Seven years after the siege of Marawi, the resurgence of the Abu Sayyaf Group has led to a renewed counter-push by the Philippine armed forces.
Category Archives: Commentaries
The Future of Thailand’s Move Forward Party in a Fluid Political Landscape
What’s next for the beleaguered Move Forward Party, harbinger of Thailand’s progressive political future?
Meeting Vietnam’s Skilling Challenges
Opportunities exist to upskill Vietnam’s young workforce, but how rapidly and successfully its government can do so depends on a fresh and demonstrated commitment to significantly strengthen the country’s educational and training systems. Time is running out.
Guarding Turf, Giving Credit: Malaysia’s Bumiputera Policy Must be Reasonable and Nimble
Malaysians need to find meaningful solutions to Bumiputera policy challenges. Malaysia’s political leaders have a chance to bravely seek change to improve the lot of Malaysians of all ethnic groups instead of maintaining the status quo.
How Many Southeast Asian Countries Will Attend the Ukraine Peace Summit?
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskky has pulled out all the stops to get Asian countries to attend the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland.
Malaysia’s EV Goal: Singular Legislation Needed
Malaysia has a lofty target of installing 10,000 electric vehicle charging stations by next year. This goal, however, needs to be supported by consistent legislation.
Southeast Asia and Trump 2.0(?): Agency Amid Anxiety
Southeast Asian countries exercised significant agency in protecting their geopolitical interests during Donald Trump’s presidential administration. They would be likely to do so again if there were a second.
Cambodia and Vietnam: When a Canal Should Not Divide
Vietnam has, at times, sacrificed its national interests for the sake of good relationships with its neighbours. This still rings true today.
How Cambodia’s Relationship with the US Can Stop Being “One-Sided Love”
Instead of punishing Cambodia for its domestic record and closeness to China, the US has a chance to work with Phnom Penh’s new leaders as they seek to diversify their economy and foreign policy.
The Impacts of the US Tariff Hikes on Southeast Asian Economies
US tariff hikes on Chinese goods have raised US imports from Southeast Asia. The medium- and long-term impacts are more uncertain and potentially disruptive; the region must be on guard.