Chinese reactions to Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae’s comments about Japan’s involvement in a Taiwan contingency have an element of political theatre. Beijing is adopting a more sophisticated strategy of isolating Tokyo on the issue.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Beyond the Points: Vietnam’s Digital Citizen Score Is About Power
Vietnam’s digital citizen scoring proposal though based on incentives rather than punishment is a form of social engineering that paves the way for control by the security apparatus.
The Risk of Vietnam’s Local Leadership Carousel
Vietnam’s efforts to eradicate ‘localism’ have created side effects which might undermine proper governance.
Improving Indonesia’s Submarine Cable Resilience
Indonesia has a growing network of subsea communications cables. It needs to ramp up its capacity to bolster the resilience of such critical networks.
What Southeast Asia Should Expect from Trump in 2026
Trump chalked up some notable wins in Southeast Asia in 2025. But doubts remain over his approach to the region, given his reciprocal tariffs and trademark unpredictability.
Changing Diets Amid a Changing Climate
Much attention has been paid to switching from meat-based diets to plant-based ones. Less attention has been paid to the effects of climate change on the quality and quantity of plant foods.
Thailand Pays the Price for Unregulated Mining Boom
China is dependent on rare earth supply from parts of Myanmar which have unregulated mining that generates toxic waste. Neighbours like Thailand need to work with China and the US to address the problem.
Why Students from China Are Picking Malaysia over Traditional Destinations
Mainland Chinese student numbers in Malaysian universities have surged recently, driven by affordability, proximity, and cultural familiarity, as well as restrictions in traditional study destinations such as the US.
After Langkasuka Project Failure, Sanusi Takes Another Punt at Penang
Kedah’s Chief Minister Sanusi Nor has sought to blame his state’s current financial woes on historical wrongs that need to be righted. But he has other motivations too.
Understanding Bobby Saputra, Indonesia’s ‘Professional Son’
Bobby’s satirical skewering of nepotism and corruption strongly appeals to Southeast Asians, who share disillusionment and a desire to laugh at a system seen as unfair and ineffective.