The scam situation in Singapore has worsened, with the number of cases rising 16.3% to 26,587, and victims losing a record high of over 385.6 million SGD (294.79 million USD) in the first six months of this year.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang called on press agencies to promote solidarity and strong bond for mutual development while attending a New-Year press conference in Hanoi on February 20.

Indonesia has banned goods transactions on social media platforms to rein in direct sales on major platforms which are said to harm millions of small businesses, according to Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan.

Social platforms are effective channels where online tourism firms interact with potential customers, and the travel industry must transform to keep pace with technological changes, experts have said.