Despite declarations of the mass Muslim organisation’s political neutrality, there are misgivings on the ground about the Nahdlatul Ulama leadership’s true inclinations for next week’s election.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Can Prabowo-Gibran Win Outright Against a Ganjar-Anies Alliance?
The odds of a one round knockout by frontrunner candidate Prabowo Subianto might be narrowing, with less than a week to go before polling day.
PAS’ Efforts to Attract Non-Muslims: An Exercise in Futility?
PAS has stated that it needs to redouble its efforts to win non-Muslim support. However, its exclusivist stance on many policy issues remains a significant impediment.
India and China’s Volatile New Status Quo
Sino-Indian relations have languished in a state of suspended animation for four years. A return to stability in the relationship would require, at the least, sustained high-level engagement.
The Evil, Stupid and Arrogant in Malaysian Politics: Who is Jadong?
A leading opposition figure in Malaysia has resorted to firing deprecatory epithets at the administration led by Anwar Ibrahim. The reality is that that the Malay portmanteau “jadong” could apply to politicians of all stripes.
COP28: Enhanced Food Security in Southeast Asia?
In line with their climate change plans, Southeast Asian countries need to mitigate carbon emissions in their agrifood systems.
Unemployment, Poverty and Corruption: Young Indonesian Voters’ Top Economic Concerns
Indonesian Millennials and Gen-Z would like their next president to create jobs, eradicate poverty and combat corruption. While personality dominates the Indonesian election, policy platforms will impact the country’s future – and may tilt the election outcome.
Najib Razak’s Partial Pardon: Cui Bono?
The controversial halving of Najib Razak’s 12-year sentence appears to be a boon to multiple stakeholders.
Will Vietnam Turn to Russia or America for Its New Jet Fighter?
Vietnam needs to upgrade its ageing fighter fleet. But it faces a list of less than optimal options.
Move Forward Stands at the Brink of Dissolution
Political tensions in Thailand have escalated following a court ruling that could potentially lead to the dissolution of the Move Forward Party over charges stemming from its campaign to amend the country’s lèse majesté law.