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Bumiputeras vs ‘the Others’ in Malaysia’s 2022 Budget: Moral Outrage is Not Enough

The UMNO-Perikatan-governed Bumiputera agenda forges on, with a zealousness that, if unchecked, will spell trouble. But the critique must go beyond moral outrage at the ethnic disparities in the budget and grapple with real alternatives.

Technology and Climate Adaptation: How to Fill the Gap

Municipal workers and residents clean up the streets after waters receded in the old city of Hoi An

The adoption of digital technology can help Southeast Asian countries adapt to the effects of climate change.

Indonesia’s Budget Stretched to Control a Pandemic and to Revive a Struggling Economy

A massive second wave of delta-variant infections has disrupted Indonesia’s economic growth trajectory. This complicates the government’s budget implementation and planning for 2022. While funds are sorely needed for social spending and economic programmes, fiscal prudence is critical to avoid any downgrading of Indonesia’s risk and debt ratings.

The 2022 Philippine Elections: Like Father, like Daughter-te

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte and Sara Duterte

The son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos and the daughter of the current populist president Rodrigo Duterte are seeking to consolidate the power of their inter-dynasty alliance. The formation of an inter-dynasty alliance will have implications for the country’s political landscape for years.

The Future of Duterte’s Pivot to China: A Non-Defeatist Approach

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping

Duterte’s China pivot is at a crossroads. The upcoming May polls will give the leading presidential candidates some room to rethink the country’s China policy.

COP26 and Southeast Asia: Cop-outs and Take-Aways

An environmental activist takes part in a protest in Jakarta

The conclusion of the 26th Conference of Parties in Glasgow has several implications for Southeast Asia.

State of Southeast Asia Survey 2022

How Much Longer Can Thailand’s Prime Minister Rule Before Reaching the Eight-year Limit?

A dispute has emerged over when Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-ocha’s premiership will reach the constitutional limit.

Southeast Asia and the Major Powers: Climate Change and the Need For Shrewdness

People participate in a rally during a global day of action on climate change in Manila

Although geopolitics is encroaching onto climate change discussions, a poll shows that Southeast Asians remain objective and pragmatic. Achieving climate goals in the region depends on realpolitik and ASEAN leaders’ shrewdness in tapping resources from all major powers.