After years of lobbying, Malaysia finally approved an increase in the national minimum wage to RM1,500. While the government has since delayed its implementation, current economic circumstances require the wage floor to be raised sooner rather than later.
Author Archives: blackbox
The Johor State Elections: A Spiderweb of Spats, Splits and Surprises
All eyes will look to Barisan Nasional as Johoreans head to the polls on March 12. Looking at the advantages BN faces going into the election and the fractured state of its opponents, BN has exceptionally strong chances of doing significantly better this time.
Parti Warisan in Johor: Making Waves or Merely a Ripple?
Parti Warisan from the state of Sabah is seeking a foothold in peninsular Malaysia. It remains to be seen whether it will grab the imagination of the electorate.
Japan’s Standing in Southeast Asia: Down But Not Out
Japan has suffered some dips in ranking in the 2022 State of Southeast Asia Survey. That said, Japan’s residual soft power in the region remains undisputed.
Malaysia’s Recent Floods Must Spur Bold and Decisive Action
Reducing flood vulnerability not only minimises economic losses but also consolidates investor confidence. Malaysia can substantially enhance flood resiliency by implementing climate change legislation, a national insurance programme, and an affordable relocation scheme to cope with the mounting costs of more frequent and severe floods.
Timor-Leste’s Presidential Elections: A Quiet or Rowdy Neighbour for Indonesia?
There have been contentions in Timor Leste’s political landscape in the run-up to the presidential elections. But Indonesia has less to worry about, given that political parties across the spectrum support strong relations with Jakarta.
Advancing U.S. Security Commitments to Southeast Asia Under Biden
Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine would accentuate concerns about Washington’s security commitments to Southeast Asia. To gain further traction, Washington needs to invest in individual Southeast Asia countries and expand defence partnerships with allies and partners.
Political Instability and Enhanced Monarchy in Malaysia
Except in specific situations in which royal discretion is explicitly conferred, the Malaysian King is required to act on the advice of the Prime Minister. Lately, however, due to a widening trust deficit between citizens and government, there are calls for the monarchs to provide leadership and play an enhanced role in providing checks and balances against discredited political institutions.
Putting a Floor Under Asia’s Sinking Cities
Rising sea levels will affect many Asian countries, particularly those in Southeast Asia. There needs to be fresh approaches and policies to manage what is termed a ‘super wicked problem.’
Threat to Amnesty International Reflects Climate of Repression in Thailand
The recent move to expel Amnesty International from Thailand is yet another indicator of the growing influence of the ultra-royalist political faction in Thailand.