Asia Daily: March 29, 2024
News
Critics slam revival of drug war in Davao City. Critics have voiced strong opposition to Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte's revival of the controversial drug war policy initiated by his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. The policy's reintroduction has led to the deaths of seven drug suspects in separate police operations, sparking a backlash from human rights advocates and the community. The mayor's "leave or die" ultimatum to drug dealers and users is at the center of the controversy. Red Mendoza The Manila Times, March 28
N. Korea may scrap inter-Korean basic agreement at next parliamentary meeting: Seoul. Seoul's unification ministry reports that North Korea, led by Kim Jong-un, may annul a foundational 1991 inter-Korean agreement in its upcoming parliamentary session, signaling an escalation in tensions as it labels South Korea its "primary foe." This move follows the abolition of inter-Korean economic accords, indicating a shift towards defining the South as an "invariable principal enemy" and codifying war strategies. The changes could also lead to an organizational overhaul of North Korea's foreign ministry. Kim Soo-yeon Yonhap News Agency, March 28
Xi Jinping’s chief of staff is China’s new internet tsar, sources say. Cai Qi has been appointed to lead the Communist Party’s Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission, overseeing China's digital economy. This role was previously held by Xi Jinping himself, marking a significant delegation of duties to trusted aides. Cai Qi's appointment reflects a trend towards centralizing control over the internet and enhancing cybersecurity measures, underlining the strategic importance of digital governance in China. William Zheng South China Morning Post, March 28
Kishida indicates LDP may question ex-PM Mori about funds scandal. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio hinted that the Liberal Democratic Party might inquire into former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori's involvement in a funds scandal, focusing on accountability and political ethics. This move comes amid increasing scrutiny over Mori's financial dealings, particularly related to a controversial payment made to a school operator. Kishida's comments reflect the party's commitment to transparency and accountability, as the scandal has raised concerns about political ethics and governance within the LDP. Kyodo News, March 28
Hun Sen lauds Chinese peace efforts. Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen praised China for its role in brokering a ceasefire in Ukraine, highlighting the importance of such peace efforts on a global scale during the Boao Forum for Asia annual conference. Hun Sen emphasized the negative impact of conflicts on civilians, the economy, and international trade, urging similar peacemaking actions in other war-torn areas. He also commended China's open economic policies and its commitment to global community building. Mom Kunthear Phnom Penh Post, March 28
Russia blocks renewal of North Korea sanctions monitors. In a significant move, Russia vetoed the continuation of a UN expert panel monitoring North Korea sanctions, amidst claims of arms dealings with North Korea for the Ukraine conflict. This decision, criticized by South Korea and the US, comes as China abstained and the remaining Security Council members voted in favor. The panel has been critical in overseeing sanctions on North Korea's nuclear and missile advancements. Michelle Nichols Reuters, March 28
"Fruitful" Japan-North Korea ties will benefit both nations: PM Kishida. Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio emphasized the mutual benefits of fostering "fruitful" relations with North Korea for both countries and regional stability. Kishida reiterated Japan's commitment to resolving the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by Pyongyang in the 1970s and 1980s and expressed his desire for high-level dialogue, despite North Korea's recent rejection of further contact with Japan. This follows criticism from Kim Yo Jong, labeling Japan's efforts as politically motivated. Kyodo News, March 28
EC downplays Thaksin's party visit. The Election Commission of Thailand has minimized concerns about former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's visit to the Pheu Thai Party headquarters, stating there's no evidence it signifies an attempt to dominate the party politically. Thaksin's appearance, which attracted significant attention, is not currently seen as a violation of political party laws. This stance comes amid ongoing discussions on political influence and party dynamics in Thailand. Aekarach Sattaburuth Bangkok Post, March 28
US congressional delegation pledges continued defense support for Taiwan. A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation affirmed ongoing support for Taiwan, following a recent approval of $300 million in military aid, amidst increasing military pressure from China. The delegation emphasized the strategic significance of the Taiwan-U.S. partnership for regional security, with commitments to bolster Taiwan's maritime strategy and counter China's assertive actions. China has voiced strong opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, urging adherence to the one-China principle. Simina Mistreanu AP News, March 28
CAAS chief Han Kok Juan appointed Returning Officer for Singapore elections. Han Kok Juan, the director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), has been designated as the Returning Officer for upcoming elections in Singapore, effective April 1. This role is pivotal for overseeing the fair and smooth execution of the electoral process. Han succeeds Tan Meng Dui, the CEO of the Housing and Development Board, who has held the position since February 2018. Channel News Asia, March 28
KMT hopes Ma can meet with Xi on trip to China. The KMT has expressed hope that former President Ma Ying-jeou's visit to China will foster cross-strait peace, suggesting a potential meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit is aimed at enhancing regional peace amid strained relations, with Ma's participation symbolizing a generational commitment to diplomacy. China's Taiwan Affairs Office has indicated its support for a productive visit, highlighting the importance of dialogue based on mutual political frameworks. Shih Hsiao-kuang, Chen Yu-fu and Jake Chung Taipei Times, March 28
Foreign Minister urges Malaysian envoys to be savvy on investment, trade. Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasized the importance of Malaysian ambassadors and High Commissioners being well-versed in trade and investment to promote economic growth. He advocated for a hands-on approach in attracting investors to Malaysia, suggesting that envoys should work closely with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) to enhance their effectiveness in this domain. Malay Mail, March 28
Official campaigning kicks off for April 10 elections. The start of the official campaign period for South Korea’s April 10 general elections sees the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party fiercely competing for control of the National Assembly. The outcome is pivotal for both parties, with the ruling party at risk of weakening President Yoon Suk Yeol's position, and the opposition aiming to maintain its parliamentary majority. Both parties have initiated their campaigns with strong appeals to voters, addressing issues from economic concerns to political reform. Kim Han-joo Yonhap News Agency, March 28.
India court extends custody of top opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal for 4 more days. An Indian court has prolonged the custody of Arvind Kejriwal, New Delhi's chief minister and a prominent opposition figure, amid protests following his arrest on corruption charges by the Enforcement Directorate. The case, spotlighting allegations of political conspiracy, intensifies as India approaches general elections. The situation has sparked significant controversy, with opposition parties accusing the government of using state power to suppress dissent. AP News, March 28
Long Form
Embracing diverse families could stem South Korea’s fertility crisis. South Korea's deepening fertility crisis might find relief through the acceptance and promotion of diverse family structures, including adoption and non-traditional family models. With the world's lowest fertility rate, efforts to reverse the trend have largely focused on traditional methods, neglecting the potential of adoption and alternative family forms. South Korea houses 20,000 children in orphanages, yet adoption rates remain strikingly low due to societal emphasis on bloodlines and traditional family models. Addressing the stigma around single motherhood and expanding legal and social support for non-traditional families, such as same-sex couples and single parents, could enhance the nation's demographic outlook. Additionally, promoting a positive view of adoption might not only provide homes for many children but also enrich South Korean society with more diverse family types, reflecting a modern, inclusive approach to addressing demographic challenges. Malene Jensen, East Asia Forum, March 29
Amid Geopolitical Concerns, US Capital Flows From China to Japan. Geopolitical tensions and strategic policy shifts in the United States have redirected capital flows from China to Japan, marking a change in investment strategies amid concerns over China's "civil-military fusion" sectors like biotech and AI. This shift, influenced by President Biden's restrictions on U.S. investments in certain Chinese industries and sanctions on Chinese tech companies, has led prominent investment firms to reposition their focus towards Japan and other APAC nations. As the narrative around China's global growth encounters challenges, Japan's economic revitalization emerges as a compelling alternative for global financiers looking for stable and secure investment opportunities in Asia. Grace Shao, The Diplomat, March 28
From India to Australia, Myanmar is flooding Asia with cheap meth. Amidst Myanmar's internal conflict, the country has emerged as the main supplier of cheap methamphetamine across Asia, exacerbating the challenge of controlling drug proliferation in the region. The turmoil within Myanmar has significantly weakened enforcement against drug production and trafficking, leading to an influx of methamphetamine in markets from India to Australia at reduced prices. Nikkei Asia, March 29
Asia-Pacific's Gulf links on course to expand despite Red Sea troubles. Despite the disruption in cargo connections through the Red Sea, the trade and investment ties between the Persian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions are poised for expansion, driven by long-term trends and new commitments. Economic diversification plans in Gulf economies, aiming to move away from hydrocarbons, are fostering new investments in technologies and infrastructure, with the Asia-Pacific serving as a vital partner due to its growing role in the transition economy. Major agreements, such as the comprehensive economic partnership between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates, and cooperation between Japan and Gulf states on rare-earth metals and green hydrogen, underscore the momentum. The evolving trade dynamics, highlighted by significant growth forecasts and strategic investments, suggest a robust and deepening relationship that is likely to influence global trade and economic landscapes profoundly. Greg Guyett, Nikkei Asia, March 29
Grieving in the Age of AI: When Virtual Reunions Blur Reality. The advent of AI technology has introduced novel ways to cope with grief, such as "resurrecting" deceased individuals for virtual reunions. This practice, while providing comfort to the living, raises complex moral and legal questions. AI-generated avatars, created using human image synthesis, allow for video calls that simulate conversations with the deceased, offering a semblance of their presence. Such services range from basic greetings to role-playing sessions designed for deeper psychological closure. However, concerns about consent, the impact on the grieving process, and the potential for developing unhealthy attachments highlight the ethical dilemmas inherent in using AI for grief management. Despite these challenges, the demand for AI resurrection services is growing, driven by the human desire for connection and closure. Sixth Tone
When Can Timor-Leste Expect to Become a Full Member of ASEAN? Timor-Leste's journey to ASEAN membership has been marked by a rigorous and slow process, despite being granted official observer status and receiving in-principle approval in 2022. At the 42nd ASEAN Summit, a Roadmap for Timor-Leste's full membership was adopted, outlining specific criteria the young nation must meet. Indonesian President Joko Widodo has called for ASEAN member states and external partners to assist Timor-Leste in fulfilling these criteria, signaling a collaborative approach towards its integration into the Southeast Asian bloc. This move towards full membership illustrates the challenges and expectations faced by Timor-Leste as it seeks to join ASEAN, highlighting the bloc's evolving standards for new members. Joao da Cruz Cardoso, The Diplomat, March 29
Kurt Campbell’s appointment is a stopgap solution for Southeast Asia. The confirmation of Kurt Campbell as the next US Deputy Secretary of State marks a strategic pivot by President Joe Biden towards the Indo-Pacific, with an eye on China. However, Southeast Asian leaders view this move as a temporary fix to the deeper issue of US policy inconsistency in the region. Despite Campbell's recognized expertise and previous contributions to US-Asia relations, challenges such as the US political climate and a focus on military expenditure in the Indo-Pacific budget raise doubts about the sustainability and depth of US engagement in Southeast Asia. The ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) emerges as a key framework for the region, suggesting a preference for diversified strategic partnerships beyond the US, and reflecting the complex dynamics of regional diplomacy and the enduring challenge of US commitment. Vithoureakborndidh Chou, East Asia Forum, March 29