Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Malaysia’s political parties are seeking to anoint their respective prime ministerial candidates. This obsession risks missing the forest for the trees.
Author Archives: Isabelle Chua
‘Pride’ and Online Prejudice: Not All Aboard Malaysia’s Keretapi Sarong (Sarong Train)
What began as a celebration of local and cultural diversity nine years ago in Malaysia’s Klang Valley has been marred by online detractors who may reflect a sharpening of ideological and political attitudes in the country.
Digital Literacy Vital for Enhancing ASEAN’s Digital Integration Agenda
To achieve the grand goal of regional digital integration, ASEAN would need to up the level of digital literacy among its citizens.
“No Justice, No Merdeka!” Independence Rings Hollow for Sabahans Demanding Justice
The “Justice for Zara” protests in Sabah’s east coast reflect resentment against the state’s marginalisation and the concentration of power in the hands of federal and Sabahan elites.
How Police Brutality Fuels Indonesians’ Distrust
Violence is a persistent problem in the Indonesian police force. Recent brutalities against peaceful demonstrators underscore the imperative of reform to enhance accountability and restore public trust.
When TikTok Live Went Dead in Indonesia: Digital Sovereignty and Systemic Risk
TikTok Live’s anticipatory suspension during nationwide protests in Indonesia last month shows the influence of Jakarta’s interventionist digital governance. Such suspensions hurt small businesses and can fuel misinformation.
Can Filipinos Transcend Polarised Politics to Protest Against Grand Corruption?
The Philippines has remained divided in reaction to a massive corruption scandal. Filipinos must overcome differences and cohesively apply public pressure.
Indonesia’s Politics of Colours: Why Movements Turn to Hues as Symbols of Resistance
In a country long rich with visual symbolism, the use of colour to express one’s dissatisfaction with the government seems to be gaining popularity.
Will Trump Revolutionise American Foreign Policy?
Post Trump 2.0, US foreign policy will not likely continue on its current trajectory. That said, however, it also will not likely revert to the foreign policy before Trump’s ascent to power.
Should Southeast Asian Regulators be Awed by the GENIUS Act?
A new US law mandating a one-to-one exchange rate for stablecoins should give Southeast Asian governments some cause for circumspection as to how they regulate such new cryptocurrencies.