The Five Power Defence Arrangements is not called the grandfather of multilateral arrangements for no reason. Going forward, the FPDA can make a significant contribution to the realm of maritime security.
Author Archives: blackbox
Why Should We Care about Older Filipino Migrants?
Many Filipino migrant labourers and migrants are ageing in their host countries, facing challenging circumstances with few resources to overcome them. What can the Marcos Jr. administration do to support these older Filipino heroes who serve the rest of the world’s needs?
Prabowo’s Shifting Strategy on Indonesian Muslim Voters
It is too early to tell if third-time presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto’s seeming moderate shift in campaign strategy and tone will bear fruit in 2024. But no harm in trying.
Taiwan Contingencies and Southeast Asia: Scenarios in the Gray Zone
Regional countries, including those in Southeast Asia, have worried about the impacts of a potential Chinese invasion or blockade of Taiwan. But there are other scenarios to consider.
Lost in Translation: Decoding Populism in Thailand’s 2023 Elections
How populism is defined and wielded in today’s Thai politics has implications for the strength and sustainability of the country’s political development.
Eating Away Our Food: Ocean Acidification Impacting Fisheries in Southeast Asia
Ocean acidification, the “evil twin” of global warming, presents a stern challenge to food security, particularly for Southeast Asians.
Malaysia’s Ample Start-up Funds Need to Be More Accessible and Accountable
Malaysia has established numerous funds to nurture start-ups, but must do much better in simplifying the current system, reporting relevant data, and assessing policy outcomes.
Contested Chineseness: TikTok, Singapore and U.S.-China Competition
Global anxieties towards China have escalated, as evidenced in the U.S. government’s increased scrutiny and pressure on TikTok, including the “Chineseness” of its Singaporean CEO. However, Chinese identity has always been fluid and diverse, and is increasingly contested.
Can Indonesia’s Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) Succeed?
If Indonesia can leverage its advantages and summon the political will for committed change away from coal, a green and just transition will be within its grasp.
Post-election, Thailand’s Next Government Faces Difficult Military Procurement Decisions
Washington has rejected Thailand’s request to purchase F-35 Lightning II fighters, reportedly due to the Royal Thai Air Force’s lack of capacity to operate the planes. But there is more to the decision than meets the eye.