I dont understand why some people seem to like to promote the
idea of "American engagement in Asia" ?
Especially from certain people in Singapore.
Some commentators, newspaper writes, and think-tank types.
They like to champion "American engagement" and even fuss and
worry about the lack of the perceived American engagement.
I was flipping through The Economist magazine, and there it was,
an article featuring something of that nature. And they quote Simon
Tay, from a think-tank in Singapore.
This is not the first time I read Simon Tay saying and begging
for America to be engaged in the region.
He seems really pro-American. Little bit Americanophile. Worship
America and beg for America to come to the region and awe the
people with its might and magic.
He even seem wary about Asian regionalism and Asian unity, or
maybe, lack of.
I get the impression that he would rather America be the primary
protector and umpire of Asian affairs, and as long as possible.
But I dont understand, why is someone, as an Asian, feel so
proud to be always begging and supplicating for this external power
to come and integrate itself in regional affairs and be the
umpire.
And I have never read any quotes from Simon Tay and his likes,
about Asian integration, Asian unity, and so on. Never.
I have never read any promotion or enthusiastic plug for East
Asia Community, or any other regional unity project, from them.
Every time whenever there is a subject of Asian regional unity,
or the process of, they are extremely sceptical, and they turn to
"American engagement is better" mantra.
What is the reason for this ???