Commentaries | FULCRUM

China’s Increased Investment in Vietnam: Opportunities and Challenges

Chinese investments in Vietnam have surged. But they bring not only opportunities but also challenges for the latter.

Does the Arakan Army have the Capacity to Govern Rakhine?

The Arakan Army (AA) in Myanmar appears to be making enough headway in Rakhine to make it a plausible rival authority someday, not just in the context of warfighting but also administration.

Naquib Al-Attas’ Royal Professorship: Whither an Inclusive ‘Madani’ Malaysia?

The implications of a rare Royal Professorship award on Malaysia’s civil society and government could be significant, not least because the awardee has a strong following within some parts of the country’s intelligentsia.

Prabowo Subianto’s Problematic Start: A Missed Opportunity?

The new Indonesian government has had some hiccups in its first fortnight in power. If the president had made better use of the transition between administrations, these hiccups could have been avoided.

Targeting Malaysia’s ‘T15’: An Easier Way to Tax the Rich

Malaysia is trying to get the ultra-rich to pay more through the removal of fuel subsidies and other measures. A simpler way is to raise their tax rates.

Xin Yimin in Malaysia: Opportunities and Challenges

New Chinese migrants to Malaysia have brought manifold benefits to the country. However, there are concerns that they could broaden socio-economic divides.

Why Southeast Asia Should be Concerned about North Korean Troops in Russia

The arrival of thousands of North Korean troops in Russia represents a serious escalation of the Russia-Ukraine War. Southeast Asian countries should be concerned. They can take action to enforce the sanctions regime against North Korea.