Commentaries | FULCRUM

The Collapsed Pesantren Building in East Java is a Wake-up Call for Indonesia

Without a shift in mindset and stricter enforcement of existing regulations, tragedies like the recent school building collapse in East Java are bound to recur.

Indonesia: Young Muhammadiyah Intellectual Network (JIMM) Activists Strengthen Progressive Influence Within Muhammadiyah

Two rising intellectual stars leading their respective think tanks linked to Muhammadiyah look set to carve out their own orbits.

Threads of Opportunity: Reviving Indonesia’s Textile and Garment Sector

Indonesia’s textile and garment sector is struggling. The government needs to move its focus from protection to improving competitiveness.

To Lam is Institutionalising Politics Again

Few had expected To Lam, Vietnam’s top leader, to rebuild the same institutions that he had dismantled.

Bersatu’s Lack of Discipline Has Given PAS More Control

Bersatu’s infighting has weakened it. Bersatu’s troubles have given PAS, Bersatu’s coalition partner, the upper hand.

Parti Islam Se-Malaysia’s (PAS) Outreach to Non-Muslims and Its Contradictions

Actions will speak louder than words for the party that wishes to dominate the next government in a multiracial Malaysia.

Is Vietnam Headed for a Property Market Crisis?

There are many factors behind Vietnam’s red-hot property market, with loose monetary policy playing a central role. However, the government is reluctant to tighten it due to both political and economic reasons.

Trump’s Tariffs and China’s Subsidies: Southeast Asia Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Despite the US’ Liberation Day tariffs, exports from many countries continue to be sustained. In particular, China’s exports to Southeast Asia continue to grow, thanks to market orientation and state subsidies.

One Piece Flag, Multiple Protests

Political symbols used in recent protests in Indonesia have underscored a paradox: the more authorities tried to diminish their use, the more power they derived.