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Will Greater Defence Spending by ASEAN Countries Compromise Their Economic Growth?

As geopolitical tensions push Southeast Asian governments to spend more on defence, the economic consequences will depend heavily on domestic conditions, the composition of spending and regional circumstances.

Japan’s “Silent Diplomacy” in Myanmar: A Partner for ASEAN’s Peace Process?

Japan is stepping up its regional mediation push. This will be relevant to Myanmar.

The Trap That is Thailand’s Legacy of Diplomatic Success

Bamboo diplomacy has long been the default language of Thai foreign policy. The Long Read argues that, under conditions of intensifying geopolitical competition, the very script that is remembered as Thailand’s survival method can make it harder for the country to define and pursue a distinctive strategic role.

Haze Chokes Plants Too: Air Quality as a Food Security Issue

Southeast Asia must address the damage of the haze on agriculture, especially food crops.

Southeast Asian Economies Grow Amid the US-Iran War — But Inflation Pains the Poor

Economic growth is largely bolstered by the AI boom and supply chain relocations. Governments should ensure inflation mitigation policies benefit the poor without compromising long-term development goals.

Thailand’s Car Industry in Transition: Balancing Old and New Technologies

Thailand’s auto industry is in flux, to the chagrin of the established auto industry. The policy heavily favouring electric vehicles may need to be rebalanced.

A Resurgent UMNO: Daring Anwar, But Not Walking Out Just Yet

UMNO is daring Pakatan Harapan to expel it from the Unity Government and call for an early election. The party’s history suggests it would rather not be the one to quit the coalition.

The Strategic Implications of the New China-Laos Military Facility

A new China-Laos military facility constitutes a significant gain for Beijing. But it will trigger concern among regional countries, in particular Vietnam.

Malaysia Must Treat AI Influence Operations as a Systemic Threat

Anthropic intercepted a sophisticated operation potentially offering a commercial service to influence Malaysia’s elections. This must be treated as a systemic risk requiring comprehensive regulation.