Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has dismissed a slew of lawsuits related to the country’s elections in February. The ensuing calm only masks the intense horse-trading that is occurring behind the scenes.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Cambodia’s Outreach to the West Does Not Change China’s Centrality
The view that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet is recharting foreign policy — by reaching out to Western countries and relying less on China — is overblown. China remains Cambodia’s closest friend due to its inside track to the Cambodian elite and its pervasive influence in Cambodia’s economy.
The Enduring Relevance of Vietnam’s “Three Nos” Policy
Ten years after the May 2014 oil rig crisis in Vietnam’s Exclusive Economic Zone, Hanoi continues to maintain its “Three Nos” policy. This, however, does not mean that the policy is set in stone.
Political Stakes of Pheu Thai’s 10,000 Baht Digital Wallet Initiative
The Pheu Thai Party is seeking to push through its 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme. If it fails, there would be significant ramifications for the party. Yet, even if it succeeds, there is no guarantee that the party will regain its electoral dominance.
Indonesia and Malaysia: Palm Oil Under Pressure from Substitutes and EU Deforestation Regulation
The palm oil industry in Indonesia and Malaysia is seeing serious challenges in the form of green substitutes and strictures by the EU.
Mineral Security Partnership and Southeast Asia: Forcing Countries to Choose?
The US-led Minerals Security Partnership is a two-edged sword for Southeast Asia.
Vietnam’s Deepening Leadership Crisis: More Instability on the Horizon?
With the “resignation” of the chair of Vietnam’s National Assembly, the country is facing a leadership crisis.
Rightsizing Japan’s Economic Influence in Southeast Asia
Japan retains an edge in economic influence in Southeast Asia, but it cannot afford to rest on its laurels.
State of Southeast Asia Survey 2024: Indonesia Doubling Down on ASEAN and Japan
Compared to a year ago, Indonesians seem to view ASEAN and Japan more favourably. The Israel-Hamas conflict is a significant factor for declining trust in other powers but economics and soft power can also explain interesting fluctuations in their perceptions.
China’s Engagement with the Myanmar Junta: A High Cost, Low Returns Deal
As the situation in Myanmar approaches a possible climax, one external actor has the chance to act not only to save its national interest but also to influence future outcomes in its chaotic neighbour.