The recent signing of three treaties — a Flight Information Region agreement, a Defence Cooperation Agreement and an extradition treaty — augurs well for relations between Indonesia and Singapore. It is also a boost to regional security.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Is Kishida’s ‘New Capitalism’ Japan’s New Political-Economic Doctrine?
Fumio Kishida’s economic policies seek to integrate and refine aspects of Abenomics laid down by Shinzo Abe. These policies should help project Japan’s image as a benign power and reinvigorate its investments in Southeast Asia.
Extending Jokowi’s Presidential Term: Dead in the Water?
The date for the next Indonesian presidential polls has been formally announced, ostensibly ending speculation that President Jokowi would seek to extend his term in office.
Malaysia’s Ratification of the RCEP: Necessary but not Sufficient
Malaysia’s ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is a step in the right direction, but there are still barriers to foreign direct investment in services which can be rolled back.
Tourism in ASEAN: The Need to Turn Dreams Into Reality
ASEAN has grand plans to boost its tourism sector, which has been afflicted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite its strenuous efforts, however, tourism in the region is unlikely to return to pre-pandemic levels in 2022.
Myanmar’s New Political Economy Takes Shape
Nearly a year after the military coup in Myanmar, a new political economy is emerging, even as the economy tanks and the human rights context worsens.
Myanmar’s State Administration Council: A Shell Entity?
Recent shake-ups in the Tatmadaw show that it may not be as monolithic an institution as it portrays itself to be. The State Administration Council has gradually turned into a shell entity with power becoming more concentrated in the hands of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
Ratsadornprasong Fund: New Front for People’s Struggles Against the Establishment
A grassroots initiative called the Ratsadornprasong Fund has been created to shoulder the financial burden of bail and legal support for arrested protestors. The millions of baht raised in support of the fund is emblematic of the anti-establishment movement’s mass support in Thailand.
Elections in Johor: Needlessly Nigh?
The Johor state assembly has been dissolved, paving the way for snap state elections to be held within the next 60 days. For those UMNO leaders seeking to boost their party’s momentum, this might not be the wisest of moves.
Myanmar’s Post-coup Aid Crisis: Whither Civilian Protection?
The humanitarian sector in Myanmar has shrunk considerably because of operational challenges surrounding the post-coup political environment. Even as political uncertainties remain, the restoration of humanitarian aid for the people is urgently needed.