, provide for a jail term of between two and 20 years including a whipping and a fine on conviction.
The Southeast Asian Times

Pita resigns as leader of Move Forward Party: Constitution court takes action on alleged election violations

Pita Limjaroenrat, 41, resigned as leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP) on Friday September 17, 2023
From News Reports:
Bangkok, September 17: Pita Limjaroenrat resigned as leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP on Friday after the Constitutuional Court took action on allegations made by the Election Commission (EC) that Pita Limjaroenra as presidential candidate had violated the election law, with Pita Limjaroenrat saying "regardless of my status, I’m not going anywhere," reports the Bangkok Post.
"While the Move Forward Party boasts the largest number of members of parliament in the opposition bloc, I cannot accept the position of opposition leader because the Constitutional Court has suspended me from performing my duties," he said.
He said that he has consulted with the executive committee and party members of parliament, saying "the Move Forward Party has concluded that the position of opposition leader is of the utmost importance in the parliamentary system."
"The position should be undertaken by the main opposition party in the House of Representatives," he said.
He said that the Move Forward Party (MFP) should lead the opposition, saying "the opposition is responsible for keeping the government under scrutiny and for pushing for changes that are not included in government policies."
On July 13 in the first session of parliament after the May 14 elections a total of 394 from 500 parliamentarians of mostly unelected senators, voted against Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenra's nomination for Prime Minister, with 312 voting to support the nomination, eight abstained and one did not exercise the right to vote.
The parliament again rejected Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenra nomination in the second session of parliament on July 19, with the members enforcement of Parliament Regulation No. 41 of the Constitutuional Court's decision to proceed with the Election Commission (EC) allegations that the presidential candidate had violated the election law.
The Election Commission (EC) alleged that Pita Limjaroenrat violated the election law that includes the undeclared ownership of shares in media company iTV Plc, saying "Pita Limjaroenrat is accused of running for office while failing to declare shares in a media company."
The Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenra, won the 14 May elections with 151 seats of 500 parliamentary seats, followed by the Pheu Thai Party (PTP) with 141 seats and the Bhumjaithai with 71 seats.
The Southeast Asian Times

Supporters of 2017 Constitution demand new government return Thaksin Shinawatra to Bangkok prison

Former fugitive Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra prays at portrait of King Maha Vajiralongkorn on arrival at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Tuesday August 22, 2023

From News Reports:
Bangkok, September 16: The International Student Network (I.S.N.) in Bangkok and the People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT), submitted a pettition to the new Pheu Thai Party (PTP) government on Wednesday demanding that former fugitive Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra return to the Bangkok Remand Prison from the Police General Hospital in central Bangkok, reports the Bangkok Post.
The International Student Network (I.S.N.) in Bangkok and the People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT), a faction of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) that supports the 2017 Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTAF)
Constitution, said that "changing the democratic regime of government with the King as Head of State or changing the form of the State shall be prohibited" and that "the Prime Minister may not present such a draft Constitution Amendment to the King for signature."
Former fugitive Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has remained at the Bangkok Remand Prison hospital since King Maha Vajiralongkorn granted Thaksin Shinawatra a pardon on his return to Thailand on August 22, reducing an eight-year prison sentence to one year.
The International Student Network (I.S.N.) in Bangkok and the People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT) represented by Pichit Chaimongkol, claims that "former fugitive Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra spent only one night in prison since his return to Thailand before he was admitted to hospital. "
“We and many Thai people do not believe that Thaksin was or is genuinely ill," he said.
He said that former fugitive Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra claims to be gravely ill, saying "his illness is just an excuse for him to stay out of prison where he should be."
"We demand that he is returned to prison immediately," he said.
Fugitive former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra fled to Dubai in 2008 to avoid facing trial for malfeasance in the raising or approval of alleged fraudulent Krung-Thai-Bank (KTB) non-performing loans worth almost baht 12-billion under Article 157 of the Criminal Code - the law that governs the behaviour of officials of State agencies; the Commercial Banks Act; the Securities and Exchange Act, and the Public Companies Act.
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has faced numerous arrest warrants since he fled Thailand including an arrest warrant for the Thaksin government's conversion of mobile phone operators' concession fees into excise tax that allegedly benefited Thaksin's own company.
In April 2021 the Pheu Thai Party (PTP), that was founded by Thaksin Shinawatra, called on parliament to amend the 2017 Constitution, drafted by the Royal Thai Armed Forces and signed into law by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, saying that the party is seeking to amend the section of the Constitution that deals with the Royal Thai Armed Forces appointed Senate that nominates and elects a prime minister.
The Southeast Asian Times

Call for Munir 2004 assassination to be declared a human rights violation

The Solidarity Action Committee for Munir (KASUM), wife Suciwati, centre, at the National Human Rights Commission in Jakarta on Thursday September 7, 2023

From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 15: The Solidarity Action Committee for Munir (KASUM) called on the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) to declare the assassination of human rights lawyer, Munir Said Thalib, 24, who died of arsenic poisoning on a Garuda Airways flight from Jakarta to Amsterdam via Singapore on September 7, 2004, "a gross human rights violation, reports Indoleft.
The Solidarity Action Committee for Munir (KASUM) Secretary General, Bivitri Susanti, said in a speech marking 19 years since human rights lawyer, Munir Said Thalib, was assassinated that the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has made no move to declare the assassination of human rights lawyer, Munir Said Thalib, 24, "a gross human rights violation."
The Solidarity Action Committee for Munir (KASUM) Secretary General, Bivitri Susanti, said that "on dozens of occasions we have enquired about what steps Komnas HAM) has made on Munir's assassination."
"But there has been no point of clarity on the case," he said.
He said that Solidarity Action Committee for Munir (KASUM) have met with the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM), the Indonesian National Police and the Indonesia Attorney General's Office to provide assurances of human rights violations to National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM).
"Solidarity Action Committee for Munir (KASUM) has also taken part in various court hearing into the Munir case," he said.
Human rights lawyer, Munir Said Thalib, who was founder of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence, or Kontras, and who revealed that Indonesian Army Special Forces, or Kopassus, soldiers had helped abduct 13 critics of the then Soeharto government between 1997 and 1998. was assassinated aboard a Garuda Airways flight while travelling from Jakarta to Amsterdam via Singapore on September 7, 2004.
In December 2008 Former State Intelligence Agency (BIN) deputy director, Muchdi Purwopranjono, who was formally Kopassus Commander Major General, and reportedly involved in an alleged “Rose Team” military campaign that led to the elimination of opponents of Indonesia’s “New Order” government, was found not guilty by three judges of the South Jakarta District Court for assigning an agent to poison the civil rights lawyer following the absence of key witnesses for the prosecution.
Dutch forensic scientists found that human rights lawyer, Munir Said Thalib, 39 had ingested enough arsenic to raise suspicion that he had been poisoned during his journey from Jakarta to Amsterdam via Singapore in September 4, 2004.
The Southeast Asian Times

Papua New Guinea opens embassy in Jerusalem in recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, James Marape, and Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, at the opening of the Papua New Guinea embassy in Jerusalem as the capital of Israel on Tuesday September 5, 2023

From News Reports:
Port Moresby, September 14: Papua New Guinea officially recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel with the opening of a Papua New Guinea embassy in Jerusalem on Tuesday, with Papua New Guinea opposition leader, Joseph Lelang, saying "Papua New Guinea has aroused the ire of the Palestinian Authority," reports Reuters.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, James Marape and Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu, attended the opening of the Papua New Guinea embassy in Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, with Papua New Guinea becoming the fifth embassy to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and with Papua New Guinea opposition leader, Joseph Lelang, saying "it was a reckless move,"
Papua New Guinea opposition leader, Joseph Lelang, said that" Papua New Guinea has aroused the ire of the Palestinian Authority," saying "hamas has warned us in the strongest possible terms that Papua New Guinea must reconsider that decision and move out."
"This is a serious warning and I feel for the foreign mission staff and the ambassador who will be based there," he said.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape said that the decision to open the embassy in West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel was based on Papua New Guinea's Christian principles and worldview that emanate from Judaism.
"For us to call ourself Christian, paying respect to God will not be complete without recognizing that Jerusalem is the universal capital of the people and nation of Israel," he said.
In December 2017 the United Nations Security Council draft resolution called on all countries to refrain from opening embassies in Jerusalem.
Eight of 10 Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) member nations, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam were included in the 128 countries that rejected the United States decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, Laos is not a member of the United Nations Security Council.
The Philippines, an Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) member country, was one of nine countries, including the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Marshal Islands, Togo, Micronesia and Nauru that opposed the United Nations Security Council draft resolution.
China, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom and France were among the 128 member countries that approved the United Nations Security Council draft resolution.
Canada, Mexico and Australia were among the 35 registered absentions.
In 2017 United States President Donald Trump acted under the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 that accepts Jerusalem as the Israeli capital and requires the United States to relocate its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in the United States decision to relocate the embassy
The Southeast Asian Times


New ruling Pheu Thai Party election promises missing from parliament policy statement on Monday

Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, said that "Monitoring and following up on what has been promised by the new ruling Pheu Thai Party (PTP) is an important democratic principle," in the parliament on Monday 11 September 2023
From News Reports:
Bangkok, September 13: Opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) said that the new ruling Pheu Thai Party (PTP) election promises were missing from the policy statement delivered by newly elected Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, in Parliament on Monday, with Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, saying "the policies lack specifics and commitments," reports the Bangkok Post.
Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, said after the newly elected Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin delivered the ruling Pheu Thai Party (PTP) policy statement in the parliament, saying"the policies lack specifics and commitment and fail to provide timelines for implementation."
Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, who was the first Member of Parliament to take to the floor of the parliament said "only concrete and tangible promises would be indicators of the government’s responsibilities to the people."
"Monitoring and following up on what has been promised is an important democratic principle,” she said.
Opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, said "the policy statement delivered by Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin did not inform the public of what his government would do in the next four years."
" The policies are empty, say nothing about the country’s direction and provide no details at all," she said.
Oppposition Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, said that the ruling Pheu Thai Party (PTP) Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, policy statements were written as if he is making a wish list, saying "the Prime Minister set no clear goals for the country."
"Unlike when he was the CEO of the Sansiri Real Estate company," she said.
Oppposition Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leaderr, Sirikanya Tansakul, said that Srettha Thavisin had set a clear goal to increase income at the Sansiri Real Estate company to Bt150 billion within three years.
"I expected that Srettha Thavisin experience at the Sansiri Real Estate company would be reflected in the policy satement," she said.
Oppposition Move Forward Party (MFP) deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakul, asked Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin for details of the Bt10,000 Digital Wallet scheme that he had promised in the policy statement, asking "where the government would obtain the Bt560 billion required to fund the
scheme ?"
On July 21 Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenra withdrew his nomination for prime ministerial candidate after the joint sitting of the House of Representatives and the Senate of 728 members rejected his nomination for prime minister for the second time since the May elections.
Move Forward Party (MFP) said that laws on rights and liberty are the core of the Move Forward Party (MFP) manifesto and the party would seek amendments to the Lese Majeste Law in Articles 112 and 116 of the Criminial Code and Computor Crimes.
The Southeast Asian Times

US and Vietnam sign Comprehensive Stategic Partnership including Vietnam's committment to "four no's"

US President Joseph Biden, left, and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Nguyen Phu Trong in Hanoi Saturday September 9, 2023 to sign the Comprehensive Stategic Partnership
From News Reports:
Hanoi, September 12: The United States of America and Vietnam that are signatories to a Comprehensive Partnership that was elevated to the highest level with the signing of a Comprehensive Stategic Partnership in Hanoi on Saturday, includes Vietnam's committment to the "four no's" in the Vietnam National Defence White Paper, reports the Vietnam News Agency.
United States President, Joseph R. Biden and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Nguyen Phu Trong signed the Comprehensive Stategic Partnership at the headquarters of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee in Hanoi during the U.S. President Joseph R. Biden's official two-day visit to Vietnam.
The signing of the Comprehensive Stategic Partnership on Saturday includes Vietnam's committment to the "four no's" included in the Vietnam National Defence White Paper 2019 that stipulates that Vietnam will not use force or threaten to use force in international relations.
The National Defence White Paper 2019 reaffirms Vietnam's commitment to the "three no's" defence policy that were included in the three previous National Defence White Papers in 1998, 2004, and 2009, and that the National Defence White Paper 2019 includes a fourth commitment to the reaffirmaton of Vietnam's non-participation in military alliances.
The new National Defence White Paper 2019 reaffirms that Vietnam will not join military alliances with another country, will not align with one country against another and will not allow foreign military bases on Vietnamese soil and also the fourth commitment that Vietnam will not use force or threaten to use force in international relations.
ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute Singapore, coordinator Vietnam Studies Programme and senior fellow, Le Hong Hiep, said ahead of the US President, Joseph R. Biden, official visit to Vietnam that "the most senior level in Vietnam's diplomatic hierarchy was the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, saying that elevation to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership represents a remarkarble breakthrough in bilateral ties."
Vietnam only forms such partnerships with those that it views as of great importance for its security, prosperity, and international standing, he said.
He said that Vietnam will be inviting Washington into a club of just four other Comprehensive Strategic Partners, China, India, Russia and South Korea.
Uunited States National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, said ahead of the US President Joseph R. Biden official visit to Vietnam that "the visit is a remarkable step in the strengthening of our diplomatic ties."
"It reflects the leading role that Vietnam will play in our growing network of partnerships in the Indo-Pacific," he said
The Southeast Asian Times

ASEAN committs to initiatives in ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific

ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) included in 43rd ASEAN Summit titled "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth," hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta from September 2 to 7, 2023
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 11: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders said in a statement at the conclusion of 43rd ASEAN Summit hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta last week that "ASEAN is committed to implementing the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) initiatives," reports Reuters.
"ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) will be at the forefront of our engagement with partners to foster mutual trust, respect and benefit through ASEAN-led mechanisms," said the statement.
ASEAN leaders said that the ten ASEAN member states are committed to implementing the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) through specific projects and activities aligned with its objectives and principles.
"ASEAN also welcomes the organisation of the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific forum," said the statement.
“We welcome enhanced cooperation between the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and initiatives from dialogue partners in the Indo-Pacific through ASEAN-led platforms," said the statement.
Australia Prime Minister Albert Albanese reaffirmed committment to development funding in the Indo-pacific at the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) at the 43rd ASEAN Summit titled "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth," last week saying "Australia would advance economic growth in the Indo-Pacific."
"Development funding to support the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) initiative would enable support for the ASEAN Political- Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC)," he said.
The United States committed $150 million in funding under the new Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) trade pact to ASEAN for infrastructure development and security in May 2022, with the Deputy Assistant to the Unite States President Joe Biden and Coordinator for Indo-Pacific Affairs on the United States National Security Council, Kurt Campbell saying "Washington remains focused on the Indo-Pacific and the long-term challenge of China," saying "We need to step up our game in Southeast Asia."
"The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) commits the United States to work with partners on key economic priorities including ensuring smooth supply chains, fighting corruption and promoting green energy," he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

President Marcos thanks Australia for supporting Philippines over China's incursions in West Philippine Sea

Australia Prime Minister Albert Albanese and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr sign joint declaration of strategic partnership in Manila Friday September 8, 2023
From News Reports:
Manila, September 10: Australia and the Philippines signed a joint declaration of Strategic Partnership including defence and security in Manila on Friday with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr thanking the Australian government for "supporting the Philippines over China's incursions in the West Philippine Sea, reports the Philippune Inquirer.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr thanked Australian Prime Minister Albert Albanese, "for encouraging the Philippines to remain steadfast in protecting its territory, " saying "thanks to you, Mr Prime Minister, for the strong support that you have given to the Philippines."
Australian Prime Minister Albert Albanese said that Australia's position on the Philippine claim over the West Philippne Sea will continue to be consistent, saying Australia supports the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in the Hague ruling in 2016 that ruled that China violated the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) by China's invoking of historic rights in its claim over the West Phillipine Sea.
China rejected the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in the Hague ruling saying that "the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague has no jurisdiction on this matter."
Australian Prime Minister Albert Albanese said that Australia and the Phillippines agree on the need to uphold international law, saying "we have collective responsibility for security including support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. (UNCLOS).
"That's very important," he said.
Philippines Presidential Communicatios Office (PCO) secretary, Cheloy Garafil, said that the joint declaration of Strategic Partnership seeks to foster cooperation in defence and maritime security, counterterrorism and law enforcement, climate action, education and people-to-people exchanges.
"Australia is now the Philippines second largest partner in defence and security after the United States," he said.
In February 2023 the United States and the Philippines announced a new agreement under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) that added four United States Armed Forces bases in the Philippines to the existing five, with US Defense Secretary Llyod Austin saying then "these efforts are especially important as the People’s Republic of China continues to advance its illegitimate claims in the West Philippine Sea."
China foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, warned of heightened tensions in the region following the US- Philippines 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) new agreement that included four additional United States Armed Forces bases in the Philippines to the existing five.
"The Philippines allowing US access to four additional defense sites on its territory has "escalated tension in the region and endangers regional peace and stability,” he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Myanmar seat at ASEAN Summit remains empty: Myanmar chair 2026 goes to Philippines

The ASEAN seat reserved for Myanmar at the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 and related summits in Jakarta 2-7 September 2023
From News Reports:
Jakarta September 9: Myanmar's ceded the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) rotating chair 2026 at the 43rd ASEAN Summit leaders meeting in Jakarta on Monday, with ASEAN secretary general Kao Kim Hourn announcing "the Philippines will take over the ASEAN chairmanship for 2026," reports Reuters.
ASEAN member Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. agreed at the 43rd ASEAN Summit, hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 202,3 to take over the ASEAN chair for 2026 saying "it is my pleasure to announce that the Philippines is ready to take the helm and ASEAN chair in 2026."
"We will fortify the foundations of our community-building and navigate ASEAN as it embarks on a new chapter," he said.
ASEAN secretary general Kao Kim Hourn announced that Myanmar had ceded the ASEAN chair 2016 to the Philippines following the ASEAN Leaders review and decision on the implementation of the Myanmar Point Consensus (5PC) plan that was initiated in Jakarta in April 2021.
The ASEAN leaders said in a statement on Monday "we were gravely concerned by the lack of substantial progress on the implementation by the Authority in Myanmar, despite their commitment to the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) plan in April 2021."
"We strongly condemned the continued acts of violence in Myanmar," said the ASEAN leaders
The ASEAN leaders said that they reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to assisting Myanmar in finding a peaceful and durable solution to the ongoing crisis, saying "Myanmar remains an integral part of ASEAN."
"We appreciate the ASEAN chair’s efforts to ensure progress on the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) plan," said the ASEAN leaders.
The ASEAN Leaders said they appreciate Indonesia's ASEAN chair 2023 efforts in the implementation of 5PC with the sole objective of restoring peace, stability, democracy "in a MyanmarOwned and Led comprehensive political resolution."
Indonesia ASEAN chair for 2023 affirmed ASEAN unity of the official ASEAN position on Myanmar at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM) in Jakarta in February 2023 , saying "the ASEAN foreign ministers reaffirmed a united approach in the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) plan,"
She said that Indonesia has proposed and negotiated the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) plan, saying "support from all ASEAN members shows the strong unity of ASEAN members to implement the Five-Point Consensus."
The ASEAN Five Point Concensus (5PC) plan that was introduced at the ASEAN Leaders Meeting (ALM) in Jakarta in April 2021, was attended by the Armed Forces (Tatmadaw) of Myanmar, Commander-in-Chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
Then the Armed Forces (Tatmadaw) of Myanmar, Commander-in-Chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing agreed to the ASEAN Five Point Concensus (5PC) plan that included an immediate end to all forms of violence, the release of political prisoners, implementation of the rights of women and children, unimpeded humanitarian access and facilitation and mediation with the Secretary General of ASEAN.
The Southeast Asian Times

Australia PM releases Australia's Southeast Asia Economic Strategy at ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum in Jakarta

Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, at the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum on Monday at the 43rd ASEAN Summit hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta from September 2 to 7
From News Reports:
Jakarra, September 8: Australia Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, released the Invested: Australia Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 at the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum in Jakarta on Wednesday, saying " the Southeast Asia Strategy to 2040 is an ambitious plan that takes us beyond catching up, "the Southeast Asia Strategy to 2040 positions us for what's ahead."
"Australia's economic future lies with Southeast Asia, "he said.
Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announcing a $95 million package for business to invest in the Southeast Asian region, saying "specialist Investment Deal Teams based in Southeast Asia including in Indonesia, Vietnam and Laos would assist Australian business."
"Southeast Asia’s fast-growing economies present a major opportunity for Australian business," he said.
The Invested: Southeast Asia Strategy to 2040, released at the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum at the 43rd ASEAN Summit hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta from September 2 to 7, made 75 recommendations including streamlining foreign investment and visa processes, increasing flights between Australia and the region, and new political risk insurance to underwrite businesses expanding into Southeast Asian countries.
In November 2022 Australia Prime Minister Albert Albanese committed to development funding in the Indo-Pacific at the ASEAN-Australia summit included in the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) 40th and 41st summits in Phnom Penh, saying "Australia would advance economic growth in the Indo-Pacific."
He said that Australia would advance economic growth under the Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative (Aus4 ASEAN Futures Initiative) committing AUS$470 million in development funding to support the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) initiative that would enable support for three ASEAN Community councils.
The Australian support for the implementation of the Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) initiative would enable support for the ASEAN Political- Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC).
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia names Human Trafficking a new security challenge at 27th ASEAN Political-Security Community Council

ASEAN Secretary-General, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, end of row, Indonesia Minister of Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi, centre, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs of Indonesia Moh Mahfud, 6 from left, and ASEAN members at 27th ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting in Jakarta Monday September 4, 2023
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 7: Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, and Coordinating Politics, Law, and Security Minister, Mahfud MD, named Human Trafficking as a new security challenge in ASEAN at the 27th Meeting of the ASEAN Political-Security Community Council (APSC) on Monday included in the 43rd ASEAN Summit hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta from September 2 to 7, reports Antara.
Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said "there were three aspects involved in handling new security challenges in the ASEAN region, saying "the first aspect is to address new scurity challenges."
"A more comprehensive approach is needed to eradicate human trafficking crimes, including by completing the long-delayed ASEAN Extradition Agreement," she said.
She said that concrete steps to overcome Human Trafficking are necesary, including strengthening border management, cybersecurity cooperation in the ASEAN region and the provision of effective and efficient mutual legal assistance.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said at the 27th Meeting of the ASEAN Political-Security Community Council (APSC), attended by Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn, ASEAN state leaders and ASEAN partner country leaders, that the second aspect involved in the handling of new security challenges in the ASEAN region that includes Human Trafficking is to improve the implementation of human rights.
"The Preamble to the ASEAN Charter underlines the requirement to overcome human rights challenges. that continue to grow, in an effort to ensure the human rights of the ASEAN community," she said.
She said that Indonesia is pursuing the "Leaders' Declaration on ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue," saying "Engaging in inclusive dialogue is key,"
She said that Indonesia would host the 5th Human Rights Dialogue, calling for support from all parties to help the dialogue generate better democracy and good governance in the ASEAN region including the organisation of human rights dialogue every year.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said the third aspect involved in the handling of new security challenges in the ASEAN region that includes Human Trafficking is maritime cooperation in the ASEAN region.
"The vast Indo-Pacific region holds strategic potential, however, the interests of other big countries in the world can endanger the peace and stability in our region," she said.
She called for consistent application of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and regional agreements on the Zone of Peace, Freedom, and Neutrality (ZOPFAN) and the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Agreement (SEANWFZ), the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), as an important part of the joint effort in handling new security challenges in the ASEAN region.
The Southeast Asian Times

Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 warns ASEAN that ASEAN entity depends on ASEAN

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi at the opening of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) at the 34th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair 2023 in Jakarta on September 4 2023
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 6: Indonesia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi, called on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) "to make bold decisions" at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) at the 34th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) hosted by Indonesia ASEAN chair for 2023 in Jakarta on Monday, saying "whether ASEAN can move forward or not entirely depends on us," reports Antara.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi, introduced ASEAN Concord IV at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) saying that ASEAN Concord IV would serve as the foundation for "ASEAN Community Vision 2045"
"ASEAN Concord IV would strengthen ASEAN's ability to address future challenges," she said.
She said that ASEAN must be ready to make bold decisions, saying "we cannot let our differences prevent us from moving forward."
The 34th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) functions as a supervisory council that is tasked by ASEAN leaders with overseeing the formulation and implementation of documents.
"In this upcoming 43rd ASEAN summit, we will adopt many important decisions that would chart the future of ASEAN as a community and an institution," she said.
She said that the decisions include measures that can be taken to expedite the ASEAN decision process in crises and emergency situations, saying "including decisions to strengthen ASEAN's capacity to respond to emerging challenges in the Southeast Asian."
She said that ASEAN is facing various fateful challenges and opportunities, saying "ASEAN's credibility and relevance are at stake."
"Whether ASEAN can move forward or not entirely depends on us," she affirmed.
The Southeast Asian Times


ASEAN and China endorse guidelines for maritime Code of Conduct in the Indo-Pacific

ASEAN and China at the 26th China-ASEAN Summit at the 43rd ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Jakarta from Saturday 2 to Thursday 7 September 2023
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 5: The 10 Association of South East Asean (ASEAN) member countries and China agreed to complete negotiations on the maritime draft Code of Conduct (CoC) for the South China Sea in the Indo-Pacific within three years, with Indonesia ASEAN Political and Security Cooperation director, Rolliansyah Soemirat, saying "guidelines on the maritime Code of Conduct (CoC) provided in the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO) will be endorsed by ASEAN and China at the 26th China-ASEAN Summit at the 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta on Wednesday," reports Antara.
ASEAN Political and Security Cooperation, director, Rolliansyah Soemirat, who is also Indonesia Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, said that "Indonesia has taken the initiative to accelerate Code of Conduct (CoC) negotiations on the disputed South China Sea in the Indo-Pacific with Guidelines provided in the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO).
"Indonesia's initiative in the form of Guidelines can serve as practical guidelines that also contains substantive material to keep the CoC effective and actionable," he said.
He said the Guidelines for acceleration of the Code of Conduct (CoC) negotiations were adopted at the ASEAN Defence Senior Officials’ Meeting (ADSOM) and ADSOM-Plus held in Jakarta last month.
He said the Guidelines for the Code of Conduct (CoC) provoded in the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO) were adopted by the ten ASEAN member countries and eight dialogue partner countries including Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States.
The China Communist Party (CCP) Central Committee Foreign Affairs Commission Office director, Wang Yi, said at the 26th China-ASEAN Summit on Thursday "aspirational, yes, everyone agreed to have some kind of timeline to complete the CoC in three years."
Indonesia's Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Rolliansyah Soemirat, said that Indonesia initiated guidlines for the Code of Conduct (CoC) provided in the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO) for potential maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, saying the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO) is a strategic document designed to strengthen maritime cooperation between ASEAN member countries with countries in the Indo-Pacific.
He said that the Guidelines provided in the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO) will be reviewed every three years, saying "the ASEAN Maritime Outlook (AMO) will serve as a practical guide for ASEAN member countries and partners in the Indo-Pacific to understand and advance ASEAN maritime cooperation.
China's claim over the South China Sea in the Indo-Pacific is contested by ASEAN member countries, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam and the Philippines with the Philippines first proposing a Code of Conduct (CoC) in 1997 but it was not adopted by ASEAN and China.
Instead five years later in 2002 the Philippines steered the adoption of a nonbinding Declaration of Conduct of Parties (DOC) in the South China Sea, calling on the claimnants including China to exercise self-restraint.
Negotiations on the maritime draft Code of Conduct (CoC) in the South China Sea follows the Arbitration Court in the Hague ruling in July 2016 that ruled in favour of the Philippines against China's claim of historic rights over the South China Sea.
China rejected the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruling, saying that "the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague has no jurisdiction on this matter."
China reportedly claims that the Arbitration Court in the Hague tribunal made an illegal and invalid final verdict on the South China Sea dispute.
China Foreign Ministry spokesman, Lu Kang said ahead of the ruling in 2016 that the dispute was not covered by U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) because it was ultimately a matter of sovereignty not exploitation rights.
The Southeast Asian Times


Darwin reporter John Loizou asks a survivor of the 1965 killings in Bali "why didn't you try to stop them" in "Remembering the slaughter in Paradise"
........open page here


Kang-Fu the Red Kangaroo is relentless in his fight to protect Australia's sovereignity...Open page here



What they're saying open page here

Bombed by the Americans for Christmas in 1972, Ha Noi Bach Mai hospital is still a war zone...Christina Pas reports...Open page here



MEDIA CHECK
Cambodia-China Journalist Association (CCJA) launched in Phnom Penh ...open here



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Indigenous Australians in the northern Queensland town of East Trinity aim for economic independence from eco-cultural tourism, reports Christine Howes in "Australian indigenous eco-cultural tourism venture wins best small project national award " ...open here


Kavi Chongkittavorn talks about the UK application to become an ASEAN dialogue partner in "New dynamics of Aseans external ties," with consensus yet to be reached on admitting a former colonial master of four ASEAN member countries into the Southeast Asian bloc....open

Esther Samboh talks about the choise between thousands dying of Covid-19 or from hunger in densely populated Jakarta in the new normal in "Medics dying, infections soaring - it's still the economy" ...open page here



Australian reporter, Chris Ray, investigates why Australia dropped five spots in the World Press Freedom Index...open


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Read what Son Nguyen has to say about the impact of China's virus on Vietnam's economy in "When the economy gets sick" open here



Has the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra suffered a fatal blow, or will it rise again? asks Australian reporter Chris Ray... Open page here

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Darwin reporter John Loizou asks a survivor of the 1965 killings in Bali "why didn't you try to stop them" in "Remembering the slaughter in Paradise"
........open page here



"Goodbye America" says B.A. Hamzah as he calls for Asians to determine their own political destiny in "Time for Asia to set it's own course, minus the U.S."...open here


Is prescribed burning of grasslands in northern Australia out of control? ......Chris Ray reports ... open page here

"Rockefeller and the Demise of Ibu Pertiwi" by Kerry B. Collison "is undoubtedly fictional but by no means improbable, " says Johannes Nugroho ....open page here

Viet Nam is planning to go nuclear by the year 2020.reports
John Loizou in "Calculating the costs of nuclear energy in Vietnam" ...open page here



The founder of the Revolutionary Front of Independent East Timor (Fretilin), Mari Alkatiri, the now former Prime Minister of Timor Leste, after losing the May 12, 2018 election to the National Congress for Timorese Reconstruction (CNRT) party, led by Xanana Gusmao, has accused the opposition of a coup attempt.
Twelve years ago Mari Alkatiri also accused the opposition of a coup attemp claiming then that the crises that led to his resignation was the result of a conspiracy. "I have no doubt about that" he told Darwin reporter John Loizou in an interview in Dili on 6 November 2006
......open page here

 

Cuba's 302 physicians in East Timor work at five hospitals and remote villages throughout the republic...writes Darwin reporter John Loizou ...open page here

 

Indonesia ready for big 'brother' role in ASEAN
By Prashanth Parameswaran .......open page here

 

Benedict Anderson, a man without a country, dies in Indonesia Jeet Heer reports.....open page here


Thousands of Northern Australia's indigenous rock art sites are under threat from buffalo, fire and feral animals. Tim Lee reports ........open page here

 

Copy of letter 29 May 2012 from Vietnam Womens Union to International Olympic Committee...open here


The Southeast Asian Times wishes its readers a happy Christmas and all the best for the New Year with a special thankyou to its treasured letter writers



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Published by Pas Loizou Press Darwin Northern Territory
Australia
PASLOIZOUPRESSDARWIN@bigpond.com

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Oz $ buys
Updated daily.
Prices indicative only

US...0.7582
Brunei...1.0310
Cambodia...3,115.36
China..Yuan..5,0710
East Timor...0.7582
Euro..0.6794
HongsKong...5.8808
Indonesia Rupiah.9,997.47
Japan..78.8528
Laos..6,140.58
Malaysia Ringgit.....3.0900
Myanmar..923.19
Viet Nam Dong..16,849.44

Singapore
properties listed for sale in Myanmar
From News Reports:
Yangon, November 25: Singapore's largest property developer, the Far East Organization, is to partner with Myanmar's property sales and marketing company, Min Zin Agency, in Yangon to sell condos in Singapore.
Managing director of the Min Zin Agency in Yangon, Ko Kyaw Min Zin, said that Singapore's Far East Organization has expanded its sales and marketing efforts into Myanmar.
“The Far East Organisation has been selling their Singapore properties to Myanmar buyers since 2009,” he said.
The Far East Organisation reportedly have over 750 properties in Singapore’s residential, hospitality, retail, commercial and industrial sectors,
including 45,500 or one in every six private homes in Singapore listed with the Min Zin Agency in Yangon.
The Southeast Asian Times

China to invest in rail and road construction
in Indonesia
From News Reports:
Jakarta, November 10: Indonesia's Railway Corporation (PT KAI) and state construction company PT Jasa Marga signed a memorandum of understanding
(MoU) with China Investment Fund (CIF) to develop indonesia's railway services and toll road construction.
Witness to the signing, coordinating Minister for the Economy Sofyan Djalil, said that the MoU will provide the groundwork for further cooperation between China Railway and P KAI and China Investment Fund (CIF).
"The MoU is the first step towards further development of public services between China and Indonesia" he said.
Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, Xie Feng said that the MoU would spark more cooperations between China and Indonesia and would bring about "real benefits to the public."
The Southeast Asian Times

Penang health department shuts down soya bean factory
From News Reports:
Penang, October 19: Five Penang food factories including a 100 year old soya bean factory at Tanjong Bungah were ordered closed by the state health department for failure to observe health standards.
State health, food safety and quality division, deputy director Ku Nafishah Ku Ariffin said soya bean products were processed in an unclean "rusty and moldy kitchen".
"Our inspectors found that wet products were left to dry on "dirty" bamboo sticks along with bathing towels. The bamboo sticks were also dirty and dusty," she said.
A "sweets" factory in Teluk Kumbar, a noodle factory in Simpang Ampat and a sauce factory in Bukit Metajam were also closed by the state health department
The Southeast Asian Times

Fuel smugglers including military personnel under arrest
From News Reports:
Jakarta, September 15: Riau Islands Police have arrested 30 suspects including several Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel and seized 64 cars, two boats and 106 tons of fuel.
Riau Islands Police chief Brig. Gen. Arman Depary said in Batam last week that the seized cars had been modified to hold 100 litres of fuel.
"The Military (TNI) personnel are suspected of fuel smuggling and have been handed over to the military base", he said.
TNI Commander Gen. Moeldoko said that the alleged suspected fuel smugglers are honor-based service military personnel.
The Southeast Asian Times

Thai coup blammed for fall in tourist arrivals
From News Reports:
Bangkok, August 18: The Thai tourism sector suffered its largest fall in international visitors to Thailand in June, the first month after the establishment of marshal law and the military seizure of the Yingluck Shinawatra government.
Tourism reportedly accounts for 10 percent of the Thai economy.
Data from the Thai Department of Tourism shows that inernational tourist arrival numbers in July fell by 10.9 percent compared to the same time last year.
International arrivals in July totalled 1.91 million compared to 2.15 million in July 2013.
Arrivals from China with a18 percent share of all visitors to thailand and the largest group of visitors to Thailand, fell by 25.3 percent.
Arrivals from the United Kingdom with a 4 percent share of all visitors to Thailand, was one of the few large markets to record a gain, of 6.2 percent
The Southeast Asian Times

US Senate approves sales of nuclear equipment to Vietnam
From News Reports:
Hanoi, July 31: The US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations passed legislation approving a 123 agreement on civil nuclear commerce with Vietnam at a business meeting of the committee last week.
The 123 agreement under the US Atomic energy Act of 1954 establishes a civil nuclear commerce agreement that allows the US to export nuclear reactors, research information and equipment to Vietnam.
The civil nuclear commerce agreement between the US and Vietnam is "part of Vietnam's effort to ease its shortage of energy towards meeting over 10 percent of the domestic power demand by 2030", reports the Vietnam News Service
The Southeast Asian Times

Court for construction
Industry
established
in Malaysia
From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, May 3: The first two Construction Courts for Malaysia were opened by Chief Justice Tun Arifin Zakaria in Kuala Lumpur and Shah Alam last week, reports the Star.
The courts will deal with disputes in the construction industry.
Works Minister Datuk Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof said that the establishment of the courts will transform the way the construction business in the country operates.
"The construction industry stakerholders can now have their disputes resolved by judges with expert knowledge and experience in construction industry disputes', he said.
The proposal by the Construction Industry Board (CIDB) for the establishment of the construction courts was first put to the Judiciary in January 2013.
Britain is the only other country that has a specially designated court that deals with construction industry disputes.
The Southeast Asian Times

Bali communities want larger share of tourism revenue
From News Reports:
Denpasar, April 14: Bali community-based tourism operators have called for amendments to regulations that stipulate that the local community pay the Bali regency administration 60 percent of their total tourism revenue.
Penglipuran tourist village in Bangli, community-based tourism manager, Nengah Moneng, said that he objected to the fact that his community received only 40 percent of the total revenue.
"We want to have 60 percent share of the tourist revenue to pay for operating costs", he said.
The Penglipuran tourism manager said that operating costs for trekking, traditional dance, cultural shows including religious rituals had increased.
The cost of operating lodges and community halls for tourism had also increased.
"An increase in revenue for not only the Bangli community but for tourism based communities across Bali would benefit tourism island-wide" said the tourism manager.
The Southeast Asian Times

Riau forest fires force Chevron to shut down oil wells
From News Reports:
Jakarta, March 21: PT Chevron Pacific Indonesia (CPI), the Indonesian subsidiary of US-based oil company Chevron has shut down 573 oil wells in the Riau province of Sumatra.
The deteriorating quality of air due to forest fires that have been raging for the last month has forced PT Chevron Pacific Indonesia (CPI) to shut down its oil wells and evacuate workers and there families.
Indonesia's upstream oil and gas regulator, SKK Migas, public relations officer, Handoyo Budi Santoso, said that oil assets in Riau province are important to national crude oil production.
"The biggest production loss came from the shutdown of Rokan block, operated by Chevron Pacific Indonesia, the country's biggest producer of crude oil production", he said
The Jakarta Posts reports that potential losses are estimated at about 12,000 barrels of oil a day.
The Southeast Asian Times

Sabah caters to influx of tourists from China
From News Reports:
Kuala Lumpur, March 5:
The New Straits Times reports that there was an 86 percent increase in tourist arrivals from China
to Sabah in the last two years.
Data from the Sabah Tourism Board reportedly shows that 193,010 tourist tourists arrived in Sabah from China in 2011 increasing to 360,361 in 2013
Sabah West Coast Coffeeshop Association chairman, Yong Chee Yun, said coffee shop operators were catering to the influx of tourists from China.
"Coffee shops displayed tourist friendly signs in Chinese saying 'how are you?' and menues included China's favourite foods", he said.
Sabah and Labuan Chapter chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels and general manager of the At Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort,
said that staff members are encouraged to learn Mandarin.
"So that they can converse better with guests" he said.
The Southeast Asian Times

Pilots strike forces Merpati to cancel
flights
From News Reports:
Jakarta,January 29: A pilots strike forced State-owned PT Merpati Nusantara Airlines to cancelled all scheduled flights to Surabaya, Merauke and Timika on Saturday, reports The Jakarta Post.
Merpati corporate secretary Riswanto Chendra Putra said that the airline had not paid salaries to pilots and cabin crew for two months.
The Jakarta Post reports that PT Merpati Nusantara Airlines was required to restructure its operations.
Merpati corporate secretary Riswanto Chendra Putra says that Merpati has signed a memorndum of understanding (MoU) with PT Armagedon Indonesia and PT Bentang Persada Gemilang to restructure the company.
The airline has debts of Rp 6.5 trillion (US$533 million) reports the Jakarta Post.
"The management would pay the salaries around March or early April, said the Merpati corporate secretary.
Merpati’s workers union advisory board official, Erry Wardhana, said about 200 Merpati pilots planned to strike again next Saturday for an indefinite period.
"The pilots would strike until 1,600 Merpati employees were paid", he said.
The union advisory board official says that this is the first time that Merpati workers have gone on strike over unpaid wages.
The pilots are owed wages for December and January reports the Jakarta Post.
The Southeast Asian Times