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Vietnam’s Response to Controversial Mekong Projects in China, Laos, and Cambodia

Vietnam is anxious about the geostrategic implications of upstream Mekong projects in China, Laos, and Cambodia. It faces the dilemma of protecting its vital interests in the Mekong while maintaining stable and cooperative relations with its three neighbours.

Abdullah Badawi: Esteemed in the Shia Community

Abdullah Badawi was a moderate Muslim leader who reached out to Malaysia’s Shia community at a time when they came under legalised discrimination.

Economic Anxiety, Nationalist Pride: How Vietnam Navigates the Trump Storm

Hanoi is orchestrating a media campaign to project resilience amid Trump’s tariffs and other setbacks in US–Vietnam ties while trying to prevent simmering anti-American sentiments from hurting those ties.

Nuclear Power in the Philippines: The Need to Address Institutional Gaps

The Philippines is reviving an interest in developing nuclear energy. But it needs to first address key considerations such as public trust, safety and waste management.

ASEAN Faces a Tougher Balancing Act in US and China Trade Relations

ASEAN countries find themselves in a more delicate position trying to address US concerns while maintaining favourable relations with China.

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.