The region, which imports more than 80% of crude shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, has been hit hard after disruptions linked to Iran’s actions since the conflict began on Feb. 28, tightening global supply and pushing policymakers to consider demand-curbing steps.

No country has formally reinstated remote work mandates, but officials say such measures are under active review. South Korea’s Energy Minister Kim Sung-whan said authorities would consult relevant ministries on expanding work-from-home policies, aligning with recommendations from the International Energy Agency.

IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol reiterated calls this week for reduced travel and remote work, citing earlier precedents such as Europe’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, where demand management helped offset supply disruptions.

South Korea has also launched a public campaign encouraging households to cut energy use, including reducing shower times and shifting electricity consumption to off-peak periods.

Across the region, governments have begun implementing targeted measures to stretch limited fuel supplies. The Philippines has shortened the work week for some public offices, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declaring a national energy emergency over risks to supply.

Pakistan has temporarily closed schools and expanded remote work for office staff, while Sri Lanka introduced a weekly public holiday to conserve fuel.Other economies are focusing on efficiency measures rather than mobility restrictions.

Singapore has urged businesses and households to adopt energy-efficient appliances, increase air-conditioning temperatures and accelerate electric vehicle usage.

In Thailand, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered civil servants to limit overseas travel, adjust office cooling levels above 25°C and adopt remote work where possible.

The policy responses echo pandemic-era strategies aimed at reducing energy demand, as governments across Asia attempt to cushion the economic and supply shocks stemming from the ongoing conflict.

Anutin, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, leveraged heightened public concern over territorial security in the wake of last year’s tensions with Cambodia, framing his campaign around sovereignty and stability. His messaging resonated with voters and key political stakeholders, helping him regain power after triggering snap polls less than 100 days into his previous tenure.

At a pre-election rally in Bangkok, Anutin cast his party as the defender of national integrity, urging voters to back Bhumjaithai as a patriotic choice.

His campaign emphasized safeguarding Thailand’s land and security, aligning closely with broader nationalist currents that gained traction after the border dispute.

Analysts say the strategy proved effective in consolidating a fragmented electorate and appealing to establishment forces wary of instability. The political climate, shaped by external tensions, created conditions favorable to candidates projecting strong national leadership.

Establishment support consolidates powerPolitical observers noted that Thailand’s conservative-royalist establishment rallied behind Anutin, providing crucial backing in both the electoral process and parliamentary vote.

This alignment helped secure his return to office despite the short-lived nature of his previous administration.The support underscores the continued influence of traditional power centers in Thai politics, particularly during periods of geopolitical strain. Anutin’s positioning as a stabilizing figure appears to have reassured key stakeholders amid uncertainty.

Anutin’s decision to call snap elections shortly after assuming office initially drew scrutiny, but the timing coincided with rising nationalist sentiment that ultimately worked in his favor.

The February polls became a referendum not only on governance but also on national security priorities.

His swift return to power reflects both the effectiveness of his campaign messaging and the broader political recalibration driven by regional tensions.

Despite ongoing exchanges between the two militaries in disputed areas, Thai officials underscored that diplomatic channels remain open and active, with Prime Minister Anutin set to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump to provide a direct update on the situation and explore avenues for de-escalation.

The call is expected to center on reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to dialogue while ensuring the safety and sovereignty of its territory. The Thai leadership has stressed that the priority remains to end hostilities and create space for peaceful negotiation, supported by regional allies and long-standing international relationships.

Cambodia has likewise expressed readiness for communication, with officials stating that they remain open to discussions at any time. The growing international attention has encouraged both sides to consider less confrontational approaches, despite tensions and accusations exchanged over the past week.

The United States has conveyed strong interest in helping restore stability, noting the importance of safeguarding Southeast Asia’s long-term peace and economic resilience. Trump has expressed confidence that diplomatic outreach can guide both countries back toward a cessation of hostilities and renewed cooperation.

Thai officials highlighted the importance of conveying accurate information to global partners, reassuring allies that Thailand remains committed to maintaining order while seeking solutions that prevent further humanitarian impact. This engagement is seen as essential for protecting regional development and trade routes shared by both nations.

Despite military activity in several areas, senior Thai leaders reiterated that any strategic action taken has been grounded in the responsibility to safeguard lives and maintain national security. At the same time, they emphasized their openness to efforts that reduce confrontation and encourage dialogue.

Thai diplomats have been actively speaking with international counterparts, reinforcing that Thailand supports peaceful conflict resolution grounded in sincerity, accountability, and respect for borders. These diplomatic exchanges have helped spotlight the shared regional interest in minimizing disruptions that could affect economic recovery and cross-border cooperation.

In Cambodia, government representatives noted that their leadership remains receptive to communication, with officials reaffirming willingness to participate in discussions that lower tensions and protect civilians on both sides. Their statements have added to optimism that renewed dialogue is possible with sufficient international support.

The situation has displaced thousands of families, but relief teams in border provinces are working to ensure access to food, shelter, and medical care. Local communities expressed hope that the increasing diplomatic momentum will soon bring stability and enable them to return home safely.

Thailand’s political landscape has also shifted, with the prime minister dissolving parliament ahead of an upcoming election. Though this adds uncertainty, analysts believe democratic processes can strengthen national unity during a difficult moment and reinforce public confidence in peaceful governance.

As both nations face the challenges of conflict, economic pressure, and shifting political dynamics, officials from Thailand, Cambodia, and the United States continue to highlight the importance of restraint, communication, and constructive partnership. With active diplomacy underway, there is cautious optimism that tensions can ease and that both countries will return to cooperation and shared prosperity.

The historic signing ceremony took place on Sunday on the sidelines of the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, whose mediation efforts earlier this year were instrumental in de-escalating tensions following the border clashes.

The agreement represents a renewed commitment to peace, security, and mutual understanding between Bangkok and Phnom Penh after years of sporadic disputes.

Both Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed optimism about this new chapter, highlighting that the deal reflects their shared vision of transforming the border from a zone of conflict into one of cooperation and shared prosperity.

The ceasefire comes after several months of diplomatic negotiations and confidence-building measures initiated following a deadly five-day border conflict in mid-2025.

The two nations agreed to enhance dialogue mechanisms, promote joint border patrols, and expand communication channels to prevent future misunderstandings.

Leaders from both sides reaffirmed their commitment to respecting sovereignty, strengthening security cooperation, and fostering economic integration along their shared borders.

Observers have hailed the deal as a symbol of ASEAN’s enduring role in fostering peace and stability in the region. The agreement underscores the bloc’s emphasis on diplomacy and collective problem-solving, promoting regional unity and cooperation in addressing common challenges.

Analysts note that this ceasefire could serve as a model for other regional conflicts, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and international support in resolving disputes peacefully.

In his remarks, U.S. President Donald Trump commended both leaders for their statesmanship and willingness to prioritize peace over conflict.

He described the accord as “a shining example of how determination and dialogue can overcome even the most deep-rooted differences.”

His administration had played a key role in facilitating discussions earlier in the year, with U.S. diplomats working alongside ASEAN representatives to help both nations reach a viable solution.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of Thailand emphasized that the new agreement is not only about halting military activities but also about laying the foundation for sustainable cooperation.

He noted that both countries would focus on rebuilding trust through joint infrastructure projects, trade partnerships, and cross-border cultural initiatives that could benefit citizens on both sides.

“This is the beginning of a new era,” Anutin said, expressing confidence that Thailand and Cambodia could transform their shared borders into a gateway of opportunity and development.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet echoed similar sentiments, saying that the agreement reflects his nation’s commitment to peace, progress, and regional solidarity.

He praised the collaborative spirit of the negotiations and extended gratitude to ASEAN members and the international community for their support. “Peace is not only the absence of war but the presence of cooperation and goodwill,” he remarked.

Under the agreement, both countries have pledged to set up a bilateral peace commission that will monitor implementation and ensure that military and civilian agencies adhere to the terms.

The commission will also oversee future joint development projects in trade, tourism, and agriculture, aimed at revitalizing border communities affected by years of instability.

The deal is expected to have a positive ripple effect throughout Southeast Asia, reinforcing the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in maintaining regional peace.

With both Thailand and Cambodia being key ASEAN members, their cooperation is likely to boost investor confidence and encourage greater collaboration in regional economic initiatives such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area and cross-border connectivity projects.

As the ASEAN Summit continues, leaders from across the region have welcomed the development as a beacon of hope for conflict resolution and peaceful coexistence.

The signing of the Thailand-Cambodia peace agreement is not just a bilateral achievement but also a reaffirmation of ASEAN’s core principles of unity, peace, and mutual respect.

The ceremony concluded with applause and optimism, symbolizing a new dawn of friendship between Thailand and Cambodia.

The agreement marks not only the end of a long-standing dispute but also the beginning of a cooperative partnership built on trust, dialogue, and shared prosperity.