Activist groups in Indonesia inspired by Islamic and pro-environment ideas have the potential to do more to address climate change problems, provided those in charge will stop and listen, and perhaps even collaborate.
Author Archives: blackbox
A Xi-Biden Handshake Does Not Bridge the Sino-U.S. Schism, But Is a Start
The handshakes and smiles in Bali have triggered some optimism about Sino-U.S. relations going forward. Yet the slight uptick in Sino-U.S. relations post-Bali might well be short-lived, given the superpowers’ underlying structural competition and deep mutual distrust.
Reviewing the Review: ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus Implementation
The latest from ASEAN leaders on Myanmar shows more steel in the spine but for real progress to be made, Indonesia as the next ASEAN chair must follow through expeditiously.
“P225” TikTok: Malaysia’s New Constituency?
Malaysia’s youngest constituents might be swayed by TikTok videos but social media popularity might not be the silver bullet that draws new votes.
Worldview of the Nusantara: Indonesians More Nuanced on Foreign Policy Concerns
While domestic concerns remain topmost on Indonesians’ minds and will still drive diplomacy, results from a survey in July 2022 hint at a more complex worldview.
Sino-Indonesian Relations: Getting Closer or Further Apart?
China’s trade and investment in Indonesia have grown substantially since the early 2000s but the Indonesian public does not share Jakarta’s desire to wholeheartedly embrace Beijing.
NasDem’s Endorsement of Anies Baswedan: Brilliant Gambit or Political Blunder?
The race for Indonesia’s 2024 presidency might be narrowing in the wake of a bold move by a small party.
Food, Floods and Finance at COP27: Southeast Asia Must Act
Southeast Asian governments should support the call to set up a new global loss and damage (L&D) financing facility, empowered with a broad and responsive mandate. It is insufficient to merely strengthen old institutions. An L&D facility is in every country’s interest.
Identity Politics Might Undermine Malay/Muslim Unity
Three broad coalitions are gunning for the Malay/ Muslim vote in Malaysia’s general election. The question is whether voters still regard the issues of race and religion as important.
MUI’s Strong Survival Instincts for a Shariah-Compliant Indonesia
The key to Indonesia’s Council of Ulama’s longevity even in the post-Suharto period lies in its dominance of the halal certification system, which other major Muslim organisations have not managed to dilute.