An examination of recent trade and FDI flows shows that ASEAN has been benefitting from the reconfiguration of global supply chains as a result of intensifying US-China strategic rivalry. But these gains could well be reversed if the US-China intensifies and leads to a sharp decoupling of global supply chains.
Author Archives: chahaewon
Chinese in Malaysia: Proud of China’s Rise, Yet Fiercely Malaysian
Chinese Malaysians are proud of China’s rise as a great power. But they have also forged a separate cultural identity quite apart from China’s efforts.
Pheu Thai’s Shift in Communication Strategy
The Pheu Thai Party has shut down the Voice TV media outlet, as part of a strategy to boost its flagging political fortunes.
A Controversy of Monks and Mosque: A Setback for Indonesians’ Tolerance?
A conservative Muslim figure tried to criticise a Central Java mosque’s generous act of hospitality in hosting foreign monks on its premises. Nevertheless, his view still seems to be that of a minority in moderate Indonesia.
Rethinking Philippine Counterterrorism Strategy after the Marawi Siege
Seven years after the siege of Marawi, the resurgence of the Abu Sayyaf Group has led to a renewed counter-push by the Philippine armed forces.
Guarding Turf, Giving Credit: Malaysia’s Bumiputera Policy Must be Reasonable and Nimble
Malaysians need to find meaningful solutions to Bumiputera policy challenges. Malaysia’s political leaders have a chance to bravely seek change to improve the lot of Malaysians of all ethnic groups instead of maintaining the status quo.
How Many Southeast Asian Countries Will Attend the Ukraine Peace Summit?
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskky has pulled out all the stops to get Asian countries to attend the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland.
Southeast Asia and Trump 2.0(?): Agency Amid Anxiety
Southeast Asian countries exercised significant agency in protecting their geopolitical interests during Donald Trump’s presidential administration. They would be likely to do so again if there were a second.
The Impacts of the US Tariff Hikes on Southeast Asian Economies
US tariff hikes on Chinese goods have raised US imports from Southeast Asia. The medium- and long-term impacts are more uncertain and potentially disruptive; the region must be on guard.
Ulu Tiram Killings: When Well-being is Key
Two policemen were killed by a suspect in Johor recently. In analysing security and religious motivations behind the attack, there needs to be a holistic understanding of social change in the southern state.