Negeri Sembilan State Polls Will Shape National Politics
Tricia Yeoh
The inter-party dynamics in the upcoming Negeri Sembilan state polls provide some indicators of how they could pan out at the national level.
Articles
ASEAN Oil Stockpile Ambition: Destined for the Same Old Fate?
Elbinsar Purba
There is revived interest in developing an ASEAN oil stockpile, a decades-old concept. The rationale is clear, but the hurdles remain high.
The Grey Capital Malaise Infecting Thailand
Gregory Raymond
Thailand has not been immune to the sweep of ‘grey capital’ afflicting Laos and Myanmar. Given the authorities’ weak-willed approach to fighting the problem, it will continue to fester.
New US Tariffs on Thailand: The Need for Market Diversification
Juthathip Jongwanich|Archanun Kohpaiboon
The US’ latest series of tariffs is seeking to compel Thailand and other countries to import less from China. There is a need for long-term market diversification.
The Politics of Indonesia’s Fiscal Recentralisation: Public Views on Regional Transfer Cuts
Burhanuddin Muhtadi
Indonesia’s central government risks incurring public dissatisfaction with its cuts to regional budgets. If left unchecked, the president’s re-election prospects might dim in time.
Small States, Big Stakes: ASEAN’s Narrowing Space for Collective Agency
Denis Hew
Denis Hew examines how geopolitical rivalry and economic coercion are reshaping the Indo-Pacific, arguing that ASEAN must deepen regional integration and strengthen its institutions to preserve its collective agency.
From Exporting Workers to Importing Them: Vietnam’s New Labour Reality
Le Hong Hiep
Vietnam is transitioning from being a source of labour exports to an economy that imports unskilled foreign workers. This is becoming a long-term trend.
Prabowo’s Nutrition Agency Shake-Up Reveals Deeper Structural Problems
Made Supriatma
Rent-seeking plagues Indonesia’s politically charged free nutritious meals, but there is no clear way forward.
Should Southeast Asia Fear the Second China Shock?
Roland Rajah
The second China shock fundamentally differs from the first. Southeast Asia should strategically optimise the growth of capital imports and investment from China.
Cambodia’s Crackdown on Scams Needs a Concrete and Durable Strategy
Chheang Vannarith
Cambodia has stepped up efforts to eradicate scam operations. The key challenge is overcoming structural impediments.