The recent adoption of a joint declaration for the region’s tertiary sector could lead to more mobility and progress. But some challenges need to be tackled first.
Category Archives: Commentaries
US Not Walking the Talk in Southeast Asia
President Joe Biden is, once again, not attending the ASEAN-US Summit. Though this is understandable given the upcoming election, the US seems to be losing ground in Southeast Asia amid growing Chinese influence.
Southeast Asia and Emissions Reduction: Two Paths to Consider
Carbon taxes and the removal of fossil fuel subsidies are viable ways forward in reducing carbon emissions in Southeast Asia.
Beneath Polarisation, Malaysia’s Youth Have Common Yearnings for Fairness
Malaysia’s youth are polarised but the problems — and solutions — go beyond the enduring question of keeping ethnic privilege versus enforcing equality.
Beyond Fleeting Fascination: How Moo Deng and Butterbear Offer Escapism in Hard Times
The viral popularity of a cute baby hippo and bear mascot is more than an Internet sensation; it enables people to momentarily escape their daily struggles.
Mahkota By-election: DAP Retains Status as Leading Party for Chinese Malaysians
The Democratic Action Party’s key role in rallying Chinese voters in a Johor recent by-election augurs well for future cooperation between Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional.
Political Will Sorely Lacking in Thai Educational Reform
Without a proper vision from the government and the determination to carry it out, education in Thailand is in danger of stagnating even more.
Malaysia’s Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS): A Step Forward but with Challenges
A new Malaysian scheme aimed at selling renewable energy to large corporate customers is a step in the right direction. But more can be done.
Quiboloy’s Arrest: When Self-Proclaimed ‘Son of God’ Plays Politics
The arrest of Filipino religious leader Apollo Quiboloy comes amid the ongoing clash between the Marcos and Duterte dynasties, and exposes the dangers of an unholy alliance between religion and politics.
The Indispensable Political Participation of Indonesia’s Middle Class
Indonesia’s middle class can be a boon for democracy but a bane for the government. Its economic security and political participation are crucial to the country’s prosperity.