The steadfast leadership of Vietnam’s General Secretary has ironically created a potential leadership vacuum, as succession planning has not been one of his strong suits, unlike anti-corruption and other stellar achievements.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Indonesia’s Largest Muslim Organisation Mired in Controversy After Youth Cadres’ Visit to Israel
Whether they were made use of or knew what they were doing, the actions of five young Nadhlatul Ulama members during their recent trip to Israel have stirred up a hornet’s nest.
Two Presidents Ousted in One Year: What Lies Ahead for Vietnam’s Political Outlook?
Vietnam President Vo Van Thuong will be replaced. The primary task of the country’s leaders now is to find his replacement and steady the keel.
The Return of Melaka Gateway: Scaled-down Ambitions
What was touted as a mega project in the form of the Melaka Gateway is now a shadow of its former self. There remains, however, significant challenges for the envisioned cruise terminal.
China’s Overcapacity and Southeast Asian Economies: A Blessing Despite Concerns
China’s purported industrial overcapacity is a double-edged sword for Southeast Asian economies.
The Philippines and West Philippine Sea: Bringing Deterrence Into the Picture
The Philippines needs to start investing in a credible deterrence strategy if it wants to secure its interests in the West Philippine Sea.
2024: What Difference a Year Makes, and Goodbye (for Now)
There will be a publishing break for Fulcrum between Christmas and the New Year. We will resume publication on 2 January 2025.
Chinese Migrants and the Philippines: The Need to Plug Legal Loopholes
The Philippines’ immigration laws have failed to keep pace with a growing influx of new Chinese immigrants. The laws need to be reviewed to curb corruption in the system.
ASEAN Needs a Common Position on Myanmar
After years of intractability, the regional organisation needs to move as one to make any headway on Myanmar. It is not clear this can be done without inclusive conversations.
Trump’s Tariff Threats and Supply Chain Bifurcation: A Lose-Lose Proposition
Trump’s threat of tariffs on various countries including China could spark a 1930s-era trade war.