Now that the ASEAN Summit is over, serious questions remain about how exactly the regional grouping can begin to resolve the Myanmar crisis, despite stronger words and a slight toughening of position.
Category Archives: Commentaries
The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) – Ground-breaking or Ground to a Halt?
If ASEAN’s ten member states can negotiate and come to agree on the world’s first regional digital economy agreement, the region’s continued pace of digital transformation is set to soar. Whether its wings are clipped depends on a complex range of domestic, intra- and inter-regional factors, but at least things are looking promising.
Thailand’s Elite Reconfiguration: Old Wine in New Bottles
The installation of a Pheu Thai-led government with the aid of conservative elements underscores a significant transformation in Thailand’s ruling structures.
Prabowo as Defence Minister: From Problematic Purchases to Provocative Proposals
Notwithstanding his high popularity in recent polls, Prabowo Subianto’s uneven track record as defence minister begs more scrutiny from Indonesian voters before they head to the presidential vote next February.
Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan: Clear-Eyed on Implementation
Malaysia newest industrial master plan has a stronger focus on deliverables, with a focus on action plans and the monitoring of implementation.
Muhaimin Iskandar’s Vice-Presidential Candidacy and Nahdlatul Ulama
As his running mate, Muhaimin Iskandar could bring something to the table for Anies Baswedan’s 2024 campaign and the former would not be down and out even if their team does not beat the other two presidential contenders next February.
China’s Military Exercises in Southeast Asia Belie Lack of Trust
The PLA has increased the number of military exercises conducted with its smaller regional neighbours this year. But the scope, frequency and sophistication of the exercises still lag behind those conducted by the United States.
PAS’ Over-confidence Might Be Its Undoing
PAS appears to be riding a wave of confidence after its solid wins in the recent state elections. It should be more circumspect.
Indonesia’s Volatile Coalition Politics: PKB’s Move Broke the 2024 Presidential Race Logjam
The focus is now on choices for Indonesia’s next vice president after Anies Baswedan secured a surprise choice for his running mate in 2024.
China’s Claim on the South China Sea: How Many Dashes Make a Line?
China’s new map depicting its claims to the South China Sea has provoked some fierce reactions from its neighbours. The fact is that the “new” map is anything but.