Colonialism in Southeast Asia6b.Colonialism in Southeast Asia is not just about restructuring local society for the sole purpose of economic progress, and not always with tragic consequences. incentives, Western colonialists came to Southeast Asia for political and humanitarian reasons. Furthermore, colonial rule has always had tragic outcomes. The main factor responsible for colonialism in Southeast Asia was largely political, particularly the growing influence of other Western powers in Southeast Asia. Western powers were aware that, while economic wealth could lead to political influence, the latter was necessary to safeguard it. Essentially, these two forces are interdependent on each other. Therefore, when Western powers realized that the economic benefits of trade and commerce in Southeast Asia were immense, they realized that it was equally important to establish political authority in the region. Therefore, the “forward movement” and the rise of “new imperialism” in the West, especially in Europe, led to a frantic rush for colonies, especially in Southeast Asia. For example, the British initially adhered to a policy of non-intervention in Malaya. However, they feared the prospect of German intervention in Malaya. After Chancellor Bismarck reunited Germany in 1871, rumors circulated that the Germans wanted to secure a naval station in the Pangkor area, as part of their plans to increase their influence beyond Europe. Thus, to defend their economic interests, the English switched to a policy of intervention. The Western powers bel... half the paper... distinct, formal and impartial institutions, clearly defined bureaucratic functions, standard procedures and enormous quantities of paper. Western-style education and administrative skills were now required to enter government service, in contrast to the old administrative system, which relied on contacts and bribes. For example, in French Indochina, especially in Vietnam, knowledge of the French language became a prerequisite for admission to the mandarinate in Tonkin and Annam, and in Siam, instead of ascribed rankings, modern education was the ladder for promotions in government service. In conclusion, although some argue that colonialism in Southeast Asia is about the restructuring of local society for the sole purpose of progress, and often results in tragic consequences, I beg to differ.