Data Centres: Johor’s Next Frontier
Francis E. Hutchinson
As global reliance on cloud storage fuels the growth of data centres in Johor, the state needs to be cautious when allocating vast amounts of land to this as-yet-unproven undertaking.
Articles
Evaluating Indonesian Muslims’ Engagement with China
Xue Song
In the past decade, China has extensively engaged with Muslim communities in Indonesia, primarily through collaborative efforts with major Islamic organizations. This Long Read examines the motivations of Indonesia’s Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah in their engagements with China, arguing that they align with their respective goals of promoting Archipelagic Islam and Progressive Islam globally.
Thailand’s Trade Policy: A Weak Instrument for Resisting Structural Change
Peter Warr
Like many other countries, Thailand has employed changes in trade policy to resist the declining economic importance of agriculture. Research shows the effects are very limited.
Laos’ Connectivity Drive Paves the Way for ASEAN’s Integration
Melinda Martinus|Joanne Lin
Melinda Martinus and Joanne Lin argue that as ASEAN Chair in 2024, Laos has defied scepticism by prioritising connectivity — physical and digital — to foster regional integration.
Malaysia’s BRICS Bid: Not Aligning Away from Non-Alignment
Xu Jingzhi
Malaysia’s bid to join BRICS should not be seen as a departure from its long-standing policy of non-alignment.
Kamala Harris and ASEAN: Values and Climate Agenda Will Complicate Trade Ties
Stephen Olson
If Harris becomes the next US president, ASEAN will not share her values-based approach to trade, which she sees as a tool to advance non-trade objectives.
China’s Education Outreach in Malaysia: Need for Tact and Trust
Peter T. C. Chang
China’s outreach into Malaysia’s education sector needs to be mindful of the country’s delicate social fabric.
Golkar’s Takeover and the Waning of Joko Widodo’s Power
Made Supriatma
Less than two months before stepping down, the outgoing president of Indonesia’s plans to hang onto power are at risk of unravelling. What is worse, his previously sky-high popularity is also starting to fray.
The Waning of Malaysia’s Green Wave? Too Early to Call
Syaza Shukri
The Green Wave in Malaysia might have subsided somewhat but it is still alive.
China Strengthens Higher Educational Ties with Southeast Asian Nations
Xue Song|Brice Tseen Fu Lee
In higher education, China and Southeast Asia enjoy a symbiotic relationship.