nep-sea New Economics Papers
on South East Asia
Issue of 2024‒05‒06
twelve papers chosen by
Kavita Iyengar, Asian Development Bank


  1. Phasing out coal power in two major Southeast Asian thermal coal economies: Indonesia and Vietnam By Thang Nam Do; Paul J. Burke
  2. Examining the Causal Relationships of Balanced Scorecard Perspectives on Organizational Performance Improvement: A Case Study from the Indonesian Public Sector By Alpha Nur Setyawan Pudjono
  3. Fractional Reasoning with Representation: Insights from Malaysia By Teoh Sian Hoon
  4. "Enhancing Business Continuity Plans and Records Management in Selangor SMEs " By Hanis Diyana Kamarudin
  5. The effects of automation in the apparel and automotive sectors and their gender dimensions By FANA Marta; BÁRCIA DE MATTOS Fernanda; ESQUIVEL Valeria; ANZOLIN Guendalina; KUCERA David; TEJANI Sheeba
  6. "Building Business Resilience to Disasters" By Yutaro Izumi; Hiroyuki Nakata; Yasuyuki Sawada; Kunio Sekiguchi
  7. Revisiting EM economic development and convergence By Jean-Francois Mercier
  8. Process of Learning Paradox in the Japanese Context - Embedded Paradox and Modernization in Work Place By Miyako Imamura
  9. When Facebook Is the Internet: The Role of Social Media in Ethnic Conflict By Tuuli Tähtinen
  10. Language barriers in multinationals and knowledge transfers By Guillouët, Louise; Khandelwal, Amit K.; Macchiavello, Rocco; Malhotra, Madhav; Teachout, Matthieu
  11. The Baking of Preferences throughout the High School By Antonio Alfonso; Pablo Brañas-Garza; Diego Jorrat; Benjamín Prissé; María José Vázquez-De Francisco
  12. Stablecoins: Business Model, Systemic Risks and Policy Perspectives By Srichander Ramaswamy

  1. By: Thang Nam Do (Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University); Paul J. Burke (Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University)
    Abstract: The phase-out of unabated coal power is crucial for meeting climate agreements in coal-dependent economies such as Indonesia and Vietnam. Despite both countries committing to the 2021 Global Coal to Clean Power Transition Statement, translating phase-out pledges into action poses considerable challenges. Drawing insights from interviews with government, civil society, and industry experts, this study identifies the key barriers hindering coal phase-out in each country. Concerns about potentially escalating electricity prices and power shortages loom large, with the former being more prominent in Indonesia and the latter more prominent in Vietnam. The obstacles appear particularly significant in Indonesia for reasons including its higher coal dependence. We conclude that prioritizing renewable energy growth, as well as halting the construction of new coal plants, would be the most practical and viable way forward for both countries rather than an oversized early focus on coal plant closures. The analysis is of high relevance to informing plans under the two countries’ Just Energy Transition Partnerships.
    Date: 2024–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:een:ccepwp:2401&r=sea
  2. By: Alpha Nur Setyawan Pudjono (School of Business and Management Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia. Author-2-Name: Dermawan Wibisono Author-2-Workplace-Name: "School of Business and Management Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesha 10, 40132, Bandung, Indonesia. " Author-3-Name: Ima Fatima Author-3-Workplace-Name: Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesha 10, 40132, Bandung, Indonesia. Author-4-Name: Ilma Nurul Rachmania Author-4-Workplace-Name: School of Business and Management Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesha 10, 40132, Bandung, Indonesia. Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:)
    Abstract: " Objective - This research aimed to explore the causal relationships among performance indicators in the Balanced Scorecard framework of the Indonesia Public Sector. Methodology/Technique - Quantitative and path analysis were used to collect and analyze primary data. The research included 24 Regional Public Sector Offices and 268 Local Public Sector Offices as part of the sample. Findings - The findings showed substantial causal relationships within the Public Sector Balanced Scorecard perspectives, with training significantly influencing employee performance in taxation dissemination and tax supervision activities. However, the impact of training on tax audit performance was considered insignificant. The empirical evidence suggested that tax audit was the only performance indicator positively associated with tax compliance. Determinant factors for tax revenue included tax compliance, dissemination, audit, and supervision. Novelty - This research contributes crucial insights by showing intricate causal relationships among performance indicators, indicating the significant impact of training on distinct facets of employee performance. Additionally, the study identifies tax audits as an essential factor positively influencing tax compliance. The analysis provides new perspectives on the applicability of the Balanced Scorecard in the public sector context, particularly in developing countries. Type of Paper - Empirical"
    Keywords: Balanced Scorecard; Path Analysis; Public Sector; Taxation; Performance Indicators.
    JEL: M40 C52 H30 H20 M49
    Date: 2024–03–31
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:afr232&r=sea
  3. By: Teoh Sian Hoon ("Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia " Author-2-Name: Nur Ikhwany Hj Kamaruddin Author-2-Workplace-Name: "Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia " Author-3-Name: Joseph Boon Zik Hong Author-3-Workplace-Name: "Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia " Author-4-Name: Author-4-Workplace-Name: Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:)
    Abstract: " Objective - Fractional reasoning is a crucial aspect of mathematical understanding fundamental in various mathematical concepts, real-world applications, and higher-level mathematical skills. Comprehending and working with fractions through various strategies, such as representation, is essential for students to develop a solid foundation in mathematics. However, fractional reasoning remains challenging in classroom teaching and learning since it requires deep understanding. Methodology/Technique - The current issue is a more comprehensive and conceptually grounded approach to foster a deeper acquisition of fractional reasoning strategies. Hence, this study aims to investigate to what extent primary school pupils develop fractional reasoning strategies to solve related problems, specifically for fractions of an area and fractions of a set of objects. A case study was conducted to interview eight primary school pupils from Perak (in Malaysia) for the data collection. Finding - The participants' solutions were observed to triangulate the interview data. In the content analysis, the identification of codes was carried out. Their findings revealed that the participants relied on strategies of representation methods of enactive and symbolic representations when working on fractions of an area. Novelty - This study introduces a novel perspective by emphasising that the identified fractional reasoning strategies are not isolated skills. The primary school pupils predominantly employed enactive and symbolic representations for fractions of an area, while favouring symbolic representations when reasoning fractions for a set of objects. These insights offer valuable guidance to educators, suggesting that a varied instructional approach, incorporating real-world contexts, can contribute to a more profound and versatile comprehension of fractions across diverse mathematical scenarios. Type of Paper - Empirical"
    Keywords: Representation, Enactive, Symbolic, Fractions, Fractional Reasoning.
    JEL: I26 I29
    Date: 2024–03–31
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:gjbssr642&r=sea
  4. By: Hanis Diyana Kamarudin ("School of Information Science, College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics, UiTM Selangor Branch, Puncak Perdana Campus, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia " Author-2-Name: Author-2-Workplace-Name: "School of Information Science, College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics, UiTM Selangor Branch, Puncak Perdana Campus, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia " Author-3-Name: Author-3-Workplace-Name: "School of Information Science, College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics, UiTM Selangor Branch, Puncak Perdana Campus, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia " Author-4-Name: Author-4-Workplace-Name: Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:)
    Abstract: "Objective - This study assesses the effectiveness of Business Continuity Plans (BCPs) and records management practices within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Selangor. The primary objective is to determine the integration of records management into BCPs and identify the current development stage in SMEs' processes. Methodology/Technique - The research comprehensively examines Selangor SMEs' BCPs and records management practices. This multiple case study investigated the extent to which Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Selangor implemented business continuity management. Through document reviews and interviews with business owners and continuity managers, the study examined the integration of records management within continuity plans and assessed the impact on overall organizational resilience. Finding - The research excluded SMEs outside Selangor, focusing on managerial-level respondents from the records and information system department. The findings reveal a varied landscape, with some SMEs having well-established processes while others are still in the developmental stage. Notably, the research emphasizes the importance of identifying vital records within organizations to maintain essential operations and comply with regulatory requirements. Novelty - The study also underscores the need for regular BCP revisions and effective communication strategies to disseminate plans to employees. Moreover, it highlights the significance of including expertise in BCPs to enhance disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts. Type of Paper - Research"
    Keywords: Business continuity plans (BCPs), records management practices, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), integration of BCPs and records management and vital records.
    JEL: M10 M13 M19
    Date: 2024–03–31
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:gjbssr643&r=sea
  5. By: FANA Marta (European Commission - JRC); BÁRCIA DE MATTOS Fernanda; ESQUIVEL Valeria; ANZOLIN Guendalina; KUCERA David; TEJANI Sheeba
    Abstract: This report is the final output of a research project investigating the effects of automation on employment in the automotive, apparel and footwear industries in five countries, namely Germany, Indonesia, Mexico, Romania, and Spain. The main objective of this project has been to improve our understanding of how ongoing processes of technological upgrading, particularly automation, impact women’s and men’s employment and work in these industries. Our findings suggest that, in the short term, close to the introduction of new automation technology, the impact on employment takes the form of reassignment of workers directly involved in automated processes to other positions, tasks, and occupations. This study also explored the impact of automation in terms of work organisation and working conditions. Across the case studies, it emerged that the adoption of automation technologies has reduced heavy and repetitive tasks and improved health and safety for workers directly concerned by automation. Another interesting and related common finding is the reduction of workers’ autonomy who are now subject to more standardisation of tasks together with an ongoing process of deskilling of operators. Finally, in the apparel and footwear sector, we did not find evidence of defeminisation at the establishment level as well as the automotive factories remains highly male-dominated. Cultural norms and stereotypes which influence not only the jobs women and men apply to and get hired for, but also which training and education they engage in, contribute to this gender segregation in both sectors.
    Date: 2024–02
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc136639&r=sea
  6. By: Yutaro Izumi (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies); Hiroyuki Nakata (The University of Tokyo, and Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry); Yasuyuki Sawada (Faculty of Economics, The University of Tokyo); Kunio Sekiguchi (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.)
    Abstract: This paper studies the impacts of natural disasters on corporate disaster risk man- agement. Using unique plant-level data from Thailand collected after the 2011 floods, we find that inundation/direct loss experience stimulates flood risk awareness and encourages plants to develop a business continuity plan (BCP), but indirect loss expe- rience does not. We also find evidence consistent with the existence of nonnegligible fixed costs in BCP development. Furthermore, subscription to flood insurance amongst plants with inundation/direct loss experience dropped after the floods, suggesting that a BCP acts as a critical substitute for insurance as part of disaster risk management strategies.
    Date: 2024–03
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:tky:fseres:2024cf1223&r=sea
  7. By: Jean-Francois Mercier
    Abstract: Long-term convergence of emerging countries towards advanced economies income/capita levels has never been generalized nor consistent, even though the share of countries that converged has risen since 2000. Broader adoption of stability-oriented macro policies and trade/capital account opening probably facilitated a greater degree of convergence, but it seemed to be neither a sufficient (nor in some cases necessary) condition. Failure by many countries to successfully reallocate resources towards sectors with higher productivity gains may explain why they failed to match the performance of dynamic Asian economies, or even converge at all. The need to expand high value-added manufacturing and services sector appears strong in South Africa, which remains a commodity-dependent economy with a limited skills base and insufficient productivity growth.
    Date: 2022–06–24
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rbz:oboens:11039&r=sea
  8. By: Miyako Imamura (School of Management, Kyoto University)
    Abstract: This study clarifies how people working in Japan learned paradox theory based on the outcome of a series of online training on paradoxical leadership. Paradox theory has been the focus of attention in management studies, and its philosophy originates in Asian cultures. Japanese workplaces can be seen as complicated places that have been embedded in Japanese culture and simultaneously have the effect of Western working culture. Paradox is embedded in Japanese company activity because of its cultural context; however, the job scope of each one is becoming narrower and their language use is becoming more explicit because of modernization. Therefore, the paradox is seen as a problem for Japanese working people. The observation of participants’ discussion and outcome of their report also shows that they see the paradox as a “problem to be solved†and wish to learn a solution when the training started. They gradually understand the idea of paradox theory; each condition relies on each other, goes back and forth, synergizing each other, but never disappears. Participants then became interested in methods to navigate paradox such as guardrail, gradually gaining a positive image of paradox.
    Keywords: paradox, Japanese context, modernization
    JEL: M0
    Date: 2024–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osk:wpaper:2404r&r=sea
  9. By: Tuuli Tähtinen
    Abstract: This paper investigates whether social media access is associated with increased probability or intensity of ethnic conflict in Myanmar. In this context most people use mobile phones, and particularly the Facebook app, to access the internet. To distinguish the effects of social media from those of the broader internet, I exploit geographic variation in mobile phone coverage as a proxy for Facebook availability. Despite evidence of a hate-campaign utilizing Facebook to reach wide audiences, I do not find that social media access is associated with increased probability or intensity of conflict. The only exception to the null result is variation related to the Rohingya crisis: in this regional setting suggestive evidence points to Facebook availability being associated with slightly higher probability of conflict.
    Keywords: internet, social media, conflict, propaganda, Myanmar, Rohingya
    JEL: D74 O33
    Date: 2024
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ifowps:_408&r=sea
  10. By: Guillouët, Louise; Khandelwal, Amit K.; Macchiavello, Rocco; Malhotra, Madhav; Teachout, Matthieu
    Abstract: We study communication frictions within multinationals (MNCs), hypothesizing that language barriers reduce management knowledge transfers within the organization. A distinct feature of such MNCs is a three-tier hierarchy: foreign managers (FMs) supervise domestic managers (DMs) who supervise production workers. Tailored surveys from our setting – MNCs in Myanmar – reveal that language barriers impede interactions between FMs and DMs. A first experimental protocol offers DMs free English courses and confirms that lowering communications costs increases their interactions with FMs. A second experimental protocol that asks human-resource managers at domestic firms to rate hypothetical resumes reveals that multinational experience and, specifically, DM-FM interactions are valued in the domestic labor market. Together, these results suggest that reducing language barriers can improve transfers of management knowledge, an interpretation supported by improvements in soft skills among treatment DMs in the first experiment. A model in which communication within MNCs is non-contractible – a realistic feature of workplace life – reveals that the experimental results are consistent with underinvestment in language training and provide a rationale for policy intervention.
    Keywords: FDI; multinationals; knowledge transfers; language barriers; management
    JEL: F00 F23 L20
    Date: 2024–04–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ehl:lserod:122568&r=sea
  11. By: Antonio Alfonso (LoyolaBehLab/Universidad Loyola Andalucía); Pablo Brañas-Garza (LoyolaBehLab/Universidad Loyola Andalucía); Diego Jorrat (LoyolaBehLab/Universidad Loyola Andalucía); Benjamín Prissé (Singapore University of Technology and Design); María José Vázquez-De Francisco (Fundación ETEA-Development Institute/Universidad Loyola Andalucía)
    Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine whether girls and boys exhibit different risk and timepreferences and how this difference evolves during the critical phase of adolescence. To achievethis, we use a large and powered sample of 4830 non-self-selected teenagers from 207 classesacross 22 Spanish schools with very different socioeconomic backgrounds. Alongside time andrisk preferences, we also collected additional information about class attributes, social networkmeasures, students’ characteristics, and the average level of economic preferences of friends.These measures enable us to account for potentially omitted variables that were not consideredin previous studies. The results indicate that there are no significant gender differences intime and risk preferences, but older subjects exhibit more sophisticated time preferences andhigher risk aversion. We also perform an exploratory heterogeneity analysis, which unveils twoimportant results: first, cognitive abilities play a critical role in the development of time andrisk preferences; second, interaction within the class social network does matter.
    Keywords: Developmental Decision-Making, Field Experiment, Economic Preferences, Teenagers.
    JEL: C91 D81
    Date: 2024–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:aoz:wpaper:316&r=sea
  12. By: Srichander Ramaswamy (The South East Asian Central Banks (SEACEN) Research and Training Centre)
    Abstract: The view that cryptocurrencies can be a substitute for fiat currencies in an interconnected and digitised world appears to be gaining some traction. Such views are reinforced by the high fee banks charge on cross-border money transfers and for certain other financial services. The belief that cryptocurrencies will define the future of money is entrenched among millennials, and this belief has been driving up the demand for cryptocurrencies. Stablecoins in this ecosystem has taken on the role of the unit of account for crypto assets and is instrumental in providing liquidity as well as in facilitating trading of crypto assets. To play this role, stablecoins are being extensively used as collateral in crypto transactions with trading platforms holding such collateral in omnibus accounts. The global regulatory community is taking note of this and has expressed concerns that as the market for stablecoins and cryptocurrencies grow, potential risks to the broader financial system from runs on stablecoins can be damaging. This paper reviews these developments and provides some suggestions for policy drawing on the regulatory debates and initiatives from standard setters to address the risks identified.
    Keywords: Central banks, collateral, cryptocurrencies, financial stability, regulation, stablecoins
    JEL: E42 E58 G21 G23 G28
    Date: 2024–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sea:wpaper:wp54&r=sea

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