Southeast Asia remains deeply concerned about the effects of climate change, but commitment and enthusiasm for practical action vary.
Author Archives: blackbox
How Platform Drivers in Indonesia Are Being Taken for a Ride
A proposed increase in fares for ride-hailing drivers in Indonesia has been opposed by various parties. This has led to the normalisation of unsustainably low earnings for such drivers.
Malaysia’s 15th General Election: Considering the Chessboard
Pakatan Harapan has to win at least 80 seats in peninsular Malaysia in order to safeguard Malaysian democracy and move the country forward.
ASEAN and Taiwan: Cooperation Opportunities amid Diplomatic Constraints
While there are risks involved in pursuing deeper cooperation with Taiwan beyond trade and economics, ASEAN should not shy away from exploring possibilities even while abiding by the ‘One China’ policy.
The Najib Verdict: Judges Made Their Mark, But Will It Last?
The Federal Court’s upholding of the conviction of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has restored confidence in the key national institution. But the country’s democracy faces stern challenges ahead.
UNCLOS and Maritime Governance: Why It Matters to Malaysia
Malaysia’s evolution to a full maritime nation-state is ongoing and the challenge will be to adapt to new security and other transnational maritime issues while supporting UNCLOS principles.
Prayut’s Suspension: The Authoritarian System Behind the Thai Premier
Questions about the political fate of Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha serve as a distraction. It is more important to understand the post-2014 authoritarian system that supports Prayut.
Indonesia’s New Criminal Code: The Political Establishment Versus Civil Society, Again
While public opposition to Indonesia’s proposed revision to its Criminal Code has stalled its passage in parliament, the conservative political establishment looks set to have the upper hand unless the bill’s critics can turn the tide with louder protests.
Malaysia’s Multi-coalition Platter Spices Up Talk of Fragmented Parliament
Whenever the next Malaysian general elections are held, voters will be in for a bumpier ride as coalition politics lead to more uncertainty about how the next government will shape up.
Has ASEAN Lost its Appeal to the United Kingdom?
The race for the leadership of the Conservative Party has thrown up few clues about London’s approach to ASEAN and the wider Indo-Pacific. Whoever wins, there is reason to believe that the United Kingdom will retain its strong institutional ties to the region.