Opinion

IN A RARE backdown, Thailand’s military Government has reversed course on new foreign labour laws, stung by the impact of its measures on Thai industry and especially those in the SME sector . . . 

TWENTY years after a bitter falling out, former Prime Minister Mahathir and his then-deputy, Anwar Ibrahim, have come together in a bid to reshape Malaysian politics . . .

THE parlous state of the North Korean economy is hardly conducive to success in any open military confrontation with the United States. Kim Jong-Un’s most valuable bargaining chip would seem to be his country’s human and mineral resources . . .

THE  Jakarta election is a precursor to how race and religion may play a role in Indonesia's upcoming 2019 Presidential election . . .

CHINA has made a clear commitment to green energy as it declares war on pollution. It is now the main driver of growth in the global market for green bonds . . . 

DONALD TRUMP is listening – and providing assurances. There are issues of more immediate economic and political relevance to the U.S. in Asia today than there are in Europe, and a Tokyo-Washington axis beckons, with China as an interested party . . .

EVEN China has become an ‘enemy state’ in the shrill rhetoric being spouted by a belligerent North Korea. But is it a symptom of fear felt by the young leadership as China, and to a lesser extent, Russia, join in world isolation of the Hermit Kingdom . . .

A NEW phenomenon is sweeping Asia as new leaders emerge, and the accepted norms of political mores are swept aside . . .

A NEW world order is emerging, and, as reality dawns, the challenges of disruptive technology may pale in comparison . . .

THAI voters have approved a new Constitution put forward by the ruling military Government, Thailand’s 21st new charter since 1932. Considering Thailand’s track record, the odds are that this charter won’t be the last . . .