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.
Category Archives: Commentaries
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.
What’s Good for the Goose is Good for the Gander
The convictions of three ministers do not augur well for the ruling coalition led by Thai Prime Minister Prayut. It also sets a precedent for pro-democracy protestors who have been detained – invoking one’s constitutional right to justify unlawful protest activities is an invalid legal defence.
To Be Young and Rich: Indonesia’s Vaccination Controversies
No parliamentary opposition means the government is not held to account for its vaccination programme.
Constant and Continuous: Vietnam’s Foreign Policy After The 13th Party Congress
Hedging between the US and China while promoting a rules-based South China Sea will continue to guide Vietnam’s foreign policy.
No-Confidence Motion in Thailand: Dissension Within and Without
The recent no-confidence vote by the opposition in Thailand’s parliament shows that the ruling coalition is being riled by internal conflict.
For India, Miles to Go to Reengage Southeast Asia
The latest State of Southeast Asia Survey presents a sobering picture for India. New Delhi has its work cut out for it if it wants to engage the region more.
Covid-19 in Malaysia: Maladies & Misinformation
Fake news and the incessant jockeying for political power is complicating Malaysia’s battle against the coronavirus.