Asia Daily: February 27, 2024
News
Indonesia's largest party eyes probe into alleged election irregularities. Indonesia's Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) is pushing for a legislative investigation into purported violations during the recent presidential election, planning to bring a case before the Constitutional Court. This move follows the election where their candidate, Ganjar Pranowo, placed third behind Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto. PDIP alleges abuses of power, including the misuse of state resources, aiming to ensure the integrity of future elections. Ananda Teresia, Reuters, February 26
China's top legislators weigh changes to state secrets law. China's legislature is reviewing amendments to the state secrets law, introducing stricter controls, particularly on "work secrets of government departments." This marks the first revision in over a decade, aiming to standardize the management of sensitive information and enforce tighter restrictions on former state employees. The amendments could have far-reaching implications for information management and national security enforcement in China. Yanyue Dang, South China Morning Post, February 26
Feleti Teo is named Tuvalu’s new prime minister after elections that ousted Taiwan supporter. Feleti Teo, former Attorney General, has been elected as Tuvalu's prime minister, a development with potential implications for the island nation's foreign relations, particularly with China and Taiwan. Teo's election follows the ousting of the previous government, which supported diplomatic ties with Taiwan, amid broader regional dynamics involving China's influence. The new leadership could review foreign and security policies, including a proposed security treaty with Australia addressing climate change impacts. Rod McGuirk and Tristan Lavalette, AP News, February 26
Abductees' families say won't oppose Japan lifting North Korea sanctions. Families of Japanese abducted by North Korea expressed they wouldn't oppose lifting sanctions against Pyongyang if it leads to the immediate return of all abductees. They're open to Japan offering humanitarian aid to North Korea under the condition of the abductees' repatriation. This stance comes amidst discussions of a potential summit between Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Kyodo News, February 26
KMT deputy chief Andrew Hsia starts mainland China trip with call for dialogue with Taiwan. Andrew Hsia, the vice chairman of Taiwan's Kuomintang party, embarked on a trip to mainland China advocating for eased cross-strait tensions and the reopening of dialogue. This visit, starting in Xiamen, comes amid heightened strains, notably following the deaths of two Chinese fishermen during an encounter with the Taiwanese navy. Hsia's journey, prioritizing meetings with Taiwanese businesspeople and residents in China, aims at fostering peace and stability between Taiwan and the mainland. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, February 26
Activist's father pleads for bail as hunger strike continues. The father of detained activist Tantawan Tuatulanon, Sommai Tuatulanon, appeals for his daughter and her friend's bail amidst their hunger strike, stressing their innocence and non-prosecution status. The duo, facing charges from a royal motorcade protest, are hospitalized due to malnourishment. The request highlights the critical condition of detainees and calls for judicial responsibility for their lives. Wassayos Ngamkham, Bangkok Post, February 26
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan install water-monitoring stations on border. Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have installed upgraded flow-monitoring stations on transboundary canals to improve water resource management. The initiative, supported by the Swiss Cooperation Office, aims to provide real-time data on water volumes. This development comes amid increasing concerns over water shortages in Central Asia, with both nations working together to address the challenges posed by diminishing water supplies. Eurasianet, February 26
Yoon's approval rating exceeds 40 percent for 1st time in 8 months. President Yoon Suk Yeol's approval rating has risen above 40% for the first time in eight months, attributed to his regional development initiatives and plans to increase medical school seats. This positive shift, according to a Realmeter survey, reflects growing public support for Yoon's policies and efforts to address doctor shortages. The survey also highlighted changes in political party support, with the ruling People Power Party gaining and the main opposition Democratic Party experiencing a slight decline. Kang Jae-eun, Yonhap News Agency, February 26
Việt Nam, Laos continue enhancing special relationship: Party leaders. Việt Nam and Laos have pledged to foster their unique relationship through new mechanisms for cooperation. Leaders from both nations met in Hà Nội, recognizing the bond as an invaluable asset to be preserved for future generations. They discussed enhancing political ties, security, and economic collaboration, aiming to deepen the friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. Vietnam News, February 26
China's top corruption watchdog puts belt and road projects, rural strategy in the cross hairs. The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) of China is intensifying its anti-corruption efforts, focusing on the Belt and Road Initiative and rural revitalization strategy. The CCDI's work report for 2024 highlights the crackdown on "unhealthy practices and corruption" within these key policy areas, emphasizing the commitment to a "clean Silk Road" and efficient, corruption-free rural development. William Zheng, South China Morning Post, February 26
PH infringed on China's sovereignty – Chinese official. China reinstated a barrier at Scarborough Shoal, citing Philippine actions as a breach of its sovereignty, per Beijing's foreign ministry. This incident highlights ongoing South China Sea territorial disputes. The ministry's spokesperson, Mao Ning, affirmed Huangyan Dao's (Scarborough Shoal) status as Chinese territory, amidst heightened tensions. Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, February 26
Uzbekistan: Deadly cough syrup trials ends with lengthy convictions. A six-month trial in Uzbekistan concluded with severe sentences for 23 individuals implicated in the deaths of at least 68 children from contaminated Indian cough syrup. The harshest penalty, 20 years in prison, was given to Raghvendra Pratar Singh of Quramax Medikal, the import company. The trial spotlighted bribery, tax evasion, and the production of substandard medicines, leading to a landmark ruling that also mandates significant compensation for the victims' families. Eurasianet, February 26
4th Fukushima treated radioactive water release to start Feb. 28. The fourth discharge of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean is scheduled for Wednesday, concluding this fiscal year's releases. This step is part of an extensive decommissioning process, ensuring the water meets strict safety standards. The initiative, which began in August, aims to manage and reduce the stored water volume safely over the plant's three-decade cleanup plan. Kyodo News, February 26
Long Form
China Looks to Ukraine War for Guidance on Attack Helicopters. Chinese military strategists are closely analyzing Russian attack helicopter operations in the Ukraine conflict to glean insights for future warfare. This focus is part of a broader effort to understand modern combat dynamics, given the People’s Liberation Army's (PLA) reliance on Russian weapons and doctrine amid its rapid modernization and lack of recent major combat experience. Despite the close China-Russia relations, Chinese analyses avoid harsh critiques of Russian military performance, instead seeking to extract valuable lessons on the use of tanks, anti-ship cruise missiles, drones, and novel U.S. weapons and strategies. Lyle Goldstein, Nathan Waechter, The Diplomat, February 27
Prabowo must resist temptation to apply more force in Papua. Following a decisive victory in Indonesia's presidential election, Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto faces the challenge of managing Papua's push for indigenous rights without resorting to increased military force. Papua, under Jakarta's rule since being ceded by the Netherlands 60 years ago, has seen its share of unrest and military operations, notably by Prabowo himself in the past. Despite efforts to integrate Papua into national progress, issues like resource exploitation, indigenous displacement, and military crackdowns persist. The region remains a hotspot for conflict, highlighted by the recent hostage situation involving a New Zealand pilot. Prabowo's leadership approach in Papua could test his ability to balance security concerns with respect for human rights and indigenous land rights, drawing on past leaders' experiences for guidance. Hamish McDonald, Nikkei Asia, February 27
In China's shadow, Hong Kong escapees urge Australia to raise visa game. Amid a thawing of relations between Canberra and Beijing, Hong Kong residents who have sought refuge in Australia following the imposition of the National Security Law are calling for the Australian government to improve its visa policies. These individuals, fleeing the crackdown on pro-democracy protests and the broad criminalization of dissent in Hong Kong, find themselves in a state of limbo, with asylum seekers awaiting approval and professionals seeking faster recruitment processes. Sophie Mak and Rurika Imahashi, Nikkei Asia, February 27
Poverty and conflict cripple Myanmar’s post-coup economy. Myanmar's economy remains severely impacted by the 2021 military coup, with nearly half of its population now living below the poverty line. Despite a slight growth of 2 to 3 percent in 2023, the nation struggles to recover from the substantial economic downturn caused by the junta's actions. Factors such as low consumer demand, foreign currency shortages, and international sanctions, including asset freezes and banking restrictions, have hindered a robust recovery. The Financial Action Task Force's blacklisting and sanctions on state-owned banks have further isolated Myanmar from the global financial system, deterring investment and complicating international transactions. Despite these adversities, the garment industry shows some resilience, benefiting from low labor costs and retained EU trade preferences, though this sector faces its own set of challenges, including access to foreign currency and political risks. The broader economic decline is reflected in reduced public spending on health and education, declining wages, and widespread humanitarian needs, particularly in rural areas affected by poor agricultural yields. Htwe Htwe Thein, East Asia Forum, February 27
India’s thirst for improved water security. India faces its worst water crisis in history, with approximately 600 million people experiencing high to extreme water stress and inadequate access to safe water causing 200,000 deaths annually. By 2030, India's water demand is projected to be twice the available supply, threatening millions and potentially impacting the country's GDP. Groundwater, crucial for agriculture, industry, and drinking, is being over-extracted, highlighting the need for sustainable management. Despite having 18% of the world's population, India only has 4% of its water resources, making it one of the most water-stressed countries globally. The government's agricultural power subsidies and guaranteed crop purchase policies have led to the overproduction of water-intensive crops, exacerbating groundwater depletion. Solutions include community-based groundwater management, reassessment of crop patterns, and adoption of water-efficient technologies. The proposed Indian Rivers Inter-link project aims to enhance irrigation, promote groundwater recharge, and mitigate floods. Monika Chaudhary, East Asia Forum, February 27