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.
Author Archives: lwongiseas
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.
China’s Military Exercises in Southeast Asia Belie Lack of Trust
The PLA has increased the number of military exercises conducted with its smaller regional neighbours this year. But the scope, frequency and sophistication of the exercises still lag behind those conducted by the United States.
Anwar’s First Year: Performative and Underperforming
Anwar Ibrahim’s ascent to the country’s highest office last year was accompanied by a surge of expectations in his reformist government. One year on, however, his administration has lost some of its shine.
Making Sense of Cambodia’s Reaction to AUKUS
Cambodia’s reaction to the trilateral nuclear-technology sharing deal between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States can best be described as lukewarm. It would be an oversimplification to say that AUKUS will have no adverse effects on Southeast Asia.
Anwar Ibrahim’s Visit to Saudi Arabia: Is His Foot in the Door?
Anwar Ibrahim’s opponents are trying to politicise his recent trip to Mecca but it is not a foregone conclusion that Anwar, and by extension Malaysia, was snubbed.
Is Malaysia’s “Green Wave” More a Tsunami of Discontent?
In the run-up to elections in six states, Malaysia’s Prime Minister is seeking to improve his coalition’s electability among Malay voters. The crux of the issue is less about a ‘green wave’ sweeping across the country than a wider discontent over the lack of economic direction.