Vietnam appears to be drawing closer to the U.S. with the recent upgrade in ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This development, however, should not be overestimated as Vietnam-China relations, especially party-to-party ties, remain strong.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Thailand’s New Defence Minister: Keeping the Armed Forces Sweet
The appointment of Thailand’s new defence minister underscores the Pheu Thai Party’s desire to deter yet another coup and ensure the longevity of the 11-party coalition government.
PAS Needs More Than a Mahathir
It appears that Parti Islam SeMalaysia and Mahathir Mohammad have buried the hatchet. If PAS intends to bank on the former statesman’s political capital, it would find that there will be limited upside.
Biden Administration and Southeast Asia: Realpolitik the Name of the Game
As competition with China becomes an organising principle of American foreign policy, realpolitik is the name of the game in U.S. engagement with Southeast Asia.
Why the Next Decade Will Be So Critical for Indonesia: It’s Not Simply about Getting Rich
The government elected next year will have a long to-do list, not least of which is to continue pursuing meaningful development as Indonesia aspires to reach high income status by 2045.
The Ba‘Alawi of Indonesia: Genealogy and Identity
The debate in Indonesia about the origins of the Ba‘Alawi community reflects the fact that legitimacy is derived not only from lineage but social, historical and religious identity.
Anwar’s Unity Government: Striding Forward or Just Moonwalking?
Anwar Ibrahim’s Unity Government has survived some stern electoral tests of late. But he has his work cut out going forward.
The Urgent Need to Rejuvenate Public Green Spaces in Jakarta
There is already an existing solution to some of Jakarta’s urban pollution woes, but this requires the present government to more seriously revive and maintain the city’s much-needed green spaces.
Why Has Batam’s Rempang Eco-City National Project Become a Controversy?
Unhappiness among villagers in Rempang, close to Batam island, has led to riots in Batam City and threatens existing and future foreign investment. A small but diminishing window exists in which the local and central governments can improve their approach towards convincing residents of the need to relocate for a better future.
Climate Resilience in Southeast Asia: Adapt and Mitigate Before It’s Too Late
Southeast Asia must prioritise climate resilience, encompassing adaptation and mitigation. The process must be strategically managed, informed by data and applied across a broad range of solutions.