Commentaries | FULCRUM

The Risks and Perceived Rewards of Rising Revivalist Populism in Malaysia

The unhelpful antics of a particular populist politician in Malaysia reflect the dangers of playing up differences when a country needs unity.

Politics of Memory in Vietnam: A War Fought Twice

Hanoi’s silence over a Pulitzer Prize-winning book by a Vietnamese-American author speaks volumes about the country’s treatment of its wartime history.

The Ambiguous Response of Indonesian Muslims to Iran’s Attack on Israel

Iran’s missile and drone attack against Israel in retaliation against the 1 April air strike on an Iranian consulate building in Damascus has drawn mixed reactions among Indonesia’s Muslim leaders. The theological divide, however, will limit Indonesian solidarity with Iran.

Platforming and Free Speech: Academia Caught Off Guard in Malaysia

Inflammatory conduct by a visiting foreign professor ignited a firestorm in Malaysia’s academia. The debacle underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to free speech, and a critical consideration of who gets to use the university as a platform.

South Korea-Southeast Asia Ties from Moon to Yoon: What Has Changed and What Has Stayed the Same?

President Yoon’s Korea-ASEAN Solidarity Initiative has built on some of the groundwork laid by his predecessor’s New Southern Policy, most notably in its economic engagements with Southeast Asian countries. However, Seoul must undertake further efforts to boost its diplomatic and security profile in the region.

Hidden Costs of Academic Dishonesty: The Case of Indonesia

Indonesian academia was recently shocked by two egregious examples of professors plagiarising others’ work. Some deep soul-searching and reform must occur to set things right.

Indonesia: Prabowo Subianto, Swimming and Mythmaking

The incoming Indonesian president swims for his health. The tale he likes to tell of one of his swims, however, is but one layer of many in the carefully constructed narrative surrounding his leadership and past record.

Agrarian Reform and Land Rights in Indonesia

The next administration has a chance to right the wrongs perpetuated by the outgoing president, whose administration has allowed private and vested interests to overrule or ignore indigenous land rights in Indonesia’s hungry quest for development.