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.
Category Archives: Commentaries
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.
Parsing the Politicking Behind the Police
The reforms of the Royal Thai Police give some semblance of movement. But politicking remains at the heart of the system.
China’s Pop Fiction Boom Poses a Dilemma for the Party
The export of Chinese pop fiction has found ready markets in Southeast Asia such as Thailand. But some undesirable genres pose a dilemma for China’s soft power.
Politically Proofing the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone for Credibility and Durability
There is positive sentiment on both sides of the Causeway about the proposed special economic zone in Johor. However, the project needs to be future-proofed against potential political complications up north.
Locating Theravāda Buddhism in Maritime Southeast Asia
Theravāda Buddhist communities across maritime Southeast Asia have long adapted to local conditions. Even today, believers are finding new ways of transmitting the faith to younger adherents.
Japan-ROK-US Trilateral Relations: Flying into Turbulence
The political tides are going against the recently impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. This could adversely affect the trilateral security arrangement involving Japan, South Korea and the US.
Should Selangor Take Kuala Lumpur Back?
There is talk of integrating Kuala Lumpur into Selangor again. However, before considering reintegration, the capital’s governance and residents’ needs must be addressed.
Political Storm in Sabah: Can Hajiji Noor and GRS Survive the Scandal?
Another scandal has rocked the state government in Sabah. But it is too early to tell whether it will deal the death blow to the government.