The honeymoon is clearly over for Indonesia’s president as he begins his second year in office, even if a majority of the public still supports him.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Time for Vietnam to Resolve Its Renewable Energy Legal Quagmire
In Vietnam, an impasse over feed-in-tariffs for renewable energy producers threatens foreign investors’ confidence in government policies
Thailand Pays the Price for Unregulated Mining Boom
China is dependent on rare earth supply from parts of Myanmar which have unregulated mining that generates toxic waste. Neighbours like Thailand need to work with China and the US to address the problem.
The Trump Administration in Southeast Asia: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
The Trump administration’s recent overtures to Southeast Asia had some silver linings. But Washington risks long-term harm to its regional reputation with its transactionalism.
Trump 2.0: Dual Challenges for Thailand’s External Sector
Faced with US tariffs and a resultant import surge into Thailand, the government should seek to effect targeted measures to support the Thai economy.
Malaysia’s Failed BRICS Bid: A Blessing in Disguise?
Malaysia’s aspired BRICS membership would bring modest economic benefits but sizable political gains. Anwar should tread prudently and discreetly; pursuing BRICS vigorously could jeopardise Malaysia’s ties with the US and the West.
STAR’s Exit from GRS: Much Ado About Nothing?
Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) has withdrawn from Sabah’s ruling coalition. But this is unlikely to cause major political shifts ahead of the 29 November state polls.
Will Vietnam Consolidate Its Top Two Leadership Positions?
Vietnam’s uppermost echelon of political leadership is likely to remain structurally unchanged for various reasons.
Exchange Rate Stability in Vietnam: Navigating the Conflicting Policy Demands
Vietnam wants to stabilise the exchange rate amid devaluation pressure, while keeping interest rates low for economic growth. The country should be clear and prudent in balancing growth and macro stability.
When Digital Repression Backfires
In seeking to shape the public information space, some governments have resorted to digital repression. But these instruments come with the danger of overreach.