As Vietnam slowly eases social restrictions amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the challenge is to find the right balance between opening up the economy and protecting the health of the people.
Author Archives: leepohonn
The CPV’s 15th Plenum: “The Art of the Possible” in Vietnamese Politics
The Communist Party of Vietnam, which is set to make some historic appointments to its top echelons, shows that Vietnamese politicians know how to master “the art of the possible”.
Malaysia’s Declaration of Emergency Keeps PM Muhyiddin’s Window Open
Malaysia’s King has put parliamentary politics on hold to the undoubted benefit of the current prime minister.
Will the Banning of the FPI Thwart Radicalism?
The latest banning of a hardline Islamist grouping in Indonesia may see history repeat itself, reassuringly.
Covid-19 Reaches Myanmar’s Armed Periphery: A Silver Lining?
Covid-19 has reached Myanmar’s autonomous regions. But the Wa Region’s militarised nature and access to Chinese assistance might prove valuable in the fight against the pandemic.
How the Milk Tea Alliance Has Succeeded, and Why It May Fail
The Milk Tea Alliance has made waves, even in the physical world. But its impact will be capped by authoritarian governments across the region.
The “Indo-Pacific” is Here to Stay
While the aspirational adjectives that prefix it may change, the Indo-Pacific will better reflect the strategic geography of the new era of great power contestation.
Myanmar’s Elections: Blacking Out from a Clash Between “Red” and “Green”
Myanmar’s November elections are still a way away, but partisan warfare between the so-called “reds” and “greens” has already erupted on Facebook.
Islamist Groups: Jokowi and the Horns of a Dilemma
Islamist groups have been on the up on up in Indonesia. However, a failure to foster unity in the ranks will not bode well for their political fortunes.
The Chini By-Election: A Step Forward for Muafakat Nasional, But Mind the Gap
UMNO’s thumping victory in the recent Chini by-election was not unexpected. The solid Malay support displayed during the poll, however, presages a deeper fissure within the Perikatan Nasional coalition.