SOUTHEAST ASIA: Reopening to tourists, plus some vaccine hesitancy
Across much of the region, countries are accelerating their plans to reopen their economies to foreign tourists. Several factors — but primarily rising rates of vaccination and pressure from business groups and small and medium enterprises — are raising policymakers’ willingnes… Become a member to read the rest of this article Username or E-mail […]
SOUTHEAST ASIA: The outlook for domestic vaccine passports
Wealthier countries such as Singapore and Malaysia are likely to lead in the use of digital vaccine passports. Ideological issues will not hinder policy at the outset, and neither will privacy concerns unless there are egregious loopholes in both the technology and impleme… Become a member to read the rest of this article
SOUTHEAST ASIA: A rush to vaccinate the main cities
Vaccination rates in capitals and industrial areas are substantially outpacing the countryside in several countries. The goal is to be able to keep economic centers open as much as possible, even if subsequent outbreaks were to occur. Rural resentment could increase, es… Become a member to read the rest of this article
SOUTHEAST ASIA: What to watch over the next two weeks
Indonesia is showing signs of epidemiological improvement, but the data nationally are uneven and there is a risk that the gradual easing of community restrictions planned for 26 July may be too early. Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam are in roughly the same situation of st… Become a member to read the rest of this […]
SOUTHEAST ASIA: Changes in tactics as Covid-19 cases spike
New Covid-19 case and fatality numbers continue to set daily records in Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar, despite restrictions throughout the region generally being tightened during the past month. Malaysia may also soon exceed its previous peaks. And, more broadly, the… Become a member to read the rest of this article
SOUTHEAST ASIA: Countries to watch in the next few weeks
Indonesia’s expected post-Idul Fitri spike has arrived, with targeted local restrictions being enforced until 28 June. Forced to bear the political backlash from slow vaccine deliveries, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha promises to fully reopen Thailand in 120 days. Dis… Become a member to read the rest of this article