Despite opposition from within and without, the Perikatan Nasional coalition has passed Malaysia’s 2021 Budget on the second reading. Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, however, will still face considerable turbulence going forward.
Category Archives: Commentaries
South Korea and America’s Indo-Pacific Strategy: Yes, But Not Quite
Like many ASEAN member states, South Korea has sought to avoid “choosing sides” between China and the United States. It has adopted an uneasy equidistance between the two great powers and their respective Indo-Pacific Strategy and Belt and Road Initiative power plays.
Muhyiddin Needs to Unite UMNO’s Factions Behind Him
Prime Minister Muhyiddin’s clock is ticking, and Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah is holding it.
Mind the Gap: Biden’s Opportunity to Reengage Southeast Asia
The Biden administration will need to get both its words and actions right to rebuild trust in the USA in Southeast Asia.
Biden and Southeast Asia: When Foreign Policy Begins at Home
President-elect Biden will restore a more traditional style of diplomacy to the United States, but domestic considerations will weigh heavily on American foreign policy – and Washington’s approach to Southeast Asia.
Fulcrum: Putting the Spotlight on Southeast Asia
fulcrum /ˈfʊlkrə/, /ˈfʌlkrə/ ) (physics) the point on which a lever turns or is supported. [usually singular] the most important part of an activity or a situation.
Thai Political Protests: Drifting into Uncharted Waters
The political temperature in Thailand is set to raise, as protest leaders up the ante and demand the reform of the monarchy. A separate process of constitutional amendment in Parliament will skirt the contentious issue.
Affirming ASEAN’s East Asian Centrality
The signing of the 15-member Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is significant, and not only due to the fact that the trade deal will cover a third of the world’s population and GDP. The RCEP also affirms the power of the East Asia concept and ASEAN’s centrality within it.
Malaysia’s “Stand United” Budget Heading Into Testy Debate
Malaysia’s 2021 budget strikes a conciliatory tone, but it will face some vigorous debate in parliament.
The Return of a Firebrand Cleric: Consolidation of Islamic Vigilantism?
The return of a firebrand cleric to Indonesia will have an impact on the dynamics of religiosity in the country. It will also empower and consolidate groups opposed to the government of Joko Widodo.