The Anwar government has taken some steps toward improving the migrant worker situation, but has not addressed the underlying structural problems. More comprehensive policies and effective implementation are needed to protect migrant workers from Indonesia and all source countries.
Author Archives: Lyd w
Policy Possibilities after Indonesia’s Presidential Election 2024
Campaign rhetoric from all the candidates aside, the developmental challenges awaiting Indonesia’s next president need fresh thinking and brave action. Will the right people get in?
The Myanmar Junta’s Unhappy New Year
Things are not going well for the ruling junta in Myanmar, no matter how hard it tries to ignore the bad news on the battlefield.
China’s Digital Silk Road (DSR) in Southeast Asia: Progress and Challenges
China’s Digital Silk Road (DSR) initiative has made significant strides in Southeast Asia. All countries in the region have received DSR investments, with Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia taking the lion’s share. However, China faces multiple challenges in pushing the DSR forward, including the growing tensions between the state and private tech companies domestically as well as intensifying US-China technological rivalry and risks of tech bifurcation.
Making the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone Work
To fully harness the benefits of bilateral cooperation on both sides, the recent signing of the memorandum of understanding for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone needs to be followed up by the relevant agencies doing the real spade work after the initial hype is over.
Malaysia and ASEAN in 2024: Facing Challenges with Focus and Strength
Malaysia and ASEAN face pressing challenges and opportunities in technology adaptation and transition, geopolitical instability and ASEAN competition, and the need to green our economies. With judicious strategies and effective actions, we can head into 2024 with cautious optimism.
Troubled Waters Ahead for Philippine-Vietnam Strategic Partnership on the South China Sea
Vietnam and the Philippines have formed a strategic partnership in the South China Sea. By reinforcing their respective claims to the area, however, they are vulnerable to a wedge strategy by third parties such as China.
Same Moon, Different Dates for Hari Raya (Again!)
Some countries in Southeast Asia might end up celebrating Hari Raya on different dates, but this should not detract them from the higher goals of Ramadhan.
“Red Card” for the President? Vietnam’s Biggest Political Drama in Decades
Vietnam President Nguyen Xuan Phuc might be removed from his position. If online speculation is true, Phuc will become the first Vietnamese president to be ousted while still in office.
On the Horns of Anwar’s Twin Dilemmas
The results of the recent state elections in Malaysia were not unexpected. But the more important thing is Pakatan Harapan’s pursuit of the Malay vote, and what this portends for the coalition going into the next general election.