Thăng Long Corporation and EHA Industrial Forge Strategic Partnership to Develop Green Industrial Infrastructure in Vietnam
Thăng Long Corporation – JSC (TTL) and EHA Hải Phòng Industrial Development JSC (EHA Industrial) have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to jointly invest in and develop modern, sustainable industrial infrastructure projects across Vietnam. The partnership aims to build a green and competitive industrial ecosystem that supports long-term national growth while attracting global manufacturers seeking reliable and eco-friendly production bases in the country.
Under the agreement, the two companies will co-develop ready-built factories and warehouses (RBF/RBW) and associated infrastructure, beginning with a flagship 9-hectare project in Nam Đình Vũ Industrial Park, Hải Phòng City, valued at VNĐ900 billion. Over the next two years, they plan to expand this model to at least 100 hectares of industrial land. Leveraging Thăng Long’s 52 years of engineering and construction expertise and EHA Industrial’s strong financial networks, the collaboration will emphasise advanced technologies and sustainable design. Both firms highlighted their shared vision of setting new benchmarks for green industrial development in Vietnam, fostering innovation, and contributing to the country’s transition toward a modern, low-carbon industrial economy.
Editor’s Note: Thăng Long Corporation and EHA Industrial have formed a strategic partnership to co-develop sustainable industrial infrastructure across Vietnam, starting with a VNĐ900 billion, 9-hectare project in Nam Đình Vũ Industrial Park, Hải Phòng. Combining Thăng Long’s engineering legacy and EHA’s financial strength, the collaboration aims to expand to 100 hectares and set new benchmarks for green, tech-driven industrial ecosystems that attract global manufacturers and support Vietnam’s low-carbon transition.
Europe Powers Vietnam’s Green Transition with €430 Million Energy Investment
The European Union has unveiled a €430 million funding package to support Vietnam’s Bac Ai Pumped Hydro Storage project — a landmark initiative aimed at accelerating the country’s clean energy transformation. Announced during the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, the deal was finalised between European Commissioner for Energy Jozef Síkela and Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Bùi Thanh Sơn. The investment, part of the EU and UK-led Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), will help Vietnam cut coal dependency, expand renewable capacity, and strengthen grid stability as it pursues its net-zero emissions goal by 2050.
The Bac Ai facility, designed to function like a giant battery by storing excess renewable power for later use, will enhance the reliability of Vietnam’s electricity system and support large-scale integration of solar and wind energy. The project is being financed through Team Europe — a coalition including the European Investment Bank, France’s AFD, Germany’s KfW, Italy’s CDP, and PROPARCO — as part of the EU’s broader Global Gateway strategy to mobilise €300 billion globally by 2027 for sustainable infrastructure. By combining European technology, financing, and expertise, the initiative reinforces Vietnam’s role as a regional clean energy leader and showcases how international collaboration can drive both economic development and climate resilience.
Editor’s Note: The European Union has committed €430 million to Vietnam’s Bac Ai Pumped Hydro Storage project, a key initiative under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) to reduce coal reliance and boost renewable energy integration. Backed by Team Europe and the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, the project will enhance grid stability, support Vietnam’s net-zero goals, and position the country as a regional clean energy leader through international collaboration.
Vietnam Strengthens Semiconductor Ambitions with Focus on Talent Development
Vietnam is taking decisive steps to build a high-quality talent ecosystem to support its goal of becoming a major semiconductor hub in Asia. At a recent press briefing introducing Japan’s semiconductor technology and bilateral cooperation, Professor Usagawa Tsuyoshi, a leading Japanese expert and adviser to the Vietnam Japan University (VJU), said the Vietnamese Government’s target of training 50,000 semiconductor professionals by 2030 is achievable through coordinated efforts between the State, businesses, and universities. The VJU, in collaboration with the University of Tokyo and Kumamoto University, will launch a bachelor’s programme in semiconductor engineering in September 2025 to train about 400 engineers by 2030, marking one of Vietnam’s first specialised initiatives in this field.
According to a Deloitte 2024 report, Vietnam currently hosts over 40 enterprises in the semiconductor value chain, focusing mainly on chip design and assembly while preparing to expand into wafer fabrication and advanced packaging. Experts emphasise that strong partnerships between universities, enterprises, and research institutes are essential to develop a skilled and industry-ready workforce. With major firms such as Viettel and FPT entering chip design and fabrication, and a national semiconductor strategy to 2045 underway, Vietnam is positioning itself as a key player in the global technology supply chain — combining academic innovation, industrial collaboration, and strategic vision to power its semiconductor future.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam is ramping up efforts to become a regional semiconductor hub by developing a robust talent pipeline, aiming to train 50,000 professionals by 2030 through coordinated initiatives like VJU’s upcoming semiconductor engineering program. With over 40 active enterprises, growing industry-academia partnerships, and a national strategy to 2045, the country is advancing from chip design and assembly toward full-scale fabrication and global supply chain leadership.
Vietnam Pledges Human-Centric and Responsible AI Development at VIDW 2025
Vietnam has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the growth of its artificial intelligence (AI) industry while ensuring safety, transparency, and accountability in AI governance. Speaking at a roundtable during the Viet Nam International Digital Week (VIDW 2025), Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung outlined the country’s vision to build a human-centric, open, safe, and sustainable AI ecosystem. He said Vietnam’s AI strategy rests on four foundational pillars — a robust AI legal and ethical framework, modern infrastructure, skilled talent, and a culture that fosters innovation and responsibility.
The minister also highlighted the importance of global cooperation to share knowledge, promote open-source AI, and encourage inclusive development across sectors. Running from Monday to Wednesday in Ninh Binh and Hanoi, VIDW 2025 features forums and exhibitions focused on digital transformation, innovation, and safe AI governance. The event underscores Vietnam’s determination to position itself as a regional leader in responsible AI development, balancing technological progress with ethical and societal priorities.
https://english.news.cn/asiapacific/20251027/5ca3df3679b54daba41318a18ef75449/c.html
Editor’s Note: At VIDW 2025, Vietnam reaffirmed its commitment to building a human-centric, safe, and sustainable AI ecosystem grounded in legal frameworks, infrastructure, talent, and innovation. The event highlighted Vietnam’s strategy for responsible AI development and global collaboration, positioning the country as a regional leader in ethical and inclusive digital transformation.
Experts Highlight AI’s Transformative Role in Strengthening Vietnam’s Audit Capacity
An international conference on enhancing audit capacity through artificial intelligence (AI) was held in Hanoi on October 13, co-organised by the State Audit Office of Vietnam (SAV) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). The event brought together over 100 senior representatives from international organisations, audit institutions, and financial and academic sectors to discuss how AI can improve audit quality, transparency, and governance. Experts agreed that AI offers powerful tools to accelerate data processing, strengthen accountability, and enhance the accuracy of public financial oversight. However, they also warned that technology must be guided by human intelligence and ethics. SAV officials highlighted ongoing digital transformation efforts, including new audit support software and AI integration, while noting key challenges such as data-sharing limitations, an incomplete legal framework, and uneven technological readiness among auditors.
ACCA Global President Ayla Majid emphasised that AI enhances auditing’s core purpose — ensuring transparency and trust — but underscored the need for continuous learning and collaboration between audit bodies, regulators, and enterprises. Corporate leaders like Techcom Securities’ Deputy CEO Ngo Hoang Ha shared practical insights on using AI for risk assessment, data analytics, and operational efficiency, while maintaining human oversight in decision-making. Participants collectively agreed that public-private partnerships and international cooperation will be vital in building a sustainable, technology-driven auditing ecosystem, where AI acts as an enabler of better governance rather than a replacement for professional judgment.
https://vir.com.vn/hanoi-dialogue-focuses-on-ai-innovation-in-auditing-138692.html
Editor’s Note: At a Hanoi conference co-hosted by SAV and ACCA, experts emphasized AI’s potential to enhance audit quality, transparency, and governance while stressing the importance of ethical oversight and human judgment. With ongoing digital transformation, public-private collaboration, and global cooperation, Vietnam aims to build a sustainable, tech-driven auditing ecosystem that leverages AI for better financial accountability.
Thailand’s WHA Group Breaks Ground on Smart, Eco-Friendly Industrial Zone in Vietnam’s Thanh Hoa
Thailand’s WHA Group has officially broken ground on the WHA Smart Technology Industrial Zone–Thanh Hoa, a world-class, modern, and environmentally friendly industrial complex in central Vietnam. Located just 12 kilometers from Thanh Hoa city, the 540-hectare project offers strategic connectivity to major ports, airports, and transport hubs, positioning it to attract high-value industries such as electronics, automotive components, and logistics. Developed under WHA’s Smart Eco Industrial Zone concept, the site integrates innovation, digitalization, and sustainability — featuring renewable energy systems, smart utilities, circular resource management, and advanced digital infrastructure. The first tenants are expected to begin operations following the completion of Phase 1 (178 hectares) later in 2025.
WHA Industrial Development CEO Pajongwit Pongsivapai said the project underscores the group’s confidence in Vietnam’s growth potential and its ability to capture the next wave of global supply chain shifts. The initiative marks a major milestone in WHA’s long-term commitment to sustainable development in Vietnam, where it has already invested approximately $360 million across projects in Hanoi, Hung Yen, Nghe An, and Thanh Hoa. Beyond industrial zone development, WHA plans to expand into renewable energy, water and wastewater treatment, and logistics infrastructure — reinforcing its strategy to promote innovation, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth in partnership with local communities.
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s WHA Group has launched the 540-hectare WHA Smart Technology Industrial Zone in Thanh Hoa, Vietnam, designed to attract high-value industries through smart, sustainable infrastructure and strategic connectivity. With Phase 1 set to open in 2025, the project reflects WHA’s $360 million investment in Vietnam and its broader commitment to renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth.
Thailand Strengthens Economic Ties with South Korea to Boost AI, Semiconductor, and EV Investment
Thailand is deepening its economic partnership with South Korea to accelerate digital transformation and attract investment in high-tech industries. During a bilateral meeting in Incheon on the sidelines of the 32nd APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas and South Korea’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun Cheol reaffirmed their nations’ commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and innovation. Both leaders emphasized collaboration in the digital economy, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and technological innovation, with Thailand recognizing South Korea as a model for advanced digital and industrial development.
The discussions focused on promoting Korean investment in Thailand’s priority sectors, including semiconductors, smart healthcare, electric vehicles (EVs), and emerging technologies — key pillars of Thailand’s medium-term economic strategy. The ministers also agreed on the importance of strengthening energy security to support the digital economy, committing to develop clean energy solutions and lower energy costs. The meeting underscored Thailand’s strategic intent to leverage South Korea’s expertise and capital to advance its high-tech manufacturing base and build a more resilient, innovation-driven economy.
https://www.nationthailand.com/news/world/40057209
Editor’s Note: Thailand is deepening its partnership with South Korea to drive digital transformation and attract investment in key sectors like AI, semiconductors, EVs, and smart healthcare. At the APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting, both nations pledged to enhance trade, innovation, and energy security, positioning Thailand to strengthen its high-tech manufacturing base and build a resilient, innovation-led economy.
Thailand Fast-Tracks 300 Billion Baht Investment Projects to Revive Economic Growth
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) announced plans to accelerate approval and implementation of investment projects worth 300 billion baht ($9.22 billion) within the next four months, as part of government efforts to stimulate a sluggish economy. BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi said on Friday that the agency will streamline procedures and ease regulations to facilitate around 70 projects, primarily in the sectors of data centers, electronics, and power generation.
The accelerated investment plan aligns with the government’s broader strategy to boost Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, which has been weighed down by high household debt, U.S. trade tariffs, and a strong baht. In addition to the investment drive, the government is rolling out fresh stimulus measures, including new incentives to promote domestic tourism, with the goal of pushing annual economic growth above the current forecast of 2.2%.
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s Board of Investment is fast-tracking 300 billion baht in projects over four months to stimulate economic growth, focusing on data centers, electronics, and power generation. Alongside streamlined approvals, the government is launching new stimulus measures to counter economic challenges and raise growth beyond the current 2.2% forecast.
Thailand Proposes New ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Framework to Tackle Cybercrime and Promote Green Growth
Thailand has outlined three strategic approaches to strengthen ASEAN–Korea cooperation, focusing on combating emerging security threats, advancing digital transformation, and building a green and sustainable future. Speaking at the 26th ASEAN–Republic of Korea Summit on October 27, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Thai Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the need for joint action against online fraud and cybercrime, stronger maritime awareness, and enhanced law enforcement cooperation—an initiative supported by several ASEAN members, including Singapore, the Philippines, and Laos.
As ASEAN’s coordinating country for relations with South Korea, Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to driving the ASEAN–ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) towards tangible results. The Thai leader proposed collaboration in three key areas: developing the technology and digital economy by supporting Korea’s “AI Initiative”; strengthening economic cooperation through the Thailand–ROK Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and upgrades to the ASEAN–Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA); and creating a green future through projects such as “Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN.” He also highlighted Thailand’s readiness to partner with Korea in renewable energy, environmental technology, and public health initiatives under the 2026–2030 ASEAN–ROK Work Plan.
https://en.moneyandbanking.co.th/2025/204798
Editor’s Note: At the 26th ASEAN–ROK Summit, Thailand proposed a new cooperation framework with South Korea focused on tackling cybercrime, advancing digital transformation, and promoting green growth. As ASEAN’s coordinating country, Thailand emphasized joint efforts in AI, trade, and sustainability under the 2026–2030 ASEAN–ROK Work Plan to drive tangible outcomes in regional development.
Thailand’s EV Production Soars Over 300% as Automotive Industry Shifts Toward Electrification
Thailand’s automotive industry recorded a sharp rise in electric vehicle (EV) production in September 2025, with battery electric vehicle (BEV) output surging 330.45% and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) production soaring 527.08% year-on-year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Overall vehicle production reached 128,104 units, up 4.77% from the previous year, driven by robust domestic EV manufacturing that is increasingly replacing imported models. Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) production also grew 23.66%, while passenger pickup vehicle (PPV) output climbed nearly 30% on the back of new model launches.
Domestic sales reflected similar momentum, rising 23.82% in September as lower EV prices and improved technology broadened consumer access. However, pickup truck sales declined 4% amid tighter lending conditions and economic headwinds. Exports were mixed, with total export production down 2.33% but actual shipments up 7.23%, buoyed by strong demand for EVs and pickup trucks across multiple regions. The surge in EV manufacturing underscores Thailand’s growing competitiveness as a regional hub for electric mobility and marks a structural shift toward cleaner, high-value vehicle production.
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s EV production surged over 300% in September 2025, with BEV and PHEV output leading a broader shift toward domestic electrification and cleaner, high-value vehicle manufacturing. Despite mixed export figures and declining pickup truck sales, rising domestic demand and new model launches highlight Thailand’s growing role as a regional hub for electric mobility.
CHANGAN Launches “In Thailand, For Thailand” Strategy to Accelerate EV Industry Growth
Chinese automaker CHANGAN Automobile has unveiled its “In Thailand, For Thailand” strategy to boost the country’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem and strengthen its position in Southeast Asia’s fast-growing EV market. The company announced an investment of over 10 billion baht to build its first overseas EV manufacturing plant in Rayong province, which will serve as a regional hub for ASEAN, Australia, and New Zealand. Expected to generate more than 20,000 jobs, with 90% local employment and up to 80% local parts sourcing by 2030, the project underscores Thailand’s role in CHANGAN’s regional expansion. The automaker also introduced two new premium electric models — the DEEPAL NEW S07 and DEEPAL HUNTER K50 REEV Max AWD — as part of its broader product lineup.
CHANGAN’s five-year roadmap aims to position the company among Thailand’s top three automakers by 2030 through four strategic pillars: product innovation, workforce skill development, nationwide network expansion, and after-sales excellence. The company plans to open 200 dealerships across the country, collaborate with AHRDA to train Thai technicians, and ensure one-hour service response times. Reinforcing its long-term commitment, Managing Director Shen Xinghua said CHANGAN intends to be a strategic partner in Thailand’s EV transition under the EV 30@30 policy. The automaker also plans to export over 1,000 DEEPAL S05 units to Europe this year, as part of its goal to reach 4 million global sales by 2030, with 60% from new energy vehicles.
Editor’s Note: CHANGAN Automobile has launched its “In Thailand, For Thailand” strategy with a 10 billion baht investment to build an EV manufacturing plant in Rayong, aiming to create 20,000 jobs and serve as a regional hub for ASEAN, Australia, and New Zealand. With plans to open 200 dealerships, train local technicians, and export premium EVs, CHANGAN seeks to become a top-three automaker in Thailand by 2030 and a key partner in the country’s EV transition.
U.S. and Thailand Announce Reciprocal Trade Framework to Boost Market Access
The United States and Thailand have agreed on a new framework for reciprocal trade aimed at expanding market access and reducing tariff barriers between the two nations. Under the agreement announced Sunday, the U.S. will maintain a 19% tariff on Thai products but will identify specific goods where tariffs could be adjusted or eliminated entirely. The framework reflects a strategic effort to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation and support balanced trade between the long-standing partners.
In return, Thailand will remove tariff barriers on about 99% of goods, covering a broad spectrum of U.S. industrial, food, and agricultural products. The joint statement issued by the White House said Thailand has also pledged to address non-tariff barriers, including the acceptance of U.S.-manufactured vehicles. Both countries said the agreement marks an important step toward deepening economic ties and enhancing the competitiveness of their respective industries in global markets.
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailand-us-reach-framework-agreement-trade-2025-10-26
Editor’s Note: The U.S. and Thailand have launched a reciprocal trade framework to expand market access, with the U.S. reviewing tariffs on Thai goods while Thailand removes tariffs on 99% of U.S. products and addresses non-tariff barriers. The agreement aims to deepen economic ties and boost the global competitiveness of both nations’ industries.
Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship Spurs Progress in Trade, Digital Economy, says Thai’s Suphajee
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 25 — Thailand’s new Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun has heaped praise on Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship this year, notably Putrajaya, for having led the grouping in advancing regional economic integration. Under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, Suphajee said regional trade has been further reinforced despite the 58-year-old Southeast Asian grouping facing immense geopolitical challenges.
Foremost were the debilitating tariffs imposed by the United States on all 10 ASEAN member states. “Under Malaysia’s leadership, ASEAN has also taken steps to strengthen strategic policy coordination to address geopolitical uncertainties and emerging global challenges. “This includes promoting economic resilience, enhancing regional financial safety nets and developing policies that ensure ASEAN remains stable, competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing world,” she told Bernama ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits taking place over the weekend.
Malaysia took over as ASEAN Chair for 2025 from Laos last year, while the next chairmanship would be held by the Philippines. Touching on the 47th ASEAN Summit, Suphajee said Bangkok expects the gathering to serve as a pivotal platform for ASEAN to reaffirm its unity and economic vision amid growing geopolitical and geoeconomic uncertainties. She said the summit would demonstrate ASEAN’s progress through the substantial completion of its Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) for 2025, including major outcomes such as the signing of the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and the upgraded ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACTA 3.0). “These milestones will strengthen regional supply chains and enhance intra-ASEAN trade, which is expected to grow beyond the current share of around 21.4 per cent of total trade by 2030,” she said.
https://bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2482792
Editor’s Notes: Under its 2025 chairmanship, Malaysia is advancing ASEAN’s economic and digital integration goals. This achievement highlights the nation’s ability to balance diplomacy with innovation leadership. Still, maintaining momentum will require Malaysia to ensure that regional initiatives translate into domestic job creation, infrastructure expansion, and inclusive digital access.
Smart City Collaboration with Digital Ministry To Be Strengthened – Dr Zaliha
SEGAMAT, Oct 27 (Bernama) — Strategic collaboration with the Digital Ministry will continue to be strengthened to ensure the ongoing implementation of smart city initiatives across the three Federal Territories. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the collaboration aims to ensure that Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan remain at the forefront of technology adoption, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence (Al), 5G connectivity and the Internet of Things (loT). “We already have a Smart City Action Blueprint for all three territories. The partnership with the Digital Ministry, which is a newly established government ministry, is vital to ensure that technology and Al remain future priorities so that we do not fail behind,” she said.
Dr Zaliha was speaking to reporters here today after officiating the Intelligent World 2035 (IW 2035) programme at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Segamat and witnessing the signing of a Letter of Intent between UiTM and Huawei Malaysia to establish the Huawei ICT Academy at UiTM Johor. Also present was Huawei Malaysia chief executive officer Simon Sun. Dr Zaliha, who is also Sekijang MP, said IW 2035 aims to introduce technologies such as Al, 5G, loT and cloud computing to the people of Sekijang, including university students and school pupils. She said that through the establishment of the Huawei ICT Academy at UiTM Johor, students will not only be trained in technological skills but will also obtain internationally recognised certifications from Huawei.
“With the launch of the Huawei ICT Academy at UiTM Johor, we are preparing our new generation to step confidently into the worlds of Al, 5G and cloud computing, equipped with globally recognised skills and certifications. I believe that this academy is a gateway to future careers and opportunities. Meanwhile, Sun, in his speech, said the Huawei ICT Academy delivers a comprehensive suite of professional courses and authorised curricula in high-demand fields such as Al, Cloud Computing, Data Communication, 5G and 5G-Advanced. “Its core mission is to equip students with the skills, knowledge and global exposure needed to thrive in the digital economy, boosting their career prospects,” he said.
https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2483885
Editor Notes: The strengthened collaboration between the Digital Ministry and the Federal Territories signifies Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to developing smart cities driven by AI, IoT, and 5G technologies. This initiative not only enhances urban efficiency and connectivity in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan but also reinforces Malaysia’s digital readiness. The partnership with Huawei and UiTM highlights the importance of nurturing local talent in advanced technologies — a crucial step to ensuring Malaysia’s competitiveness in the global digital economy while addressing challenges in digital infrastructure and skill gaps.
MSIC 2025 Can Enable Govt to Implement Targeted Economic Policies – DOSM
PUTRAJAYA, Oct 28 (Bernama) — The new industry classification under the Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification (MSIC) 2025 will enable the government to implement more targeted economic policies based on more detailed and up-to-date data. Chief Statistician of Malaysia Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the move also further strengthens the country’s economic structure as the number of industry codes in MSIC 2025 increases by 6.3 per cent to 1,248 industry codes compared to 1,174 codes in MSIC 2008 Version 1.0. “This increase reflects the expansion of the structure of the country’s economic activities and the emergence of new sectors based on technology, innovation, and sustainability.
MSIC 2025 is the new standard framework for classifying types of economic activities in Malaysia, replacing the MSIC 2008 Version 1.0 classification which has been in use for the past 17 years, and it is the sixth edition of the national economic activity classification standard, first published in 1957. The updating of MSIC 2025 is also in line with the International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC) Revision 5, published by the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD). Mohd Uzir also explained that with a more detailed structure, the government can identify the contributions of new sectors such as content creators, renewable energy, drones, and digital currency to the national economy.”
According to Mohd Uzir, this effort also assists government agencies such as SME Corp and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry in obtaining more accurate data to support the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by sector and area. “This move allows the national official statistics system to be organised in line with international best practices. MSIC 2025 will be fully utilised for the 2026 Economic Census to ensure that all data released is based on the latest industry classification,” he said. He also announced that the Creative Industry Satellite Account will be published this November to assess the creative sector’s contribution to the national economy, following the previous publication of satellite accounts for the sports, tourism, and digital economy sectors.
https://bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2484524
Editor’s Notes: The introduction of MSIC 2025 marks a major step forward in Malaysia’s economic data modernization. By expanding industry codes to include emerging sectors like renewable energy, digital currency, and content creation, the framework strengthens policy precision and aligns national statistics with international standards. This advancement will help Malaysia craft more targeted economic strategies, though ensuring consistent data adoption across agencies remains a key challenge.
ASEAN AI Safety Network Regional HQ To Be Established in Kuala Lumpur Next Year – Gobind
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 – The regional headquarters of the ASEAN Artificial Intelligence (AI) Safety Network (ASEAN AI Safe) will be established here early next year, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. He said the ASEAN AI Safe Secretariat will be responsible for coordinating programmes and activities under the initiative to strengthen regional collaboration and drive progress in the field. Gobind added that ASEAN AU Safe serves as a network platform bringing together all ASEAN member states to foster cooperation in developing a safe, reliable and inclusive AI ecosystem across the region.
“We need to explore how we can advance discussions toward establishing a network that ensures the safe and responsible use of AI across the ASEAN region,” he said. “So there must be continued collaboration and dialogue to ensure that each country understands the structures being developed within their own systems, and how we can collectively foster a sense of unity among ASEAN nations in formulating AI safety policies,” he said after officiating the Powering the Intelligent Age: Driving Innovation with the Southeast Asia and Beyond Summit here today. The summit was organized by the Digital Ministry, through the Malaysian Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (MYCentre4IR), in collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF), to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation and green industrial transformation.
It brought together more than 400 delegates from 14 countries, including senior policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and startup founders. Meanwhile, the Digital ministry, in a statement, said ASEAN AI Safe serves as a regional mechanism to support the ASEAN Digital Senior Officials’ Meeting (ADGSOM) and the Working Group on AI Governance (WG-AI), aimed at strengthening regional capacity, fostering cooperation, promoting research and innovation in AI safety, and advancing the safe and responsible use of AI technologies. ASEAN AI Safe will be guided by existing regional frameworks, including the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025; the Guidelines on AI Governance and Ethics; and the ASEAN Responsible AI Roadmap 2025-2025.
https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php/bfokus/sports/news.php?id=2484360
Editor Notes: The establishment of the ASEAN AI Safety Network headquarters in Kuala Lumpur marks a major milestone for Malaysia’s leadership in shaping responsible artificial intelligence governance within the region. This initiative reinforces the nation’s ambition to become an AI hub under the Malaysia Digital framework, promoting innovation while prioritising ethics and safety. It also presents opportunities for Malaysia to attract talent, investment, and research collaboration, but success will depend on strong policy coordination, regional trust-building, and ensuring the local workforce is adequately skilled to manage emerging AI safety challenges.
US to consider Malaysia’s semiconductor sector in Section 232 tariff talks, says Liew Chin Tong
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 — The United States will give special consideration to Malaysia’s semiconductor sector in tariff negotiations under Section 232 of the US Trade Expansion Act of 1962, said Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong. He said the tariffs on semiconductors are sectoral and were not included in the recently signed Malaysia-US Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART). “The TRA does not include sectoral tariffs… semiconductors fall under Section 232, which the US Secretary of Commerce will consider. What was negotiated was with the US Trade Representative (USTR),” he said during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Liew was responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Ahmad Amzad Mohamed @ Hashim (PN-Kuala Terengganu) on the impact of ART on the semiconductor sector. Separately, in response to a question from Datuk Dr Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh (PN-Pasir Puteh) on halal certification following the ART, Liew said the process for approving imports of halal products from the US remains unchanged under the agreement. He said imports must comply with Malaysia’s halal standards and the Trade Descriptions Act (Trade Descriptions (Halal Certification and Labelling) Order 2011) for trade within Malaysia. “These regulations stipulate that only halal products certified by US halal certification bodies recognised by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and that meet Malaysia’s halal requirements will be approved and permitted for export to Malaysia,” he elaborated.
Editor Notes: The US’s decision to give special consideration to Malaysia’s semiconductor sector in its tariff talks underscores the strategic value of Malaysia in the global chip supply chain. This recognition could open pathways for more favourable trade terms and foreign investments in high-value manufacturing. However, Malaysia must continue enhancing its semiconductor ecosystem — especially in R&D and upstream capabilities — to stay competitive amid intensifying global trade and technology rivalries.\