The Belt and Road Initiative is many things, but there is little evidence that it is a debt trap. Observers should dispense with this grand narrative and focus on how to engage with the nuances of Chinese lending.
Author Archives: Lyd w
Agency Requires Action: Southeast Asia and Great Power Rivalry
The US-China rivalry means that Southeast Asia needs more integration and a more outcome-oriented ASEAN.
Navigating Vietnam’s Lending App Maze
Consumer protection and education is needed to tame the expanding digital lending industry.
Returning to Al-Azhar During the Pandemic: A Risk Worth Taking?
Despite current challenges, Al-Azhar University – a popular destination for Singaporean students – remains as relevant as ever in churning out quality graduates in the Islamic sciences.
Hanoi’s Policy of Non-Alignment: Sui Generis
Like its ASEAN colleagues, Vietnam has sought not to choose sides in the ensuring rivalry between China and the United States. But its motivations are of an older and more enduring vintage.
Thai Provincial Politics Remain Local
The Progressive Movement stalled in provincial elections.
Indonesia’s Regional Elections: Jokowi’s About-Face on Oligarchy
Indonesia’s recent regional elections were generally successful. But they have also unmasked an interesting development – the pursuit of oligarchy by a president who was once dead set against it.
Southeast Asian Youth on Climate Change: A Force to be Harnessed for the Greater Good
Youths in Southeast Asia are active in climate change advocacy, but more can be done so that they are to be equipped to tackle an existential challenge.
Anti-Chinese Sentiment or Mere Labour Dispute?
A recent demonstration against a Chinese nickel company in Southeast Sulawesi could be a labour dispute – or something more.
Jokowi’s Opportune and Forward-Looking Cabinet Change
The end-of-year cabinet reshuffle sets the stage for the 2022 Jakarta gubernatorial election.