blackbox

The Return of Melaka Gateway: Scaled-down Ambitions

What was touted as a mega project in the form of the Melaka Gateway is now a shadow of its former self. There remains, however, significant challenges for the envisioned cruise terminal.

Japan’s Arms Transfers to Southeast Asia: Upping the Ante?

Japan’s new Official Security Assistance scheme would help arm regional countries in the face of growing Chinese assertiveness. A lesser-known aspect of OSA might actually bring some serious military capabilities to the region in the future.

Indonesia’s Presidential Election and Palestinian Issues

Each candidate aspiring towards Indonesia’s presidency has had to voice his support for the Palestinian cause and people, not least because he will soon lead the world’s largest Muslim majority country.

Thai Constitutional Court Decision on Move Forward is Judicial Overreach

The recent Constitutional Court decision on the Move Forward Party is unprecedented and will have a significant impact on opposition parties in Thailand.

Questioning the Neutrality of Nahdlatul Ulama in Indonesia’s 2024 Election

Despite declarations of the mass Muslim organisation’s political neutrality, there are misgivings on the ground about the Nahdlatul Ulama leadership’s true inclinations for next week’s election.

Can Prabowo-Gibran Win Outright Against a Ganjar-Anies Alliance?

The odds of a one round knockout by frontrunner candidate Prabowo Subianto might be narrowing, with less than a week to go before polling day.

PAS’ Efforts to Attract Non-Muslims: An Exercise in Futility?

PAS has stated that it needs to redouble its efforts to win non-Muslim support. However, its exclusivist stance on many policy issues remains a significant impediment.

The Evil, Stupid and Arrogant in Malaysian Politics: Who is Jadong?

A leading opposition figure in Malaysia has resorted to firing deprecatory epithets at the administration led by Anwar Ibrahim. The reality is that that the Malay portmanteau “jadong” could apply to politicians of all stripes.