ASEAN countries find themselves in a more delicate position trying to address US concerns while maintaining favourable relations with China.
Author Archives: chahaewon
Fear of Military Interference in Politics Runs Deep in Indonesia
Indonesia’s civil society and university campuses have long been a bellwether for military overreach. The current mood among resistors is distinctly anxious.
Bangkok Politics in 2025: Beacon of Thai Pluralism
Bangkok’s penchant for political pluralism has persisted. In the 2026 elections, this would see a popular and independent incumbent pitted against an up and rising opposition party.
Legal Pluralism in Malaysia: Navigating the Civil and Shariah Systems
This Long Read outlines the position of Islam in Malaysia’s Constitution and the applicability of the Shariah courts, particularly in respect of criminal offences.
Pak Lah and Islam Hadhari’s Hits and Misses
Former Malaysian PM Abdullah Badawi’s signature Islam Hadhari project aimed to promote progressive Islam but faded after his tenure due mainly to lack of support from religious circles.
Myanmar’s Earthquake Threatens a Lasting Economic Scar
The recent earthquake in central Myanmar threatens to deepen the country’s economic malaise.
Has China’s Great Relocation Helped Southeast Asia Industrialise?
China’s extensive investments in Southeast Asia have delivered mixed results, underscoring the importance of policies that promote productivity, positive spillovers, and innovation.
Why Importing More Will Not Save Thailand from Trump’s Tariffs
Thailand is trying to increase imports from the US to tackle the challenge posed by new US tariffs slapped on Thailand. This is unlikely to significantly improve Thailand’s position.
Indonesia’s Food Estates: Why Poor Public Policy Persists
Indonesia’s presidents keep trying to make food estates work but the scheme will fall short without engaging the true stakeholders and honestly assessing the project’s merits.
Trump’s Tariff Reversal: An Opportunity for Trade Realignment in Southeast Asia
As trade policy takes a volatile turn under the US leader, ASEAN can seize the moment to diversify global partnerships and assert a stronger voice in the international trade order.