blackbox

Uncovering ASEAN Private Sector Sentiments on Their Choice of Strategic Economic Partner

A deep dive into private sector sentiments can yield some insight into ASEAN’s preferred economic partner of choice.

Navigating China’s Influence: Insights from the State of Southeast Asia 2024 Survey

Southeast Asians recognise China’s burgeoning influence in the region, but there are nuances to the geopolitical dynamics. The region needs to manage its relationship with the rising global power; China needs to address the lack of confidence that it will “do the right thing”.

Will the Confucian Religion Develop Further in Indonesia?

The quiet support of the current administration for the tiny minority of Confucianists in Indonesia, who are mostly ethnic Chinese Indonesians, could speak volumes about not just religious but more worldly concerns.

Can Bersatu Go It Alone?

This Long Read assesses Bersatu’s prospects for going it alone in the event that Perikatan Nasional (PN) implodes. It argues that its best chance lies in winning seats that used to be UMNO strongholds but are now under PN.

Vietnam’s High-Potential Energy Transition Needs Clear Policy And Clean Government

Vietnam’s green growth commitments crucially depend on expanding renewable energy and replacing coal. The country must seize the rich opportunities on hand and manage the transition with a clear plan and effective, corruption-free administration.

Southeast Asia’s Soldiers of Fortune in the Russia-Ukraine War

A small number of Southeast Asians are fighting in the war in Ukraine. They appear to be motivated by a mix of factors.

The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL)’s Green Proposition: A Hard Chug

Malaysia is seeking to promote greener modes in freight transportation via the ECRL. This is laudable, but not without a set of challenges.

Vietnam and the Russia-Ukraine War: Hanoi’s ‘Bamboo Diplomacy’ Pays Off but Challenges Remain

The strengthening of the Russia-China strategic nexus affects Vietnam more than any other Southeast Asian country. Hanoi is concerned that Beijing may use its leverage with Moscow to undermine Vietnam’s interests in the South China Sea.

An Urgent Need for Post-Election Civil Society Consolidation in Indonesia

There is serious disquiet among Indonesia’s civil society actors and academics, who support the two candidate pairs that lost last month’s election. Much work lies ahead if there is to be an effective national reckoning of alleged electoral misconduct – yet it may be a case of too little, too late.