This Long Read argues that the recently concluded 2024 Indonesian legislative election raises questions about the future of Islamic political parties. Their last strong showing was in the 1955 election, after which they have been experiencing a slow decline. They are now on the periphery of the country’s political arena.
Author Archives: blackbox
With Malaysia’s Opposition Weakened, Anwar Faces More Secure Future
Many observers have rued that the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim would not last. This is no longer the case.
Regional Institutions Should Step Up to Integrate South Asia with Southeast Asia
Regional institutions can potentially foster closer economic integration between Southeast Asia and South Asia, but the existing ones need to cooperate more closely and more strategically.
Putin’s Visit to Vietnam: When the Past Weighs on the Present
Vietnam’s gains from hosting Russia’s president will likely pale in comparison to the expected benefits of courting other powers. However, sentiment can play a role in international relations – what’s a visit between old friends?
New Faces of Vietnamese Politics: Better Red than Expert?
While attention has focused on recent changes at the highest echelon of Vietnam’s collective leadership, it is also important to track the new faces in the Politburo and Secretariat.
Is the Bank of Thailand Overly Independent?
The tussle between the Thai government and the Bank of Thailand reflects the fact that central banks are never completely independent of governments.
Climate Finance in Southeast Asia: Looking at the Private Sector
To achieve their climate change goals, Southeast Asian governments need to harness the power of the private sector.
The Impacts of Supply Chain Reconfiguration on ASEAN Economies
An examination of recent trade and FDI flows shows that ASEAN has been benefitting from the reconfiguration of global supply chains as a result of intensifying US-China strategic rivalry. But these gains could well be reversed if the US-China intensifies and leads to a sharp decoupling of global supply chains.
Brunei’s Strategic Role in Enhancing China-BIMP-EAGA Cooperation
Brunei has the potential to drive economic growth in the eastern periphery of ASEAN. Thus far, however, the actualised gains from BIMP-EAGA have lagged behind its potential.
Sanctions Will Not Bankrupt Myanmar’s Military But New Approaches to Trade and Finance Might
Opponents of Myanmar’s military regime can think more creatively about how to cut off the flow of foreign funds to the junta. If done more comprehensively, it can not only undermine the military but also arrest the economy in crisis.