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Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Vietnam is poised to make a significant leap in its financial markets with plans to officially launch a central counterparty (CCP) mechanism by early 2027. This move is a crucial part of Vietnam’s strategy to be reclassified as an emerging market, potentially as soon as this year, and attract more foreign investment, according to the State Securities Commission. Since 2018, Vietnam has been on FTSE Russell's watchlist for market status upgrade. Currently classified as a frontier market, this status limits the investment Vietnam can attract from global funds, investors, and family offices. An upgrade to emerging market status could channel an estimated $5 billion (approximately 179 billion Thai Baht) into Vietnam's financial markets, as per World Bank forecasts. During a visit to Hanoi, FTSE Russell's global head of equity and multi-asset, Gerald Toledano, reviewed Vietnam’s progress. The government unveiled a four-phase plan to secure the upgrade, set to conclude in 2027. This plan includes finalising the legal framework and creating a subsidiary under the Vietnam Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation to operate the CCP. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, in a meeting with Toledano, expressed hopes for FTSE's support in Vietnam's reclassification, as reported by Voice of Vietnam. Toledano praised Vietnam's strong market liquidity, noting it surpasses regional counterparts like Thailand and Singapore. Vietnam's financial markets, however, remain small in comparison to its neighbours. The main stock index recently held a market valuation of about $245 billion (around 8.8 trillion Thai Baht), starkly lower than Thailand’s $455 billion (about 16.3 trillion Thai Baht) and Singapore’s $490 billion (roughly 17.6 trillion Thai Baht), according to LSEG data. Introducing the CCP will provide a robust safety mechanism, acting as an intermediary between buyers and sellers in the equity market to ensure trades are completed even in the event of a default. Additional reforms have already been rolled out, including a new transaction settlement system and relaxing pre-funding requirements for foreign investors, addressing previous barriers to market reclassification. Investor confidence appears to be growing, with foreign purchases of Vietnamese stocks increasing following a trade agreement with the United States. The VN-Index, Vietnam’s benchmark, has climbed 7.22% this month alone. FTSE Russell is expected to release a review in September, and if Vietnam secures the upgrade, the reclassification process could take six to 12 months, aligning with the agency's guidelines. Previously, Vietnam aimed to achieve this upgrade by 2025. With these strategic advancements, the nation hopes to accelerate its timeline, enhancing its financial market influence on the global stage. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-18

Photo courtesy of VN Express In a shocking revelation, Da Nang police have exposed fraudulent activities at the Da Nang International General Clinic where unqualified individuals posed as doctors to deceive and extract money from patients. Seven people, including managers and employees, are now under criminal investigation for "deceiving customers". The clinic, located at 180 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau Ward, operated under the guise of the Da Nang International General Hospital Joint Stock Company. It falsely advertised treatments for various medical conditions, including gynecological and urological issues, sexually transmitted diseases, and abortions. Police discovered that the clinic employed fake doctors without any medical qualifications or licenses. Alarmingly, some of these imposters had not even finished high school but were still conducting examinations and prescribing treatments. To dodge health authority inspections, the clinic built a hidden passage to a basement where these unlicensed individuals could hide. Legitimate doctors were temporarily brought in to pose for inspections, masking the fraudulent operations. Investigators found the clinic regularly exaggerated or fabricated medical conditions and significantly inflated treatment costs. Initially, patients were quoted fees ranging from approximately 500 to 2,600 Thai Baht, but ended up receiving bills between 25,000 and 125,000 Thai Baht for minor procedures. Clinic staff reportedly used painful procedures and threatened serious health issues to pressure patients into accepting expensive treatment plans. At least 17 victims have been identified, with illicit profits estimated at nearly 1.3 million Thai Baht. Da Nang police are urging any victims of this clinic to come forward and report their experiences to Team 4 – Office of the Criminal Investigation Police, at 47 Ly Tu Trong Street, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang City. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-18

Photo courtesy of VN Express Minh Tam's return to Vietnam after eight years in Canada took her family and friends by surprise. At 30, with a stable job, she faced no challenges integrating into Canadian society, yet never truly felt at home. Her routine was solitary, marked by a rotating cycle of work and mundane living. The decision to return was sparked by two profound experiences: an intense wave of homesickness upon landing in Hanoi in 2023 and a vivid dream of her parents pleading with her to stay. These moments highlighted her deeper sense of belonging to Vietnam. Tam’s story is part of a growing trend of return migration. Each year, around 25,000 Vietnamese emigrants come back, driven by the country’s burgeoning economy and improved living standards. This shift is noted in the Migration Profile Vietnam report by the International Organization for Migration. Nguyen Thi Huong, another returnee, spent years in the U.S. and Australia. As a retired nurse, she initially moved to California in 2019 to be with her children. Despite her language skills and open personality, she felt isolated amidst the busy lives of her family and the dispersed Vietnamese community. An emotional encounter in a park, where a stranger mistook her for homeless, solidified her decision to return. Australia offered no solace either, leaving her feeling lonely and disconnected. By 2023, she returned to Vietnam, finding solace in her renovated home balancing personal space with a lively pho shop rental. This sense of belonging echoes through the stories of many return migrants. According to the United Nations Economic and Social Affairs, second-generation Vietnamese abroad often struggle with language barriers and cultural integration, prompting a return to their roots. Dr. Catherine Earl from RMIT University Vietnam attributes this reverse migration to more than just adaptation difficulties overseas. Her research suggests that migration is now fluid, with people moving between countries for various life stages. For many, the emotional fulfilment found in familial and cultural connections back home outweighs the benefits of living abroad. Thanh Binh’s narrative similarly highlights these emotional ties. After 20 years in Germany, he decided to return to Vietnam following the death of a close friend. Despite a successful career path in Germany, he yearned for the deep connections and community bonds found in Vietnam. These return migrations reveal personal choices influenced by cultural, emotional, and sometimes economic factors. Dr. Earl suggests that if Vietnam implements supportive education and employment policies, return migrants can significantly contribute to the country’s development. Ultimately, these stories reflect a broader theme of rediscovery and belonging, where returning home offers a unique chance to live authentically and contribute to national growth. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-18

Photo courtesy of PhilStar The Department of Tourism (DOT) in the Philippines is pressing insurance firm HelloSafe for more than just an apology following a controversial report. The firm recently ranked the Philippines as the "least safe" country in the world, sparking widespread concern and a swift retraction. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco has taken a firm stance, calling for transparency and accountability. She's written to HelloSafe's founder, Antoine Fruchard, to address the "false and misleading" report. Frasco stressed that such publications disguise as safety indices can cause undue alarm and harm the nation's reputation. While HelloSafe has apologised for its report and removed the contentious section from its travel safety index, the impact lingers. The firm initially listed the Philippines, Colombia, and Mexico as the three most dangerous nations, citing high societal violence. Following backlash, HelloSafe is now reviewing its methodology, having suspended the ranking as of June 2025. Frasco highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that despite HelloSafe's retraction, the report continues to spread internationally. She emphasised the need for transparency in global rankings, which significantly influence public perceptions and the tourism sector. This flawed portrayal has undermined years of efforts by the government and private sector to promote the Philippines as a "safe and welcoming" destination. Frasco stated the reputational damage caused by the misleading report is significant and distorts public perception. Other tourism bodies, including the Philippine Hotel Owners Association and Pacific Asia Travel Association, have joined in criticising the report. They've collectively described it as "misleading" and called for its complete withdrawal. The DOT remains vigilant in monitoring how the Philippines is depicted in global travel reports and rankings. The tourism sector's momentum is crucial, and such incidents underscore the importance of responsible reporting. In light of these events, the broader community within the Philippines is keen to see responsible and accurate representations that reflect the true spirit of the nation. As tourism plays a critical role in the economy, maintaining a positive and accurate international image is paramount. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-07-18

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin In a decisive move, Philippine lawmakers have introduced an unnumbered bill to amend the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006. The proposed changes aim to hold offenders aged 10 to 17 accountable for heinous crimes, removing current criminal liability exemptions. Historically, the law set the minimum age of criminal responsibility at 15. However, under the new bill, children in conflict with the law (CICL) aged 10 to below 18 must be placed in Bahay Pag-asa, a child-caring institution. Exceptions arise when heinous crimes are involved. For these grave offences, offenders above 10 years will no longer be exempt from criminal liability. Heinous crimes are defined to include parricide, murder, infanticide, and kidnapping with serious illegal detention, especially when involving death or rape. Other severe offences like robbery with homicide or rape, destructive arson, and drug crimes punishable by over 12 years in prison also fall under this category. The current proposal aims to replace age brackets, changing provisions regarding repeated offences to include children between 15 to 18 years, ensuring accountability for heinous activities. Automatic suspension of sentences and case dismissals for offenders will only apply if the crime is non-heinous. Senator Padilla, advocating for the amendments, emphasised the balance the bill seeks to achieve: "We are committed to restorative, not punitive justice, but we must maintain the integrity of our justice system. The existing law fails to effectively address heinous juvenile crimes." The bill reflects growing concerns over youth crime and seeks to reinforce community safety while focusing on rehabilitation for minor offences. The changes are anticipated to stimulate debate, balancing child welfare with the demands for justice and security. Local communities and experts are closely monitoring the developments, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems alongside legal reforms. As the discussion unfolds, the proposed amendments present a pivotal moment for Philippine juvenile justice. Converting monetary impacts into context, if these changes reduce crime rates, the social and economic benefits could equate to savings of millions. With an average impact per crime estimated at 500,000 Thai Baht in community costs, reforms offer significant potential benefits. The Philippines' initiative mirrors global discussions on youth crime and justice, inviting comparisons and insights from international systems. As stakeholders engage, this legislative shift could influence regional approaches to juvenile law. In conclusion, while the bill seeks stricter measures for serious crimes, it remains rooted in rehabilitative intent. As the debate continues, its impact on the justice system and society will unfold, calling for careful assessment and strategic implementation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-18

File photo for reference only The Philippines has responded to China's recent advisory cautioning Chinese students about safety concerns, affirming that the country remains secure for international visitors. In a statement, Malacañang acknowledged China's right to issue advisories for its citizens but emphasised that the Philippines is addressing safety concerns and showcasing improvements. Claire Castro, Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary, highlighted the country's decreasing crime rate, which includes a decline in crimes linked to the war on drugs and Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). "China has the right to protect its citizens, but we are seeing positive changes in our crime statistics," Castro stated during a press briefing. She assured that the government's efforts are yielding results with faster police responses and a safer environment for all. The advisory from China's Ministry of Education advised caution due to reported crimes targeting Chinese nationals. However, Castro pointed out that many involved in previous POGO operations have been deported, contributing to the perceived improvements in safety. Castro further cited the Philippines' promising position in the upcoming 2025 Global Peace Index as evidence of ongoing progress in national security. "The index reflects our continuing efforts to enhance safety across the country," she explained. The Palace official reaffirmed that the security of all foreign nationals, including Chinese students, remains a priority for the Philippine government. "We are committed to ensuring everyone's safety while they are here," Castro added. The complex relationship between crime rates and international perceptions presents an ongoing challenge for the Philippines as it seeks to balance foreign relations with domestic security measures. As the dialogue continues, the Philippines is determined to showcase its ongoing improvements and reassure international communities of its dedication to safety and stability. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-18

Phuket Sees Surge in European Off-Peak Travel, Revenue Set to Soar Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Phuket is witnessing a remarkable shift in tourism dynamics as European visitors increasingly choose the island for off-season travel. The Phuket Tourist Association anticipates this change could augment tourism revenue by over 40 billion baht (approximately £900 million) this year, reflecting a significant 10% growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1367144-phuket-sees-surge-in-european-off-peak-travel-revenue-set-to-soar/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Phuket is witnessing a remarkable shift in tourism dynamics as European visitors increasingly choose the island for off-season travel. The Phuket Tourist Association anticipates this change could augment tourism revenue by over 40 billion baht (approximately £900 million) this year, reflecting a significant 10% growth. Thanet Tantipiriyakit, the association’s president, observed heightened interest from tourists hailing from the UK, Germany, and France in visiting during the so-called 'green season', traditionally considered a quieter period. "This shift in travel behaviour is promising," Thanet remarked, highlighting a rise in direct flights from Europe, especially from France, as a pivotal factor. The influx is projected to boost revenue in Phuket by an impressive 40 billion baht in 2025, up from 498 billion baht last year, even if visitor growth lags slightly. A particularly fascinating change is emerging in traveller demographics from Asia. Chinese tourist numbers dwindled by about 50% during the previous green season, yet visitors from India surged by an equivalent margin. “Chinese tourists have declined, but Indian tourists have increased by about 50%,” Thanet noted. The differences extend beyond mere numbers—Indian travellers often stay in Patong, favouring Indian restaurants and vegetarian cuisine. On the other hand, Chinese tourists, particularly the Free Independent Travellers (FITs), explore more and invest considerably in local dining and shopping. Local retailers and restaurateurs, previously reliant on Chinese tourists, feel the pinch as Indian visitors typically spend less. This demographic shift, despite stable overall tourist numbers, underscores the nuanced impact on local businesses. As the high season approaches, Thanet is optimistic yet cautiously aware of global economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. Nevertheless, early bookings indicate strong demand, particularly for international hotels, many of which have already secured reservations for peak dates. “If conditions remain stable, Phuket tourism should outperform last year. Projections suggest a 10% growth in value,” Thanet added. Phuket's governor, Sophon Suwannarat, underscored the strategy to attract higher-quality tourists rather than simply increasing numbers. The current visitor count of 13 to 14 million annually is deemed appropriate, but the focus is shifting towards markets known for higher expenditure. "We should aim to attract high-spending tourists," Sophon emphasised, pointing towards potential markets like Kazakhstan and China, with initiatives such as roadshows to entice these lucrative segments. Interestingly, a resurgence of Chinese tourists is already being witnessed, partly aided by school holidays in July and August which have seen many flights from Bangkok to Phuket filled with Chinese nationals. Efforts to reinstate direct flights, including engaging in discussions with Zhanjiang—Phuket’s sister city in China—further signal an optimistic horizon. Direct connections to Don Mueang and ultimately Phuket are on the discussion table, potentially revitalising Chinese tourism inflow and boosting economic prospects for local businesses. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

Rayong Shock: Father Found Dead Surrounded by Beer Bottles Photo via Facebook/ ท่านเปา In a tragic discovery in Rayong's Ban Chang district, Thai man Thaweesak Namwongsa was found dead among more than 100 empty beer bottles in his bedroom. The 44-year-old, reportedly overwhelmed by personal stress, had turned to heavy drinking in the weeks leading up to his death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1367143-rayong-shock-father-found-dead-surrounded-by-beer-bottles/

Photo via Facebook/ ท่านเปา In a tragic discovery in Rayong's Ban Chang district, Thai man Thaweesak Namwongsa was found dead among more than 100 empty beer bottles in his bedroom. The 44-year-old, reportedly overwhelmed by personal stress, had turned to heavy drinking in the weeks leading up to his death. Rescue workers from the Siam Rayong Foundation were alerted after Thaweesak’s 16-year-old son returned from school to find his father convulsing. Despite a neighbour's attempt at CPR, Thaweesak was pronounced dead upon the rescue team's arrival. Living separately from his ex-wife, Thaweesak and his son shared the house where the tragedy unfolded. According to his son, Thaweesak had been consuming only beer for over a month, ignoring the meals prepared for him. The young boy was uncertain about his father's health history. The scene described by rescue workers was grim: the bedroom was cluttered with empty beer bottles, leaving barely any space to walk. It was a stark testament to Thaweesak’s struggles, though the specific causes of his distress remain private. The event has sparked widespread conversation on social media platforms. While condolences pour in, some netizens are critical of Thaweesak's dependence on alcohol, which left his son to face the aftermath alone. An autopsy is underway to determine the exact cause of Thaweesak’s death, but excessive alcohol consumption is believed to be a significant factor. The World Health Organisation highlights that alcohol contributes to over 2.6 million deaths annually, linked to chronic diseases, injuries, and mental health issues. The incident raises pressing questions about who will care for Thaweesak’s son, a matter yet unresolved. It also underscores the devastating impact of alcohol abuse, with experts continuously urging those in distress to seek healthier coping mechanisms and support. As the community processes this somber event, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of reaching out for help in times of personal turmoil. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Vows to Restore Faith in Thai Buddhism Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Facebook Thailand is grappling with a series of monk scandals that have shaken the nation's trust in Buddhism. In response, Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a major initiative to restore the religion’s tarnished image. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1367142-paetongtarn-shinawatra-vows-to-restore-faith-in-thai-buddhism/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Facebook Thailand is grappling with a series of monk scandals that have shaken the nation's trust in Buddhism. In response, Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a major initiative to restore the religion’s tarnished image. Speaking through social media, Paetongtarn, also the leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, emphasised the urgency of rebuilding public confidence. "The recent misconduct by monks has caused deep confusion and weakened people’s faith," she stated. "This is more than an isolated issue; it’s a critical turning point." The government has directed the Ministry of Culture, alongside the National Office of Buddhism and the Ministry of Education, to launch a comprehensive awareness campaign. The aim is to mend the relationship between laypeople and the clergy while reinvigorating traditional Thai values centred around morality and peaceful coexistence. Paetongtarn has convened high-level meetings within her ministry to develop long-term strategies. She is clear that the approach will not resist societal change but will adapt to it thoughtfully. "Our approach will not reject societal change but embrace and adapt to it consciously," she remarked. A key focus of the campaign is to modernise how Buddhism is presented, particularly to younger audiences. This involves updating the communication of Buddhist teachings to resonate with the digital age. Instead of outdated methods, the campaign seeks to provide real opportunities for Thai youth to connect with Buddhism in ways that are relevant to their daily lives. Additionally, Paetongtarn called on civil servants and government workers to set an example. She stressed that restoring faith in Buddhism requires more than just policy changes; it necessitates a collective and sincere effort throughout society. "True restoration must come from mutual understanding and collective action," she noted. This initiative comes in the wake of recent scandals involving monks and temple mismanagement, which have attracted significant public and media scrutiny. These events have challenged the credibility of the country's religious institutions. Paetongtarn's campaign is set to unfold in phases over the coming months, with the potential to significantly impact the perception and practice of Buddhism in Thailand. As reforms take shape, the nation watches closely to see if these efforts will restore trust and reinforce the enduring values of Buddhism in modern Thai society. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

Thai Senate Election Scandal: 229 Accused of Vote-Rigging Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World An investigative panel has recommended prosecuting 229 individuals, including Bhumjaithai Party executives, for alleged widespread vote-rigging during Thailand’s Senate election last year. The Election Commission (EC) must now consider these recommendations and may approach the Constitutional Court to potentially dissolve the Bhumjaithai Party. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1367141-thai-senate-election-scandal-229-accused-of-vote-rigging/

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World An investigative panel has recommended prosecuting 229 individuals, including Bhumjaithai Party executives, for alleged widespread vote-rigging during Thailand’s Senate election last year. The Election Commission (EC) must now consider these recommendations and may approach the Constitutional Court to potentially dissolve the Bhumjaithai Party. The accused include 138 sitting senators and 91 individuals connected to the Bhumjaithai Party, encompassing both executives and affiliates. This panel, formed by representatives from the EC and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), put forward these recommendations on 17th July, following independent investigations into the alleged electoral misconduct. Upon examining the evidence, the committee concluded that sufficient grounds existed to suggest the accused facilitated the election of senators through dishonest means. The alleged actions violate Section 113 of the constitution, which mandates that senators remain independent and uninfluenced by political parties. Bhumjaithai, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, has consistently denied any involvement in manipulating the June 2024 election outcome. With the investigation entering its second phase, the EC is set to receive the findings for further analysis by investigators, who will then report to key officials, such as the EC's secretary general or deputy. Controversy has arisen over the involvement of EC Secretary General Sawaeng Boonmee in the case, given his previous role as national director of the 2024 poll, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Consequently, authority will be delegated to one of his deputies. Since March, the investigations have targeted a group of senators known as the "blue bloc," closely linked to Bhumjaithai, which was recently the second-largest party in the government coalition. The results of the Senate vote on 26th June last year revealed surprising outcomes, notably an unusual concentration of winners in provinces where Bhumjaithai enjoys significant support. Particularly striking was the election of 14 senators from Buriram, the largest from any province. Buriram is known as the stronghold of Newin Chidchob. Despite holding no official position and having claimed political retirement, Chidchob is believed to wield considerable influence within the Bhumjaithai Party. With tension mounting, the EC’s imminent decision will be closely watched. Should the case advance to the Constitutional Court, it could lead to the disbandment of Bhumjaithai, profoundly reshaping Thailand’s political landscape. The developments underscore the growing scrutiny over electoral processes in Thailand, as the country navigates complex political dynamics. With charges recommended and allegations mounting, this unfolding story is one to watch in the coming weeks. As events progress, the outcome could significantly impact Thai political alliances and governance. Stay tuned as we follow this story closely, providing updates on key developments and decisions affecting Thailand’s political future. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

Soi Yen Sabai Mayhem: Police Tackle Youthful Brawls Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Late-night pandemonium erupted on Soi Yen Sabai in Pattaya this week, igniting local frustration and prompting a decisive police crackdown. The commotion stemmed from clashes between two groups of Middle Eastern youths on 16th July, coinciding with the summer influx of Kuwaiti students. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1367140-soi-yen-sabai-mayhem-police-tackle-youthful-brawls/