Dubious partnerships, corruption, and poor construction materials seem to have caused the destruction of the 30-storey building in the 28 March quake.
Author Archives: Isabelle Chua
State-Level Empowerment of Sufism in Addressing the Salafi-Wahhabi Threat in Malaysia
Where does Islam in Malaysia stand regarding Sufi ideology and practice? Some states are making their stance clear in response to mixed signals from the top.
After the Grand Compromise: Voter Profiles in Thai Politics
The grand compromise, forged at the elite level between Thailand’s conservative establishment and Thaksin Shinawatra’s Pheu Thai Party, could lead many Thai voters to shift their party allegiance in the next general election.
The Sino-US Trade War Presents Hard Choices for Southeast Asia
In the ensuing Sino-US trade war, China, to use Trump’s lingo, has more cards to play than its economic rival.
How To Lam Can Unleash Vietnam’s Private Sector
The Communist Party of Vietnam’s General Secretary has directed his government to take concrete steps to encourage private sector growth and foster ‘national champions’ capable of global competition.
With Trump’s Coercive Tariffs Paused, Will ASEAN Collective Action Work?
While the potential for joint action may be limited, current circumstances demand that the regional bloc expand its horizons.
The Significance of the Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
The agreement builds on a rapidly strengthening economic relationship, with potential benefits for the UAE’s diversification and Malaysia’s trade and investment.
Xi’s Southeast Asia Tour: China Needs More Than a Charm Offensive
China has embarked on a charm offensive in Southeast Asia in the wake of the US’ “Liberation Day” tariffs. This is unlikely to allay concerns about its regional behaviour.
US Tariffs and ASEAN Food Security: Turning Short-Term Pain into Long-Term Gain
Southeast Asia could use this disruption in food trade to strengthen collaboration, reduce dependency, and create a truly integrated regional market.
The Geopolitical Risks of Malaysia’s Oil and Gas Fracas
Sarawak is embarking on a broad effort to reclaim full autonomy over its oil and gas sector from Putrajaya. But the risks might outweigh the benefits.