An audio clip of a conversation between Anwar Ibrahim and Zahid Hamidi has given Malaysians a ringside seat into the shady backroom dealing between two of the nation’s prominent politicians. Genuine or not, the political interests of the two men have increasingly converged.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Harnessing a Rising Economic Tide to Lift All Boats
As the Malaysian economy switches into recovery mode, the country must ensure that growth benefits all households, especially those at the bottom.
The Makassar Bombing: Attacking Terrorist Attacks
The condemnation in Indonesia of the anti-religious nature of this latest terrorist attack is stronger and broader than before.
US Indo-Pacific Strategy: Digging in For the Long Game
It is easy to find fault with the recently-declassified version of the United States’ strategic framework for the Indo-Pacific. The fact remains, however, that the US is making strategic adjustments to steel itself for years, if not decades, of strategic competition with China.
H&M Saga in Vietnam: The Promise – and Peril – of Social Media
Vietnam has effectively fanned the flames of online nationalism in its altercation with a Swedish fast-fashion retailer — and by extension, China. It has to be careful not to stoke the flames too far.
Another Movement Takes Aim at Prayut
A new movement of “fed-up” Thais has arisen, calling for a less ambitious goal — getting the Prime Minister to resign. This will be a tall order.
Irregular and Inappropriate: Thailand’s Paramilitaries and Pro-Government Militias
The Thai state’s numerous off-budget militias and paramilitaries should be terminated.
The Unusual Appointment of Vietnam’s New Minister of Industry and Trade
Nguyen Hong Dien’s personal links and his expected support for General Secretary Trong’s agendas may explain his rise to the top of the economic super-ministry.
Vietnam’s State Reshuffles: Subtle Appointments
The 11th plenary session of Vietnam’s 14th National Assembly has largely re-affirmed the outcomes of the 13th Party Congress. There are, however, subtle appointments that are worthy of note.
Singapore Businesses In Myanmar: Navigating the Choppy Waters of Political Turmoil
The coup in Myanmar has compounded problems for Singapore firms operating there. But they appear to be battening down the hatches to ride out the political storm.