Southeast Asian countries face two dilemmas in the Sino-US AI chip war: aligning their technology stacks with either of the great powers and preventing the illegal diversion of restricted chips.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Singapore’s Trade Agreements Show How Small States Shape Global Legal Norms
From digital trade to essential supply chains, Singapore’s recent plurilateral trade agreements are reshaping how states sustain trade cooperation and build resilience within a rules-based order.
Thailand’s Blue Regime: Giving No Quarter?
The ruling Bhumjaithai Party has de facto control over most senators in the Upper House and cemented its dominance of both houses of Parliament.
The 2026 Johor Election: Advantage Barisan Nasional?
Barisan Nasional has had the audacity to call state polls in Johor a year early. While it enjoys some wind in its sails, BN’s electoral gambit engenders some degree of risk.
Is Thailand’s Latest Co-Payment Scheme Justifiable?
Thailand’s new co-payment scheme seeks to help Thais buffeted by the impacts of the crisis in the Middle East. But the reach of the scheme might be too broad.
Rethinking ASEAN Cooperation: Fewer Words, More Action
Amid rapid geopolitical shifts, ASEAN should focus more on practical outcomes and developing capabilities rather than expending effort on negotiating lengthy statements.
Thailand’s State Welfare Card Reform: New Phase, Old Challenges
The Thai government is rolling out an ambitious social assistance programme, but it lacks a coherent strategy to identify citizens who are most in need
How Vietnam Is Personalising To Lam Without Building a Personality Cult
Vietnam is seeking to project a coherent image of To Lam as a revered leader, but this is done short of venturing into personality cult territory.
ASEAN’s Renewed Engagement with Naypyidaw and the Future of Federal Myanmar
Is ASEAN on the right path as it works to engage Myanmar?
Why Vietnam Needs Both Concrete and Nature to Fight Floods
How can Vietnam design a successful system to combat flooding?