Although China and the Philippines have resumed bilateral talks, they are far from addressing their differences over the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Nguyen Phu Trong’s Incomplete Legacy in Vietnam
The steadfast leadership of Vietnam’s General Secretary has ironically created a potential leadership vacuum, as succession planning has not been one of his strong suits, unlike anti-corruption and other stellar achievements.
Malay Youth’s Evolving Yet Steadfast Support for Malay Royalty
Amid political change and occasional controversy, Malay youth continue to hold the rulers and the royal institution in high regard. It is imperative to understand the reasons.
Malaysia’s Mufti (Federal Territories) Bill 2024: Sectarian or Crucial Step Forward?
An important bill that will affect the selection of future religious advisers for Malaysia’s Federal Territories awaits passage into law. Will the government be able to push it through despite its critics?
Philippine-China Standoff Over Second Thomas Shoal: There Are Three Others
The Second Thomas Shoal is the centre of attention in the standoff between China and the Philippines. But there are three other features in the South China Sea that warrant examination.
Sungai Bakap: A Wake Up Call to Buck Up
Pakatan Harapan’s recent loss in a Penang by-election should give it some grounds for introspection.
The ‘Second China Shock’ and its Implications for Southeast Asia
China’s progress up the technological ladder will impact Southeast Asian economies.
Timor Leste’s First Quarter Century: Opportunities and Challenges
Having enjoyed 25 years as an independent entity, Timor Leste has a lot to celebrate. But there are major economic challenges.
Rise of Chinese Language in Vietnam Hinders Plans to Bring Back Russian
There is a Russian-Vietnamese plan to bring the learning of Russian back to Vietnamese schools. But the reality is that English and Chinese are the most popular languages in the country.
Myanmar’s Military Funds Its War through Forex Policy
Myanmar’s military regime is increasingly utilising foreign exchange policy to extract funding, which threatens to hasten economic decline. It is important to find avenues for economic activity outside the system for the benefit of Myanmar’s people.