Some digital media companies are exploiting animals for profit in Vietnam. This needs to be curbed through active community policing and effective online moderation.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Philippine AI Governance: Time to Shift Gears
While acknowledging the importance of establishing a framework for AI governance, the Philippine government has not enacted relevant laws or introduced regulatory policies through executive action.
Javanese Dakwah Preacher Capitalises on Charisma, Human Touch to Pull in Crowds
Style rather than substance may be what is attracting people, especially women.
Vietnam’s 46 Per Cent Tariff Shock: A Catalyst for Economic Reform?
Vietnam has in the past embraced reform under pressure. The Trump tariff shock should spur reforms, particularly in reducing non-tariff barriers.
Turbulent Waters Remain Top of Mind
China has sought to paint a narrative about a peaceful situation in the South China Sea. But Southeast Asian respondents to the State of Southeast Asia Survey 2025 beg to differ.
Laos Streamlines Bureaucracy to Make it More Efficient
The government plans to merge ministries and reduce redundancy to become more ‘lean’ and ‘robust’.
Southeast Asia’s Potential Role in Rare Earth Elements Diversification
Southeast Asia has the chance to participate in rare earth element (REE) supply chain diversification. The region must be strategic and cautious to exploit its REE reserves while avoiding the industry’s perils.
Reassessing Anies Baswedan’s Legacy in Jakarta: Institutionalising Collaboration to Address Urban Challenges
Apart from his political legacy, former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan might have left a lasting policy and bureaucratic impact on how Jakarta develops as an urban city, quite apart from its identity as the nation’s capital, which it is about to shed.
Thailand’s New Semiconductor Strategy: Ambitious but Challenging
Thailand has ambitious plans to upgrade its semiconductor sector. There are challenges ahead, however, which require good governance and oversight.
ASEAN’s Image Fades but Expectations Remain High
Southeast Asians welcome a strengthening of ASEAN’s political and economic influence, which has relatively declined in the past year. ASEAN must adapt and assert itself to restore confidence.