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.
Category Archives: Commentaries
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.
No China Backlash, So Far: The Philippines’ New Assertive Transparency Policy in the South China Sea
The Philippines’ assertive transparency in the South China Sea has so far not generated negative economic repercussions for the country.
Ringfencing the Islamic Cause? Muslim Youth and Philanthropy in Indonesia
Indonesians are top in the world for charitable giving. However, one recent survey suggests that young Muslim donors might be more inclined to give to their fellow Muslims than to any other type of cause.