ASEAN Without The King
It's not an exaggeration to say that ASEAN in particular and the world in general share the grief of Thailand, which has lost it's charismatic King Bhumibol Abdulyadej. For the past seven decades the king has walked beside his people, accompanying them through the ups and downs, in good times and bad times, in sickness and in health, until his unfortunate departure on 13th October 2016. The King is regarded as a demi-god by many Thais, and his popularity has been viewed as unifying force during times of political unrest.
For ASEAN the king will remembered for his contribution transforming the region's from a mere colony of the world powers to one of the main drivers of global economy today. The 70 years of King Bhumibol's reign witnessed the work in progress of a region intent on reaching a dream community that not only prospered, but one that also shared one identity. He will not see the result of the collective, Herculean effort, but he has left a legacy that will hopefully continue to guide ASEAN to reach its common goals.
The king's long-lasting legacy to the region should rest with his personality, which President Joko Widodo has said made him a leader who was close to his people and bearer of peace, unity and prosperity for his people, as evident in numerous projects he launched to bring deep and far-reaching benefits to all corners for his country.
The King's passing is a great loss to ASEAN, not simply because Thailand under the guardianship of the king had evolved into a prominent, emerging economy. Thanks to the king, too, Thailand has remained united despite the power play that has sparked concern among many about the country's prospect of democracy. King Bhumibol sucesfully ensured the monarchy continues to enhance Thailand's unity despite the deep rivalry between its civilian politicians and military. The real test facing Thailand and ASEAN, however, will soon begin following the king's demise. Thailand without King Bhumibol is perhaps unthinkable and gives cause for my concern not only in South East Asia second-largest economy but also in the entire region. It will not be easy for his controversial, 64-year-old son, Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, who attended the Royal Military College in Duntroon to exercise a similar role.
Of course, Indonesia and the rest of the world earnestly expect Thailand to go through a smooth royal succession, or else major economic disruptions and political instability will arise. With King Bhumibol helping Thailand survive 17 military coup d'etat and keeping the nation from disintegration, we hope that it continues to prove its mettle without its most revered leader.
In the name of ASEAN solidarity spirit, Indonesia and other members of the grouping should stand ready to lend a helping-hand to Thailand.
For ASEAN the king will remembered for his contribution transforming the region's from a mere colony of the world powers to one of the main drivers of global economy today. The 70 years of King Bhumibol's reign witnessed the work in progress of a region intent on reaching a dream community that not only prospered, but one that also shared one identity. He will not see the result of the collective, Herculean effort, but he has left a legacy that will hopefully continue to guide ASEAN to reach its common goals.
The king's long-lasting legacy to the region should rest with his personality, which President Joko Widodo has said made him a leader who was close to his people and bearer of peace, unity and prosperity for his people, as evident in numerous projects he launched to bring deep and far-reaching benefits to all corners for his country.
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| Thailand King's Bhumibol Adulyadej, one of the world's longest reigning monarchs. Courtesy of CNN. |
Of course, Indonesia and the rest of the world earnestly expect Thailand to go through a smooth royal succession, or else major economic disruptions and political instability will arise. With King Bhumibol helping Thailand survive 17 military coup d'etat and keeping the nation from disintegration, we hope that it continues to prove its mettle without its most revered leader.
In the name of ASEAN solidarity spirit, Indonesia and other members of the grouping should stand ready to lend a helping-hand to Thailand.
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