Non-Chinese pupil enrolment in Malaysia’s vernacular Chinese primary schools (SJKC) has grown significantly over the past decades, from just 3-6 per cent in the 1990s to approximately 20 per cent by 2020, primarily driven by Malay pupils. These demographic shifts in SJKCs present a profound existential challenge to the Chinese community in Malaysia on whether they should preserve the cultural purity of SJKC or adapt to these demographic realities.
Author Archives: Isabelle Chua
Thailand Should Not Rush to Be a Service-based Economy
The quest for new growth drivers should focus on upgrading manufacturing which will, in tandem, boost services.
Green Hydrogen in Southeast Asia: Connecting National Strategies with Public Support
ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute’s 2024 Southeast Asia Climate Outlook Survey highlights a notable rise in public enthusiasm for green hydrogen year-on-year. However, continued public support towards green hydrogen will depend on the ability of policymakers to deliver on their promises. Public enthusiasm may turn negative if the public is forced to pay a high cost for green hydrogen, or when concerns over its safety arises and remains unaddressed.
The Strategic Calculations Behind To Lam’s Eurasian Tour
Vietnamese leader To Lam’s recent tour of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan was aimed at diversifying Hanoi’s strategic partnerships and securing Moscow’s backing for its military needs and South China Sea claims.
Medical Care: Vietnam’s Underleveraged ‘Soft Power’ in Cambodia
Although Cambodians are still wary of the Vietnamese, they have faith in Vietnam’s medical services — an asset that the government has not yet fully taken advantage of.
Why the Asia-Pacific Needs a Regional Green Industrial Strategy
Amid growing geopolitical rivalry and rising protectionism, a network of net-zero industrial parks could act as the Asia-Pacific’s transition landing zones into a greener future.
Hajiji’s Dilemma and Anwar’s Gamble: The Political Fallout from Sabah’s Mining Scandal
The Sabah mining scandal involving one of the parties in Malaysia’s ruling coalition undermines PM Anwar’s anti-corruption stance but the party’s current weakness could give Anwar the leverage to reshape Sabah politics.
Marcos Jr Versus Duterte: Betrayal and Loyalty in the 2025 Philippine Midterm Elections
Elite-led polarisation has fueled expressions of deep-seated resentment as the 12 May 2025 Philippine midterm elections approach. Will voters choose with their hearts or minds?
Will Malaysia Gravitate Further Towards China After President Xi’s Visit?
A flurry of bilateral agreements on travel, transport, logistics, technology, and digital economy signal closer Malaysia-China cooperation in the future.
Abdullah Badawi – An Understated and Underrated Leader
Abdullah Badawi’s brand melded the best of two worlds, namely rising living standards and technological ambition minus the angst and aggression of the Mahathir period.