The ringgit’s recent appreciation has been attributed to sound government policies. Based on economic fundamentals, however, such an appreciation might not be sustainable in the long run.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Malaysia’s Purchase of Kuwaiti Hornets: Is It Worth It?
On the surface, Malaysia’s planned purchase of Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait looks prudent. But there are deeper considerations to mull over.
Budget 2025: Politics Likely to Prevail Over Subsidy Reforms
It makes sense for the Anwar administration to lift subsidies on petrol and reconsider putting back the goods and services tax. The problem is that of politics.
Outlook for the Prabowo Administration’s Foreign Policy
Incoming Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto can be expected to be more active than his predecessor in managing Indonesia’s foreign and defence policy. The question is whether the region will see a more assertive Indonesia under Prabowo.
Anticipating the Prabowo Administration’s First Moves
The next president of Indonesia has ambitious plans for his country but a widely anticipated growth in the number of ministers and ministries in his administration could jeopardise quick results.
Ishiba’s New Security Proposals: A Bridge Too Far for ASEAN?
New Japanese premier Shigeru Ishiba has brought some new security proposals to the region. They are unlikely to find a warm reception.
Mpox: Can ASEAN Build Resilience to Tackle Health Threats?
Compared to ASEAN’s reaction to Covid-19, the region’s public health response to mpox is more assured and united but still requires reinforcement and reinvention, if true resilience is a goal.
Uncertainties Cloud Trump’s Security Strategies to Asia
There are broadly two schools of thought regarding the geostrategic policies of former US President Donald Trump if he returns to the White House. One focuses on his unpredictability and isolationist tendencies, the other on his desire to bolster deterrence.
Common Space in Southeast Asian Higher Education: A Catalyst for Collaboration?
The recent adoption of a joint declaration for the region’s tertiary sector could lead to more mobility and progress. But some challenges need to be tackled first.
US Not Walking the Talk in Southeast Asia
President Joe Biden is, once again, not attending the ASEAN-US Summit. Though this is understandable given the upcoming election, the US seems to be losing ground in Southeast Asia amid growing Chinese influence.