The Indonesian defence minister’s visit to Washington DC raised many eyebrows and questions.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Thai Student Protests: Finishing the Business of 1932?
The recent student protests constitute something more than a call for the resignation of the prime minister. The ultimate goal is the end of the absolute power of the monarchy, as envisioned by revolutionaries of the class of 1932.
Will the Real Union Election Commission Please Stand up?
Recent decisions by Myanmar’s election commission put it in the 8 November election spotlight.
Student Protests in Thailand: The End of Political Quiescence
Recent mass students protests in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand have forced the hand of the government. If the Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha does resign, it could signal a victory for the protesters – or a determination on the part of hard-line elements in the military and the palace.
Nahdlatul Ulama versus Jokowi: The NU Normal?
The Nahdlatul Ulama has previously thrown its full support behind the government of Joko Widodo. Its recent criticism of the president’s decision to press on with regional polls and the Omnibus Law suggests a parting of ways.
Is It Time to Open Borders?
The asymmetry in the treatment of national and international movement with regard to the management of the Covid-19 pandemic is no longer justified. If coupled with robust testing and tracing, opening up borders can deliver economic benefits without significantly raising health risks.
Indonesian Muslim Groups Oppose Omnibus Law
President Jokowi’s unpopular job creation law creates a new rift with Indonesia’s leading Islamic groups.
Myanmar: Social Media Holds Little Sway on Voting Patterns
A recent pre-election survey has confirmed the conventional wisdom that voter attitudes are entrenched and will be influenced little by the barrage of social media campaigns.
Welcome and Vet: Investments from China in Southeast Asia
In this geostrategic climate, Southeast Asian countries should welcome rather than reject investment from China for their own developmental needs. This is likely to entice competing investments from the West and Japan.
The South China Sea, a fault line in China-Russia relations?
The South China Sea poses a stress test in Russia-China relations, pitting China’s excessive claims against Russian energy interests.