UNCLOS has played a pivotal role in Singapore’s development from a maritime colony to a modern maritime state.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Stealthy Islamism Riding on Mat Kilau’s Stellar Success
Due to some feedback on the article’s references, this article has been taken down for the time being while the references are being clarified with the author.
Vietnam Tightens the Screws on Big Tech
Vietnam’s Decree 53 appears to be focused less on making Big Tech firms set up offices and data centres in Vietnam. Instead, it appears to be more focused on instilling fear in such companies and Internet users.
The ‘Sambo Case’: Public Trust in the Indonesian Police at Stake
The convoluted case involving a former police general’s alleged murder of his aide threatens to up-end the Indonesian public’s trust in their law enforcement agencies.
Moving Southeast Asia’s Climate Needle: One Thread at a Time
Southeast Asia remains deeply concerned about the effects of climate change, but commitment and enthusiasm for practical action vary.
How Platform Drivers in Indonesia Are Being Taken for a Ride
A proposed increase in fares for ride-hailing drivers in Indonesia has been opposed by various parties. This has led to the normalisation of unsustainably low earnings for such drivers.
Malaysia’s 15th General Election: Considering the Chessboard
Pakatan Harapan has to win at least 80 seats in peninsular Malaysia in order to safeguard Malaysian democracy and move the country forward.
ASEAN and Taiwan: Cooperation Opportunities amid Diplomatic Constraints
While there are risks involved in pursuing deeper cooperation with Taiwan beyond trade and economics, ASEAN should not shy away from exploring possibilities even while abiding by the ‘One China’ policy.
The Najib Verdict: Judges Made Their Mark, But Will It Last?
The Federal Court’s upholding of the conviction of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has restored confidence in the key national institution. But the country’s democracy faces stern challenges ahead.
Prayut’s Suspension: The Authoritarian System Behind the Thai Premier
Questions about the political fate of Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha serve as a distraction. It is more important to understand the post-2014 authoritarian system that supports Prayut.