Commentaries | FULCRUM

Thai Politics Gets the Blues

Thaksin’s fall, and the People’s Party’s gambit, propelled Anutin’s rise to prime minister. Thailand’s desolate political landscape holds out uncertainty — and opportunity — for Anutin and his Bumjaithai Party.

Myanmar’s Fake Election Is a Trap, Not a Transition

The junta in Myanmar has announced elections starting in December 2025. The reality is that it has gamed the system in its favour.

How Green Industrial Policies are Advancing in the Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific is at the forefront of green industrial policies and must accelerate the transition through multilateral efforts to serve as a model for a greener future.

Prabowo’s Cabinet Reshuffle: Consolidating Politics, Recalibrating Policy?

The Indonesian president’s Cabinet reshuffle was a mixed bag. Will consolidating political clout come at the risk of restoring confidence?

Indonesia’s New Haj Ministry: A Change in Name Without Progress?

It is not certain that the president’s establishment of a new haj ministry will ease all the problems Indonesia’s Muslim pilgrims face.

The 13th Malaysia Plan: Distinctive and Difficult Aspirations

The 13th Malaysia Plan focuses on the need to thrive based on economic complexity. While the term is fairly new, the challenges of transitioning the economy to a higher value-added one remain the same.

Beyond Green Data Centres: Leaner, Smarter AI for Southeast Asia’s Sustainable Digital Future

Booming growth in data centres is escalating electricity demand and risks undermining the region’s energy transition goals. Hardware improvements are insufficient; Southeast Asia must also promote energy-efficient AI software.

Anti-Shia Conspiracies in Malaysia: The Need to Study the End of Times

Growing anti-Shia sentiment in Malaysia underscores the prevalence of apocalyptic views among Muslims in the country.

Chinese Chambers of Commerce: Balancing Malaysia-China Ties and Domestic Divides

As Malaysia’s Chinese chambers of commerce foster ties with China and represent new Chinese migrants, they must address concerns that their roles deepen existing socio-economic divides along ethnic lines.