The 2008–09 global recession is already over. However, at the time this message is being prepared in August 2011, the global economic situation does not look bright. People, including those in Southeast Asia, are worried that another recession may hit the world. As in all crises, the poor will again suffer the most, if another global crisis occurs.

It is therefore that I commend the publication of this book, which examines poverty and the 2008–09 global recession in Southeast Asia. Another important feature of this book is its attention to food security in discussing poverty.

I am happy that Dr Aris Ananta, Senior Research Fellow at ISEAS, and Professor Richard Barichello of the University of British Columbia have brought in experts with various scholarly backgrounds to examine the issue and edit the manuscript. I would like to thank Professor Peter Timmer of Harvard University for his Foreword, which has enriched this book.

Hopefully this book can help us understand poverty and food security, particularly during a financial crisis, not only in Southeast Asia, but other regions in the world as well.