in-the-news

India is accelerating its semiconductor ambitions through Semicon 2.0, approved by Union Cabinet on July 15, 2026, with an approximately US$13.3 billion outlay. The programme aims to strengthen chip design and manufacturing as demand rises across electronics, electric vehicles, defence, artificial intelligence, telecommunications, space technology and other strategic domestic industries.

No Malaysians were reported affected by more than 50 violent incidents across Thailand’s southern provinces on Saturday night, Kelantan Police said. Malaysians have been advised to postpone non-essential travel to affected areas and remain vigilant. The incidents included bombings, arson attacks and tyre burnings across three border provinces.

Multiple attacks involving arson, explosions, gunfire, tire-burning and an armed robbery were reported across Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat on Saturday night. Incidents targeted government vehicles, telecommunications infrastructure and other locations. Security forces deployed teams to inspect affected areas, while authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid suspicious objects.

A Russian drone strike on a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih killed at least 15 people and injured more than 130, including children, according to Ukrainian authorities. The attack comes as Moscow signals willingness to consider new peace proposals while insisting any settlement recognise what Russia calls current realities on the ground.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has fallen to extremely low levels amid the Iran-US conflict, threatening one of the world’s most important energy corridors. Only seven commodity vessels reportedly crossed on Thursday. NATO members are discussing possible measures to support navigation as concerns grow over global oil and LNG supplies.

Tourists visiting Chiang Mai were swept away by a sudden flash flood after reportedly entering a restricted area to take selfies. Video footage captured the frightening moment rushing water overwhelmed the group. The incident highlights the dangers of entering prohibited areas, particularly near waterways during Thailand’s rainy season and unpredictable weather conditions.

President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to substantially reduce joint military exercises with South Korea, citing Seoul’s refusal to join the Iran war and his relationship with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. South Korea says the Ulchi Freedom Shield drills, scheduled through August 27, are currently proceeding as planned.

A 35-year-old Israeli tourist was found dead in his Bangkok hotel room while vacationing in Thailand, according to ZAKA. The married father of one was discovered unresponsive, prompting coordination between ZAKA, Thai authorities, Chabad representatives and Israel’s Foreign Ministry to arrange the repatriation of his body to Israel.

Pattaya has begun a major upgrade of Second Road, covering sections from Wat Chai intersection through Central Pattaya to Dolphin Roundabout. Construction is expected to take around 90 days, bringing lane restrictions and congestion. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic signs and consider alternative routes.

President Donald Trump dismissed concerns over the USS Abraham Lincoln’s prolonged deployment, saying its roughly eight-and-a-half months at sea was “not nearly long enough.” The carrier has supported U.S. operations in the Middle East, while some sailors’ families and lawmakers have raised concerns about living conditions and mental health.