Japan’s new Official Security Assistance scheme would help arm regional countries in the face of growing Chinese assertiveness. A lesser-known aspect of OSA might actually bring some serious military capabilities to the region in the future.
Author Archives: chahaewon
Indonesia’s Presidential Election and Palestinian Issues
Each candidate aspiring towards Indonesia’s presidency has had to voice his support for the Palestinian cause and people, not least because he will soon lead the world’s largest Muslim majority country.
Thai Constitutional Court Decision on Move Forward is Judicial Overreach
The recent Constitutional Court decision on the Move Forward Party is unprecedented and will have a significant impact on opposition parties in Thailand.
Questioning the Neutrality of Nahdlatul Ulama in Indonesia’s 2024 Election
Despite declarations of the mass Muslim organisation’s political neutrality, there are misgivings on the ground about the Nahdlatul Ulama leadership’s true inclinations for next week’s election.
Can Prabowo-Gibran Win Outright Against a Ganjar-Anies Alliance?
The odds of a one round knockout by frontrunner candidate Prabowo Subianto might be narrowing, with less than a week to go before polling day.
PAS’ Efforts to Attract Non-Muslims: An Exercise in Futility?
PAS has stated that it needs to redouble its efforts to win non-Muslim support. However, its exclusivist stance on many policy issues remains a significant impediment.
The Evil, Stupid and Arrogant in Malaysian Politics: Who is Jadong?
A leading opposition figure in Malaysia has resorted to firing deprecatory epithets at the administration led by Anwar Ibrahim. The reality is that that the Malay portmanteau “jadong” could apply to politicians of all stripes.
Najib Razak’s Partial Pardon: Cui Bono?
The controversial halving of Najib Razak’s 12-year sentence appears to be a boon to multiple stakeholders.
Will Vietnam Turn to Russia or America for Its New Jet Fighter?
Vietnam needs to upgrade its ageing fighter fleet. But it faces a list of less than optimal options.
Move Forward Stands at the Brink of Dissolution
Political tensions in Thailand have escalated following a court ruling that could potentially lead to the dissolution of the Move Forward Party over charges stemming from its campaign to amend the country’s lèse majesté law.