As Malaysia’s Chinese chambers of commerce foster ties with China and represent new Chinese migrants, they must address concerns that their roles deepen existing socio-economic divides along ethnic lines.
Category Archives: Commentaries
From Deadlock to Dealmaking: Thailand’s Chaotic Search for a New Prime Minister
The dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thai prime minister was predictable. The chaotic search for her replacement is not.
Myanmar’s Wartime Polls: Managing Expectations
It is likely that Myanmar will hold its national elections soon. It is also likely that the polls will lack the basic requirements for parliamentary legitimacy or a national mandate.
US-China AI Competition: Southeast Asia Will Need to Strike a Balance
As China and the US intensify competition in the AI domain, Southeast Asia countries will find themselves in the same old dilemma of “not choosing sides”.
Why are Dream Jobs a Difficult Reality for Indonesian Youth?
Competition for jobs in Southeast Asia’s largest country is fierce, frustrating, and fraught with feelings of disappointment for its youngest workers.
Rebranding of Sisters in Islam: The Need to Judge by Deed, Not by Name
The rebranding of Sisters in Islam might actually strengthen rather than weaken the group’s long-term advocacy of women’s rights in Malaysia.
Will Southeast Asian Exporters ‘Eat’ the Trump Tariffs?
Facing Trump’s latest round of tariffs, Southeast Asian exports face a dilemma. But the incentive to “eat” or absorb the tariffs might diminish over time.
Can the 13th Malaysia Plan’s Bold Education Reforms Pass the Test of Delivery?
The Malaysian government has announced highly ambitious education reforms, among other things, mandating preschool from age five and lowering the start of Primary One to age six.
Prabowo’s Pardons of Political Opponents: A Step Towards an Integralist State?
One interpretation of the Indonesian president’s recent pardons of two prominent politicians is that the quality of mercy is sometimes strained.
China’s Overtures to Southeast Asia: Xi Takes the Lead
Chinese leader Xi Jinping has taken a personal interest in driving high-level visits to Southeast Asia. This reflects the region’s growing importance and Beijing’s bid to manage global uncertainty.