The editors are to be commended for publishing the thirtieth issue of Southeast Asian Affairs at a timely moment.

The articles contained in this issue are a reflection of the rapid and dramatic developments that have occurred over the past one year, both within and outside the region. The region remained preoccupied with the economic downturn, terrorism, and militant Islam. Efforts to revitalize ASEAN continued, with some hopeful signs that the major powers were paying more attention to the grouping.

I hope, as in the past, Southeast Asian Affairs continues to be a journal of interest for scholars, policy-makers, the business community, and the media.

While thanking the authors for their articles, the views reflected therein do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute.