The State of Southeast Asia Survey
Sharon Seah
The U.S. was ASEAN’s preferred major power to align with since the 2020 State of Southeast Asia survey. But this year, more respondents are leaning toward China than the U.S. Southeast Asia may remain engaged with the U.S. while harbouring apprehensions towards China, but the tide may be shifting.
Renard Siew
Environmental conservation and economic opportunity can potentially converge through generating carbon credits based on Malaysia’s forests. However, the federal government must overcome the jurisdictional complexities that arise from the reality that forest management is predominantly governed by state authorities.
Damon Chee
Damon Chee examines the rise of transnational education in Southeast Asia and how it influences the region’s educational landscape.
Azmil Tayeb
This Long Read assesses Bersatu’s prospects for going it alone in the event that Perikatan Nasional (PN) implodes. It argues that its best chance lies in winning seats that used to be UMNO strongholds but are now under PN.
Khairy Jamaluddin
The situation is tense in Malaysia following a fiery fracas over foot coverings.
Nguyen Thanh Giang
Locals in Ho Chi Minh City worry that a new government initiative for social listening powered by artificial intelligence would jeopardise their privacy rather than improve public services.
Vinod Thomas
Vietnam’s green growth commitments crucially depend on expanding renewable energy and replacing coal. The country must seize the rich opportunities on hand and manage the transition with a clear plan and effective, corruption-free administration.
Tiffany McDonald
ASEANFocus is privileged to feature H.E. Tiffany McDonald, Australia’s new Ambassador to ASEAN. Ambassador McDonald sheds light on the ASEAN-Australia relationship after 50 years and how Australia can actively work with ASEAN to shape a shared future for the region.
Kyi Sin|Thida
The State Administration Council is seeking to revive Myanmar’s policy of conscription. Instead of bolstering national solidarity, it will undermine it.
Ian Storey
A small number of Southeast Asians are fighting in the war in Ukraine. They appear to be motivated by a mix of factors.