INDIA: Fixing the optics by changing the faces but challenges persist
A comprehensive reshuffle of federal government departments and ministers attempts to fix responsibility and refurbish the government’s image. Upcoming elections in several states were an important driver. Conceding that India’s management of the Covid-19 pandemic had b… Become a member to read the rest of this article Username or E-mail Password Remember Me […]
CHINA: Didi investigation signals concern over data security, foreign listings
China’s internet regulator announced an investigation into ride-hailing group Didi Global, citing illegal collection and use of personal data. The State Council, China’s cabinet, also called for new rules to tighten regulation of foreign listings by Chinese companies, just… Become a member to read the rest of this article
MALAYSIA: Parliament reconvenes 26 July, but watch UMNO
The most important near-term factor in Malaysian politics is UMNO’s willingness to cut ties with the majority. Public health conditions make it difficult to hold an election before Q4, which may cause UMNO to hesitate to pull the trigger. However, there are anecdotal si… Become a member to read the rest of this article
KOREAN PENINSULA: North Korea admits to Covid-19 transmission in country
North Korean leader’s statements at Politburo meeting last week are the first public admittance of the Covid-19 virus inside of the country. The regime does not have a public health system to contain the virus and large numbers of the population suffer from co-morbidities … Become a member to read the rest of this […]
PHILIPPINES: Duterte looks first to his succession plans, not legacy
At a press conference yesterday, President Rodrigo Duterte said he should be considered as a candidate for the vice-presidency in 2022. The statement is likely a bluff to create political noise that keeps him relevant through the next few months. For Duterte and many of… Become a member to read the rest of this […]
CHINA: Party’s 100th anniversary aims to boost legitimacy, contrast with US
The Chinese Communist Party marked its 100th anniversary on 1 July; propaganda authorities are using the event to boost the party’s legitimacy. The anniversary celebrations feature familiar messages about the party’s achievements but also highlight howthe party is actively… Become a member to read the rest of this article
INDONESIA: Widodo announces wider restrictions over half the country
Measures will limit most commercial and social activities on Java and Bali until 20 July, with the goal of cutting in half the current new case rate of roughly 20,000 per day. Government is targeting raising the daily vaccination rate from roughly 0.25% of the population t… Become a member to read the rest […]
HONG KONG: What does the Apple Daily crackdown mean for business and finance?
The prosecutions of pro-opposition media tycoon Jimmy Lai and his associates signal that political commentary in Hong Kong faces significant new constraints under the National Security Law. But Lai’s case is unique in some respects, and other media continue to publish hard… Become a member to read the rest of this article
PHILIPPINES: With Aquino’s death, Duterte’s populism loses a target
In 2009, the death of democracy icon and former president Corazon Aquino generated a surge of nostalgia that catapulted her son, Benigno Aquino III (“Noynoy”), then a largely nondescript senator with a thin legislative record, to the presidency in 2010. Mr. Aquino’s death yesterd… Become a member to read the rest of this article
CHINA: Data Security Law imposes new compliance requirements on companies
A new Data Security Law imposes significant new compliance requirements on both Chinese and foreign companies, though follow-on regulations could take years to issue. The law calls for internet governance to balance national security and economic development objectives, in… Become a member to read the rest of this article