Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Hanoi presented an opportunity for Beijing to draw Vietnam closer into its sphere of influence, especially since Vietnam has recently upgraded ties with the U.S. and Japan. However, Vietnam’s foreign policy will continue to strike a delicate balance between China and the West.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Is the Establishment of a Spiritual Area on the Gadjah Mada Campus Linked to Joko Widodo?
Universitas Gadjah Mada, one of Indonesia’s top campuses and alma mater of the current president as well as four of the six candidates vying for the 2024 presidency and vice presidency, is constructing worship facilities for all six of Indonesia’s recognised religions.
The First Debate Unveils the Character of Indonesia’s 2024 Presidential Campaign
The first debate among the three presidential candidates for 2024 underscores a shift in tenor in Indonesia’s politics. Whether this more amicable front lasts as campaign season wears on will depend on the ratings game.
Carbon Border Adjustment, Trade and Climate Change: Emerging Issues at COP28
What has been overlooked amid the furore over the recent UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai is the World Trade Organization’s emphasis on the interconnection between trade and climate change.
A Tale of Two (or More) Prime Ministers
Judging from Srettha Thavisin’s recent off-the-cuff comments, Thailand might have more than one prime minister at the moment.
Late to the Party: Vietnam and the Belt and Road Initiative
Chinese-funded investments into Laos and Cambodia have transformed the geo-economic landscape in Vietnam’s immediate neighbourhood. This has caused Hanoi to give China’s Belt and Road Initiative another look.
Mandarin Learning in Brunei’s Chinese Schools: Practical Considerations
The learning of Mandarin in Chinese schools in Brunei is driven less by the projection of Chinese soft power but more by practical considerations.
Aspiring High: Unlocking Southeast Asia’s Potential through the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement
ASEAN can demonstrate to global stakeholders how digital integration is possible through cooperation. For DEFA to achieve its aspirations, it should be principle-based and impact-focused, learn and adopt existing digital provisions, and foster continuous innovation and inclusive growth.
PAS’ Prime Minister Candidate: Great Expectations
Parti Islam SeMalaysia is touting a technocratic parliamentarian as the opposition coalition’s prime ministerial candidate. Dr Samsuri Mokhtar has his work cut out for him.
October Offensive by Resistance Forces Exposes Gaps in Myanmar Military
A military offensive by anti-junta forces in October has exposed weaknesses in State Administration Council forces. While resistance forces seek to overthrow the junta, challenges remain given differing interests.