Category Archives: Commentaries
Jokowi’s Opportune and Forward-Looking Cabinet Change
The end-of-year cabinet reshuffle sets the stage for the 2022 Jakarta gubernatorial election.
The Value(s) of Palm Oil
The EU-Southeast Asia palm oil dispute pits consumers’ environmental values against producers’ economic development and poverty alleviation ones.
Covid-19 Reaches Myanmar’s Armed Periphery: A Silver Lining?
Covid-19 has reached Myanmar’s autonomous regions. But the Wa Region’s militarised nature and access to Chinese assistance might prove valuable in the fight against the pandemic.
How the Milk Tea Alliance Has Succeeded, and Why It May Fail
The Milk Tea Alliance has made waves, even in the physical world. But its impact will be capped by authoritarian governments across the region.
The “Indo-Pacific” is Here to Stay
While the aspirational adjectives that prefix it may change, the Indo-Pacific will better reflect the strategic geography of the new era of great power contestation.
Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail: End of the Line?
A truncated high-speed rail service that ends in Johor Bahru rather than Singapore will significantly reduce the potential economic benefits of the railway project.
The Widodo Government in 2020: The Tadpole Flails
Indonesia’s 2024 presidential election is looming large on the horizon as Jokowi’s image wanes.
Could Vietnam Deploy a Social Credit System Like in China?
While Vietnam offers a favourable authoritarian environment, the inherent political risks may preclude its introduction.
Pushing Back Against China’s Digital Order
Digital rivalry in Southeast Asia goes well beyond the choice of 5G providers.