Before time runs out in this pivotal year for Myanmar and ASEAN, Indonesia must step up as lead conductor of an under-performing orchestra.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Pheu Thai’s Landslide in the Northeast: A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy or a Distant Dream?
Khon Kaen in Thailand’s northeast has traditionally been a stronghold for Pheu Thai, the country’s biggest opposition party. Now, however, a province-wide victory is looking less likely.
Move Forward’s Gains Spurring Pheu Thai to Deal With Auld Enemy
The recent gains made by the Move Forward party have compelled Pheu Thai, the country’s biggest opposition party, to consider possibilities previously deemed unpalatable.
Why China Should Learn To Live With U.S.-Philippine EDCA
The Chinese view that the Philippines’ and the United States’ Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites are offensive in nature is false. The Philippines and China should take a wider perspective and work on the totality of their bilateral relationship.
Thailand’s Policy Towards A Post-Coup Myanmar
Thailand’s proximity to Myanmar means that its foreign ministry is singing a different and more positive tune on Myanmar from the rest of ASEAN. Whether the notes clash against the larger symphony remains to be seen.
The Global Civilisation Initiative: Are ‘Asian Values’ Back with a Chinese Vengeance?
Through its Global Civilisation Initiative, China argues that there are different paths to modernity. While such a view might resonate with Southeast Asian countries, one should not presume that they will jump on the GCI bandwagon.
PDI-P Nominates Ganjar Pranowo as Its Presidential Candidate: What’s Next?
Indonesia’s largest political party has finally ended the speculation on whom it will back for 2024’s presidential race. Game on.
China’s “Model” Relationship with Southeast Asia: Significance and Limitations
China’s “model” relationship with Southeast Asia has the effect of constraining the foreign policy options of these countries by prescribing the elements it would like to see in the relationship. A more realistic approach is for countries to grow their ties based on each country’s national interests.
Where to Grow From Here? MUDA’s Struggles in Muar, and Beyond
MUDA, a youth-based party in Malaysia, seeks greater recognition from Pakatan Harapan. However, the recent general election outcome in Muar, MUDA’s sole parliament win, shows the limits of the party’s traction, notably among Malay youth.
Policy Lessons from the Cancellation of Indonesia’s Host Rights for the FIFA U-20 World Cup
The fallout from Indonesia’s recent loss of its chance to host the Under-20 World Cup contains valuable lessons for its policymakers and leaders, if they choose to pay attention.