Five months after the February coup, the future of Myanmar’s garment industry hangs by a thread.
Category Archives: Commentaries
US-Vietnam Military Relations: Marking Time in China’s Shadow
Relations between Vietnam and the United States have advanced markedly, particularly in trade and diplomatic cooperation. But bilateral military relations will continue to be stymied by Vietnam’s approach to China.
All Abuzz About an Anti-parasite Drug
A divisive debate has broken out in regional social media over the use of ivermectin to treat Covid-19. The focus of the debate should remain squarely on its effectiveness as a therapeutic treatment for the coronavirus.
After Black Sea Encounter, British FONOP in the South China Sea Quite Possible
As a British Carrier Strike Group heads towards Southeast Asia, speculation is rife that a Royal Navy warship will conduct a freedom of navigation operation (FONOP) in the South China Sea. A recent incident in the Black Sea may shorten the odds of that happening.
Pandemics and Festivals: Will Covid-19 Transform Our Cultural Events in Future?
In Southeast Asia, mass participation at important cultural festivals amidst a pandemic has contributed to the tragic loss of life. The question is whether and how we can preserve such deeply cherished events without jeopardising precious lives.
When the Pandemic Spreads Another “Fever”: Regional Autonomy
Some Thai provinces are learning to adapt quickly to the Covid-19 pandemic. This might drive regional efforts for greater independence from Bangkok.
Sino-Myanmar Ties: “Pauk Phaw” Relationship or For China’s Benefit?
China and Myanmar are said to have a “pauk phaw” or fraternal relationship. Many people in Myanmar, however, are clear-eyed about the limits of the bond.
PLA Overflight near Malaysian Airspace: A Precarious Provocation
China’s deployment of People’s Liberation Army Air Force aircraft near Malaysia’s air space last month smacks of hypocrisy and creeping hegemony. Beijing may not be as benevolent as it wants smaller states to believe.
To Lockdown or Not? Indonesia’s Dilemma in Handling the Covid-19 Second Wave
The Jokowi government appears to be on the verge of imposing a hard lockdown to curb a second wave of Covid-19 infections. But this belies longstanding hesitancy to adopt drastic measures that could hurt the economy.
The Pandemic and Push Towards a Digital Economy: Greater Inequality?
The Covid-19 pandemic and the concurrent push towards a digital economy may worsen inequalities. But digitalisation in some parts of Southeast Asia may also increase inclusion, connectivity and incomes in areas where there is freer trade and movement of labour and capital.