As competition with China becomes an organising principle of American foreign policy, realpolitik is the name of the game in U.S. engagement with Southeast Asia.
Author Archives: blackbox
The Ba‘Alawi of Indonesia: Genealogy and Identity
The debate in Indonesia about the origins of the Ba‘Alawi community reflects the fact that legitimacy is derived not only from lineage but social, historical and religious identity.
Why Has Batam’s Rempang Eco-City National Project Become a Controversy?
Unhappiness among villagers in Rempang, close to Batam island, has led to riots in Batam City and threatens existing and future foreign investment. A small but diminishing window exists in which the local and central governments can improve their approach towards convincing residents of the need to relocate for a better future.
PAS’ Over-confidence Might Be Its Undoing
PAS appears to be riding a wave of confidence after its solid wins in the recent state elections. It should be more circumspect.
Indonesia’s Volatile Coalition Politics: PKB’s Move Broke the 2024 Presidential Race Logjam
The focus is now on choices for Indonesia’s next vice president after Anies Baswedan secured a surprise choice for his running mate in 2024.
Barisan Nasional and FELDA: A Depleted “Fixed Deposit”
FELDA seats used to be a veritable vote bank for Barisan Nasional. This is no longer the case.
Meatball Soup on Instagram: (Not) Making a Mountain Out of a Molehill
A proverbial storm has erupted in Indonesia over a foodie influencer enjoying a humble bowl of meatball soup with non-halal crackers. Calmer heads should have prevailed.
Elites vs Citizens: How Singapore and Indonesia are Divided on China
Surveys show that the elite’s opinion toward China diverges with those of citizens in Singapore and Indonesia. Elites tend to weigh long-term geopolitical strategies and have more access to information, but increased citizen engagement will enhance foreign policy.
Why Hanoi May Agree to a Vietnam-U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
If Hanoi agrees to a comprehensive strategic partnership with the U.S., it would represent a remarkable breakthrough in bilateral ties. Still, such a partnership would not represent a significant shift in Hanoi’s foreign policy.
Are Indonesian Banks Resilient Amidst Rising Interest Rates?
Indonesia’s banking sector is likely to withstand higher interest rates given certain fundamentals that will insulate it from the volatility seen elsewhere.