The US presidential election this week will more or less define America's image in the eyes of the world. It is one of the most closely watched US presidential elections in recent history due to the controversies surrounding the candidates, as well as differences in character and ideology between them.
Hillary Clinton represents the Democrat Party, marking the first time that a woman has represented a major political party in a US presidential race. Ironically, US voters don't feel Ms Clinton would shake up the system as Barack Obama promised in the 2008 presidential race. Ms Clinton is perceived as part of the beltway establishment. Her personal life has been under public scrutiny for more than two decades. Once elected, she is likely to continue the Democrat policies of Mr Obama, albeit with progressive touches in the platform thanks to the influence of Senator Bernie Sanders.
In short, people in the US and the rest of the world know what to expect from a possible Clinton presidency.
On the other side is Republican nominee Donald Trump, who is seen as the most controversial US presidential candidate in recent history. Mr Trump shot himself in the foot many times thanks to his insensitive remarks, which were interpreted as racist and sexist, and allegations of sexual assault. Still, he gained support from those who are angry with the status quo. Coming from a business background, Mr Trump has no experience in public policy and his stance on foreign affairs remains unclear.
In short, Mr Trump would be one of the most unpredictable US presidents. But his supporters believe he may lead to positive change.
While the presidential race is a domestic matter, the choice voters in the US make on Tuesday will have far-reaching implications for the rest of the world.
Whoever wins the presidential race will become the commander-in-chief of the most powerful nation and will bear the responsibility of helping address global challenges such as international security, the ongoing economic slowdown, international migration and efforts to achieve sustainable development.
Washington has a role to play in every continent. In Southeast Asia, the US has helped maintain regional security. US troops were present in the region in the 1960s, and after, battling communism. While communism is no longer a regional treat, Washington is countering the rise of China in Southeast Asia and is monitoring issues surrounding the South China Sea territorial dispute.
In the mid 1990s during the Asian boom, then-US president Bill Clinton showed an interest in engaging with Asia via business activities like the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, which lost steam after the Asian economic crisis of 1997.
Washington under president George W Bush was seen as paying less attention to Southeast Asia largely because of its preoccupation with the Middle East.
Having spent part of his childhood in Indonesia, Mr Obama has re-engaged with the region through his Asia pivot.
Ms Clinton is likely to continue Mr Obama's policy platforms, particularly foreign policy, as she was secretary of state during Mr Obama's first term.
Mr Trump meanwhile has highlighted his "American First" platform to garner support from Americans who resent losing their jobs to cheaper labour overseas. American First could mean alliances and coalitions would not pass muster unless they produced a net benefit for the US.
At any rate, what people have seen during campaigning may not totally indicate what will happen after the election. The US president cannot make decisions alone as he or she has to win support from Congress, and while Republicans seem destined to keep control of the House, the Senate is in play. The US president will have to strike a balance between the various stakeholders to formulate policy.
Besides, prior experience may not be a clear indicator of the next president's performance. When then Texas governor George W Bush ran for president in 2000, his critics said his foreign interests only included the Mexican border. A few years later, Mr Bush led the massive war on terror in the Middle East, the impact of which is felt throughout the world long after he stepped down.
When Mr Obama first joined the presidential race in 2008, he was criticised for having little experience. However, he has been well received by Americans and the international community. Although Mr Obama's performance was rated as moderate, he still gained popularity, partly because his victory reflected Americans embracing diversity by electing the first black US president.
This time around, the race will likely will come down to the personality and character of the two contenders.
On Tuesday, Americans will decide who they want to project the country's image. And the rest of the world is waiting to see the result.
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