Will Kadin Be Caught Out?
Michael Schaper
Business groups such as Indonesia’s Kadin should be the voice of business - not of politicians.
Articles
Urbanisation – An Overlooked Issue in the Mekong River Basin
Melinda Martinus|Qiu Jiahui
Rapid urbanisation and population growth have been overlooked factors contributing to environmental and ecological disruptions in the Mekong region.
Ratifying the RCEP to Reset Malaysia’s Economy
Tham Siew Yean
Malaysia needs to move fast to ratify two free trade deals to reset its economy, which has been impacted by political instability and the Covid-19 pandemic. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is a priority.
Transforming Malaysia’s Elephant in The Room: Conflict, Consensus or Cop Out?
Lee Hwok-Aun
The growing demand for policies that promote participation and diversity reflect Malaysian society’s advancement and sophistication, and call for broadened attention to identity-based policies for Bumiputeras, indigenous groups, Indians, women and other beneficiaries, rather than abolition of ‘race-based’ policies.
Sarawak’s Fight Against the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Cautionary Tale?
Kevin Zhang|Lee Poh Onn
On paper, Sarawak should have turned the corner in its fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. The fact that it has not could provide lessons as to how to stem the spread of the coronavirus.
After 70 Years, It’s Time to Modernise the US-Philippines Alliance
Ian Storey
The US-Philippines alliance is back on track. In an era where China has increasingly challenged Manila’s maritime rights in the South China Sea, however, Washington needs to contemplate an upgrade to their mutual defence treaty.
China’s Recent Foray into the North Natuna Sea is Problematic
Aristyo Rizka Darmawan
A Chinese survey ship was reported to be operating in Indonesia’s exclusive economic zone in the North Natuna Sea last week. This is not new, but this time the survey ship was reportedly accompanied by at least six Chinese naval vessels. Jakarta should consider a firm response to Beijing.
Emerging Political Parties in Indonesia: Raising the Water Level of Policy Debate?
Max Lane
For years, Indonesia’s political landscape had little room for vigorous debate on policy issues, given the focus on individual personalities and even populism. This is beginning to change.
China’s Vaccine Diplomacy in Malaysia: Problems and Prospects
Peter T. C. Chang
In Malaysia, Pfizer is the vaccine of choice, anchoring the national immunisation program as China’s boosters are relegated to a supporting role. The downgrading notwithstanding, China’s vaccine diplomacy remains a prime mover in the unfinished worldwide battle against the coronavirus pandemic.
Increasing ASEAN’s Attractiveness for Global Investors
Phi Minh Hong
The race among ASEAN’s economies to attract higher levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) may be abusing the tax incentive card.