Region
Southeast Asia
Towering Ambition in Malaysia
Are plans for a new 100-storey skyscraper a sign of strength or weakness? Either way, they make little economic sense.
From One Prison to Another
By The Diplomat Special Correspondent
Aung San Suu Kyi’s release is a gamble for Burma’s ruling junta. Will its post-election confidence prove to be misplaced?
Once More, Without Feeling
By Diplomat Special Correspondent
No one expects anything other than a big election win for Burma’s ruling junta. A dejected population is giving up on hoping for better.
Thailand’s Misplaced Police Priority
By Pavin Chachavalpongpun
The new Thai police chief says tackling anti-monarchists is his top priority. He risks deepening divisions in the country.
Burma’s Mysterious Border Closure
By Phil Thornton
The Burmese junta’s decision to close a Thai border crossing has prompted frustration and questions—and no answers from Burma.
Moscow’s Asian Nuclear Campaign
By Richard Weitz
Energy-hungry Asia offers Russia a chance to re-engage with the continent. But is a nuclear strategy a guarantee of influence?
When Is a Terrorist a Terrorist?
By Luke Hunt
‘War on terror’ was a flawed term from the start. But Asian governments, too, are willing to play politics with terrorism.
After Burma Poll, Conflict Looms
Burma’s history is marked by insurgencies and ethnic tension. Next month’s poll could see them bubble over into armed conflict.
The Battle Over the Mekong
By Tom Fawthrop
Chinese dams threaten one of the world’s most biodiverse rivers, critics say. It’s not just environmentalists who are worried.
Vietnam’s Tourist Problem
Hanoi’s 1000th anniversary has brought an influx of visitors. But why are so few foreign? And why won’t they come back?
Love Thy Neighbour?
Malaysia and Indonesia have a shared history dating back centuries. But decades after independence they still can’t get along.
Indonesia’s Climate Experiment
By Stephen Minas
There’s an easy charm to Banda Aceh that belies its tumultuous history—and a ground-breaking climate change experiment.