Myanmar’s agricultural sector fared relatively well in 2023. The prognosis moving forward is not so bright.
Author Archives: blackbox
The Philippines’ Near-Standoff with China at Sabina Shoal: Bolstering Preventive Deployment
The Philippines has tried a new tactic of preventive deployment at Sabina Shoal but more must be done.
The ‘Strong Leader’ Online Influence Operations and Filipinos’ Desire for Effective Government
The Filipino electorate’s collective yearning for a ‘strong leader’, while exploited for political mileage, is better understood as a desire for a government that cares and acts decisively for the people.
Triangle Trouble: What’s Next for Vietnam’s Indochina Strategy?
Cambodia’s withdrawal from a trilateral development triangle involving Laos and Vietnam spells trouble for Hanoi’s ‘near abroad’ regional strategy.
Loopholes in Malaysia’s Anti-Defection Law
The Sheraton Move of 2020 saw the collapse of a coalition government. A 2022 anti-hopping law has some utility, but it is ridden with some loopholes.
Cambodia’s Trilateral Deal Pullout Strains its Relations with Vietnam
The Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam tripartite split signals an assertive Cambodia and the onset of a precipitous deterioration in its ties with Vietnam.
Ringgit’s Appreciation: A Longer View
The ringgit’s recent appreciation has been attributed to sound government policies. Based on economic fundamentals, however, such an appreciation might not be sustainable in the long run.
Malaysia’s Purchase of Kuwaiti Hornets: Is It Worth It?
On the surface, Malaysia’s planned purchase of Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait looks prudent. But there are deeper considerations to mull over.
Budget 2025: Politics Likely to Prevail Over Subsidy Reforms
It makes sense for the Anwar administration to lift subsidies on petrol and reconsider putting back the goods and services tax. The problem is that of politics.
Outlook for the Prabowo Administration’s Foreign Policy
Incoming Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto can be expected to be more active than his predecessor in managing Indonesia’s foreign and defence policy. The question is whether the region will see a more assertive Indonesia under Prabowo.