Articles
In Vietnam, the Afghanistan Spectre Fails to Haunt a Pro-America Audience Online
Dien Nguyen An Luong
Many observers have drawn parallels between the U.S.’ chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and memories of the “Fall of Saigon”. But Vietnamese reactions to U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris’ recent visit there shows continued favourable sentiments towards the U.S.
The KPK Controversy Keeps Corruption a Central Issue in Public Consciousness
Max Lane
Policies affecting the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have kept corruption salient in public consciousness. There is growing discontent and anger driven by the perception that the Indonesian political elites are colluding to weaken the KPK to promote their own vested interests.
Retno Goes to Washington: Indonesia Sticks to ‘Free and Active’ Foreign Policy
Leo Suryadinata|William Choong
Washington has played up its growing relationship with Jakarta. For the latter, it is all about what Jakarta can get from the closer ties, and balancing its position within the Sino-US relationship.
Malaysia’s New Cabinet: Same-Same, Minus the Buzz
Francis E. Hutchinson
The new Malaysian cabinet looks very similar to that of its Perikatan Nasional predecessor. By seeking to ensure continuity, new prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob has sacrificed the new administration’s honeymoon period. It needs to generate some inspiring ideas.
Prospect of a 3rd Jokowi Term: Trial Balloons Unlikely to Fly?
Syafiq Hasyim
Speculation of the possibility of Indonesian President Jokowi seeking a third term in office remains rife. However, there currently appears to be near-unanimous opposition to the idea.
Resetting the Security Sector in Malaysia
Liew Chin Tong
Given the pressing domestic and external challenges that Malaysia is facing, it is high time for a refreshed National Security Council that will be able to coordinate policy at the highest level.
Biden After Afghanistan: Hitting the Buffers in Southeast Asia
Robert Sutter
The Biden Administration has sought to re-engage with Southeast Asia, but there are limits to how much traction it can get in the region.
Vietnam: Turning the Tables on Covid-19
To Cong Nguyen Bao
Vietnam, which enjoyed a relatively fuss-free year fighting Covid-19 in 2020, has had to re-assess its strategy and adopt a newer approach to living with the coronavirus.
IPCC Report: No Time for Southeast Asia To Take it Easy
Sharon Seah
The latest report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has some sobering data applicable to Southeast Asia. Whether countries muster up the political will to follow through on their commitments will be key.