The Thai government is racing to ban the recreational use of marijuna. It has its work cut out for it.
Author Archives: chahaewon
The ASEAN Power Grid: How the LTMS-PIP Can Inform the BIMP-PIP’s Development
A quartet of ASEAN member countries have taken a first important step towards the vision of a regional power grid. The next step is to look back for lessons learned to move forward and improve collaboration, leveraging the experience of not just officials but stakeholders in the private sector.
Sharia versus Shariatisation in Malaysia: Which One Will Triumph?
Parti Islam SeMalaysia has protested against a Federal Court ruling decision which ruled that sharia-related laws in Kelantan were unconstitutional. Its actions underscore a long-running struggle between sharia and shariatisation.
China’s “Two Mountains” Framework: Varied Responses from Southeast Asia
China has long been propagating its Two Mountains theory to address climate change. But many Southeast Asian countries have tailored the concept according to their own needs.
Why Ganjar-Mahfud Were Beaten on Their Own Turf But PDI-P Survived
A post-election analysis of Ganjar Pranowo’s poor showing in last week’s presidential election requires examining what went on behind the scenes and at the grassroots level, including on his home turf, Central Java.
Inclusivity or Division? The Unintended Consequences of Non-Segregated Gyms
A controversy in Malaysia about segregated gym hours has led to a conflation of Islamic tenets with an inherent obstruction to gender equality.
The Return of Melaka Gateway: Scaled-down Ambitions
What was touted as a mega project in the form of the Melaka Gateway is now a shadow of its former self. There remains, however, significant challenges for the envisioned cruise terminal.
Japan’s Arms Transfers to Southeast Asia: Upping the Ante?
Japan’s new Official Security Assistance scheme would help arm regional countries in the face of growing Chinese assertiveness. A lesser-known aspect of OSA might actually bring some serious military capabilities to the region in the future.
Indonesia’s Presidential Election and Palestinian Issues
Each candidate aspiring towards Indonesia’s presidency has had to voice his support for the Palestinian cause and people, not least because he will soon lead the world’s largest Muslim majority country.
Thai Constitutional Court Decision on Move Forward is Judicial Overreach
The recent Constitutional Court decision on the Move Forward Party is unprecedented and will have a significant impact on opposition parties in Thailand.