Rent-seeking plagues Indonesia’s politically charged free nutritious meals, but there is no clear way forward.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Should Southeast Asia Fear the Second China Shock?
The second China shock fundamentally differs from the first. Southeast Asia should strategically optimise the growth of capital imports and investment from China.
Cambodia’s Crackdown on Scams Needs a Concrete and Durable Strategy
Cambodia has stepped up efforts to eradicate scam operations. The key challenge is overcoming structural impediments.
Fast-Tracking “National Rise”: How Vietnam Is Learning from China
Despite a history of distrust, Vietnam is increasingly drawing lessons from China’s experience of a strong state driving economic transformation.
The US-China AI Chip War: Southeast Asia’s Compliance Dilemma
Southeast Asian countries face two dilemmas in the Sino-US AI chip war: aligning their technology stacks with either of the great powers and preventing the illegal diversion of restricted chips.
Singapore’s Trade Agreements Show How Small States Shape Global Legal Norms
From digital trade to essential supply chains, Singapore’s recent plurilateral trade agreements are reshaping how states sustain trade cooperation and build resilience within a rules-based order.
Thailand’s Blue Regime: Giving No Quarter?
The ruling Bhumjaithai Party has de facto control over most senators in the Upper House and cemented its dominance of both houses of Parliament.
The 2026 Johor Election: Advantage Barisan Nasional?
Barisan Nasional has had the audacity to call state polls in Johor a year early. While it enjoys some wind in its sails, BN’s electoral gambit engenders some degree of risk.
Is Thailand’s Latest Co-Payment Scheme Justifiable?
Thailand’s new co-payment scheme seeks to help Thais buffeted by the impacts of the crisis in the Middle East. But the reach of the scheme might be too broad.
Rethinking ASEAN Cooperation: Fewer Words, More Action
Amid rapid geopolitical shifts, ASEAN should focus more on practical outcomes and developing capabilities rather than expending effort on negotiating lengthy statements.