Ahead of Women’s Day in the International Year of the Woman Farmer, an envisioning of how Southeast Asia can improve the lot of its women farmers in a warming world.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Death Without Departure: Bung Moktar and the Persistence of His East Coast Political Authority
All politics is local and, in many cases, personal. The passing of Bung Moktar Radin illustrates these truisms in rural Sabah politics, as his influence persists for now.
Anwar is Weak, But the Opposition is Weaker Still
The political woes of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is a political goldmine for the opposition. But it has failed to capitalise on the opportunity.
Rebranding Bhumjaithai
Putting heavyweight technocrats in the spotlight, the Bhumjaithai Party appears to have taken a technocrat turn, away from its traditional strengths in forging political family networks in the kingdom.
From Long-term Plans to Flagships: Indonesia’s Reordered Development Agenda
Prabowo’s agenda is being driven by flagship programmes focused on nutrition, state-owned enterprises, and cooperatives. These programmes can complement long-term development, but Indonesia should maintain industrial, technological, and green transition priorities.
Proximity Without Leverage? Indonesia’s Risky Bet on Trump’s Board of Peace
President Prabowo’s involvement in Trump’s Board of Peace may have given Indonesia some proximity to the US, but his aim of gaining leverage in tariff negotiations is elusive.
Russia’s Critical Military Role in Myanmar’s Civil War
While China wields much influence over Myanmar, Russia plays an outsized role in equipping the country’s military.
Thailand’s Democrat Party: A Political Institution Survives
The Democrat Party has made a comeback from a near-death experience. But there are still key challenges to overcome.
Indonesia’s Party Cartel System and the New ‘People’s Movement Party’
There’s potentially a new party in town, if it’s not nipped in the bud before the next elections in Indonesia.
Myanmar’s Foreign Exchange Shortages Have Eased, But Challenges Remain
The military regime’s efforts to conserve and tap new sources of foreign exchange have improved its financial situation. This benefits the regime and some businesses, though comes at a cost: increased military action, continued trade restrictions, and a depressed economy.