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.
Category Archives: Commentaries
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.
The Progressive Islamists: Can Amanah Triumph Against PAS?
Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah), which was formed from the more progressive elements of the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS), is turning out to be a formidable rival to its PAS for the Muslim vote.
PAS’s Election Gambit: Having it Both Ways?
Malaysia’s Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) appears to be undecided over whether to join forces with the United Malays National Organisation or Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia. Hesitation, however, is not indecision: PAS is hedging its bets for more leverage.
Counter-Disinformation Beyond Fact-Checking: Insights from the Philippines
The Philippines is currently at the global cutting edge of fake news and political trolling online. Unfortunately, the country has yet to find firm footing in stemming disinformation’s unruly growth.