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Thorny Issue: The Durian Economy and Land Tussle in Pahang

There has been an ongoing dispute between the Pahang state government and farmers cultivating durians on encroached state land. With a new player in the fray, however, the dispute looks closer to a settlement.

Thai-Cambodian Tensions: For Thailand, Appeasement Will Not Hold the Line

In seeking to defuse tensions with Cambodia over a border dispute, Thai premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra has scored an own goal. Thailand now faces an uphill climb in resolving the dispute.

Facilitating Gainful Labour Migration in Southeast Asia Remains an Elusive Task

ASEAN has focused on facilitating high-skilled labour mobility, although the vast majority of migrant workers occupy medium- and low-skilled jobs. Disparities in labour standards and uncoordinated migrant labour systems continue to impede the realisation of an integrated regional labour market.

Positioning Thailand as an LGBTQ+ Tourism Hub: Opportunities and Challenges

Thailand has begun to market its LGBTQ+ friendliness to woo LGBTQ+ tourists and boost the economy. While the country has made progressive strides by legalising same-sex marriage, transgender individuals still face systemic hurdles.

US-China Negotiations in London Signal a Tough Road Ahead for Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian countries lack the personal rapport and leverage that have shaped US-China bargaining, and with US’ limited bandwidth, could find themselves on the outside looking in.

Pulling Hanoi from the Pollution Precipice

Hanoi’s air pollution crisis demands action in emission regulation, waste management, and climate mitigation.

Towards a Just Energy Transition in Southeast Asia

A number of policy frameworks have been developed at the regional and national levels to facilitate a just energy transition, but the implementation of these policies is constrained by low levels of public participation, lack of financing and fossil fuel lobbies.

When Espionage Allegations Fuel Sinophobia

The Philippines has seen a rise in the number of espionage allegations against entities and individuals linked to China. Given the gravity of the issue, the authorities need to clarify and disprove such claims to prevent a downward spiral.