Thaksin used a local election to stage a political comeback. While this reaped dividends, the key is to ensure that the needs of voters are addressed in the long term.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Thailand’s Army White Paper: Heat is on to Supply the RTA
The Thai Army’s inaugural White Paper is spurring competition among suppliers for a slice of the kingdom’s defence procurement pie.
Petronas-Petros Dispute: Finding a Way Out
A legal confrontation between Petronas and Sarawak’s oil and gas company would not be productive. The dispute should be resolved using new political and economic arrangements.
Indonesian Muslims and the Apocalypse: End of the Road for Effective Green Transition?
Green transition in Indonesia is hampered by Indonesian Muslims’ belief that climate change is a sign of the end times.
Vietnam, China and Rerouting: When Perceptions Matter as Much as Reality
Vietnam’s growing trade surplus with the US strongly suggests that China uses Vietnam as a backdoor to dodge US tariffs. Such rerouting is actually lower than is imagined. Given that perceptions drive politics, Vietnam will likely still be caught in the Trump administration’s sights.
Public Participation and Digital Propaganda in Indonesia: A New Form of State Control?
Indonesia’s democracy faces the threat of digital authoritarianism. However, there are ways to mitigate the risks, even as state-driven propaganda floods digital public spaces.
Can ASEAN Power Renewable Energy Diplomacy?
ASEAN needs to overhaul its practice of energy diplomacy in Southeast Asia to address the challenges facing energy transition in the region.
Prabowo’s Overtures to China and Ramifications on the South China Sea Dispute
In one sentence, Jakarta appears to have undermined its long-standing position in the South China Sea.
Thailand-China Visa-Free Policy: Boon or Bane to Tourism?
Thailand’s new visa-free policy for Chinese tourists is a double-edged sword.
Should Southeast Asia Try to Pick Up the Pieces On IPEF?
The US is likely to pull out of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. But the remaining members should be able to advance the framework.