Author: Hanoi Post

BANGKOK  A devastating late-night fire at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, a popular restaurant and brewery in Bangkok, has claimed 27 lives and left 18 others injured, prompting Thai authorities to launch a full investigation into the cause of the blaze and the venue’s fire safety measures. The fire erupted around 11:50 p.m. on Sunday in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district. Firefighters brought the flames under control within 35 minutes, but many victims were reportedly trapped inside as thick smoke spread rapidly through the building. Preliminary findings suggest the restaurant had narrow access points, a low ceiling and possible issues with emergency…

KUALA LUMPUR Singapore and Malaysia have built a strong and enduring partnership by consistently focusing on shared growth, future cooperation and mutual interests across generations of leadership, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam said during his state visit to Malaysia. Speaking after meeting Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar at the Istana Negara, President Tharman said the two neighboring countries have maintained close ties despite historical challenges, choosing to strengthen cooperation rather than allow differences to hinder progress. He highlighted major bilateral initiatives such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the upcoming Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, describing them as key…

BANGKOK  Thailand’s Cabinet has approved an extension of work permits for approximately 770,000 migrant workers from Laos, Myanmar and Việt Nam, aiming to ensure a stable labor supply for the country’s manufacturing and service sectors. The decision, announced following a proposal from the Ministry of Labour, also includes new regulations from the Ministries of Interior and Labour allowing eligible foreign workers to continue living and working legally in Thailand while completing the required legal procedures. The move builds on labor management measures introduced in November 2025, which were originally scheduled to expire on December 11, 2026. Officials said the extension…

BEIJING  Trade between China and ASEAN recorded strong growth in the first half of 2026, highlighting the resilience of regional economic cooperation under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). According to China’s General Administration of Customs, bilateral trade reached 4.34 trillion RMB (approximately US$641 billion) between January and June, marking an 18.2% increase compared to the same period last year. ASEAN has remained China’s largest trading partner for several consecutive years. Indonesia, Việt Nam and Thailand were among the strongest contributors to trade growth, each posting gains of more than 20%, driven by rising demand for electronics, electrical machinery and…

TOKYO  Japan is preparing to develop high-precision nautical charts for key maritime choke points across Southeast Asia to improve shipping safety and strengthen regional maritime security. According to the plan, Japan’s Foreign Ministry will work with neighboring countries to create detailed charts for five strategic sea areas, including the Molucca Passage, Ombai Strait, Sunda Strait, Surigao Strait, and Balabac Strait. The project will involve hydrographic surveys, seabed mapping and the installation of navigational aids, with the completed charts expected to be publicly released by the coastal nations. The initiative, estimated to cost around ¥2 billion, will be financed through Japan’s…

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam must accelerate institutional reforms, innovation-led growth and its transition to a green economy to achieve its goal of becoming a developed, high-income nation by 2045, experts have said. After nearly four decades of the Đổi mới reforms, Việt Nam has made remarkable progress. The country’s GDP now exceeds US$514 billion, while per capita GDP has risen above US$5,026. Significant improvements have also been recorded in infrastructure, poverty reduction, human development and global economic integration. Experts stressed that sustainable development should now become the foundation of future growth. Priorities include achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, expanding…

Experts are calling for faster policy reforms to turn Resolution 57 on science, technology and innovation into practical results, with a strong focus on developing high-quality human resources, strengthening cooperation between the government, universities and businesses, and creating a more effective legal framework. They believe clear implementation mechanisms are essential to help research institutions and companies expand innovation and bring new technologies to market. Education leaders also stress the importance of attracting and retaining talented researchers by providing transparent career pathways, competitive salaries, modern research facilities and an environment that supports creativity and innovation. They say stronger investment in leading…

Vietnam’s 2026 Economic Census is set to provide a comprehensive picture of the country’s economic landscape by collecting data on businesses, household enterprises, cooperatives and other organisations. The nationwide survey will support the compilation of key economic indicators, including GDP and GRDP, while helping authorities evaluate digital transformation, business performance and workforce trends to guide future socio-economic planning. The census introduced several major innovations, including the use of artificial intelligence to classify economic activities, digital mapping for real-time field monitoring and fully electronic data collection through web-based forms and mobile devices. Administrative databases, such as tax and business registration records,…

Major General Nguyễn Văn Sáu has highlighted the growing role of Vietnam’s defence diplomacy in safeguarding national interests while contributing to global peace and security. He said the appointment of a Vietnamese military officer to a senior leadership position in a United Nations peacekeeping mission reflects the country’s increasing professionalism, international credibility and commitment to addressing global security challenges through peaceful cooperation. According to the defence expert, Vietnam’s participation in UN peacekeeping operations has evolved from fulfilling international responsibilities to making meaningful contributions by sharing expertise, supporting humanitarian efforts and taking on leadership roles. He noted that these missions strengthen…

Vietnam’s energy transition requires well-designed policies to balance sustainable development, economic growth and social equity, according to leading experts. They stress that improving energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy, attracting investment and applying advanced technologies will be essential for building a cleaner and more resilient energy system while ensuring vulnerable communities are not left behind. Experts warn that the transition could reshape the labour market, affecting workers in traditional energy industries while creating new opportunities in renewable energy and green technologies. They recommend stronger vocational training, workforce reskilling and targeted support for low-income and informal workers to help them adapt to…