The Barisan Nasional state government is seeking to increase the number of elected representatives in the legislature, in a bid to increase technical expertise and representation. But there is a deeper motivation.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Agentic AI on Social Media Platforms in Southeast Asia: The Need for Governance
As new AI systems continue to develop, there are attendant risks. Southeast Asia needs to up its game by regulating such systems.
Undersea Cable Risks: Lessons for Southeast Asia
The possibility of Iran targeting undersea cables in the Middle East has implications for Southeast Asia. The region should adopt strategies to maintain connectivity.
France-Philippines New Defence Agreement: A Pivotal Step?
The signing of a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement between France and the Philippines is a milestone in Manila’s efforts to diversify its security. It comes at a time when the Marcos Jr administration is flirting with the idea of resetting its ties with Beijing.
Ideology as Scaffolding: Vietnam’s Socialist Rhetoric Under To Lam
Can substance support rhetoric in Vietnam’s growth story, as its ruling Party prepares to mark its centennial in power?
Nuclear Energy Renaissance in Southeast Asia: A Role for China?
As Southeast Asian countries ponder the use of nuclear power, China looks set to be a key player.
The Negeri Sembilan Saga Exposes Political Fault Lines
The latest political crisis in Negri Sembilan has exposed fragility in the Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional coalition at the federal level.
A Very Stable Summit: Southeast Asia’s Best Hope for the Trump-Xi Meeting
The US and China will prioritise stability amid internal economic pressures and global volatility — presenting more opportunity for Southeast Asia to diversify trade and investment beyond the superpowers.
The Silver Lining in the Demographic Deficit
Policymakers have sought to mitigate the negative effects of aging by addressing labour shortages. A better way would be to look at total factor productivity
India’s Engagement with ASEAN: Outreach Does Translate into Positive Perceptions
India’s diplomatic outreach to key Southeast Asian countries belie the fact that many of the same countries view New Delhi with low confidence.