Covid-19 is the biggest challenge facing Southeast Asia even as regional confidence in the new Biden Administration grows, according to the latest State of Southeast Asia Survey published by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute.
Author Archives: Lyd w
Assimilating Southeast Asian Migrants into South Korea: Expanding the Meaning of Being “Korean”
Services to assimilate the Vietnamese diaspora into South Korea’s culture have helped to make connections with migrants from other countries, as well as diversify Korean society.
State Governments and the 2021 Emergency: Unfettered Powers at the Centre
Malaysia’s declared state of Emergency has given the federal government sweeping powers to intervene into the affairs of the country’s 13 states.
The Ethics of Covid-19 Vaccination
Who should be vaccinated, and who should be vaccinated first are the ethical and practical questions facing all governments.
Communist Party of Vietnam Leadership Appointments – The Geography Factor
The Communist Party of Vietnam’s upcoming 13th National Congress will see appointments to the country’s highest political offices. To date, the general secretary and prime minister are selected from two different regions. This a top-down practice that nurtures political groups whose members are connected by their geographical origins. There are indications that Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Tran Quoc Vuong, current standing member of the CPV’s Secretariat, are candidates for the position of general secretary. The former is from the Centre (a break from tradition), while the latter is a Northerner.
Thailand’s Second Covid-19 Outbreak: Corruption and Its Consequences
Thailand is facing a second coronavirus outbreak. This time, however, the fight may be protracted because the causes stem from endemic corruption.
The Death of a Young, Moderate Charismatic Preacher
Syekh Ali Jaber had become a surprise force for moderate Islam in Indonesia.
Official Chinese Lending: Why the Easy Money is Drying Up
A new study suggests that official Chinese lending has dropped in recent years. This stems from lessons learnt after a decade of mistakes in overseas lending. Despite the decline, the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative shows no signs of slowing.
Malaysia’s New Lockdown – But Where Is the Help for the People?
It is puzzling that the Prime Minister neglects to give assurance that relief will be delivered, if necessary, during this lockdown. Perhaps his government genuinely believes that the broader scope of essential services, along with stimulus programmes introduced in Budget 2021, will translate into a minimal downturn.
Hit the Covid Reset Button for Climate’s Sake!
Climate change and pandemics are interlinked. So should be the government responses to these human security threats.