David Saunders is an Analyst at The Asia Group’s Southeast Asia Practice, where he conducts research and analysis on markets in maritime Southeast Asia and supports a range of clients.
David is an experienced researcher and writer who has published widely on historical and geopolitical issues relating to maritime Southeast Asia, ranging from state formation and territorial disputes, to resource acquisition and environmental policies. His forthcoming book, Chasing Archipelagic Dreams: The Expansion of Foreign Influence in Sabah amid the End of Empire, 1945–1965, will be published by Cornell University Press’ Southeast Asia Program in December 2024.
David previously worked at The University of Hong Kong as a lecturer, where he also completed his PhD. Prior to this, he received his MLitt in modern history at The University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Born and raised in Hong Kong, he speaks Cantonese conversationally. Outside of work, David is a keen photographer, documenting Hong Kong’s urban, neon, and architectural heritage.