新書出版：《Southeast Asia: Interests and Discontents》
Southeast Asia has undergone a significant process of regionalization in the past few decades. Under the auspices of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), its ten member states—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam—have made strides towards integration by coming together to cooperate on a variety of issues, such as the environment, immigration and sea patrols. The admission of East Timor “in principle” to the organization in 2022, with full membership still pending, will likely bring more synergy to the region. ASEAN’s considerable success in promoting regional cooperation and development notwithstanding, the organization has faced several challenges and criticisms. In recent years, ASEAN regionalism is increasingly perceived as slow and ineffective, which in turn has cast doubts on its leadership role in the region.
Southeast Asia: Interests and Discontents
*Edited by Wen-Bin Lin, Khai Leong Ho, and Samuel Ku (Published September 2024, Wenzao University Press)*
This book is a comprehensive examination of the political, economic, and social dynamics of Southeast Asia, emphasizing the region's interactions with Taiwan, China, and the broader global community. It includes contributions from various scholars, addressing themes of democracy, regional cooperation, economic recovery, and digital diplomacy in the post-pandemic context. Below are the key chapters:
1. **Introduction** - Khai Leong Ho introduces the book's focus on the region’s complexities and challenges.
2. **The Silent Memories of Discontents and Their Implications for Democracy** - Thongchai Winichakul explores how historical grievances influence democratic processes in Southeast Asia.
3. **An Uneasy Alliance: ASEAN Multilateralism in the Shadow of a Creeping China** - Rogelio Alicor L. Panao discusses the evolving dynamics of ASEAN’s multilateral efforts amidst China's growing influence.
4. **Southeast Asians’ Interest in Taiwan and China: Indonesia and the Philippines** - Ahmet Yiğitalp Tulga analyzes the perspectives of Indonesians and Filipinos towards Taiwan and China.
5. **The Geoeconomics of Semiconductors** - Wen-Tung Lin examines trade relations in the integrated circuit sector between Taiwan and Southeast Asian countries.
6. **China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Indonesia: The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway** - Winarto Kho and Vinsensio Dugis delve into the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative on Indonesia’s infrastructure.
7. **Transnational Faith-Based Organizations in Diplomacy** - A. Safril Mubah highlights the role of Nahdlatul Ulama in advancing Indonesian public diplomacy in Taiwan.
8. **Beyond Remittances: NU Care-Lazisnu’s Role for Indonesian Migrants** - Sarah Anabarja discusses NU Care-Lazisnu’s philanthropic activities supporting Indonesian migrants in Taiwan.
9. **Transformational Leadership in the Post-Pandemic Era** - Aaron Joseph H. Castaño and Voltaire B. Jacinto analyze the campaign of Leni Robredo, Vice President of the Philippines, through political discourse.
10. **Economic Recovery in ASEAN States** - Edelyn P. Gomez compares ASEAN member states' economic strategies before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
11. **Digital Diplomacy in ASEAN Post-COVID-19** - Nguyen Thai Hoang Hanh explores the opportunities and challenges of digital diplomacy for ASEAN in the post-pandemic era.
This volume brings together diverse perspectives on Southeast Asia's evolving geopolitical landscape, offering insights into the region’s adaptation to global and regional shifts.