Of course. But even in Vietnam's case, geography is clearly playing a major role. Policy differences can explain variation within SE Asia, but all of those countries have spikes at the same time, and are in a relative bubble of land travel in the continent (major border with China, which is more or less COVID-free due to authoritarian measures, lowly trafficked mountain ranges and undeveloped regions, and a thin strip connecting to Malaysia).
Seems like the main factors for success are:
1. Geography
2. Density
3. Freedom (or lack thereof)
4. Masks
5. Money
I'm not too familiar with Vietnamese culture, but I'd probably chalk them up to the "Asian culture" factor which in general tends to be more collectivist than most Western countries.
As someone who has lived in developing Asian countries to say there is a more collectivist culture isn’t accurate. Just look at the level of pollution (I’ll dump my trash here because who cares?) and “it’s not illegal if you don’t get caught” attitude.
I would say there is a much greater acceptance of control than in the West. If the govt decides to lock an apartment building up with residents inside to control Covid you won’t here many protests.
Seems like the main factors for success are: 1. Geography 2. Density 3. Freedom (or lack thereof) 4. Masks 5. Money