The formation of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a lengthy process. Signing the RCEP in 2020 is not impossible although it can be undermined by the persistent spread of Covid-19.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Indonesian Muslim Groups Grapple with the “New Normal”
Muslim groups, which were generally in favour of the government’s partial lockdown earlier on in the Covid-19 pandemic, are now taking up a less sanguine position.
Covid-19 in the Philippines: Corporate Bigwigs to the Rescue
The corporate sector in the Philippines is widely recognised for its anti-competitive behaviour. But the Covid-19 pandemic has brought out the best from the much-maligned sector.
Climate Change: Let’s Not Waste a Good Crisis
The Covid-19 pandemic has knocked many countries sideways, but the crisis should not be wasted. As they emerge from lockdown, it is time for them to re-focus their energies and efforts on sustainable growth.
Visiting Forces Agreement: Uncle Sam Still Welcome for Another Year
The Philippines has suspended the planned termination of the 1998 Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States. But the alliance is not out of the woods yet.
The Advent of Cashless Transactions in Myanmar: Cash is (Still) King
The advent of Covid-19 is accelerating the trend towards a cashless society and driving the growth of e-commerce around the world. How will this pan out in Myanmar given the low uptake of e-commerce and mobile financial technology in the country? E-commerce in Myanmar is in its early infancy. It was valued at only US$6…
The Phuea Thai Party: The Ignominy of Irrelevance
The Phuea Thai Party, the country’s largest opposition party, is becoming increasingly irrelevant. To compound matters, the Thai prime minister is enjoying a surge of support, thanks to the country’s relatively successful battle against the coronavirus.
Inter- and Intra-Coalition Competition in Johor – a Kueh Lapis?
There are many different dynamics at play when one examines the tenuous nature of the Perikatan Nasional-led state government in Johor. Think political battles within and without.
Malaysia: Best Case Scenarios and Bracing for the Worst
The net effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the resultant shutdown and relief measures are hard to fathom. While the government can draw on some base-case scenarios, it might have to prepare for the worst when it comes to unemployment.
Will the Covid-19 Crisis Affect Thai-China Defence Cooperation?
The Thai military has been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Thanks to Chinese largesse, however, it will be able to secure the military kit it wants.