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.
Category Archives: Commentaries
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.
Myanmar’s Agricultural Sector Under the SAC: An Uncertain Future
Myanmar’s agricultural sector fared relatively well in 2023. The prognosis moving forward is not so bright.
The Philippines’ Near-Standoff with China at Sabina Shoal: Bolstering Preventive Deployment
The Philippines has tried a new tactic of preventive deployment at Sabina Shoal but more must be done.
The ‘Strong Leader’ Online Influence Operations and Filipinos’ Desire for Effective Government
The Filipino electorate’s collective yearning for a ‘strong leader’, while exploited for political mileage, is better understood as a desire for a government that cares and acts decisively for the people.
Pheu Thai: Between a Rock and a Hard Place
The Pheu Thai party has to tread a delicate balance between its coalition with conservatives and fulfilling reformist expectations.
Triangle Trouble: What’s Next for Vietnam’s Indochina Strategy?
Cambodia’s withdrawal from a trilateral development triangle involving Laos and Vietnam spells trouble for Hanoi’s ‘near abroad’ regional strategy.
Finding the Sweet Spot Amidst Major Power Rivalry: The Case of Vinfast
VinFast, the electric vehicle manufacturer from Vietnam, is making inroads into the US. This would help, in not an insignificant way, the US to attain its climate change goals.