Dr Charles Chao Rong Phua 潘超荣 CMC-AF SID-SRAD

Yuen Yuen Ang critiques the outdated “industrial-colonial” development paradigm, attributing its failure to address global crises to mechanistic thinking and Western-centric approaches. Traditional institutions rooted in these frameworks struggle to tackle interconnected challenges such as climate change, inequality, and democratic erosion. Ang proposes replacing “machine-mode thinking” with an “adaptive political economy” that recognizes the complexity of natural and social systems. This paradigm emphasizes decentralized experimentation, bottom-up feedback, and locally driven innovations. Examples like Ethiopia’s conservation techniques and China’s “directed improvisation” highlight the potential of context-specific solutions over one-size-fits-all governance models. Governments, according to this approach, should act as coordinators of adaptive processes, fostering inclusive networks of actors and embracing uncertainty. Ang presents the polycrisis as an opportunity to redefine development, empower diverse voices, and create resilient systems tailored to specific needs. Exploring the role of emerging technologies can further strengthen adaptive political economies. Tools such as artificial intelligence and blockchain can enhance transparency and efficiency in decentralized development efforts. For instance, AI-powered platforms can analyze complex systems, optimize resource allocation, and provide actionable insights for addressing challenges like climate risks and health crises. However, these technologies must remain accessible to avoid exacerbating inequalities and ensure they empower rather than centralize control. Economic systems also need realignment to support adaptive development. Taxing polluters, incentivizing sustainable practices, or promoting circular economy innovations can encourage systemic change. Partnerships between governments and multinational corporations can further amplify local solutions, integrating them into global markets while ensuring inclusivity and equity. Such economic incentives could create a more resilient and adaptive global framework. Reflecting on these insights, it becomes evident that development during the polycrisis requires a balance between global interconnectivity and local empowerment. By integrating technology, economic incentives, and innovative practices, we can bridge gaps between the Global South and North. This approach not only builds resilience but also ensures that diverse voices and contexts contribute to shaping sustainable and equitable progress. #globalafairs #polycrisis #globalsouth #sustainabledevelopment #technology #ai #blockchain #equity #resilience #economicincentives Project Syndicate Yuen Yuen Ang

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➡️ Singapore has a consistent foreign policy approach based on diplomacy, as well as military strength and norms. ➡️ The country’s strategic position is challenged by U.S.-China competition, regional instability and domestic political shifts. ➡️ Future foreign policy will likely emphasize stability and continuity, and leverage existing collaborations. NEW REPORT by Dr. Prashanth Parameswaran: https://lnkd.in/dSer6Une

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Scarce engineering talent in the age of AI is a topic which does not appear to have exercised policymakers. I attempt to address this issue in my latest column for #ForbesAsia. There are engineer surplus regions (Asia) and engineer scarce countries like America and parts of Europe. Countries in the former are already taking measures to hoard talent. Ultimately talented engineers will become like highly prized Nvidia graphic chips - scarce! https://lnkd.in/dUUxkSiD

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Li Qiang to tout ‘righteous’ China as Asean forum mutes criticism of Beijing: analysts Carl Thayer, professor emeritus of politics at the University of New South Wales in Australia, said the Philippines and Vietnam were likely to air their concerns with Li. “But these interventions won’t move the needle much with respect to Asean’s declaratory policy,” he said. Thayer said Laos – which holds the rotating chair of Asean this year – would play a “low-key reactive rather than proactive role”, and in upholding the bloc’s norm of consensus, criticisms of China would likely be muted. He expected the final statement issued by the chair would use Asean’s boilerplate formulation – that concerns were raised over actions that have raised tensions and undermined stability in the region while calling for restraint. China will emphasise that “recent tensions are the result of interference by a country outside the region and warn Southeast Asia states not to be taken in”, Thayer said. Li will “stress that China promotes peace in the South China Sea”, and that it was in Asean’s interest to work with China to complete the third reading of the long-delayed code of conduct for the waterway, he said. “Despite rising tensions in the South China Sea caused by China’s stepped up aggressiveness, Asean leaders will paper over their differences by putting a gloss on the summit’s outcomes.” #Dewey_Sim, South China Morning Post, October 10, 2024 https://lnkd.in/g3Zwc-Cj #Li_Qiang, #China, #ASEAN, #South_China_Sea, #Laos, #Southeast_Asia, #East_Asia_Summit, #Mao_Ning, #Philippines, #Vietnam, #economic_integration, #digital_economy, #artificial_intelligence, #Scarborouigh_Shoal, #Cart_Thayer, #Unniversity_of_New_South_Wales, #South_Korea, #code_of_conduct, #John_Bradford, #Zha_Daojing

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📢 #Taiwan’s Diplomatic Tightrope: Challenges and Opportunities 🌍 In The Diplomat, Tam-Sang Huynh, lecturer at The Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities (or the USSH ) and Humanities and member of the #PacificForum #YoungLeaders Program, and Tuan-Kiet Truong, research assistant and columnist at the Vietnam Strategic Forum, analyze Taiwan’s efforts to retain its 12 diplomatic allies through tech incentives and engagement. The authors explore how #China’s economic influence and political challenges within Taiwan’s allies add complexity to this endeavor, impacting the prospects for Taiwan’s international presence. Dive into the full article for a thoughtful look at Taiwan’s diplomatic path forward: https://lnkd.in/gc66zGRz #Diplomacy #Geopolitics #InternationalRelations

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Return of 16 Crested Ibises (Toki) to China 中国へのトキ16羽の返還について   1.   16 crested ibises, which are to be returned to the People's Republic of China pursuant to an agreement between the Japanese and Chinese governments, will be transferred from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) to Beijing, China, on October 31, 2024. 2.   A four-member Chinese delegation from the National Forestry and Grassland Administration will visit Japan to sign the return document on October 29, 2024, at the Toki Cultural Exchange Hall in Sado City, Niigata Prefecture.   ■   Background 1.   According to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of the Environment of Japan and the National Forestry and Grassland Administration of the Government of the People's Republic of China, ownership of offspring born from crested ibises provided by China belong as follows: Hua Yang (male) ... Odd-numbered offspring to the Japanese side, even-numbered offspring to the Chinese side Yishui (female) ... Even-numbered offspring to the Japanese side, odd-numbered offspring to the Chinese side Lou　Lou (male) ... Odd-numbered offspring to the Japanese side, even-numbered offspring to the Chinese side Guan Guan (female) ... Even-numbered offspring to the Japanese side, odd-numbered offspring to the Chinese side 2.   As a result of coordination with the Chinese government, the 16 crested ibises born from Hua Yang, Yishui, Lou Lou, and Guan Guan between 2016 and 2022, of which the Chinese side has ownership, will be returned to China on October 31, 2024 (This is the 8th return, following the return of four crested ibises on March 9, 2016). 3.   Prior to the transfer of the crested ibises, the Sado Japanese Crested Ibis Conservation Center began quarantine of the ibises on October 9, 2024, in order to inspect them for highly pathogenic avian influenza and other infectious diseases.     Continue reading: https://lnkd.in/gy_FSskr

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The CCP's 3rd plenum: Hedging political risks for businesses in China “Decision on Further Comprehensively Deepening Reform and Advancing Chinese Modernization”? “Six inevitable requirements?” Does this all sound like Greek to you? This webinar will provide clarity around the outcomes of the CCP’s 3rd plenary session and why it matters for businesses. The third plenary session of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will be held from July 15 to July 18. Traditionally, 3rd plenary sessions have served for the CCP to discuss the status of the economy and announce policy plans and initiatives for economic development and reform. Already before the plenum, documents published by the CCP indicate that the plenum will discuss understandings of China’s modernization and potentially policy initiatives resulting from that. It will probably also discuss the ideological underpinnings of China’s modernisation process, such as the “six essential requirements” that are currently appearing in Chinese media. While this might sound like ideological discussions that are irrelevant for businesses, we can draw significant conclusions from these discussions on how the CCP wants the Chinese economy to develop and what reform measures it intends to implement. Businesses that are aware of these discussions therefore have a better understanding of the overall Chinese economic and political environment and can better hedge political risks in their China engagement.   This webinar will help with that and cover the following topics: 1.     What is the Central Committee and why businesses should pay attention to its plenary sessions 2.     The outcomes of the 3rd plenary session and how to interpret them, pointing out political risks for businesses 3.     The outcomes of the 3rd plenary session in broader context: how do the decisions compare to past developments and what can we expect for future developments in economics and politics in China 4.     What businesses should pay attention to next   Date: July 23, 2024; Time: 10.30am (AEDT) Duration: 1 hour Location: online (zoom access data will be provided before the event) Cost: free https://lnkd.in/gDh569Wr

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Spoke to Thompson Chau's for this Nikkei Asia story: While China is using its influence to shrink Taiwan’s international presence, India is actively becoming part of the solution for Taiwan. Mongolia is closely aligned with China’s interpretation of the One China policy and, like South Africa, views China as more important than Taiwan. Therefore, it’s expected for them to ask Taiwan to minimise its presence. This is one of the reasons why Taiwan should appreciate India more. India is now more open to Taiwan. In terms of consulates, trade, and tourism offices, Taiwan has a greater presence in India than China. This underappreciated aspect of India’s outreach to Taiwan highlights the untapped potential of their partnership, which only requires concerted efforts from the Modi and Lai administrations.

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This is not China's official line. And Professor Lei, Director Hu does not speak for China. But it does exhibit at some level, how China, China's academia sees its actions as justified - if not explainable. "Among them, Hu Bo, director of the Centre for Maritime Strategy Studies at Peking University’s Institute of Ocean Research, said Beijing had “exhausted” all diplomatic means to persuade Manila to maintain the status quo amid the dispute. “I think Beijing has no choice but to respond, which means use all kinds of tools, including water cannons and other law enforcement activities,” Hu said on November 8." Odd explanation - supply to the beached LST is the status quo; preventing it seems to be an escalation on China's part. Unless the Second Thomas/Scarborough/Sabina Shoals are taken on a case-by-case basis? "Johanes Sulaiman, an Indonesian associate professor from Jenderal Achmad Yani University, told Lei that he had read the report, and it appeared to justify ramming and collisions by the Chinese coastguard because they were “sovereignty-safeguarding activities … [and therefore] do not apply to collision avoidance rules”. “Are you saying that China is allowed to break international law as long as they think the territory belongs to them?” Sulaiman asked Lei. He added that the report gave the impression that “it is fine to ram other countries’ vessels”." The reply? "Speaking over Zoom, Lei replied: “I don’t think the collision or the ramming is intentionally conducted by the Chinese coastguard, but it happened.” Ramming is not intentional????? Or that it was bad decision making under stress by the captains (since there were multiple incidents of ramming) breaking from standing orders. IF it seems like everyone is ganging on the Chinese representatives - it is. But just because they are ganging up does not mean that China is the victim in this instance. Overlapping border disputes are common place - but ramming other vessels seem to be a Chinese thing - that China is determined to show that they will defend using their own vessels but deny using lethal force. (See the Hainan Island Incident). This is not normal, but China is trying to tell its people that it is - it is also patriotic. And then use the same position to explain that it was 'forced' to ram other claimants - when it is was ordered to do so.

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🎙In the latest Japan Memo, Robert Ward is joined by Dr Sheila Smith and Dr Jeffrey Hornung to discuss Japan’s strategic landscape under Trump 2.0, including insights from Abe’s successful approach. They also analyse: ➡️ Japan’s defence policy challenges, including potential US demands for increased financial contributions; ➡️ The future of minilateral security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific under Trump 2.0, notably QUAD. 🎧 Tune in now: https://lnkd.in/ef-Y_t53

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𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 🎓👩‍👩‍👧🌟 | 𝘾𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙎𝙤𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝐂𝐅𝐏𝐑 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬’ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 | 𝐌𝐮 𝐙𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐠 & Shu Hu This paper investigates how parental education influences children’s subjective well-being, focusing on depressive symptoms and confidence in the future using data from the 2014 China Education Panel Survey. The study explores parental educational attainment and assortative mating (the tendency for individuals to marry those with similar educational levels). Findings reveal that, when controlling for average parental years of schooling, both hypergamy (one parent with higher education than the other) and hypogamy (one parent with lower education than the other) are linked to lower confidence and higher depressive symptoms in children, compared to educational homogamy (similar levels of parental education). The most vulnerable children are those born to hypergamous parents where mothers have less than high school education. The study further highlights that negative effects of parental hypogamy are mediated by parent-child and inter-parental dynamics, such as paternal drinking, parental conflicts, and problematic relationships. Link: https://buff.ly/48UGP2C Photo Source: iStock

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As a result of what has become the concept’s almost natural state of ambiguity, attempts at defining what it means to be a middle power have proved invaluable for nations attempting to project themselves as such.   In this latest issue of FSI Insights, Research Officers Faith Ong and Salvador Francis Isaiah Deapera explore the origins, definitions, and evolution of the concept of “𝘮𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘭𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱.” Through this process, the Philippine case for middle power status is assessed, and answers are offered as to why—and if—the Philippines should care about understanding the concept. 🌏📍🇵🇭   Click the link to read the full article: https://lnkd.in/gcTQt5qK   Click and follow the hashtag #fsicirssresearch for more content from FSI's Center for International Relations and Strategic Studies.

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I believe this is a good time for international executives to learn from politicians—specifically their mistakes. China’s recent successful space mission to the far side of the Moon is a good example. The PRC has been excluded from international space research mainly for the USA’s security concerns. As a result, China developed its independent space infrastructure, from launching capability to a space station rivalling the international one. During the The US & USSR managed to collaborate in space all along the Cold War. Today’s politicians failed to do the same. What does that have to do with you, your business, and leadership skills? First, if you’re reading this, you’re benefiting from tech exchange between China and the West: your phone is likely to have ingredients from both sides, the satellite and towers that connects you to the net may also. Second, China, the US and Europe have pieces of other puzzles as well, and leaders at international firms can help overcome political hurdles to fit them together. - China makes better solar panels, the West utilises them more efficiently. - The West needs affordable electric cars, China needs external markets. - In tech, research & development, the West is ahead in basic research, China in application. Yet, in each of these sectors we’re at risk of repeating the “my tree house” mentality that separated space programmes. Executives I coach and advise are under strong pressure to take sides, but my job is to help them bridge the gaps instead. Reach out for opinions and support on East-West leadership.

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Did you know that international schools might be the secret to boosting Seoul’s foreign direct investment (FDI)? Schools like Dulwich College Seoul are not just educating children—they’re attracting global talent and investment. "𝘌𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘯 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘚𝘦𝘰𝘶𝘭, 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘴𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭𝘴 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵." In a compelling article, Guðmundur Hegner Jónsson, Head of Dulwich College Seoul, reveals how the city’s most prestigious schools are struggling to meet the skyrocketing demand from expat families. With Seoul aiming to double its FDI to $30 billion by 2030, the pressure is on to expand international education options. Dive into the story to learn how education is shaping Seoul’s future as a global business hub and what’s being done to support the growing expat community. https://lnkd.in/gfvUjiF7

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In this thought-provoking opinion piece from the South China Morning Post SCMP , the authors Han Hua and Lee Jersey Wang argue that the current rules-based international order is fundamentally flawed and unable to effectively address global challenges. They assert that with increased geopolitical divisions, double standards, and lack of a neutral arbiter, the rules-based order is no longer working as intended. The authors propose replacing it with a "decency-based order" - a clearer framework centred on universal values that different cultures can more easily agree on. This is a timely and important discussion as the world grapples with a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape. What are your thoughts on the merits of a new international order based on principles of decency? https://lnkd.in/g8P2qU85 #globalpolicy #internationalorder #geopolitics

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