ASEAN is fragmented and has still has no common approach to Myanmar

ASEAN’s Struggle with Myanmar: A Look into the Bangkok Extended Informal Consultation The recent Bangkok Extended Informal Consultation (EIC) held in December 2024, saw leaders from ASEAN member countries such as Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Brunei, and the Philippines. They gathered to navigate the complex political landscape in Myanmar, emphasizing a local … Read more

Navigating Sovereignty, Security and Humanity: The ASEAN Way and the Rohingya Crisis

Sovereignty vs. Humanitarian Concerns: Navigating ASEAN’s Future ASEAN, a cornerstone of regional cooperation in Southeast Asia, is at a crossroads where its foundational principles meet modern humanitarian challenges. Established with the ideals of mutual respect and non-interference, the bloc now faces pressure to evolve. As global human rights norms advance, ASEAN’s response to crises like … Read more

How ASEAN is moving up the value chain – Economy

Shifting Global Supply Chains Fuel Economic Growth in Southeast Asia As global supply chains continue to shift, Southeast Asia stands at the forefront of economic resurgence, with member states of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) poised to witness robust economic growth. The region is increasingly seen as a prime production base due to its geopolitical … Read more

Marcos Jr., Cambodia PM seek to elevate bilateral ties

Strengthening Southeast Asia: Key Trends in Bilateral Cooperation Enhancing Bilateral Ties Between the Philippines and Cambodia The approaching meeting between President Marcos of the Philippines and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet signals a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. Their discussions will cover a range of crucial issues, including transnational crime, … Read more

India, Modi mark Republic Day with Indonesia’s Prabowo

India’s Cultural and Military Showmanship on the Global Stage The Republic Day parade in India, particularly on Rajpath Avenue, serves as a grand platform not only to showcase India’s military prowess and cultural uniqueness but also to strengthen international alliances. With Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as last year’s guest of honour, the inclusion of a … Read more

FM Sugiono pushes for Myanmar crisis resolution in Davos talks – Asia & Pacific

The Role of Inclusive Dialogue in Myanmar’s Political Crisis Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono has underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue in resolving Myanmar’s enduring political crisis. This call aligns with Indonesia’s steadfast commitment to the Five-Point Consensus (5PC), advocating for constructive engagement amidst global forums like the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos. … Read more

U.S. Expected to Boost Economic, Security Ties with Indonesia

Strengthening U.S.-Indonesia Economic Ties As geopolitical dynamics evolve, the U.S. aims to bolster economic ties with Indonesia. With the strategic Indo-Pacific approach, Secretary Marco Rubio highlights Indonesia as a pivotal partner. Your insights? Have you noticed increased U.S. investment in Southeast Asia? The bilateral trade potential is significant, given Indonesia’s role as the largest economy … Read more

US-ASEAN Business Council Outlines Indonesia’s Economic Growth Opportunities Under Prabowo

Indonesia at a Crossroads: Navigating Economic Opportunities Indonesia’s Tech Take-off: Seizing ICT Growth Opportunities Between 2017 and 2021, Indonesia’s digital economy surged by 400%, with predictions of continued growth. To capitalize on this trend, the Prabowo Subianto administration is urged to invest in improving digital infrastructure and data governance. A notable recommendation includes attracting companies … Read more

Myanmar, South China Sea to feature in ASEAN ministers’ retreat in Langkawi – Asia & Pacific

Unraveling the Myanmar Crisis and South China Sea Tensions The unfolding discussions at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in Langkawi, Malaysia, underscore crucial geopolitical challenges. The ongoing crisis in Myanmar and rising tensions in the South China Sea are key focal points, reflecting broader regional security dynamics. The Myanmar Crisis: A Persistent Challenge The Myanmar … Read more

‘Really dumb and lazy if we do not benefit’: Timor-Leste president on hopes of joining ASEAN in 2025

Navigating Histories: The Future of Indonesia-Timor-Leste Relations Timor-Leste’s path to independence was fraught with challenges, having experienced a lengthy Portuguese colonization and a period of Indonesian occupation. The two countries’ shared history is complex, but recent efforts have focused on reconciliation and collaboration. What does this mean for their future and regional dynamics? Historical Context … Read more