Southeast Asia could use this disruption in food trade to strengthen collaboration, reduce dependency, and create a truly integrated regional market.
Category Archives: Commentaries
China’s Open-Source Revolution in Generative AI: Policy and Business Implications for Southeast Asia
China has led the way in providing ‘open weight’ large language models (LLMs) such as DeepSeek-R1. This means that governments and companies in Southeast Asia can access them more easily and cheaply.
The Geopolitical Risks of Malaysia’s Oil and Gas Fracas
Sarawak is embarking on a broad effort to reclaim full autonomy over its oil and gas sector from Putrajaya. But the risks might outweigh the benefits.
Xi’s Visit to Vietnam: It’s Not All About Trump
Hanoi’s welcome of the Chinese president amid the global tariff war is a harbinger of steadfast commitment to serving Vietnam’s national interests and development, rather than a picking of sides.
Are the Russians Coming to Indonesia?
Indonesia has put paid to rumours that Russia is seeking an air base in Papua. Still, Papua’s proximity to the US force presence in Guam and Australia gives Moscow a clear strategic interest in pursuing the idea.
Manufacturing Cruelty: Macaques Exploited by Content Farms for Profit in Vietnam
Some digital media companies are exploiting animals for profit in Vietnam. This needs to be curbed through active community policing and effective online moderation.
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.