Singapore prepares for general election

A committee reviewing Singapore’s electoral boundaries was established by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, the Elections Department (ELD) said on January 22.

In the past four elections, the time between the committee’s formation and polling day has ranged from four to 11 months. (Photo: Straits Times)
In the past four elections, the time between the committee’s formation and polling day has ranged from four to 11 months. (Photo: Straits Times)

Singapore (VNA) – A committee reviewing Singapore’s electoral boundaries was established by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, the Elections Department (ELD) said on January 22.

The election preparation involves a comprehensive review of electoral districts, taking into account recent population shifts. This strategic move will determine the number of candidates and parliamentary seats for the upcoming poll.

The general election must be held by November.

The PM directed the committee to complete its voter list review before April 1, 2025, with preliminary lists to be published in February for public scrutiny.

Wong, who assumed leadership in May 2024 succeeding Lee Hsien Long after two decades of the latter's governance, holds the prerogative to call elections earlier than the November deadline.

The People's Action Party (PAP), led by Wong, is widely anticipated to secure an overwhelming majority, consistent with the party's historical electoral performance since Singapore's independence in 1965. The popular vote percentage will serve as a critical indicator of public support for the new leadership./.

VNA

See more

Thailand expands China market promotion through digital content partnerships

Thailand expands China market promotion through digital content partnerships

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to launch the Zhong Tai Yi Jia Qin or China–Thailand, One Family campaign, with year-round promotional activities and market stimulation. Thailand welcomed 4,473,992 Chinese tourists in 2025, with TAT targeting 260.204 billion THB in tourism revenue from China in 2026.

Photo via Samut Sakhon News Society 2 Facebook page (Source : Thetiger.com)

Severe road subsidence reported in Bangkok

A section of Rama 2 Road leading into the Thai capital Bangkok suffered a serious subsidence on early January 17 morning, causing a pickup truck to overturn in the capital city-bound lane and leading to severe traffic congestion in the area.

Two fires occur in Thailand

Two fires occur in Thailand

Serious fires hit an electric vehicle (EV) research and development facility in Sa Si Mum commune, Kamphaeng Saen district, Nakhon Pathom province and an oil storage tank in Khlong Sam Prawet ward, Lat Krabang district, Bangkok on January 17.

Illustrative image (Photo: bangkokpost.com)

Thailand calls for stricter control over pollution sources

Deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana said the Pollution Control Department (PCD)'s Air Pollution Situation Communication Centre has issued an alert on increases of PM2.5 concentrations, particularly in Bangkok, its surrounding provinces, the upper Central Plains and the Northeast.

Illustrative photo: www.pna.gov.ph

Philippines assesses security threats ahead of ASEAN Summit

AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Rommel Roldan said the military will provide full support to the PNP, which will take the lead in maintaining peace and order during the country’s hosting of ASEAN-related activities. Troops have been ordered to extend necessary assistance to the PNP in ensuring the safety and security of the events.

Indonesia to reform state-owned enterprises

Indonesia to reform state-owned enterprises

Positive signs have emerged from restructuring efforts at several large SOEs, including national airline Garuda Indonesia, Krakatau Steel (KRAS) and Timah Tbk (TINS), helping improve their performance and market standing, State asset fund Danantara Indonesia said.

Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa Lazaro (L) and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu sign the Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) (Photo: pna.gov.ph)

Philippines, Japan sign new defence agreement

The Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) allows the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan's Self-Defence Forces to provide each other with fuel, food, ammunition, and other supplies during joint activities.

Cambodian soldiers are deployed alongside a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher in a disputed border area with Thailand near Ta Moan Thom temple on July 25, 2025. (Source: Reuters/VNA)

Thailand, Cambodia hold talks to ensure ceasefire

Cambodia reaffirmed its firm, resolute, and sincere commitment to faithfully respect and implement the joint statement and other relevant documents, with the aim of seeking a peaceful, just, and lasting solution in accordance with international laws and existing treaties and agreements between the two countries.

The scene of a crane collapse in Samut Sakhon province, Thailand, on January 15, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Another crane collapses in Thailand

The latest incident took place in Samut Sakhon province near the capital Bangkok, where a crane involved in the construction of an elevated highway fell onto the road beneath.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Cambodian PM declares crackdown on cyber scams

The Cambodian PM noted the strict measures against online scams in the past are a testament to the government's political commitment to combating this transnational crime, which is a common concern for Cambodia, the region, and the world.