Russia’s Critical Military Role in Myanmar’s Civil War
Ian Storey
While China wields much influence over Myanmar, Russia plays an outsized role in equipping the country’s military.
Articles
Thailand’s Democrat Party: A Political Institution Survives
Mathis Lohatepanont
The Democrat Party has made a comeback from a near-death experience. But there are still key challenges to overcome.
Indonesia’s Party Cartel System and the New ‘People’s Movement Party’
Max Lane
There’s potentially a new party in town, if it’s not nipped in the bud before the next elections in Indonesia.
Myanmar’s Foreign Exchange Shortages Have Eased, But Challenges Remain
Jared Bissinger
The military regime’s efforts to conserve and tap new sources of foreign exchange have improved its financial situation. This benefits the regime and some businesses, though comes at a cost: increased military action, continued trade restrictions, and a depressed economy.
Implications of the Supreme Court Tariff Ruling on Southeast Asia
Stephen Olson
The Supreme Court has struck down President Trump’s IEEPA reciprocal tariffs, but the practical outcome on Southeast Asia is likely to be negligible. Further complications arise from his reimposition of tariffs through other means and the potential political fallout in his party.
Advancing Southeast Asia’s AI Future Through Sovereign AI Models
David Lam
Several Southeast Asian nations are seeking AI sovereignty through home-grown large language models (LLMs) reflecting their cultures and values, aiming to turn regional insight into competitive advantage for local needs.
Japan’s Growing Hard-power Profile: Implications for Southeast Asia
Hoang Thi Ha|Eugene R.L. Tan
Japan is emerging as a consequential hard-power player, expanding its deterrence and defence-industrial capabilities, as well as its regional and global defence networks. As Japan strengthens its military posture, Southeast Asian states are under mounting pressure to navigate the intensifying Tokyo-Beijing rivalry while carefully managing domestic sensitivities.
Rethinking Malaysia’s Path to Net Zero
Renard Siew
Carbon credits to be tabled under Malaysia’s new climate change bill should serve as a bridge towards decarbonisation rather than a substitute for it.
Indonesia Joining the Board of Peace: At What Cost?
Ary Hermawan|Iim Halimatusa’diyah
Indonesian Islamic groups’ endorsement of President Prabowo’s decision to join Trump’s Board of Peace risks perceptions that they are departing from their long-standing support for the Palestinian cause.
Thailand’s “Conservative” Turn?
Napon Jatusripitak|Prajak Kongkirati
The victory of the Bhumjaithai Party in the recent Thai elections does not necessarily signal a broad-based shift towards conservative elements.