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Will Move Forward Party’s Dissolution Cause Another Wave of Youth-led Protests in Thailand?

The progressive youth have kept a low profile in the aftermath of the Move Forward Party’s dissolution last week. It does not mean, however, that they have been permanently silenced.

MFP Dissolution: Inevitable But Not Inconsequential

The dissolution of the Move Forward Party conforms to a pattern of judicial bodies intervening to manage political outcomes.

Malaysia’s States: Open for Business, Yet Not Always Transparent

Malaysia is enjoying strong inflows of foreign direct investment. To up its game, it needs to channel such flows to less-developed states.

Japan, the Courteous Power, Bares Some Teeth for Regional Stability

Among ASEAN dialogue partners, Japan has been recognised as a “courteous power” that aligns well with Southeast Asian cultural norms and values. Beyond that, Japan has emerged as the most trusted and strategically relevant middle power to ASEAN. This positions it to play a greater security role in the region.

Thai PM Srettha and the Cannabis Ban: Not Having it His Way

The Thai Prime Minister’s unexpected back-pedalling has ignited rumours that influential former PM Thaksin Shinawatra will back Deputy PM Anutin Charnveerakul as the future leader.

Indonesia’s National Data Centre Ransomware Attack: A Digital Governance Failure?

A recent ransomware attack on Indonesia’s public services revealed weaknesses that the country can ill afford to ignore if it wishes to fully participate in the digital century.

China’s Environmental Focus in South China Sea: Questionable Motivations

China has filed reports on environmental protection in the South China Sea to counter the Philippines’ claim of severe damage to the marine ecosystem at Scarborough Shoal and thwart Manila’s effort to file a legal case against China. But Beijing’s efforts provoke some serious questions about its motivations.