The viral popularity of a cute baby hippo and bear mascot is more than an Internet sensation; it enables people to momentarily escape their daily struggles.
Author Archives: blackbox
Mahkota By-election: DAP Retains Status as Leading Party for Chinese Malaysians
The Democratic Action Party’s key role in rallying Chinese voters in a Johor recent by-election augurs well for future cooperation between Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional.
Political Will Sorely Lacking in Thai Educational Reform
Without a proper vision from the government and the determination to carry it out, education in Thailand is in danger of stagnating even more.
Malaysia’s Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS): A Step Forward but with Challenges
A new Malaysian scheme aimed at selling renewable energy to large corporate customers is a step in the right direction. But more can be done.
Quiboloy’s Arrest: When Self-Proclaimed ‘Son of God’ Plays Politics
The arrest of Filipino religious leader Apollo Quiboloy comes amid the ongoing clash between the Marcos and Duterte dynasties, and exposes the dangers of an unholy alliance between religion and politics.
The Indispensable Political Participation of Indonesia’s Middle Class
Indonesia’s middle class can be a boon for democracy but a bane for the government. Its economic security and political participation are crucial to the country’s prosperity.
SG4 Group: PAS Bid to Consolidate Bargaining Power?
A new move by four PAS-controlled states to form a joint company is brilliant if seen from the lens of political consolidation.
Is Interfaith Environmentalism Possible in Indonesia?
Can His Holiness’ recent visit light the way for diverse religious communities to work with one another to resolve Indonesia’s pressing environmental challenges?
Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s Visit to Moscow: Laying the Groundwork for Enhanced Ties with Russia
Defence Minister and President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Russia on 31 July 2024 was a signal that his administration intends to pursue a balanced foreign policy vis-à-vis the major powers, and one that envisages a bigger role for Russia.
DAP’s Party Polls in Penang: Partial Peace or Personality Politics?
The Democratic Action Party’s recent election underscored that it struggles with reconciling personalities as well as different priorities between generations and its national leadership and local grassroots.