Malaysia has declared the ART null and void while the US is deploying new tariff instruments, creating uncertainty over new agreements. Malaysia should rebalance lopsided terms – and reduce its exposure to the US market.
Category Archives: Commentaries
The Iran War Shows Why Indonesia Must Accelerate Its Energy Transition
Indonesia seeks to shield society from inflation while managing the fiscal deficit. The immediate policy responses must not detract from the country’s paramount transition toward renewable energy.
Indonesia’s ‘In-Between’ Foreign Policy
Indonesia has sound reasons for consistently staking out a diplomatic middle ground, but not taking sides on all issues could leave no one impressed.
Sarawak’s Delineation: A Test for the Election Commission’s Credibility
Leveraging its growing political clout, Sarawak is pushing for a re-delineation of state seats. This could result in boundary changes to federal parliamentary seats and alter the balance of power.
Passage Through Hormuz in a Time of War and Peace
Many legal experts have used the aegis of international law to challenge Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The reality, however, is that the application of international law to the situation is more nuanced.
The War Against Iran and the Fragility of Southeast Asia’s Energy Responses
The US-Israeli war against Iran has underscored Southeast Asia’s vulnerability when it comes to energy supplies. But regional countries need to think beyond stopgap measures.
Japan-ASEAN’s vision for “Co-Creating” AI
Amid growing Sino-US rivalry and technological bifurcation, Japan and ASEAN should work together on “co-creating” AI models which are more inclusive.
The Energy Crisis is Hitting Myanmar Hard
Rising fuel, fertiliser and logistics prices are squeezing the Myanmar economy — a dire state compounded by conflict and political risks.
When War Hits the Poor Hardest: What Needs to be Done
The poor in Southeast Asia are bearing the brunt of the economic impacts from the war in the Middle East. Governments will need to refocus priorities to limit harm.
To Lam’s Consolidation of Power: Implications for Vietnam’s Political and Economic Prospects
To Lam has become Vietnam’s supreme dominant leader. This has both positive and negative implications.