Monthly Archives: January 2020

Philippine’s Political Economy 2020: Strong Growth and Stability  KB Teo SYNOPSIS President Duterte is focused on boosting economic growth to increase employment and reduce poverty.   This year, growth is expected to rise to a strong 6.1%, from 5.8% in 2019. Politically, he is in a strong position.   COMMENTARY The more robust economic growth inContinue reading “Philippine’s Political Economy 2020: Strong Growth and Stability”

Indonesian Foreign Policy Under President Jokowi 2020: More of the Same or a New Course? KB Teo SYNOPSIS Indonesian foreign policy is characterised by a nationalist orientation.  President Jokowi seeks to enhance Indonesia’s international profile and influence, especially within ASEAN.  He is cautiously seeking closer economic and financial ties with China.  COMMENTARY In October 2019,Continue reading “Indonesian Foreign Policy Under President Jokowi 2020: More of the Same or a New Course?”

Indonesia Politics & Economics 2020 KB Teo SYNOPSIS Indonesia is making strong efforts to boost its economic capability.  Jakarta is making big investments in human capital and basic infrastructure.  At the same time, President Jokowi is cracking down hard on corruption. He wants a lean and efficient bureaucracy. COMMENTARY in September 2019, Indonesia’s parliament passedContinue reading “Indonesia Politics & Economics 2020”

Singapore Foreign Policy 2020: Good Global Citizenship KB Teo SYNOPSIS Singapore’s foreign policy is aimed at making as many friends as possible, with no enemies.  As one of the richest states in the world, it participates actively in regional and global forums.  It is recognised as “punching above its weight”. COMMENTARY In March 2019, ForeignContinue reading “Singapore Foreign Policy 2020: Good Global Citizenship”

Singapore Politics & Economics 2020: Strong Mandate and Prosperity KB Teo SYNOPSIS The ruling PAP is well prepared for the next General Election.  It is likely to be held after the March 2020 Budget. The PAP will be trying hard to regain the 6-seat Aljunied GRC. COMMENTARY The next general election will decide if SingaporeContinue reading “Singapore Politics & Economics 2020: Strong Mandate and Prosperity”

Malaysia’s Foreign Policy 2020: Sovereignty and Pragmatism KB Teo SYNOPSIS Malaysia’s foreign policy is strongly influenced by sovereignty and pragmatism.  Kuala Lumpur is a strong advocate of greater South-South cooperation. PM Mahathir is steadily developing closer ties with China. COMMENTARY Malaysia continues to pursue an independent, principled and pragmatic foreign policy, founded on the valuesContinue reading “Malaysia’s Foreign Policy 2020:Sovereignty and Pragmatism”

Malaysia’s Succession Struggle 2019: Economic Slowdown and Instability? KB Teo SYNOPSIS Malaysian politics is engulfed in controversy and uncertainty.  The vicious succession to PM Mahathir within the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition threatens to worsen. The economy is slowing rapidly and foreign investments have fallen sharply.  Unless the succession issue is quickly resolved, instability threatens.Continue reading “Malaysia’s Succession Struggle 2019: Economic Slowdown and Instability?”

Laos’ Foreign Policy 2019: Active and Forward-Looking KB Teo SYNOPSIS Although landlocked, Laos has an active and forward-looking foreign policy.   It is establishing strong relations with ASEAN. China has a dominating presence in Laos. COMMENTARY Singapore and Laos enjoy friendly relations. Economic ties and Singapore’s investments into Laos have increased over time. They cooperateContinue reading “Laos’ Foreign Policy 2019: Active and Forward-Looking”

Lao’s Political Economy 2019: Growth and the Environment KB Teo SYNOPSIS Laos’ rapid economic growth is causing huge environmental damage.  It is developing closer ties with ASEAN, Japan, China, and South Korea. COMMENTARY Over the past decade, GDP growth averaged 7.7%, with income per capita reaching USD 2,460 in 2018. Economic growth in Lao PDRContinue reading “Lao’s Political Economy 2019: Growth and the Environment”

Thailand’s Foreign Policy 2019: Continuity and Dynamism KB Teo SYNOPSIS Thailand’s Foreign Policy is characterised by continuity and dynamism.  It is expanding relations with fellow ASEAN members. Bangkok is also forging closer ties with China. COMMENTARY For seasoned observers of Thai politics, the sense of déjà vu was undeniable. The election in March 2019 wasContinue reading “Thailand’s Foreign Policy 2019: Continuity and Dynamism”