The much-anticipated polls for the Philippines’ new Bangsamoro regional region has been in the works for more than two years. Given a slew of challenges, however, it might be better for them to be delayed.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Thailand’s Senate: Why 2021 Demonstrators Want it Reformed
The protest movement’s progressive political reform agenda requires an elected Senate, or no Senate.
Zahid’s Sources of Stress: The Clobbering of UMNO’s “Court Cluster”?
UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is typically the embodiment of calm. Going forward, however, Zahid and his faction will have to hunker down to confront multiple challenges.
Jokowi’s Dilemma: Spirit Versus Sharia
President Jokowi Widodo’s cancellation of a presidential decree on alcohol investment underscores a long-running contestation between the powers of the state and sharia law.
Why the United States is an Unreliable Partner to Southeast Asia
As long as the Republican Party remains a viable political party capable of gaining power, the US will be politically unstable, and as a result, be an unreliable ally in the future.
Governor’s Arrest a Wake-up Call for Indonesia’s Flawed Electoral System
High profile arrests expose the costs and corruption of Indonesian democracy.
Cambodia Embraces China’s Controversial Confucius Institutes
China’s Confucius Institutes have been vilified in the West, but they have gained much traction in Cambodia. This is not surprising, given Cambodia is one of China’s closest allies in Southeast Asia.
Criticising Indonesia’s Anti-Criticism Law: Irony of Ironies
Indonesia’s president Joko Widodo has called for criticism of his administration. He got more than he bargained for.
Vietnam’s Mekong Middle Power Diplomacy
Hanoi is applying its South China Sea playbook to the Mekong.
Malaysia’s Digital Economy Blueprint: More is Not Better
This 100+ page plan may hinder more than help the country’s digital economy transformation.