Two former confidantes of Myanmar’s Senior General have been convicted of corruption and sentenced to prison. Their oversight of economic portfolios, and failure to stabilise rising prices, suggest that they are also scapegoats for the regime’s policy failures.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Common Goal for Myanmar’s Warring Groups: Currying Favour With China
In an unexpected twist, the warring groups in Myanmar’s civil war have a unified goal: combatting cybercrime and ingratiating themselves with China.
PAS’s Long-Term Play Is to Go Its Own Way
Parti Islam SeMalaysia, the political party which has the most seats in Parliament, intends to capture the reins of federal power. This time, however, it plans to do so on its own.
The Race is On! Indonesia’s 2024 Presidential Candidates Assessed
It will be a tough fight in next February’s presidential election in Indonesia. There is time for the race odds to shift but the stakes are already clear.
Impact of Gaza Crisis on China’s Interests in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific
China would seek to prevent a wider escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. It is also monitoring whether U.S. involvement in the conflict will affect Washington’s focus on constraining Beijing in Asia.
Vietnam’s Rare Earth Ambitions: Economic and Strategic Drivers
Vietnam is seeking to develop its rare earth industry at a time when global demand for such minerals is increasing. Its motivations are not merely economic, but also strategic.
Russia’s Memory Diplomacy is Paying Dividends in Southeast Asia
Russia is employing the selective use of history to further its goals in Southeast Asia.
Out of the “Elektabilitas” Mire Comes the Push for Dynastic Power
The lack of real political difference among the various contenders for the top political job in Indonesia has paved the way for the culture of political dynasties to strengthen. Will this culture win out? The votes will tell.
Strengthening Cyber Resilience in Southeast Asia
ASEAN is not ready for the onslaught of future cyberattacks against its fast-growing internet market. Intra-regional differences complicate the search for an effective regional cybersecurity response.
Saving Myanmar’s Post-coup Economy: Strategic and Pragmatic Solutions
Myanmar’s State Administration Council (SAC) regime has been unable to stem continuous economic woes since the February 2021 coup. However, the situation calls for balanced approach of supporting the democratic movement while advocating for policies that ameliorate the economic condition of Myanmar households.