Abstract

This seminar explores the complex intersections of semiconductors, rare earth elements, national security, and geopolitics, particularly within the context of the U.S.-China relations and the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Semiconductors have become pivotal in global geopolitics, with the U.S. and China thriving for dominance in their production and supply chains. Recent events, such as export controls and restrictions, underscore the strategic importance of these technologies. ASEAN finds itself in a unique position, with growing trade ties to both superpowers and a potential semiconductor industry. Navigating this landscape requires careful diplomacy and strategic positioning to capitalise on opportunities while mitigating risks.

About the Speaker

Dr. Cung Vu is a chemical engineer with over 40 years of experience in industries, academia and government. He retired from the US government in 2015. Dr. Vu is currently an independent consultant, focusing on Science and Technology (S&T) in National Security, Emerging Technologies, and Renewable Energy in the Asia-Pacific region. He is a Visiting Senior Fellow, Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore and a consultant for the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute, University of Hawaii.

Prior to his retirement, Dr. Vu served as Associate Director at the Office of Naval Research Global in Singapore. He acted as a technical broker linking the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the Naval Research Enterprise with the international scientific community.

Previously, Dr. Vu served as Chief Science and Technology Advisor at the National Maritime Intelligence-Integration Office (NMIO) where he advised the Director of NMIO on the implications of emerging technologies in the maritime domain. He was Senior Program Officer, Board of Manufacturing and Engineering Design and National Materials Advisory Board of the National Academies. He conducted studies, defined technical issues, proposed solutions, and identified research opportunities over a wide range of manufacturing, engineering design, materials, and processing topics for government, industries, and academia. Dr. Vu spent more than 20 years in the private sector working in the chemical and material industries.

He received his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Monash University, Australia and his B.S. in Chemical Engineering with Honors from University of Sydney, Australia.