The Dry Zone has traditionally not suffered violence at the hands of the Myanmar military. But decades of mismanagement and strained living conditions have fueled anti-junta resistance in the military’s Buddhist-Bamar heartland.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Facing the Music with Methane
Apart from carbon dioxide, methane has been identified as one of the main contributors to global warming. In Southeast Asia, efforts to reduce methane emissions should focus on the agriculture and oil and gas sectors.
Will Green Parties Rise in Southeast Asia?
Greens often prosper in federal systems, in richer countries with service-based economies, in situations where environmental issues are part of mainstream political debates, and in electorates with large numbers of young, highly-educated members drawn from the middle class. If this is the case, then Southeast Asia may eventually see the rise of its own green movement.
Parsing the UMNO-Bersatu Battle in Johor
UMNO has certain advantages in Johor, but its victory in the coming state elections is not assured.
A Regional Digital Vaccine Certificate in ASEAN, Posthaste
ASEAN needs to work on a common standard for the certification of vaccination statuses. This would facilitate safe and unrestrained movement as borders open up again.
China’s Faith Diplomacy Towards Muslim Bodies in Indonesia: Bearing Fruit
China’s faith diplomacy towards Muslims organisations in Indonesia appears to have silenced critics of its policy towards the Uighurs in Xinjiang.
Indonesia-Singapore Defence Cooperation Agreement: A Win Win
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.
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.