Some democracy advocates may look to eradicating right-wing parties in the political landscape come the elections in May. But it should be noted that not all right-wing parties are harmful to democracy.
Author Archives: blackbox
From Duterte’s “Pivot to China” to Marcos Jr.’s “Rebalance to the U.S.”?
Marcos Jr. appears to be setting the Philippines in a different direction where foreign policy is concerned but, like his predecessors, faces the challenge of navigating Sino-U.S. rivalry alongside Sino-Philippine maritime tensions in the South China Sea.
What’s Interesting about the Thai General Election is not Who Wins but What Comes After
Pheu Thai (PT), Thailand’s chief opposition party, looks certain to win the largest number of House seats in the upcoming general election on 14 May. But coming first in the poll does not guarantee PT the lead in forming a new government.
Fertiliser Security for Food Security in Southeast Asia: Going Local and Circular
Southeast Asia is highly dependent on a volatile global supply of synthetic fertilisers. Local fertiliser production by natural means, through novel innovations, offer more sustainable alternatives worthy of policy action.
Why ASEAN Appreciates Japan’s Nuanced Approach to Regional Order
Japan’s foreign policy stance strikes the right tone in a region on alert for potential big power rivalry to worsen.
Anies Baswedan and the Elusive Endorsement of Nahdlatul Ulama
In Indonesian politics, securing the support of the country’s largest mass Muslim organisation would be a jewel in the crown.
National Mandate Party (PAN)’s Tough Choice for 2024
The traditional linkages between political parties and mass organisations where Indonesia’s moderate Muslims are concerned may be shifting, with consequences in and beyond 2024.
Anwar’s Coalition Government: Navigating Tricky Undercurrents
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has secured some breathing space after the passing of his maiden budget and a successful trip to Beijing. But he has dangerous undercurrents to navigate going into state elections.
Short-Term Pain for Long-Term Gain: Tax Reforms for Timor-Leste’s Trade Integration with ASEAN
Timor-Leste’s prospective ASEAN membership will potentially deliver both the benefits of expanded trade and losses in trade tax revenues. The latter can be avoided through a clear-cut strategy of tax reforms along with a trade-related adjustment programme.
Can Piety be Classy? Symbols and Societal Tensions Underlying “Branded” Hijabs
Malay/Muslim women in fashionable headscarves are influencing Islamic fashion trends across the globe and the trend can make a statement personally, politically, and piously.