Phuket province is proposing a series of steps to tackle declining water supplies induced by shifting weather trends and rising tourist numbers. Things involve system extension, wastewater treatment and seawater desalination. The provincial governor, Narong Woonsew, said the plans were debated at a conference in Phuket Provincial Hall. However, he has not announced the draft budget for the new undertaking, …

Singapore and Malaysia have decided to begin introducing joint green lane and transfer agreements for long-term passholders as well as important company and official travelers. The aim is to bring in place the appropriate structures and processes on 10 Aug. That was revealed in a joint statement by Malaysian Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Tun Hussein and Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. …