Indonesia’s main opposition party faces both a succession and an identity crisis.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Hajiji’s Dilemma and Anwar’s Gamble: The Political Fallout from Sabah’s Mining Scandal
The Sabah mining scandal involving one of the parties in Malaysia’s ruling coalition undermines PM Anwar’s anti-corruption stance but the party’s current weakness could give Anwar the leverage to reshape Sabah politics.
Nuclear Power in the Philippines: The Need to Address Institutional Gaps
The Philippines is reviving an interest in developing nuclear energy. But it needs to first address key considerations such as public trust, safety and waste management.
Trump’s Tariff Turmoil: A Silver Lining?
Trump’s reciprocal tariffs may have created some Sturm und Drang, but there might well be an upside.
Anwar Ibrahim’s Balancing Act as a Muslim Leader for All
Anwar Ibrahim’s vision of a post-Islamist Malaysia is a difficult balance to effect.
Marcos Jr Versus Duterte: Betrayal and Loyalty in the 2025 Philippine Midterm Elections
Elite-led polarisation has fueled expressions of deep-seated resentment as the 12 May 2025 Philippine midterm elections approach. Will voters choose with their hearts or minds?
Indonesian Muslims Divided over Prabowo’s Gaza Plan
It is not clear if Indonesia’s president has thought through all the implications of his offer of humanitarian shelter for injured Palestinians. Any mishandling of the issue could potentially hurt his position, domestically and geopolitically.
ASEAN Faces a Tougher Balancing Act in US and China Trade Relations
ASEAN countries find themselves in a more delicate position trying to address US concerns while maintaining favourable relations with China.
Fear of Military Interference in Politics Runs Deep in Indonesia
Indonesia’s civil society and university campuses have long been a bellwether for military overreach. The current mood among resistors is distinctly anxious.
Will Malaysia Gravitate Further Towards China After President Xi’s Visit?
A flurry of bilateral agreements on travel, transport, logistics, technology, and digital economy signal closer Malaysia-China cooperation in the future.