Malaysia’s Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet Problem: Can the Kaan Make the Cut?
Ian Storey
Given its ageing fleet of fighter jets, Malaysia needs to get a plane soon. But its choices are limited.
Articles
The Newly Appointed Mufti of Malaysia’s Federal Territories Faces Formidable Challenges
Mohd Faizal Musa
The new mufti has enjoyed support but is under considerable scrutiny. His position on key matters bodes well for a moderate and inclusive administration of this office.
Vietnam’s Quest for Online Positivity Could Breed Negativity
Dien Nguyen An Luong
Hanoi’s efforts to enlist social media influencers to spread positive narratives risk hurting their credibility, encountering platform pushback, and ultimately backfiring at home and abroad.
For Myanmar’s Garment Sector, Tariffs are a Setback, not a Knockout Blow
Jared Bissinger
Shielded by ultra-low wages and duty-free access to the EU market, Myanmar’s garment industry may be able to weather President Trump’s steep “reciprocal” tariffs.
How Police Brutality Fuels Indonesians’ Distrust
Firda Amalia Putri|Iim Halimatusa’diyah
Violence is a persistent problem in the Indonesian police force. Recent brutalities against peaceful demonstrators underscore the imperative of reform to enhance accountability and restore public trust.
When TikTok Live Went Dead in Indonesia: Digital Sovereignty and Systemic Risk
Nuurrianti Jalli
TikTok Live’s anticipatory suspension during nationwide protests in Indonesia last month shows the influence of Jakarta’s interventionist digital governance. Such suspensions hurt small businesses and can fuel misinformation.
Outlook for Agriculture and ASEAN’s Role in Southeast Asia’s Food Security
Elyssa Kaur Ludher|Paul Teng
Southeast Asia’s agriculture sector’s growth rates are not keeping pace with population and national economic growth due to chronic underinvestment. Southeast Asian nations need to prioritise actions that help ensure its food security, especially amid increasing challenges from climate change.
Can Filipinos Transcend Polarised Politics to Protest Against Grand Corruption?
Alvin Ang|Aries A. Arugay
The Philippines has remained divided in reaction to a massive corruption scandal. Filipinos must overcome differences and cohesively apply public pressure.
The New Anutin Government Should Reset Thailand’s Trump Tariff Response
Wannaphong Durongkaveroj
Thailand’s previous administration massively allocated funds for infrastructure. The new government needs to prioritise strategic industries and adopt a coherent long-term plan to address the adverse impacts of Trump’s tariffs.
How Vietnam Turns a Celebrity’s Misstep into a Cautionary Tale of Patriotism
Dien Nguyen An Luong
The coordinated pushback against a Vietnamese influencer who had lamented the passing of a cultural icon shows that the state values displays of patriotism, but only if such displays toe the party line.