Asia Daily: August 30, 2024
News
Philippines files money-laundering case against fugitive ex-mayor Alice Guo. Philippine authorities have charged former mayor Alice Guo with money laundering, accusing her of collaborating with Chinese syndicates to move illicit funds. Guo, who has fled the country, allegedly transferred over 100 million pesos from criminal activities, including cyber fraud and drug trafficking. The charges include 35 others and involve assets worth approximately 6 billion pesos. Guo's case is part of a broader effort by the Anti-Money Laundering Council to combat financial crimes linked to transnational syndicates. Channel News Asia, August 30
Defense Ministry requests record 8.5 trillion yen for FY 2025 budget. Japan's Defense Ministry requested an unprecedented 8.5 trillion yen ($59 billion) budget for fiscal 2025 to enhance remote island security with unmanned vehicles amid China's military assertiveness. This request, exceeding the 2024 budget, aligns with Japan's five-year defense buildup plan responding to evolving security threats. The ministry also seeks to boost stand-off defense capabilities through missile acquisition, expand satellite constellations for target tracking, and address threats from Russia and North Korea. Kyodo News, August 30
Philippines, Vietnam boost military ties amid South China Sea tensions. Vietnam and the Philippines agreed to advance defense and military cooperation, focusing on maritime security and peaceful dispute resolution under international law. The agreement includes plans for a defense cooperation deal by year-end and enhanced collaboration on disaster response and military medicine. The meeting between Vietnamese Defense Minister Phan Van Giang and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro reflects a unified stance on maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea amid ongoing tensions with China. Mikhail Flores, Reuters, August 30
UN to deploy team to Bangladesh to probe rights abuses, violations during mass uprising. The U.N. human rights office will send a fact-finding team to Bangladesh to investigate alleged abuses by security forces during student-led protests against the former government. The team, invited by interim leader Muhammad Yunus, will examine excessive force used in protests, which have resulted in nearly 650 deaths since July. The U.N. aims to support the interim government in revitalizing democracy, accountability, and human rights in Bangladesh. AP News, August 30
ADB launches new strategy for Turkmenistan The Asian Development Bank (ADB) introduced a new country partnership strategy for Turkmenistan, focusing on developing a competitive, diversified, and knowledge-based economy from 2024 to 2028. The strategy includes supporting a green transition, promoting economic competitiveness, and enhancing structural reforms. Key initiatives involve investments in renewable energy, policy reforms for decarbonization, and the development of sustainable transport networks. The ADB aims to bolster the private sector, improve financial access for SMEs, and reform the healthcare sector. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, August 30
Leading Taiwan opposition politician Ko Wen-je’s home raided in corruption probe. Taiwanese prosecutors raided the home of Ko Wen-je, leader of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), over allegations of corruption linked to his time as Taipei mayor. The investigation focuses on his approval of the Core Pacific City project and possible bribery. Ko and his wife were questioned, along with several others, including a city councillor and the Core Pacific Group chairman. Ko has taken a leave of absence from the TPP leadership amid the probe. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, August 30
PH, Indonesia kick off joint military exercise. The Philippines and Indonesia commenced the Philindo Strike IV-2024 joint military exercise at Camp Siongco, Maguindanao del Norte, involving 20 Philippine and 16 Indonesian army personnel. The exercise, spanning 11 days, focuses on battlespace management, interoperability, joint operational readiness, and intelligence exchange. It aims to enhance both nations' capabilities in counterterrorism, disaster response, and maritime security, while strengthening their long-standing defense ties. Francisco Tuyay, The Manila Times, August 30
TSMC's 3rd plant in Japan expected as early as 2030: Taiwan minister. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plans to build its third chip plant in Japan by 2030, focusing on advanced chip production, according to Taiwan's economic affairs minister. This follows the establishment of TSMC's two plants in Kumamoto Prefecture, with the decision on construction pending. Japan aims to strengthen its semiconductor supply chains amid geopolitical risks involving Taiwan. The Japanese government has committed significant subsidies to support TSMC's existing projects. Kyodo News, August 30
N. Korea's ambassador to Singapore takes office. North Korea’s new ambassador to Singapore, Ri Kil-song, officially assumed his role after presenting his credentials to Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Ri’s appointment is part of North Korea’s efforts to revive diplomatic activities that were paused due to strict COVID-19 restrictions. Previously a vice foreign minister for Asian affairs, Ri's appointment aligns with North Korea’s broader move to strengthen international ties, including appointing new ambassadors to Vietnam, Thailand, and Romania. Chae Yun-hwan, Yonhap News Agency, August 30
Thailand's anti-graft body opens new probe into embattled political opposition. Thailand’s anti-graft commission has launched an investigation into 44 members of the disbanded Move Forward party, including 25 current lawmakers from the People’s Party, over their support for amending the lese-majeste law, which criminalizes royal insults. The probe could lead to lifetime political bans for those involved. This follows the court-ordered dissolution of Move Forward, a popular party with anti-establishment policies that gained significant youth support but clashed with Thailand's royalist military. Panarat Thepgumpanat and Chayut Setboonsarng, Reuters, August 30
PH passes on US offer to escort ships – for now. The Philippines has declined the US offer to escort its resupply missions to military outposts in the South China Sea, stating it will only consider such support in emergency situations, such as troops lacking essential provisions. Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasized appreciation for the US's readiness to assist but noted that, for now, the situation remains manageable. This decision follows discussions with US Indo-Pacific commander Adm. Samuel Paparo in Baguio. The Manila Times, August 30
US Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State welcomed in Hanoi. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Vu Chien Thang met with U.S. Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Allison Peters in Hanoi to discuss religious freedom and human rights. Thang highlighted Vietnam's commitment to religious equality and protection under the law, and outlined recent recognitions of religious groups and the legal framework for belief and religion in Vietnam. He suggested continued dialogue on democracy, human rights, and religious freedom between the two nations. Vietnam News, August 30
Turkmenistan and Iran to expand cooperation in natural gas and transport. Turkmenistan and Iran signed four memorandums of understanding to strengthen cooperation in natural gas and transport sectors. The agreements include a strategic document to make Iran a regional gas transfer hub and plans to increase Turkmen gas exports to 40 billion cubic meters annually. The countries also discussed boosting cargo transportation along the Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway and exploring a comprehensive transportation deal. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, August 30
Japan opposition lawmakers agree with China party to boost ties. Japanese opposition lawmakers met with China’s ruling Communist Party to enhance high-level visits and dialogue, aiming to promote healthy Sino-Japanese relations. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Chinese Communist Party signed a memorandum of understanding to boost cooperation and communication. Key discussions included China’s detention of Japanese nationals on espionage charges, transparency in judicial proceedings, and resuming pre-COVID visa exemptions for Japanese short-term visitors. Kyodo News, August 30
Vietnam, Thailand ink MoU on maritime law enforcement cooperation. The Vietnam Coast Guard and Thailand's Maritime Enforcement Coordinating Centre signed a memorandum of understanding in Hanoi to enhance maritime security and safety. The agreement includes cooperation on combating smuggling, illegal immigration, and unregulated fishing, as well as search and rescue operations. It also addresses responsibilities during implementation and aims to strengthen bilateral ties, with Vietnam learning from Thailand's successes in fisheries regulation. Vietnam News, August 30
Analysis & Opinion
Reconnecting in a Digital World: How Chinese Youth Navigate the Decline of Local Communities. Chinese youth are balancing digital engagement with offline activities to counter over-digitalization and social isolation. They use Douban groups to encourage reduced tech use and to organize face-to-face interactions, reflecting a desire for authentic social connections amidst declining local communities. Wutao Wen and Alexander Davey, MERICS, August 30
The Right Road to Renewable Biofuel in Indonesia. Indonesia is advancing its bioethanol production to reduce fossil fuel dependence and lower greenhouse gas emissions. With the introduction of E5 fuel by Pertamina and a focus on sustainable feedstocks like sugarcane and cassava, the country aims to balance bioethanol production with food security. Learning from the U.S. and Brazil's experiences in bioethanol, Indonesia plans to adopt advanced technologies and policies to build a robust biofuel industry. Hidayatul Mustafidah Rohmawati and Michael Suryaprawira, Lowy Institute, August 30
Rethinking Bangladesh’s Reliance on Chinese Arms. Bangladesh is reconsidering its dependence on Chinese military equipment due to concerns over quality and reliability. With a large portion of its arsenal sourced from China, Dhaka is exploring alternatives from Western nations and regional allies like India, Turkey, and South Korea to diversify its defense imports and enhance its military capabilities. Khandakar Tahmid Rejwan, Asia Times, August 30
India-Japan Defense Ties Quietly Reaching New Heights. India and Japan are deepening defense cooperation through expanded military exercises, technology transfers, and collaboration in cyber and space domains. The recent "two-plus-two" talks resulted in agreements to enhance joint military activities and to transfer Japan's advanced radar and communication technologies to India. Simran Walia, Asia Times, August 30
International Cooperation is Critical to Southeast Asia’s Clean Energy Transition. Southeast Asia must reduce fossil fuel dependency to meet climate goals, requiring substantial investments and international cooperation. ASEAN countries need around $27 billion annually to increase renewable energy capacity and $277 billion to phase out coal plants early. Enhanced global partnerships can provide financial aid, technical expertise, and policy support, crucial for achieving the region's net-zero emission targets by the 2040s. Thang Nam Do, East Asia Forum, August 30
Japan’s Ambitious Semiconductor Plan. Japan is investing heavily in its semiconductor industry with the goal of mass-producing two-nanometer logic chips by 2027. The initiative, led by the firm Rapidus, faces challenges such as a shortage of skilled engineers and market trust issues but is supported by government funding, local supply chain advantages, and a weak yen. This aims to reduce reliance on foreign chips and improve Japan's technological autonomy. Willem Thorbecke, East Asia Forum, August 30
PNG’s Sustainability Rests on Funding People, Not Elites. Papua New Guinea's sustainability is threatened by political instability, economic challenges, and civil unrest. Critics argue that international aid should focus on grassroots development rather than supporting the political elite. Addressing public needs, such as poverty alleviation and infrastructure improvement, is seen as key to fostering stability and reducing foreign influence. Carolyn Blacklock, East Asia Forum, August 30
Sri Lanka’s Central Asia Gambit. Sri Lanka is strengthening ties with Central Asia to diversify its foreign relations amid regional power shifts and economic challenges. Recent diplomatic engagements aim to improve trade, cultural exchange, and strategic cooperation with Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. This reflects Sri Lanka’s broader attempt to balance its foreign policy between major powers like India, China, and the U.S. Uditha Devapriya, The Diplomat, August 30
The Vital Role of Nutrition in Climate Resilience and Food Security in Southeast Asia. Nutrition plays a crucial role in building climate resilience and food security in Southeast Asia, where malnutrition remains widespread due to economic and environmental challenges. Addressing both undernutrition and overnutrition, the region must improve food systems and diversify diets while combating climate change impacts like extreme weather, which threaten agricultural productivity and food quality. Collaborative policy efforts and sustainable practices are essential to improve nutrition resilience and achieve food security goals. Elyssa Kaur Ludher and Miriam Romero, FULCRUM, August 30
The Rise and Challenges of Sustainable Fashion in Southeast Asia. Sustainable fashion is gaining momentum in Southeast Asia due to rising consumer awareness of environmental and social issues associated with fast fashion. However, high costs, limited market reach, lack of transparency, and overproduction hinder its growth as a viable alternative. Efforts to promote traditional apparel and eco-friendly practices are underway, but more comprehensive strategies are needed to foster a shift toward sustainability. Damon Chee, FULCRUM, August 30