China’s Recent Foray into the North Natuna Sea is Problematic
A Chinese survey ship was reported to be operating in Indonesia’s exclusive economic zone in the North Natuna Sea last week. This is not new, but this time the survey ship was reportedly accompanied by at least six Chinese naval vessels. Jakarta should consider a firm response to Beijing.
Emerging Political Parties in Indonesia: Raising the Water Level of Policy Debate?
For years, Indonesia’s political landscape had little room for vigorous debate on policy issues, given the focus on individual personalities and even populism. This is beginning to change.
China’s Vaccine Diplomacy in Malaysia: Problems and Prospects
In Malaysia, Pfizer is the vaccine of choice, anchoring the national immunisation program as China’s boosters are relegated to a supporting role. The downgrading notwithstanding, China’s vaccine diplomacy remains a prime mover in the unfinished worldwide battle against the coronavirus pandemic.
Increasing ASEAN’s Attractiveness for Global Investors
The race among ASEAN’s economies to attract higher levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) may be abusing the tax incentive card.
Co-opting Civilians into Myanmar’s State Administration Council Junta
The inclusion of civilians on the country’s latest junta is impossible to understand without a clear appreciation that that this junta is above all an anti-NLD project. This article examines the profiles of the civilians co-opted into the junta.
Myanmar and the United Nations: Fighting for a Seat at the Table
A China-US pact to retain the envoy at the United Nations appointed by the former National League for Democracy government has effectively deferred the decision as to who will represent the country at multilateral organisations like the UN.
Vietnam and Economic Reopening: Roadmap Needed
Vietnam has been wise to switch from a ‘zero Covid’ strategy to one of living with the coronavirus. But it needs a clear plan to maintain business activity as the economy reopens.
Indonesian Militants React to Taliban Takeover
The Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan has been welcomed in Indonesia’s militant Islamist circles and even among some mainstream figures.
Reform of the Thai Police: An Impossible Dream?
A recent police scandal has again sparked calls for reform of the Thai police force. There have been numerous attempts in the past, but the key problem is the entrenched relationship between powerful politicians and senior police officers.
Malaysia’s #Kitajagakita Invigorates Political Activism and Tackles Apathy
A new political movement driven by the grassroots is gaining momentum in Malaysia. Centred on the hashtag #kitajagakita, it embodies ordinary citizens’ responses to crises without political interference and red tape.
Loading…
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Follow My Blog
Get new content delivered directly to your inbox.