Southeast Asia’s ride-hailing giant Grab has a new serious competitor in Vietnam. XanhSM, also known as GreenSM in international markets, has rapidly expanded by offering more secure employment and lower costs for drivers, and achieving high client satisfaction. But turning a profit will be challenging.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Anwar’s Year at the Helm: Economic Leadership in Turbulent Times
Anwar Ibrahim’s ratings have been sliding as Malaysia’s economic concerns continue to mount. But the prime minister should not be blamed entirely.
Malaysia’s Public Service Pensions: Will to Reform, Without A Roadmap
Malaysia has announced that future public service recruits will retire on accumulated Employee Provident Fund savings instead of the current, popular pension scheme. Before proceeding, the Anwar Ibrahim administration must clarify the fiscal situation and attendant reforms needed.
Australia-ASEAN at 50: Mateship for Peace and Stability
The 50th anniversary of the dialogue partnership between ASEAN and Australia would give leaders a welcome opportunity to take stock and discuss future engagement.
Who Is Really in Charge In Thailand?
In theory, Thai premier Srettha Thavisin leads the country. But there is more than meets the eye.
Examining Indonesia’s Potential New Source of Growth: A Case for Digital Services Exports
Digitally delivered services exports could be the silver lining, if not a silver bullet, in an increasingly challenging world for Indonesia’s economy, which is clouded by its stubborn growth deficit.
Made in China? The Challenge of State-Sponsored Cyber Intrusions in the Philippines
Apart from security challenges associated with regional geopolitical tensions, the Philippines must address its vulnerability against state-sponsored intrusions into its cyberspace.
Vietnam’s Labour Export: Economic Boon or Developmental Bane?
Labour export yields economic benefits and provides life-changing opportunities for many young Vietnamese. However, Vietnam must craft a long-term strategy that gradually diminishes reliance on labour export, focusing instead on cultivating a competitive domestic labour market.
Assessing Indonesia’s Post-Election Economic Policy Direction
The next president of Indonesia will have his work cut out for him on the economic and competitiveness front, even if he continues with many of the existing policies his predecessor will leave behind.
Liu Jianchao: New Foreign Minister, Same Foreign Policy?
Liu Jianchao could become China’s next foreign minister. While he could improve China’s outreach efforts, he is unlikely to bring about any significant change in China’s foreign policy.