Bank Indonesia (BI) on September 18 unexpectedly cut its benchmark interest rate for the first time in over three years, as the rupiah strengthened and ahead of the anticipated US interest rate cuts.

Indonesia's economy is forecast to grow at a slower rate in the first quarter of this year despite the government's efforts to boost buying power and exports.

Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) has lowered the country’s predicted economic growth rate for this year to 2.7-3.2 percent from the previous 3-4 percent.