Asia Daily: July 3, 2024
News
Online petitioners calling for Yoon's impeachment reach 1 mln. Over 1 million people have signed a petition demanding the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol on the National Assembly's website since its posting on June 24. Supported by the Democratic Party (DP), the petition criticizes Yoon's governance. DP leaders, including Park Chan-dae and Jung Chung-rae, highlighted public dissatisfaction. A senior presidential official accused the DP of legislative overreach. The petition's success pushes it to a parliamentary subcommittee for review. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, July 3
Taiwan says it was warned by China to not interfere in the detention of Taiwanese boat crew. China warned Taiwan's coast guard not to interfere with the detention of a Taiwanese fishing boat, escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China's coast guard detained the boat for alleged illegal fishing, while Taiwan disputes the boat's location, claiming it was in Taiwanese waters. The boat, Dajinman 88, was intercepted near Kinmen Island, leading to a standoff involving multiple vessels from both sides. The boat's captain and five crew members, including Taiwanese and Indonesian nationals, were taken to a port in Fujian Province. Christopher Bodeen, AP News, July 3
Spokesman dismisses Western concerns over ‘Mother Nature’ sentences. A Cambodian government spokesman dismissed Western governments and NGOs' concerns over prison sentences given to ten Mother Nature Cambodia activists. The activists received six to eight years for charges including plotting to overthrow the government and insulting the King and former Prime Minister. The EU and Australia expressed serious concerns about human rights and freedom of speech. The Cambodian government insists the legal actions were justified and not politically motivated. Josh Sayle, The Phnom Penh Post, July 3
entagon decries N. Korea's recent missile launches as 'irresponsible'. Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder condemned North Korea's recent ballistic missile launches, urging a return to diplomatic discussions. Ryder emphasized the destabilizing nature of these actions, noting no immediate threat to the U.S. or its allies. North Korea's pursuit of multiple warhead technology remains a security concern. Ryder highlighted the upcoming NATO summit's focus on defense cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners, including South Korea. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, July 3
High-profile murder case pits Ukraine against Kazakhstan in extradition dispute. Ukrainian prosecutors seek to charge Kazakh nationals Meiram Karataev and Altai Zhakanbaev with the premeditated murder of Kazakh émigré Aidos Sadykov in Kyiv. Kazakhstan refuses extradition, citing a policy against extraditing its citizens. The suspects allegedly fled to Kazakhstan after the murder. Sadykov, an opposition activist and YouTube channel operator, was critical of Kazakh authorities. Human rights groups urge cooperation between Ukraine and Kazakhstan to ensure justice. Eurasianet, July 3
Japan's top court orders government to pay damages over forced sterilization. Japan’s Supreme Court ruled that the government must compensate individuals who were forcibly sterilized under the now-defunct Eugenic Protection Law. The court awarded 22 million yen (approximately $170,000) in damages to Kazumi Watanabe, 78, and a 76-year-old woman, marking a significant legal victory for the victims. The law, which was in effect from 1948 to 1996, authorized the sterilization of people with disabilities, often without their consent. The court declared the law unconstitutional, highlighting the severe human rights violations it caused. Kyodo News, July 2
China to boost basic research in natural resources on its path to tech self-reliance. The Chinese government has pledged extensive support for basic research in natural resources to advance its goal of becoming a science superpower by 2035. The Ministry of Natural Resources announced new guidelines to strengthen research in areas such as mineral resources, deep-sea habitats, and ocean emissions technology. The ministry also emphasized international collaboration and nurturing scientific talent. This initiative aligns with Beijing's commitment to self-reliance in key technologies amid rising competition with the U.S. in geopolitics, trade, and technology. William Zheng, South China Morning Post, July 3
China invests over $5 billion in Tajikistan’s energy sector. Since gaining independence, Tajikistan has completed 35 energy projects with over $5.3 billion in Chinese funding. Major projects include electric substations and power transmission lines. The Export-Import Bank of China provided $880 million in soft loans. Companies like Power China, Huawei, and CNPC are involved. Recent agreements aim to build solar and wind plants with a capacity of 1,500 MW. The Times of Central Asia, July 3
Laos seeks debt deferrals as external payments nearly double to USD 950 million. Laos is negotiating debt deferrals with creditors after its external debt payments almost doubled to USD 950 million in 2023 from USD 507 million in 2022. The government deferred USD 670 million in payments last year and has postponed USD 1.22 billion since 2020. Laos' public debt stands at USD 13.8 billion, 108 percent of its GDP, with USD 10.5 billion owed to China. The depreciation of the Lao kip has exacerbated debt servicing challenges. Kheuakham Chanlivong, The Laotian Times, July 3
Malaysia's Najib loses legal bid to serve sentence under house arrest. A Malaysian court dismissed former Prime Minister Najib Razak's request to serve his prison sentence under house arrest. Najib's application claimed that a royal order halved his 12-year graft sentence and entitled him to house arrest. The Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled there was no arguable case and described supporting affidavits as hearsay. Najib's lawyer announced plans to appeal. Najib was convicted in 2020 for illegally receiving funds from the 1MDB scandal, with the verdict upheld in 2022. He remains on trial for other 1MDB-linked corruption cases. Danial Azhar, Reuters, July 3
Putin and Xi to meet at SCO summit to bolster security and counter the US. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping praised the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) at a summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, emphasizing its role in global stability and as a counterbalance to Western influence. The SCO, which includes India, Iran, and Pakistan, aims to address external security threats and domestic instability. Putin highlighted the strong ties between Moscow and Beijing, while Xi called for continued cooperation amidst global challenges. The summit also saw bilateral meetings between Putin and leaders from Turkey, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Mongolia. Pavel Mikheyev, Reuters, July 3
President welcomes new Japanese Ambassador to Việt Nam. President Tô Lâm hosted a reception in Hà Nội for Ito Naoki, the new Japanese Ambassador to Việt Nam. The President highlighted the importance of the Việt Nam-Japan relationship, particularly following its upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He emphasized the need for collaboration in areas like economy, trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges. Ambassador Ito committed to deepening the partnership, focusing on economic collaboration, workforce training, and tourism. Vietnam News, Vietnam News, July 3
Diplomatic scandal: Kyrgyz ambassador fired for “khanate of permissiveness”. Ambassador Ulanbek Totuyaev was dismissed from his post by presidential decree after staff at the Kyrgyz diplomatic mission in Pakistan accused him of creating a "Khanate of permissiveness." The allegations include unethical treatment of subordinates, misuse of embassy resources, and improper living conditions for staff while he and his family lived in luxury. Totuyaev claims his removal was due to his opposition to Foreign Minister Zheenbek Kulubaev. The Times of Central Asia, July 3
Court adjourns Move Forward dissolution case to July 17. The Thai Constitutional Court postponed the hearing on the dissolution case against the Move Forward Party (MFP) to July 17. The Election Commission seeks to dissolve MFP, alleging it aims to undermine the constitutional monarchy, violating Section 92 of the organic law on political parties. MFP denies wrongdoing and vows to fight the case. The party, popular among the youth, won the most votes in the last general election but was blocked from forming a coalition government. Bangkok Post, July 3
Indonesia explores combat drones, AI-based air defense in Turkiye. Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono visited Baykar Technology in Istanbul to explore the company's combat drones and AI for air defense. Harjono observed simulations of the Bayraktar Akinci UCAV and received detailed information about Baykar's UAVs. The visit aimed to enhance Indonesia's air defense capabilities and strengthen bilateral ties between Indonesia and Turkiye. Baykar Technology is notable for producing Turkiye's first indigenous UAVs and has delivered over 500 UAVs since 1986. Antara News, July 3
Pew study finds more Malaysians, Singaporeans view Russia favorably; backing of Palestine, Putin’s macho image seen as key factors. A Pew Research Center survey found 57% of Malaysians and 34% of Singaporeans view Russia positively. Analysts attribute this to Russia's support for Palestine and President Vladimir Putin’s strongman image. Malaysia's perception is significantly influenced by Russia's stance in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Contrarily, global views remain largely unfavorable towards Russia, with notable exceptions in Malaysia and the Philippines, where 61% and 56% of respondents respectively express confidence in Putin. Asyraf Kamil, Channel News Asia, July 3
Long Form
Playing the "hukou card"? China's rural option for stimulating the economy. Potential hukou reforms at the upcoming 3rd Party Plenum may remove restrictions on rural migration to stimulate the economy, despite significant costs. Increasing subsidies and public services for new urban migrants could boost labor mobility, consumption, and real estate investment, balancing the effects of demographic decline. However, these changes would increase urban social service expenditures, necessitating central government transfers. Recent relaxation of hukou policies in smaller cities contrasts with ongoing restrictions in top-tier cities, reflecting an uneven reform process. Andrew Stokols,
, July 3.South Korea braces for economic fallout as new wave of baby boomers retires. The Bank of Korea warns of a potential decline in economic growth and domestic demand as a new wave of baby boomers retires. This generation, born between 1964 and 1974, makes up 18.6% of South Korea's population. Their retirement over the next 11 years is expected to significantly impact the labor market and economic stability. John Lee, Korea Pro, July 3
Beyond the SQUAD: Ideas for the Philippines to Work with a Northeast Asian Minilateral Arrangement. The Philippines could enhance its security and economic situation by participating in a Northeast Asian minilateral arrangement with the US, Japan, South Korea, and Canada. Suggested initiatives include collective maritime security, enhanced maritime domain awareness, and establishing a defense industry zone. Rommel Jude G. Ong, Fulcrum, July 3
Hun Sen’s Counterproductive Attempt to Tame Vietnamese Online Critics. Cambodian leader Hun Sen's efforts to curb Vietnamese social media criticism, including asking Vietnam to identify and act against online critics, have backfired. His demand has escalated the issue, leading to increased negative comments on his social media posts. Analysts suggest that rather than blaming Vietnam, Hun Sen should use his influence to initiate reconciliation. Nguyen Thanh Giang, Fulcrum, July 3
Why Modi will go to Moscow. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Moscow highlights India's continued strategic balancing act amid global tensions. Despite Western disapproval, Modi's trip shows the importance of India-Russia ties, especially given China's growing influence. India's engagement with Russia is driven by historical ties and current geopolitical necessities, particularly concerning China and Pakistan. Ved Shinde, Lowy Institute, July 3
Russia-North Korea Treaty Marks a Return to Normalcy. The recent treaty between Russia and North Korea signals a return to their historically normal relations after a 30-year period of exceptional dynamics. The partnership focuses on increased cooperation, particularly following North Korea's support of Russia's actions in Ukraine. This development has raised concerns among South Korean and U.S. analysts, but it aligns with the long history of Moscow-Pyongyang collaboration. Dan Gudgeon, The Diplomat, July 3
How Did a Religious Gathering in India Turn Into a Deadly Stampede? Over 120 people died in a stampede during a religious event led by Hindu guru Bhole Baba in Uttar Pradesh, India. The event, permitted for 80,000 attendees, saw a turnout of 250,000. Overcrowding, poor planning, and insufficient exits in the sweltering heat contributed to the tragedy. Attendees surged forward as the guru left the stage, causing chaos. Most victims were women. Biswajeet Banerjee and Krutika Pathi, The Diplomat, July 3
Pakistan should learn from Indonesia’s counterterrorism strategy. Indonesia's counterterrorism approach has made significant strides in reducing terrorist activities. The country combines "hard" measures such as law enforcement and military actions with "soft" strategies including deradicalization and community engagement programs. Key initiatives include the establishment of Densus 88, a special anti-terror police unit, and the National Counterterrorism Agency (NCA), which coordinates efforts across various government bodies. Indonesia's success lies in its balanced focus on immediate threat reduction and long-term preventive measures. Pakistan could benefit from adopting similar integrated strategies to tackle its own terrorism challenges. Salman Rafi Sheikh, Nikkei Asia, July 3
Myanmar's reliance on imported fuel squeezes military as civilians suffer. Myanmar's dependence on imported fuel has created challenges for the military and the civilian population. Sanctions and restrictions on fuel imports have led to shortages, affecting military operations and exacerbating civilian hardships. Companies like Shoon Energy have been implicated in supplying jet fuel to the military, despite sanctions. This dependency on international supply chains complicates efforts to cut off fuel to the military, which continues to carry out airstrikes against civilian targets. Dominic Faulder, Nikkei Asia, July 3
Artificial intelligence threat makes data protection priority for Philippine military. The Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) issued a memorandum in October 2023 banning the use of AI image generator apps by military personnel and civil servants to prevent data misuse. This action followed a 2024 incident where Chinese diplomats used a falsified transcript to create confusion and coerce the Philippine government. The DND emphasizes enhancing cyber hygiene, education, and robust procedures to protect against AI-generated threats. Erick Javier, East Asia Forum, July 3
Indonesia needs to look ahead after securing new submarines. After securing two new submarines from France’s Naval Group, Indonesia must address its lack of submarine rescue capabilities and inadequate submarine bases. The country needs at least three rescue ship units and improved bases in Natuna and Palu to support its expanding submarine fleet. These enhancements are crucial for maintaining maritime security and readiness in Indonesia's vast waters. Yokie Rahmad Isjchwansyah, East Asia Forum, July 3
Up or Out: The Ruthless Tenure Race for Young Chinese Scholars. Many Chinese universities implement an "up or out" system, modeled after the American tenure track, giving young academics six years to meet specific criteria for promotion or face dismissal. This competitive environment, aimed at boosting research productivity and global rankings, often leads to immense pressure, health issues, and postponed personal plans for many scholars. Some institutions and the government are introducing reforms to alleviate these pressures and support young researchers. Luo Yahan and Wang Jingyang, Sixth Tone, July 3