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STRATEGIC PATHWAYS TO MINIMAL DETERRENCE AND COUNTER-TERRORISM: ENHANCING BRUNEI’S DEFENSE CAPABILITIES Lee, Brice Tseen Fu; Komšić, Filip; Sims, Juan Pablo
Journal of Terrorism Studies Vol. 6, No. 1
Publisher : UI Scholars Hub

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Abstract

This paper explores the strategic enhancement of Brunei’s military capabilities under the guidelines of the Brunei Defense White Paper 2021, focusing on establishing a robust minimal level deterrence. It emphasizes transitioning from conventional defense paradigms to an integrated, technologically advanced military structure tailored to contemporary and future security challenges. The significance of minimal level deterrence is analyzed, illustrating how a proportionate and efficient military force not only deters potential aggressors but also supports counter-terrorism efforts. This approach underscores the dual benefits of ensuring national security while facilitating economic stability and growth, allowing Brunei to allocate resources more effectively between defense and development sectors. The discussion extends to how Brunei can optimize its defense expenditure by investing in high-impact technologies that enhance capability across air, land, and naval forces without necessitating a large military footprint. The paper argues that such strategic investments not only bolster national and regional security but also enhance Brunei's international standing by contributing to a stable Southeast Asian region. The integration of advanced technologies and a focus on multi-domain operations are proposed as key strategies for maintaining security and supporting economic objectives.
Nusantara's Northern Neighbors: Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak, and the Prospects of a Pan-Borneo Railway in ASEAN Lee, Brice Tseen Fu; Sims, Juan Pablo; Ouyang, Hanzhen; Komšić, Filip; Bettani, Salman Ali
Unnes Political Science Journal Vol. 8 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/upsj.v8i2.12129

Abstract

Borneo, the world's third-largest island, presents a unique intersection of diverse ecosystems and indigenous cultures set within the complexities of Southeast Asia's socio-economic and geopolitical fabric. This research delves into the developmental trajectories of Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei, emphasizing their historical resource endowments and contemporary challenges. Positioned against the backdrop of Indonesia's Nusantara initiative, which seeks to galvanize Kalimantan's growth, this study articulates strategic pathways for the northern territories. Drawing from comprehensive evaluations, it bridges the existing literature gap by integrating analyses of critical resources, exploring the viability of the Pan-Borneo Railway, and examining its potential impacts. Moreover, it provides comparative insights with other regional transport projects and underscores Borneo's potential transformation into a pivotal trade nexus. The study culminates by highlighting how fortifying Northern Borneo's capabilities could reciprocally amplify Kalimantan's regional prominence. The research underscores the need for collaborative imperatives and strategic integration.
The Security Dilemma and Arms Race Dynamics in Europe’s Response to the Russia-Ukraine Conflict Lee, Brice Tseen Fu; Komšić, Filip; Sims, Juan Pablo
Journal of Strategic and Global Studies Vol. 7, No. 2
Publisher : UI Scholars Hub

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Abstract

This paper examines the escalation of military expenditures in Europe in response to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, through the lens of the security dilemma. The security dilemma, a fundamental concept in international relations, describes how the defensive actions of one state can provoke perceptions of threat among others, potentially leading to an arms race. By analyzing military spending data from 2019 to 2023 for key European countries including Estonia, Latvia, Poland, Azerbaijan, Russia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, both in absolute terms and as a percentage of GDP, this study highlights how nations closest to the conflict, such as Poland and the Baltic states (Estonia and Latvia), have significantly increased their defense budgets in reaction to perceived immediate threats. These increases are mirrored, albeit to a lesser extent, by major Western European powers and other countries in the region, reflecting a continent-wide trend in military buildup. The findings suggest that while these increases are primarily defensive in nature, they carry the risk of being misinterpreted as offensive postures by neighboring countries, thereby exacerbating the security dilemma. This paper argues for the necessity of enhanced diplomatic efforts to mitigate these risks. It advocates for the establishment of mechanisms that foster clear dialogue and mutual understanding to ensure that military enhancements contribute positively to regional stability rather than escalating tensions. Through the security dilemma, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how European nations can navigate the complexities of increased military spending and regional security in turbulent times.