The recent poll in Bangkok underscores the growing precarity of Thailand’s prime minister and his ruling coalition.
Author Archives: blackbox
Uncertainties in Malaysia’s Economic Recovery
The war in Ukraine and the de-coupling of Russia from major economies are expected to dampen economic recovery and generate inflationary shocks. If inflation in Malaysia worsens, policymakers may have to implement a more restrictive monetary policy combined with fiscal stimulus funded by debt and petroleum royalties.
Vietnam and Russia’s Political Alignment: More than Meets the Eye
A lot of ink has been spilled to explain Vietnam’s reticence to take a stronger position against Russia’s war in Ukraine. One facet of the Russo-Vietnam relationship that has not been discussed as much is the two countries’ political alignment on issues such as human rights and democracy in the global arena.
The War in Ukraine: Cambodia’s Surprisingly Hard-line Stand
Cambodia’s hearty relations with Russia means that it should have taken a less strident view of the latter’s invasion of Ukraine. Intriguingly, Phnom Penh’s position has tacked closer to Western critics of the Kremlin.
Investment Trends and Industrial Prospects in Indonesia
While total investments into Indonesia have increased over the years, much of these were driven by a rapid increase in domestic direct investment while foreign direct investment remained relatively stagnant.
Jokowi’s Dilemma: To Stay or To Go?
Although President Jokowi has officially announced the date of the next Indonesian presidential election, there are important strategic and personal considerations that could tempt him to seek to remain in power.
Kishida’s Charm Diplomacy in Southeast Asia: Moral Suasion Does the Trick
Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visits to Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand have burnished Japan’s regional credentials, particularly on contentious issues such as the war in Ukraine, the South China Sea disputes and the evolving order in the Indo-Pacific.
Abdul Somad Denied Entry into Singapore: Islamophobic? Far from It
Indonesia religious teacher Abdul Somad was denied entry to Singapore. His followers have decried Islamophobia as being behind the decision. This cannot be farther from the truth.
ASEAN’S Relevance for the New South Korean Administration
New South Korean President Yoon has a tough balancing act to pull off for his foreign policy, given his neophyte status on the international stage. ASEAN will be watching carefully to see if great power rivalry will derail ASEAN-ROK cooperation.
Asia’s Regional Security Architecture: An Australian Perspective
This Long Read argues that ASEAN’s goal of remaining at the centre of regionalism in Asia is at risk. The Quad and AUKUS are centred around the US due to its paramount military power. Washington shares Australia’s interest in result-oriented security mechanisms, and has found sustaining long-term engagement with ASEAN difficult.