Denis Hew examines how geopolitical rivalry and economic coercion are reshaping the Indo-Pacific, arguing that ASEAN must deepen regional integration and strengthen its institutions to preserve its collective agency.
Category Archives: ASEANFocus
Türkiye and ASEAN: Turning a Side Story into a Strategy
In an era of geopolitical uncertainty, Mehmet Enes Beşer argues that Türkiye and ASEAN should move beyond purely trade-based engagements towards a strategic economic partnership, with deeper cooperation in supply chains, energy, the digital economy, industry and the halal sector.
No Longer Poor: Can Laos be Clean, Green and Great?
Anoulak Kittikhoun argues that as Laos prepares to graduate from the United Nations’ least developed country category, the bigger challenge is no longer escaping poverty but building a future defined by clean space and green growth.
Why Methane Emission Reduction Matters for ASEAN
Shivenes Shammugam and Jihyun Kang argue that although ASEAN countries have recognised the importance of methane mitigation, implementation remains uneven but Korea’s experience as an ASEAN dialogue partner could help bridge this gap.
ASEAN’s Collective Resilience Agenda: Can It Deliver Under Pressure?
Joanne Lin, Kristina Fong and Melinda Martinus argue that as global crises become increasingly interconnected, ASEAN faces mounting pressure to strengthen energy security, maritime cooperation, and crisis coordination before the next disruption strikes.
Seizing the Middle-Power Moment: ASEAN and Canada at a Convergence
ASEANFocus is privileged to feature H.E. Ambra Dickie, Canada’s Ambassador to ASEAN. Ambassador Dickie reflects on the evolution of ASEAN-Canada dialogue relations and discusses how both sides can seize the “middle power moment” together, amid a shifting Indo-Pacific landscape. She shares Canada’s perspectives on the importance of ASEAN as the region’s leader, the significance of the forthcoming ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement, and the importance of strengthening ASEAN-Canada ties to sustain an inclusive and enduring partnership.
Rethinking Economic Integration as a Strategic Hedge
Kristina Fong emphasises the need for ASEAN Member States to narrow gaps in productive capacities and technological readiness to strengthen economic integration to credibly counter rising geostrategic pressures.
The Importance of Preserving Physical ‘Third Places’ in Southeast Asia
Gauri Sasitharan traces the evolution and decline of physical third places in Southeast Asia and the consequences for communities in the region.
China’s Retaliation Against Japan and the Implications for Southeast Asia
Lye Liang Fook argues that Beijing’s retaliatory measures against Japan could increase pressure on ASEAN countries, making it important for ASEAN to continue emphasising restraint and peaceful dialogue.
Navigating Our Future Together? The Philippine Chairmanship in a Year of Strategic Tension
Joanne Lin and Aries Arugay assess the first quarter of the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship and the challenges that still lie ahead.