Myanmar’s State Administration Council and the National Unity Government are battling to win international recognition. Which party triumphs in the end depends on both external factors and internal dynamics.
Category Archives: Commentaries
The USS Connecticut Incident: Silent Service, Turbulent Clash?
A recent incident involving a US Navy nuclear-powered submarine underscores the danger of an increasingly congested underwater environment in the South China Sea.
Myanmar’s Infrastructure Development: A Dire Future
Myanmar has gnawing gaps in its infrastructure development which will affect its economic development in the years to come. To compound matters, the issue is not a priority for the State Administration Council.
World Trade Organisation Talks: Make or Break
The second postponement of the World Trade Organisation’s 12th Ministerial Conference, may only compound its woes. When they meet, a looming North-South divide and the long-standing consensus rule could stymie progress in many areas.
Perikatan Nasional’s Performance in Melaka: Worth a Double Take
The Barisan Nasional victory in the recent elections in Melaka has hogged the headlines. But the performance of other coalitions, such as Perikatan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan, provides usual indicators for the next national polls.
China and Second Thomas Shoal: For They Say, But Do Not
China’s expressed desire to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea rings hollow when one examines its recent actions around Second Thomas Shoal.
Jokowi Playing It Safe by Picking Loyalists to Lead the Indonesian Military
The latest leadership reshuffle in the TNI reflects President Jokowi’s desire to ensure he has loyalists at the helm, as political jockeying intensifies in Indonesia.
What is China Bringing to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN
Last Monday, ASEAN member states met formally with China’s top leader Xi Jinping for the first time to commemorate 30 years of dialogue partnership.
Indonesia’s New Army Chief: Nudging the Country Towards the Sea
The newly-appointed commander of the Indonesian military has an army background. But his appointment comes at a time when Indonesia’s defence challenges fall largely in the maritime domain.
US-China Relations: Guardrails and Third Rails
There is much virtue for smaller states, particularly those in Southeast Asia, in upholding high principles and expressing a desire for a rules-based regional order. These elements, however, are premised on continued stability in Sino-US relations, which is not guaranteed.