A Buddhist devotee crisscrossing Vietnam barefoot is a living rebuke to certain corrupt, less exemplary Buddhist monks in the country. By allowing him to walk, the authorities have a chance to earn karma points with the Vietnamese public.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Ulu Tiram Killings: When Well-being is Key
Two policemen were killed by a suspect in Johor recently. In analysing security and religious motivations behind the attack, there needs to be a holistic understanding of social change in the southern state.
Southeast Asia’s Growth Strategies: Business-As-Usual, “Degrowth”, or a Third Way?
In the face of climate change, Southeast Asian countries could choose between three growth strategies. Business as usual ignores environmental concerns, degrowth risks high social costs. A third path of truly sustainable growth presents the best option.
The Thai Prime Minister’s Occupational Hazard as a Political Proxy is Being in the Line of Fire
Nine months into his premiership, the Thai prime minister faces uncertainty about his political future.
Politics in Sabah: Orchestrated Manoeuvres in the Dark
Sabah’s political parties are manoeuvring for political advantage as the state polls loom closer.
Thai-US Relations: Amity With Some Caveats
The US has sought to maintain its traditional line towards Thailand, emphasising democracy and human rights. But geopolitical considerations are changing Washington’s calculus.
The Good Reasons for a Thai Economic Stimulus
A range of data suggests Thailand’s economy has not reached maximal employment. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has some good grounds to inject economic stimulus—but should reconsider the policy’s design.
The Thai Senate: A Crisis of Representation in the Making
The convoluted selection process and the likelihood of self- or vested interests overshadowing public ones in Thailand’s senatorial race mean that the odds of a truly representative body are slim.
The Funan Techo Canal: Treading New Waters, Stirring Old Ripples
Cambodia’s Funan Techo Canal is an embodiment of the country’s renaissance and grievances of its past.
Taiwan’s Economic Pivot Towards Southeast Asia: Bolstering Regional Support for Status Quo
Taiwan is seeking to diversify its economy’s dependence on China towards a greater focus on Southeast Asia. This would yield benefits in more ways than one.