Eugene Mark
Thailand’s land bridge project faces challenges in managing geopolitical rivalries and competing with advanced ports in neighbouring countries. Additionally, logistical issues such as transit times and reloading processes could diminish potential time savings. Thailand could instead pursue more cost-effective options to improve existing port and overland infrastructure and boost competitiveness.
Duncan McCargo
This commentary memorialises the late political scientist Alfred Stepan (1936-2017), a leading light in comparative politics. In it, the author considers Stepan’s research and thinking on the complicated relationship between Theravāda Buddhism and democracy.
Maria Monica Wihardja|Chatib Basri
We must get Indonesia’s middle-class narrative right to devise appropriate policy responses. While some argue that the middle class has grown, the evidence tells a more sobering story.
Alexandra Colombier
In Thailand, TikTok users have turned the depiction of illicit activity by Chinese nationals into a stylised narrative where aesthetics and humour intertwine.
Melinda Martinus
Melinda Martinus argues that while individual ASEAN member states are ramping up efforts to reverse brain drain, the region can explore a more coordinated approach to tackle this growing challenge.
Sara Loo
Despite Johor’s data centre boom, there are concerns about the number and quality of jobs they can generate. But demand is rising for skilled workers in ancillary industries, notably construction.
Nguyen Hong Thach
Vietnam has done almost everything necessary to preclude the possibility of the US slapping tariffs on its exports. The question is whether this would be enough.
Kittiya Moonsarn
The Thai state has tried to use food hegemony to control cultural narratives but the sheer diversity of local cuisine is putting a brake on it.
Lee Jang-keun
ASEANFocus+ is privileged to interview His Excellency Lee Jang-keun, the Republic of Korea’s (ROK) Ambassador to ASEAN, as ASEAN-ROK relations enter a new phase. Last year, the partnership was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) as both sides celebrated the 35th anniversary of their dialogue relations. This is a testament to the depth and significance of ASEAN-Korea relations amid shifting geostrategic dynamics. As we look ahead, how can ASEAN and the ROK work together to navigate uncertainties, strengthen regional cooperation, and unlock new opportunities? Ambassador Lee shares his insights on these critical questions and the ROK’s vision for deepening its partnership with ASEAN.
Elina Noor
Amid great power tensions, Elina Noor suggests measures that ASEAN can take to proactively shape its technological future, highlighting the importance of a people-centred approach.