While the projects in Malaysia and Cambodia understandably receive the bulk of attention, the BRI investment pattern is much more complex and inclusive of other South East Asian states. Dominated by energy projects for coal, hydro power and as well as road and railway systems, BRI in South East Asia has earned much less notoriety in contrast to its South Asian corridor.

When it comes to Vietnam & Indonesia, the investments have been focused on energy projects.  The energy investments have been primarily in coal and other nonrenewable sources of energy. BRI projects in Thailand have been solely focused on infrastructure projects such as railway lines and motorways.

Projects in Malaysia & Cambodia have occupied most of the headlines about debt structure and security risks in the region. With Malaysia’s Prime Minister canceling BRI projects over their financial feasibility, the Tiger economies of the region have welcomed private players to participate in these projects through a transparent bidding process.