Digging Deeper with DEFA
As the first round of negotiations for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) approaches, Kristina Fong discusses critical aspects to consider that will make the DEFA successful in bridging the digital divide and facilitating more meaningful digital integration.
The Courteous Charmer: A Hard Look at Japan’s Soft Power in Southeast Asia
Indira Zahra Aridati examines the rise of Japanese soft power across Southeast Asia and its many facets.
Is Laos Able to Make a Difference in the Myanmar Crisis?
Joanne Lin looks at the crisis in Myanmar and recommends possible strategies for Laos to move the needle on the issue, ahead of its ASEAN Chairmanship next year.
The Rise of the Live Music Industry in Southeast Asia
Neo Hui Yun Rebecca analyses the rising demand for live music shows in Southeast Asia and how regional countries can tap into this opportunity.
A New Chapter in ASEAN-Japan Relations
ASEANFocus is privileged to feature the Secretary-General of the ASEAN-Japan Centre, Dr Kunihiko Hirabayashi. He provides a perspective on the ASEAN-Japan relationship after 50 years, and how Japan intends to substantiate the new Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN.
Changing Political Landscapes and Leadership Transitions in Southeast Asia
Electoral politics have been heating up in Southeast Asia after the COVID-19 pandemic. The Philippines and Malaysia elected new leaders in 2022. Vietnam underwent a major leadership change after President Nguyen Xuan Phuc tendered his resignation. Voters in Thailand and Cambodia, headed to the ballot box to elect their representatives, while Singapore voted for a […]
Rise of Unicorns in Southeast Asia
Tham Siew Yean examines the state of startup developments across Southeast Asia, delving deeper into the success of unicorns in Singapore and the newest unicorn hub of Indonesia.
ASEAN in the Global Semiconductor Race
Lili Yan Ing and Ivana Markus take stock of the current state of the global semiconductor race between China and the United States, and how the ASEAN region should navigate the growing rivalry.
Advancing the Digital Health Ecosystem in Southeast Asia
Katrina Navallo and Keith Detros highlight the importance of infrastructure, trust, and innovation to foster a thriving digital health ecosystem in Southeast Asia.
IPEF’s Relevance for ASEAN
Siwage Dharma Negara and Maria Monica Wihardja outline recommendations for Indonesia as the ASEAN Chair to align ASEAN’s interests with the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).