Political parties which tout the need for more democracy in Thailand have shied away from aggressively promoting amendments to the kingdom’s lese-majeste law. However, the law’s impact on generational and ideological divides remains in motion.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Mosques Using YouTube in Indonesia: A Sustainable Symbiosis
Some smaller mosques are using their online presence to attract not just worshippers but to earn a potential sustainable and alternative income, even as physical worship remains important for Muslim Indonesians.
Is the Sun Shining on Vietnam-US Relations?
The U.S. has become increasingly adept at engaging in areas that best resonate with Vietnamese leaders and the public. But Washington still needs to navigate the tricky shoals of political differences, China-wary Vietnamese elites and media censorship.
U.S.-Vietnam Relations: Ready for a Strategic Partnership Upgrade?
While signs are afoot that Hanoi is drawing a little closer to Washington, Vietnam will likely stick to familiar ground when managing its relations with the two largest powers.
Indonesia’s Potential Presidential Candidates and Two Superpowers
Washington and Beijing – like Indonesian voters – are getting to know more about Indonesia’s prospective presidential candidates.
Why China is Vexed About the U.S.-Philippine EDCA
China takes a dim view of Manila’s decision to grant the United States access to four military bases. While the two allies have framed the arrangement as bolstering deterrence vis-à-vis China, such a move is unlikely to deter Beijing.
Same Moon, Different Dates for Hari Raya (Again!)
Some countries in Southeast Asia might end up celebrating Hari Raya on different dates, but this should not detract them from the higher goals of Ramadhan.
Making Sense of Cambodia’s Reaction to AUKUS
Cambodia’s reaction to the trilateral nuclear-technology sharing deal between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States can best be described as lukewarm. It would be an oversimplification to say that AUKUS will have no adverse effects on Southeast Asia.
Thailand’s Right-Wing Parties: Keeping Democracy Close But Its Enemies Closer
Some democracy advocates may look to eradicating right-wing parties in the political landscape come the elections in May. But it should be noted that not all right-wing parties are harmful to democracy.
From Duterte’s “Pivot to China” to Marcos Jr.’s “Rebalance to the U.S.”?
Marcos Jr. appears to be setting the Philippines in a different direction where foreign policy is concerned but, like his predecessors, faces the challenge of navigating Sino-U.S. rivalry alongside Sino-Philippine maritime tensions in the South China Sea.