The region has a chance to rely on tools like blended finance to power its green transition. The time to act, however, is running out.
Author Archives: blackbox
The Flawed Approach of Cambodia’s Cryptocurrency Ban
Cambodia’s ban on overseas cryptocurrency exchange websites is well-intentioned, but it ignores more systemic issues.
Beyond Democracy’s Return: Jakarta’s Gubernatorial Election and the Mutation of Toxic Alliances
The background manoeuvring by various parties in Jakarta’s 2024 gubernatorial elections foreshadows similarly complex play with 2029’s presidential race in mind. For some players, today’s loss might be tomorrow’s gain.
Preparing the ASEAN Economic Community for a Securitised World
To prepare for the ratcheting up of geoeconomic tensions, ASEAN members should seek strength in numbers and look to their own community to navigate difficult terrain in the coming years.
Southeast Asia’s Economic Performance in 2024 and Outlook for 2025: Navigating Rising Risks
The region is finally showing clear signs of recovery from the multi-year pandemic but 2025 portends more serious headwinds against which regional governments and businesses will have to steer.
From ‘Chubby Bear’ to Censored Content: Vietnam’s Double Standard Approach to TikTok
Vietnam is enforcing strict censorship on TikTok to protect leaders’ reputations while exploiting the platform to amplify its narrative. Amplifying pro-leader narratives this way also carries risks.
Fanning the Yellow Flames of Thai Politics: Not So Fast
A media mogul is attempting to rally protestors against the Pheu Thai-led government. The call to action, however, might not resonate beyond a small core of anti-Thaksin hardliners.
Chinese Migrants and the Philippines: The Need to Plug Legal Loopholes
The Philippines’ immigration laws have failed to keep pace with a growing influx of new Chinese immigrants. The laws need to be reviewed to curb corruption in the system.
Seaweed: Prospects for Decarbonisation and Food Security in Southeast Asia
Enthusiasm about seaweed has been growing due to its potential to contribute to food security, decarbonisation, and economic growth. Southeast Asia is a major global producer of seaweed; Indonesia and the Philippines are among the top-producing countries. The region’s millions of farmers could potentially benefit from an expansion of the industry.
Politically Proofing the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone for Credibility and Durability
There is positive sentiment on both sides of the Causeway about the proposed special economic zone in Johor. However, the project needs to be future-proofed against potential political complications up north.