Now that the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo has concluded, it is time to give Indonesia its interim report card as Chair.
Category Archives: Commentaries
‘Melayu Raya’ Celebrations in Thailand’s Conflict-Stricken Deep South
A community event by and for young Malay/Muslims in Thailand’s south reflects identity and community aspirations amidst political uncertainty in the wider nation-state.
Indonesia’s Presidential Nominations, May Day, and the Fragmented Politics of Labour
The small but vocal Partai Buruh (PB), a newcomer to Indonesian politics, could disrupt the 2024 elections if its questioning of the status quo succeeds. For now, the odds remain low.
Addressing Rapid Changes in Urbanscapes: A Tale of Two Cities
In Yogyakarta and Singapore, youth movements have sprouted to address the negative impacts of rapidly changing cityscapes.
Viva “Elektabilitas”! Indonesia’s Policy-Free Coalition Fever
The question of electability has turned Indonesian voters’ attention towards potential running mates for the putative presidential candidates in the 2024 race.
Future-proofing ASEAN’s Myanmar Response
Before time runs out in this pivotal year for Myanmar and ASEAN, Indonesia must step up as lead conductor of an under-performing orchestra.
Pheu Thai’s Landslide in the Northeast: A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy or a Distant Dream?
Khon Kaen in Thailand’s northeast has traditionally been a stronghold for Pheu Thai, the country’s biggest opposition party. Now, however, a province-wide victory is looking less likely.
Move Forward’s Gains Spurring Pheu Thai to Deal With Auld Enemy
The recent gains made by the Move Forward party have compelled Pheu Thai, the country’s biggest opposition party, to consider possibilities previously deemed unpalatable.
Why China Should Learn To Live With U.S.-Philippine EDCA
The Chinese view that the Philippines’ and the United States’ Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites are offensive in nature is false. The Philippines and China should take a wider perspective and work on the totality of their bilateral relationship.
Thailand’s Policy Towards A Post-Coup Myanmar
Thailand’s proximity to Myanmar means that its foreign ministry is singing a different and more positive tune on Myanmar from the rest of ASEAN. Whether the notes clash against the larger symphony remains to be seen.