The merger between the Kla and Chart Pattana parties is a logical outcome of Thailand’s new electoral rules, which will benefit bigger entities at the expense of smaller, party-list driven ones. The new rules mean that more of these mergers should be expected.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Malaysia’s Electoral Cycle – Now Two-Level Chess?
Only a small number of Malaysian states are likely to hold their state elections in tandem with the national election. This might not be a bad thing, since more attention might be put on local issues and the quality of state governments.
When Abstention Speaks Volumes: Thailand’s Turnaround in the UNGA
Thailand’s decision to abstain from the latest United Nations General Assembly resolution on rejecting Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories raises doubts about Bangkok’s commitment to international laws and norms.
When Tourism and Sustainable Agriculture Make Good Bedfellows
Climate change poses serious challenges to the world’s food system. Implementing sustainable practices can help bolster climate resilience in agricultural production.
What the New U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN Can Do
Ambassador Abraham’s new mandate in ASEAN, at these most challenging of times, will be extremely vital. He must cultivate strategic trust, and balance the interests of ten diverse countries against the U.S.’ vested interests in the Indo-Pacific.
Myanmar’s Pivot to Russia: Friend in Need or Faulty Strategy?
The relationship between Myanmar and Russia has become increasingly close. This is fueled by practical considerations as well as geopolitics.
Indonesia’s Kanjuruhan Stadium Tragedy: A Serious Wake-up Call
The deadly soccer match in Indonesia’s Malang City behooves the authorities to revise their crowd control procedures. The issue of toxic sub-cultures among fans should also be addressed.
Vietnamese Private Enterprises’ Covid-19 Donations: Not All about Altruism
Private firms in Vietnam have played a pivotal role in helping the country recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. There are, however, other reasons to explain their corporate social responsibility.
Rift between Two Indonesian Generals Spotlights Civil-Military Relations
A personal spat between two four-star generals spilling into the open has raised questions about military professionalism and elite politics in Indonesia.
Electric Vehicles in Malaysia: Moving Uphill from Niche to Mass Market
Malaysia has a long way to go before demand for electric vehicles will rise high enough to reduce carbon emissions, mainly because there is no concerted effort to build the charging infrastructure to support this switch.