Positive change more likely
US-China relations have sunk so low in recent years that change for the better can now be expected, for everyone’s sake.
Asean comes of age
A common implicit understanding within Asean is that national interests derive from shared regional interests, which means not siding with one big power over another.
Fresh prospects ahead?
A new year is said to offer new opportunities, and the prospect of improved US-China ties is matched by Malaysia’s enthusiasm as Asean chair.
Between population and productivity
China’s depopulation trend is often said to be a looming crisis, but the policy options available suggest that fears are overdone.
Decoding Trump 2.0
Some of the US president-elect’s preferred candidates for key posts may seem bizarre, but there could be a method in the madness.
Fooling themselves
Once more, political bias in US mainstream media misrepresents voting realities on the ground.
Let the river run smoothly
Challenges facing Mekong River development deserve better attention throughout South-East Asia, while the solutions need urgent action.
Appreciating Asean
Asean is a realities-grounded institution with certain strengths, which are hidden only to those who fail to appreciate them.
Understanding BRICS
Western institutions like Goldman Sachs expect BRICS to dominate the world economy by 2050, but still cannot understand how it works despite its strengths.
Engagement is vital
Cool heads are needed among Asean partners in the current stormy waters of the South China Sea; heated confrontations will only leave everyone as losers.
Time for better ties
AS the new Pakatan Harapan administration was being sworn in on May 10 last year, some anxiety stirred in Singapore.