Grassroots legislative candidates in Jakarta face an uphill battle in their struggle to make electoral politics work for the poor, including changing perceptions of the value of a vote.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Yusfarizal Yussoff’s “Deplorable Mention”: A Man to Watch
Yusfarizal Yussoff was given a “deplorable mention” by Federal Court justices last month. The career of the up-and-coming lawyer from Parti Islam SeMalaysia needs to be watched closely.
The “Jokowi Factor”: How Joko Widodo Helped Prabowo to Win Indonesia’s Presidency
The presumptive president-elect received an assist from the president of Indonesia not only through populist policies aimed at winning over the country’s poorest. Committing his firstborn son to the presidential campaign was essentially interpreted by voters as an instruction to vote for his former opponent.
Why XanhSM Might Dethrone Grab in Vietnam
Southeast Asia’s ride-hailing giant Grab has a new serious competitor in Vietnam. XanhSM, also known as GreenSM in international markets, has rapidly expanded by offering more secure employment and lower costs for drivers, and achieving high client satisfaction. But turning a profit will be challenging.
Anwar’s Year at the Helm: Economic Leadership in Turbulent Times
Anwar Ibrahim’s ratings have been sliding as Malaysia’s economic concerns continue to mount. But the prime minister should not be blamed entirely.
Malaysia’s Public Service Pensions: Will to Reform, Without A Roadmap
Malaysia has announced that future public service recruits will retire on accumulated Employee Provident Fund savings instead of the current, popular pension scheme. Before proceeding, the Anwar Ibrahim administration must clarify the fiscal situation and attendant reforms needed.
Australia-ASEAN at 50: Mateship for Peace and Stability
The 50th anniversary of the dialogue partnership between ASEAN and Australia would give leaders a welcome opportunity to take stock and discuss future engagement.
Who Is Really in Charge In Thailand?
In theory, Thai premier Srettha Thavisin leads the country. But there is more than meets the eye.
Examining Indonesia’s Potential New Source of Growth: A Case for Digital Services Exports
Digitally delivered services exports could be the silver lining, if not a silver bullet, in an increasingly challenging world for Indonesia’s economy, which is clouded by its stubborn growth deficit.
Made in China? The Challenge of State-Sponsored Cyber Intrusions in the Philippines
Apart from security challenges associated with regional geopolitical tensions, the Philippines must address its vulnerability against state-sponsored intrusions into its cyberspace.