The growth of Indonesia’s nickel industry must not be left unchecked. In crafting new policies, Indonesia must also prioritise stronger social and environmental safeguards.
Author Archives: blackbox
Is Malaysia’s “Green Wave” More a Tsunami of Discontent?
In the run-up to elections in six states, Malaysia’s Prime Minister is seeking to improve his coalition’s electability among Malay voters. The crux of the issue is less about a ‘green wave’ sweeping across the country than a wider discontent over the lack of economic direction.
Malaysia’s Democracy in the Shadow of Hegemonic Rule
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has long cultivated an image of himself as a reformist leader. His ability to effect change, however, is limited by the country’s legacy of hegemonic politics.
Saying “No” to Businesses Financing the Junta: Strategic Public Activism in Myanmar
More than two years after the 2021 coup, public activism against enterprises linked to the Myanmar junta has become an indirect force ensuring the responsible conduct of business.
Navigating Electricity Reform in Vietnam
Vietnam needs to reform its power sector to meet the challenges of climate change or face much worse than its current heatwave.
Why China Supports the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone
Since 1999, China has expressed its readiness to sign the SEANWFZ Protocol and is the only Nuclear Weapon State willing to do so without reservations. This Long Read explores China’s strategic considerations behind this stance.
Indonesian Youth Need to Up Climate Game for the 2024 Elections
Youth organisations in Indonesia have attracted some attention to climate change issues. But they need to widen their reach into the country’s political parties to drive their green agenda forward.
The Five Power Defence Arrangements: How to Sail Past Fifty
The Five Power Defence Arrangements is not called the grandfather of multilateral arrangements for no reason. Going forward, the FPDA can make a significant contribution to the realm of maritime security.
Why Should We Care about Older Filipino Migrants?
Many Filipino migrant labourers and migrants are ageing in their host countries, facing challenging circumstances with few resources to overcome them. What can the Marcos Jr. administration do to support these older Filipino heroes who serve the rest of the world’s needs?
Prabowo’s Shifting Strategy on Indonesian Muslim Voters
It is too early to tell if third-time presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto’s seeming moderate shift in campaign strategy and tone will bear fruit in 2024. But no harm in trying.