Collage of Southeast Asian moments — from Indonesia’s economic data and the Philippines’ typhoons to Quezon City and Ho Chi Minh’s UNESCO film honors — capturing a week of resilience and creativity across the region.

Your curated wrap-up from The Southeast Asia Desk.

🇮🇩 Indonesia’s GDP plunges to 5.04% in Q3

Indonesia’s economy slowed to 5.04% in the third quarter, its lowest pace since 2023. Analysts cite weaker exports, high interest rates, and reduced household spending, although the government remains optimistic about its long-term resilience. Read more

🇵🇭 Twin typhoons Uwan and Kalmaegi batter the Philippines

Back-to-back storms pounded Luzon and Visayas, forcing thousands to evacuate and testing the country’s disaster preparedness system. The episodes reignited debate over climate resilience and funding for infrastructure. Read more

🌏 Asia-Pacific leads global app growth in 2025

The Asia-Pacific region continues to dominate global app downloads and revenue, driven by Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Social commerce, fintech, and AI-powered education apps are driving the next wave of digital growth. Read more

🎾 Janice Tjen’s meteoric rise redefines Indonesian tennis

Janice Tjen’s rapid climb to the WTA top 100 marks a breakthrough for Indonesian tennis. Her success is inspiring a new generation of athletes — and shining a spotlight on Southeast Asia’s growing presence in global sports. Read more

🎬 Quezon City & Ho Chi Minh City named UNESCO creative cities of film

For the first time, Southeast Asia secured two designations in UNESCO’s Creative Cities of Film network. Quezon City and Ho Chi Minh City join 58 new cities globally, underscoring the region’s creative economy and storytelling power. Read more

🇹🇭 Thailand gears up for SEA Games 2025

Thailand is ramping up preparations for next year’s SEA Games, set to spotlight youth talent and regional unity. Infrastructure upgrades and new sports events are on the agenda as Bangkok aims to host the most digitally connected Games yet. Read more

⚽ FIFA–ASEAN Cup: Symbol of unity or redundant spectacle?

The debate over the proposed FIFA–ASEAN Cup continues, with supporters touting it as an opportunity to elevate regional football diplomacy, while critics warn that it risks diluting the SEA Games and overextending national teams. Read more

🇮🇩 Indonesians’ perceptions of the Middle East

A new survey reveals that Indonesians are increasingly pragmatic in their views toward Middle Eastern nations — shaped by energy partnerships, religious ties, and growing concerns over regional conflicts. Read more

☕ Editorial note: Southeast Asia’s story of resilience

From film festivals to flood recovery, this week proved Southeast Asia’s remarkable ability to adapt, rebuild, and rise. Amid slower growth and stronger storms, the region’s creative and human spirit continues to lead the narrative.

✨ Stories to linger over, one week at a time.

(QOB/ELS)

🏙️ Courts, crowds, and comebacks: Southeast…