Commentaries | FULCRUM

China’s Drive for Food Self-Sufficiency: What It Means for ASEAN Countries

China is determined to become more self-sufficient in its food supply. This will have implications for ASEAN economies.

Prabowo and Indonesia’s Ulema Council: Is MUI Losing Traction Again?

President Prabowo was absent from a key Ulema Council of Indonesia (MUI) event last month. This signals that the organisation might now rank lower on his list of priorities.

Why Indonesia Needs a China Strategy Now

The authors argue that Indonesia needs a more coherent strategy for its relationship with China.

Should Malaysia Become a Global Education Hub?

Malaysia is setting its sights on becoming a global education hub. In doing so, however, it might have overlooked its edge as a regional education hub.

Calibrating the Singapore-US Security Anchor for a New Era: An American View

As the US moves into a more transactional mode, Singapore’s standing as a capable and self-reliant partner will put it in good stead.

Nahdlatul Ulama’s Establishment Versus Grassroots Leadership Race Will Affect Its Political Alignments

The leadership contest in Nahdlatul Ulama is consequential. The next executive chairman could stay the course and remain close to the President, or respond to grassroots calls for change.

From Streamlining to Delivery: Vietnam’s Second Administrative Test

Vietnam’s Central Committee has embarked on the most sweeping administrative overhaul in decades. But success is likely to be uneven.

Different Sectors, Same Direction: Indonesia’s Quiet Recentralisation

Indonesia’s revised financial omnibus law reflects a broader trend towards executive recentralisation, renewing concerns over institutional independence and accountability.

Parti Wawasan Negara’s Gambit: A Bridge Too Far

Parti Wawasan Negara is styling itself as a “bridge” from Parti Islam SeMalaysia and the United Malays National Organisation. The odds of Wawasan attaining this role are long.