Southeast Asians are looking to ASEAN’s titular head Indonesia to take the lead to resolve the political crisis in Myanmar. But Jakarta’s first steps as ASEAN Chair have left something to be desired.
Author Archives: blackbox
BrahMos Supersonic Missiles: Poised to Buoy New Delhi’s Arms Exports?
India is not a major arms exporter, something that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen to change. But there is one “Made in India” weapons system that half a dozen Southeast Asian countries seem most eager to buy: the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
India and Multi-Alignment: Having One’s Cake and Eating It Too
The evolution of India’s foreign policy from non-alignment to multi-alignment has yielded dividends. The question is whether New Delhi can continue to be in such an enviable position.
The 212 Movement: Lying Low But Up Against the Jokowi Administration
Despite observations that the group has become defunct, the 212 Movement has held a series of gatherings to display their opposition to President Joko Widodo. One thing is clear: the movement will not endorse presidential candidates endorsed by Widodo.
Will the New Financial Omnibus Law Compromise Bank Indonesia’s Independence?
The Joko Widodo administration’s repeated renewal of a bond programme for burden-sharing with Bank Indonesia during the pandemic raises questions about whether the new financial omnibus law will constrain rather than strengthen the economy.
Washington and Southeast Asia in 2023: How Devolving Power to Line Agencies Might Make a Difference
Although much attention has focused on the shift in power from Democrats to Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives, the empowering of line departments and agencies to take more responsibility for Asia policy could be just as important. And it could prove to be a good thing for the region.
Widodo Government Acknowledges Gross Human Rights Violations Happened: The Unstoppable Erosion of a Fundamental Taboo
President Joko Widodo’s recent acknowledgement of certain human rights violations in Indonesia took many by surprise. It may prove to kickstart a true national reckoning with one of the darkest periods of the country’s history.
Trendy Indonesian Habib Rides the Waves Online
A young and energetic Indonesian preacher is reclaiming the moderate ground from conservatives, using a sublime mix of online propagation and accommodative views.
PAS and the Midterm Polls: Existential Challenge of Becoming a National Party
In the coming state elections, Parti Islam SeMalaysia has ambitious plans to take ground in states it does not control. Taking the fight to the enemy, however, may necessitate a deeper examination of its own identity as an Islamist party.
Online Political Campaigning During Malaysia’s GE15: Blurred Lines
The advent of account-based influencers during Malaysia’s recent general election does not portend well for the country’s political landscape.