There is already a patchwork of laws supported by some communal surveillance and cultural policing when it comes to social media influencers in Muslim-majority countries in Southeast Asia. It is perhaps possible to socialise influencers, Muslim or otherwise, to tread carefully when navigating sensitive issues, but this must stop short of over-regulation.
Category Archives: Commentaries
“Anything Is Possible” at GE15, but Pakatan Harapan Needs a GE14 Rerun
In the lineup for Malaysia’s 15th general elections, Barisan Nasional appears to have an advantage over its rival Pakatan Harapan. To take power, the former can rally allies and partners to its side. The latter must win big on its own.
The Threat and Allure of Thai-Style Party Bans
There is irony in the Pheu Thai Party’s attempt to get its rival Bhumjaithai Party banned since this tactic was originally designed to eradicate Pheu Thai itself. The attempt will likely alienate Pheu Thai’s supporters and weaken its anti-regime stance.
Finding Soulmates through Halal Means: Ta‘aruf Online for Indonesian Muslim Youth
The popularity of so-called halal matchmaking apps is a positive development provided developers and users alike remain clear-eyed about their claims to serve Islam.
The US-Philippine Alliance: Shared Interests and Subtle Nuances
The US National Security Strategy (NSS) identifies some shared interests between Washington and Manila. However, there are nuances in the strategic calculus of the allies when it comes to two key potential flashpoints in the region: Taiwan and the South China Sea.
Evolution of the Halal Industry and Lifestyle in Southeast Asia
The notable growth of halal products and the overall market is a trend that bears watching for producers of halal consumables, as they adapt to modern demands from Muslims and non-Muslims alike to uphold high standards.
The Fundamental Tension in Biden’s National Security Strategy
Washington’s new National Security Strategy has been carefully crafted, but the document hosts a number of inherent tensions. Foremost among them is the fact that putting democracy at the center of a strategy that is increasingly Asia-focused is ill-advised.
Perceptions and Pathways of Energy Transition in Southeast Asia
The results of the 2022 Southeast Asia Climate Outlook have significant overlaps with ASEAN’s long-term transition scenarios to cleaner energy futures. But the survey also reveals that opinions on renewables vary across nationalities, the urban/ rural divide and between socio-economic groups.
Globalised Halal Markets and Middle-class Southeast Asia: The “Muslim Piety Economy”
Islamic revivalism in Southeast Asia has stimulated interest in halal products and Muslim material culture. In Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia, governments have actively helped shape a Muslim piety economy around halal production, trade, regulation and consumption.
The United Kingdom and the Indo-Pacific: “Tilting” or Tottering?
The United Kingdom (U.K.) has launched a robust “tilt” towards the Indo-Pacific. To its credit, it has executed a series of high-profile diplomatic engagements and military deployments to the region. The question, however, is not about London’s desire to engage with the dynamic region but whether this tilt can be sustained.