PAS appears to be riding a wave of confidence after its solid wins in the recent state elections. It should be more circumspect.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Indonesia’s Volatile Coalition Politics: PKB’s Move Broke the 2024 Presidential Race Logjam
The focus is now on choices for Indonesia’s next vice president after Anies Baswedan secured a surprise choice for his running mate in 2024.
China’s Claim on the South China Sea: How Many Dashes Make a Line?
China’s new map depicting its claims to the South China Sea has provoked some fierce reactions from its neighbours. The fact is that the “new” map is anything but.
Barisan Nasional and FELDA: A Depleted “Fixed Deposit”
FELDA seats used to be a veritable vote bank for Barisan Nasional. This is no longer the case.
Reflections on China’s Latest Global Civilisation Agenda
China’s Global Civilisation Initiative claims to promote inclusivity and cultural diversity. A litmus test of its credibility would be how China has and will deal with variations of cultures and identities that exist within and outside the country.
Meatball Soup on Instagram: (Not) Making a Mountain Out of a Molehill
A proverbial storm has erupted in Indonesia over a foodie influencer enjoying a humble bowl of meatball soup with non-halal crackers. Calmer heads should have prevailed.
Elites vs Citizens: How Singapore and Indonesia are Divided on China
Surveys show that the elite’s opinion toward China diverges with those of citizens in Singapore and Indonesia. Elites tend to weigh long-term geopolitical strategies and have more access to information, but increased citizen engagement will enhance foreign policy.
Anwar’s Tried and Failed Strategy to Woo Malay Voters
Anwar’s gambit to out-Islamise his Islamist political opponents has failed to gain traction. He should stop offering a “lite” version of his opponents’ Islamist agenda and tout a more progressive and inclusive narrative.
Pheu Thai’s New Coalition Betrays the Faith of Voters
In choosing to align itself with military-backed parties, the Pheu Thai Party has betrayed the faith of voters who believed that democratic principles would best ensure Thailand’s future.
Why Hanoi May Agree to a Vietnam-U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
If Hanoi agrees to a comprehensive strategic partnership with the U.S., it would represent a remarkable breakthrough in bilateral ties. Still, such a partnership would not represent a significant shift in Hanoi’s foreign policy.