October 2007

A gleam of hope for Myanmar or is it “too little too late”? — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-08 17:13

It is uncertain if the global outcry against the recent meltdown in Myanmar will amount to anything.

What exactly is Fukuda’s “Asian diplomacy”? — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-08 17:19

Since Fukuda replaced Shinzo Abe as Prime Minister of Japan, he has promised to concentrate his diplomatic energies on Asia, paying more if not equal attention to its immediate region in addition to its all-important relationship with the US.

Reaching out – India-Philippines ties — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-08 17:21

It is becoming a familiar story as ASEAN members make overtures to their economically vibrant large neighbours in a bid to strengthen their own economies.

Surayud and Sonthi begin their new portfolios without fanfare — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-08 17:23

After all the speculation about whether Sonthi Boonyaratglin, former army commander and ex-leader of the Council of National Security (CNS), would join politics, the Thai people effectively got two “new” ministers this week.

The ‘None’ Outcome of Gambari’s Visit in Myanmar? — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-04 17:33

Flush with the apparent success of its crackdown on the protestors, the Myanmar government has now gone on the offensive to show the international community that it is still very much in control.

Tensions rise in Thailand and the Philippines as the world focuses on Myanmar — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-04 17:39

While the whole world focuses on the upheaval in Myanmar, other important hotspots in Southeast Asia are being overlooked.

A Reprise of the Sunshine Policy — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-04 17:48

In another initiative by South Korea for reunification, President Roh Moo-hyun visited North Korea and personally met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. However, there seems to be a sharp contrast in mood over this round of the Sunshine policy compared to former President Kim Dae-jung’s trip to North Korea in 2000. There was something about the scene that was just not as emotional.

The dollars and cents of global warming and climate change — by Malvina Kang — last modified 2007-10-04 17:44

Tropical Southeast Asia is a haven for international tourism with its bountiful nature, warm hospitality and eco-diversity. But to exploit this natural advantage of the region, the environment has to be pristine so that tourists are attracted to this tropical paradise.