Commentaries | FULCRUM

Indonesia: The Possible Perils of Naming Suharto a ‘National Hero’

Indonesian President Prabowo is choosing family loyalties over the country’s unity by anointing his former father-in-law as a national hero. This is likely to spur protests on the streets.

Unfinished Business: Why Thailand’s Tariff Talks Are a Diplomatic Test

The Thai government is focused on dealing with the repercussions of the US tariffs on the country. It needs to craft a broader foreign policy narrative.

Towards a Robust Philippines-Canada Security Partnership in the Indo-Pacific

The Philippines and Canada have deepened their strategic partnership, but there is still some way to go before the relationship approaches levels that Manila enjoys with other regional partners.

Millets: A Potential Crop for Myanmar’s Food-Resilient Future

As Myanmar continues to face moderate hunger level and high rates of malnutrition, the cultivation of millet might go a long way in combating such problems.

Malaysia as a “Second Palestine”: Dangerous Reframing of Siege Mentality

Parti Islam SeMalaysia has sought to frame Malay-Muslims in Malaysia as being under “siege” from non-Malay pendatang (immigrants), like the Palestinians under Israeli occupation. This is a dangerous form of false equivalence.

Vietnam’s Memory Diplomacy: Curating the Past for an Uncertain Future

Vietnam has stepped up efforts to broaden and deepen memory alliances, enabling its multidirectional foreign policy amid intensifying geopolitical tensions and competing blocs.

Abhisit’s Clean Politics Faces Formidable Odds in Thailand’s Cut-Throat Political Arena

Former PM Abhisit’s “clean politics” stance may complicate his Democrat Party’s ability to recruit experienced candidates for the upcoming Thai election and prospects of joining a coalition government.

Malaysia’s Budget 2026: Fiscal Reform or Fragility?

Malaysia’s 2026 budget continues fiscal reforms but exposes structural fragilities such as heavy operating costs and rising debt. These factors may threaten long-term fiscal stability.

Will the East Coast Son Rise Again? Shafie Apdal and Sabah’s 2025 Election

Shafie Apdal, long hailed as champion of Sabah’s East Coast, may need to offer more than his “Sabah first” slogan to secure victory in the upcoming state election.