New poll asks: Is democracy working for Indonesia?
Survey data shows Indonesians aren’t satisfied with how their democracy is functioning during the COVID-19 crisis. As the country’s economy dives, citizens are questioning their leaders’ decisions.
Wanchalearm Satsaksit’s abduction in Cambodia: How they covered it
Thai activist and government critic Wanchalearm Satsaksit was abducted in Cambodia on June 4. Both countries denied any wrongdoing before launching investigations. Here’s how the region’s media covered the story.
What does the return of palm oil trade mean for India-Malaysia ties?
India-Malaysia relations are improving as India resumes imports of palm oil from the Southeast Asian state, with Malaysia positioned to see further economic benefits and India standing to benefit politically.
A green reboot for ASEAN countries
As Southeast Asia emerges from the pandemic, policymakers at both the regional and national levels must implement a green recovery to future-proof the economy and the health and safety of our people and planet.
New study shows loss of Southeast Asia’s peat forests drives climate change
New research documents show clearing and drainage of peat forests in Southeast Asia is driving carbon emissions. Using a new remote sensing technique, researchers showed that peatland across the region is sinking—not just on large-scale plantations but also on small farms and in degraded areas.
Why ASEAN should reject China’s controversial Hong Kong national security law
China’s new security law for Hong Kong will considerably erode the city’s autonomy. Once implemented, China will have legislative protection to crush all forms of opposition in Hong Kong and ASEAN cannot afford to remain silent, as doing so will only embolden Beijing’s assertiveness in Southeast Asia.
Is Indonesia’s Sharia fintech industry here to stay?
The rise in Sharia financial technology is transforming Indonesia’s economy, as Muslims seek banking and financing options that adhere to Islamic law.
Amazon in Southeast Asia: slow progress, or playing a waiting game?
As Amazon celebrates 25 years of online business, its progress in Southeast Asia appears to have stalled. Why have they not made much impression in…
Southeast Asia on the Black Lives Matter protests: How they covered it
George Floyd’s murder in Minneapolis last week sparked widespread protests against racial injustice. Citizens of Southeast Asia were among those in support.
Singapore firm to build US$1.7 billion coal power plant in Laos
Laos has approved a Singapore energy firm’s plan to build a 1,000 MW coal-fired power plant in the southern province of Sekong. The plant is slated to export power to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam and would be the country’s second coal power plant.