The growing popularity of media savvy celebrity preachers – not all of whom are theologically well-trained – could erode the quality of Islamic discourse in the longer term.
Author Archives: blackbox
Muslim Leaders and Preachers Fighting Vaccine Hesitancy: A Shot in the Arm
As Malaysia battles a new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, Muslim leaders and preachers have been instrumental in fighting vaccine hesitancy among their followers.
Chinese Aircraft Approaching! An Opportunity for Malaysian Airpower
Malaysia’s airpower capabilities may not be enough to respond to stepped-up Chinese activities above Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone.
Brunei’s Visit to Myanmar: No Time to Run Down the Clock
A team from Brunei is reportedly visiting Myanmar this weekend. The aims of the visit are yet unclear. Still, Brunei, as ASEAN Chair, should first announce the identity of the grouping’s Special Envoy to the country and empower him or her with the necessary resources to carry out the task at hand.
Following the Money: Changes to Philippine Remittance Inflows
The U.S. solidifies its paramount status, and Singapore rises to #2.
U.S.-Vietnam Post-War Reconciliation: A Work in Process
Forty-five years after the cessation of the Vietnam War, relations behind Vietnam and the U.S. have improved markedly. But some issues, such as the legacy of Agent Orange and relations with former refugees, require delicate handling.
Jakarta and Papua: Where There are No Risk-Free Choices
Recent events in Papua underscore the fact that there is no solution that is entirely free of risk for Jakarta. Instead, the choice is between separate sets of risks.
Sinovac or Not: Thai Vaccine Politics
The country’s political polarisation is hindering the government’s COVID-19 vaccination programme.
Malaysia’s Federal and State Government Vaccine Drives: Too Many Cooks?
Due to the federal government’s slow vaccination rate, some state governments have stepped into the breach to inoculate their populations. Their collective experience thus far has been somewhat patchy.
Crisis upon Crisis: Fighting COVID-19 Becomes a Political Struggle after Myanmar’s Military Coup
In the aftermath of Myanmar’s coup, a nationwide strike by civil servants and lack of trust in the military regime that staged the February 1 takeover has reversed the country’s hard-won progress in the fight against COVID-19. The potential spread of the virus amongst protestors could accelerate the system-wide collapse of the already fragile health sector.