Amid the political spectacle, Malaysia should critically consider the meagre roles and resources of state governments. The irony is that states, in following their own election cycles, end up augmenting federal dominance and disempowering themselves.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Time to Tackle Illegal Foreign Businesses in Thailand
Illicit nominations of Thais as shareholders in businesses run by Chinese operators are threatening local concerns. This highlights a dense network of transnational criminal activity that the Thai authorities are up against.
Recalibrating Vietnam’s Electricity Cooperation with Laos
Vietnam is planning to import more electricity from hydropower facilities in Laos. Such an arrangement, however, poses a threat to the food security and livelihoods of Vietnamese living in the Mekong Delta.
Pilgrimage, Piety, and Politics: “Haji” Presidents in Indonesia
Many politicians eyeing Indonesia’s two top political jobs are performing the Hajj this year. While doing so might boost their political capital, it is unlikely to bag them an outright victory at next year’s polls.
Disaster Relief Dysfunction in Myanmar
Five weeks after the country was hit by a Category 5 cyclone, the military junta in Myanmar continues to stonewall the delivery of much-needed aid to affected civilians. In particular, this highlights ASEAN’s continued inability to persuade the junta to implement the Five Point Consensus.
Debunking the Myths of Malaysia’s “Green Wave” in GE15
It is time to refresh the popular but inaccurate characterisation of recent Malaysian politics as broadly influenced by Islamisation. The truth is more complex.
Transparent Content Moderation the Key to Responsible Political Discourse
As Malaysia heads into six state elections, it is imperative for social media platforms to step up their game in moderating harmful content.
A Reflection on Thai Politics
A former Thai foreign minister voices his hopes for the future of Thai democracy. It is not clear, however, that Thailand can strengthen its democracy through consensus-building if entrenched political forces continue to thwart the people’s wishes.
Indonesia’s Surging Nickel Industry Must Embrace Greater Social and Environmental Safeguards
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.
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.