President Yoon’s Korea-ASEAN Solidarity Initiative has built on some of the groundwork laid by his predecessor’s New Southern Policy, most notably in its economic engagements with Southeast Asian countries. However, Seoul must undertake further efforts to boost its diplomatic and security profile in the region.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Hidden Costs of Academic Dishonesty: The Case of Indonesia
Indonesian academia was recently shocked by two egregious examples of professors plagiarising others’ work. Some deep soul-searching and reform must occur to set things right.
Indonesia: Prabowo Subianto, Swimming and Mythmaking
The incoming Indonesian president swims for his health. The tale he likes to tell of one of his swims, however, is but one layer of many in the carefully constructed narrative surrounding his leadership and past record.
Agrarian Reform and Land Rights in Indonesia
The next administration has a chance to right the wrongs perpetuated by the outgoing president, whose administration has allowed private and vested interests to overrule or ignore indigenous land rights in Indonesia’s hungry quest for development.
Vietnam’s War Against Corruption Needs to Address Root Causes
There is no dispute that Vietnam’s anti-corruption drive is necessary. But the campaign does not address the root causes of the malfeasance.
Stimulus Package Glosses over Digital Divide
Thailand’s controversial digital wallet scheme has been criticised by some quarters. One aspect that is ignored is the kingdom’s digital divide.
Why Identity Polarisation Mattered Less in Indonesia’s 2024 Presidential Election
The absence of identity politics in Indonesia’s February presidential polls points to the recognition that this factor can be a double-edged sword, especially when wooing a younger electorate that is savvy on social media and seemingly less susceptible to manipulation.
Pheu Thai’s Military Reforms: Keeping the Military Onside
Pheu Thai proposed reforms of the powerful Thai military are relatively modest, all the more to prevent the ignominy of suffering yet another coup.
ASEAN and Myanmar: The Need for Sustained Engagement
Three successive editions of the State of Southeast Survey share one commonality: the shared aspiration among respondents for sustained dialogue with all stakeholders in Myanmar.
Unpacking Indonesia’s Fossil Fuel Subsidy Dilemma: Environmental Governance Post Election
The next administration has its work cut out for it to ensure true sustainable development by resolutely committing to cutting fossil fuel subsidies for good.