Years of shifting resources away from the Myanmar army and changing requirements for its senior ranks have led to its current weaknesses on the battlefield. Are the junta fielding men of straw?
Category Archives: Commentaries
The Philippines-Japan Security Relationship: A New Golden Age?
While Japanese PM Kishida’s recent visit to Manila points to the upward momentum of the Japan-Philippines Strategic Partnership, it will also be a litmus test of Japan’s strategic goals in the rest of Southeast Asia.
Myanmar’s Recent Crackdowns on Corruption: Law Enforcement or Reputation Repair?
Two former confidantes of Myanmar’s Senior General have been convicted of corruption and sentenced to prison. Their oversight of economic portfolios, and failure to stabilise rising prices, suggest that they are also scapegoats for the regime’s policy failures.
Common Goal for Myanmar’s Warring Groups: Currying Favour With China
In an unexpected twist, the warring groups in Myanmar’s civil war have a unified goal: combatting cybercrime and ingratiating themselves with China.
PAS’s Long-Term Play Is to Go Its Own Way
Parti Islam SeMalaysia, the political party which has the most seats in Parliament, intends to capture the reins of federal power. This time, however, it plans to do so on its own.
The Race is On! Indonesia’s 2024 Presidential Candidates Assessed
It will be a tough fight in next February’s presidential election in Indonesia. There is time for the race odds to shift but the stakes are already clear.
Impact of Gaza Crisis on China’s Interests in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific
China would seek to prevent a wider escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. It is also monitoring whether U.S. involvement in the conflict will affect Washington’s focus on constraining Beijing in Asia.
Vietnam’s Rare Earth Ambitions: Economic and Strategic Drivers
Vietnam is seeking to develop its rare earth industry at a time when global demand for such minerals is increasing. Its motivations are not merely economic, but also strategic.
Russia’s Memory Diplomacy is Paying Dividends in Southeast Asia
Russia is employing the selective use of history to further its goals in Southeast Asia.
Out of the “Elektabilitas” Mire Comes the Push for Dynastic Power
The lack of real political difference among the various contenders for the top political job in Indonesia has paved the way for the culture of political dynasties to strengthen. Will this culture win out? The votes will tell.