In the vision of China, Southeast Asia could soon witness a transformative shift in travel dynamics, akin to boarding a train in southwestern China and reaching Singapore in under 30 hours. This ambitious concept aligns with China’s extensive Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), an initiative focused on overseas infrastructure development launched over a decade ago.
The inauguration of the semi-high-speed Laos-China Railway in 2021 marked a significant milestone, linking the bustling Chinese city of Kunming to Vientiane, the capital of Laos, in approximately 10 hours. This development has not only facilitated increased numbers of Chinese travelers journeying overland but has also provided substantial benefits to local businesses in landlocked Laos.
In Indonesia, with China’s assistance, the region welcomed its inaugural bullet train in October 2023, connecting Jakarta to Bandung in West Java. However, the endeavor faced years of setbacks and delays. Similarly, in Thailand, a high-speed rail project aimed at linking the Laos-China Railway with Bangkok encountered further delays and rising construction costs, with the full operational line expected by 2028.
The Thai government assumed the entire $5 billion construction cost for the initial phase, sparking heated debates and scrutiny regarding the project’s viability. China’s involvement primarily focuses on system installation, design, and train procurement. The ultimate plan involves extending the rail network into northern Malaysia, culminating in Singapore, showcasing a grand vision for regional connectivity.
Amidst this infrastructure boom, Southeast Asia’s allure for Chinese travelers remains undeniable. The region’s diverse offerings, from ancient temples in Laos to pristine beaches in Thailand, have long captivated tourists from China. The historical and cultural ties further enhance this appeal, drawing travelers to destinations like Penang and Malacca in Malaysia and Phuket Old Town in Thailand.
Rail travel’s resurgence, particularly among younger Chinese tourists, underscores a growing preference for sustainable and adventurous exploration. Enthusiasts like Pan Wenbo from Beijing express interest in traversing Southeast Asia by train, emphasizing affordability and scenic vistas as crucial factors.
Moreover, the influence of social media platforms like Douyin and Youku has fueled travel aspirations among Chinese youth. Mei Wei, a university student, cites inspiration from online influencers as she plans her journey across Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, highlighting the appeal of ground-level exploration and consistent pricing compared to air travel.
However, China’s BRI initiatives have not been immune to criticism. While hailed for their potential economic benefits, projects like the China-Laos Railway have raised concerns about debt burdens and sovereignty issues. Political economist Pon Souvannaseng warns of Laos bearing the brunt of financial obligations, akin to historical examples like the Orient Express’s impact on Balkan territories.
Chinese-funded ventures in Southeast Asia have elicited suspicion, viewed as attempts to expand Beijing’s influence at the expense of smaller nations. The case of Malaysia’s proposed high-speed railway with Singapore evokes cautionary tales, reminiscent of controversies surrounding projects like the West Kowloon rail station in Hong Kong.
Wong Muh Rong, a corporate advisory expert, underscores the complexities inherent in cross-border infrastructure development, emphasizing the delicate balance between costs, benefits, and sovereignty considerations. While acknowledging the advantages of high-speed rail, he advocates for cautious deliberation, particularly regarding external funding and overarching decision-making.
China’s ambitious railway projects signal a new era of connectivity and economic integration for Southeast Asia. However, amidst the promise of progress lie challenges and controversies, underscoring the need for careful navigation and collaborative decision-making to ensure sustainable development and mutual benefit for all stakeholders involved.
