Myanmar’s civil war is showing up the clumsiness of the junta’s economic policies. The poorest households and workers will be the hardest hit.
Author Archives: chahaewon
Anwar’s First Year: Performative and Underperforming
Anwar Ibrahim’s ascent to the country’s highest office last year was accompanied by a surge of expectations in his reformist government. One year on, however, his administration has lost some of its shine.
Turning the Tide: Vietnam’s War Against Plastic Waste
Vietnam has ambitious targets to tackle the challenge posed by plastic waste. But the key here is effective enforcement and implementation.
Human Capital Development Programmes in Indonesia: Electoral Gimmicks or Achievable Promises?
A clear-eyed look at the various candidates’ proposals for improving Indonesia’s human capital development suggests that the devil will be in the implementation, not the targets per se.
The Dilemma of Political Involvement among Muslim Theologians in Indonesia
This Long Read focuses on the political views of a spectrum of Indonesian Islamic theologians, whose support is often sought by political aspirants seeking to raise their religious credentials as election campaigning heats up.
The Philippines-Japan Security Relationship: A New Golden Age?
While Japanese PM Kishida’s recent visit to Manila points to the upward momentum of the Japan-Philippines Strategic Partnership, it will also be a litmus test of Japan’s strategic goals in the rest of Southeast Asia.
Myanmar’s Recent Crackdowns on Corruption: Law Enforcement or Reputation Repair?
Two former confidantes of Myanmar’s Senior General have been convicted of corruption and sentenced to prison. Their oversight of economic portfolios, and failure to stabilise rising prices, suggest that they are also scapegoats for the regime’s policy failures.
The Race is On! Indonesia’s 2024 Presidential Candidates Assessed
It will be a tough fight in next February’s presidential election in Indonesia. There is time for the race odds to shift but the stakes are already clear.
Vietnam’s Rare Earth Ambitions: Economic and Strategic Drivers
Vietnam is seeking to develop its rare earth industry at a time when global demand for such minerals is increasing. Its motivations are not merely economic, but also strategic.
Out of the “Elektabilitas” Mire Comes the Push for Dynastic Power
The lack of real political difference among the various contenders for the top political job in Indonesia has paved the way for the culture of political dynasties to strengthen. Will this culture win out? The votes will tell.