The Malaysian Opposition would do well to reconsider its calls for a ‘Big Tent’ strategy. A closer look at voting patterns in recent Malaysian elections raises questions about their assumption that a united opposition would secure an electoral victory against BN.
Author Archives: blackbox
Talk is Cheap: The 2022 Philippine Elections’ Climate Implications
President Duterte’s approach to environmental issues has been inconsistent. His declarations about solving environmental problems have been quite strong, but were not followed by concrete actions. The next President must strike a tough balance between fostering a business climate conducive to economic recovery, whilst moving ahead with climate action and environmental commitments.
An Unexpected Stillness in the Heart of Wartime Myanmar
The monks in Pakokku, a major centre of Buddhist learning and training, have not reprised the role played by their predecessors in the historic Saffron Revolution in 2007. Several factors can explain this, the foremost of which revolves around the clergy’s conception of order and hierarchy.
Silencing the Din in Indonesian Cities
For the longest time, Indonesians endured a sonic pandemonium in their cities. It is about time that some regulation is effected to lower levels of noise.
Say It Ain’t So, Joko: No Third Term for Widodo
Recent student protests against rising living costs and rumours that Widodo might seek a third presidential term suggest that Indonesia’s democracy is not as resilient as some may think.
Palm Oil Certification Schemes: Putting Some Roar into Paper Tigers
Sustainable palm oil certification schemes are necessary, as they incentivise producers to improve their environmental practices. But a different tack centred on districts rather than individual producers should be considered.
Stronger Social Media Influence in the 2022 Philippine Elections
Social media will play a prominent role in the campaign strategy of candidates in the upcoming 2022 elections due to the increasing reliance of Filipinos on social media and the face-to-face restrictions associated with the pandemic.
Greenwashing: A Market Distortion Needing Serious Attention in Southeast Asia
Greenwashing is more than just a quirky marketing practice; it has the potential to seriously distort the effective expression of consumer and social concerns about environmental issues. This Long Read argues that consumers and investors can drive change through their purchasing and spending power. But this requires honest and accurate information to be made freely available so that properly informed decisions can be made.
ASEAN-India Relations: Time to Match Rhetoric with Actions
India has often been viewed as punching under its weight when it comes to engaging the region. It is time for India to match its economic commitment to ASEAN with more strategic heft, as it commemorates 30 years of partnership with the regional bloc.
Russia’s War Against Ukraine: Why Hard Power Matters
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine provides the context for Washington to strengthen its alliances and partnerships across the Asia-Pacific, including in Southeast Asia.