Commentaries | FULCRUM

Tackling the Threat of Salafism Within: Muhammadiyah Leaders Need to Be Bolder

Allowing Salafi elements to join Muhammadiyah has proven a double-edged sword for Indonesia’s second-largest mass Muslim organisation.

Myanmar’s Economy Deeper in the Mire

The State Administration Council’s coercive and controlling approach to the economy does not bode well for Myanmar’s mid- to long-term prospects.

Time to Rebalance the Wheels in Thailand’s Green Automotive Policy

Chinese EV makers are thriving in Thailand due to the country’s tariffs and incentives, but industry incumbents are struggling. Its automotive policy should reconsider how it incentivises consumer choice while fostering industrial transformation.

Nguyen Phu Trong’s Foreign Policy Legacy: Shaping Vietnam’s Great Power Balance

Nguyen Phu Trong’s strategic nous in shaping Hanoi’s relations with the great powers is his foremost foreign policy legacy.

Indonesia’s Largest Muslim Organisation Mired in Controversy After Youth Cadres’ Visit to Israel

Whether they were made use of or knew what they were doing, the actions of five young Nadhlatul Ulama members during their recent trip to Israel have stirred up a hornet’s nest.

Cool in the Crossfire? Thailand Amidst Major Power Competition

Thailand stands out in the region for its unruffled response to rising great power rivalry. Why so?

Malaysian State Governments Can Do More, and Get More Taxes

Malaysia’s states are demanding more tax revenue from Putrajaya. The country should consider transferring both government roles and revenues from federal to state levels, starting with social welfare and consumption tax.

Myanmar’s Trade Takes a Turn for the Worse

Three plus years of conflict have ravaged Myanmar’s economy and its military rulers can no longer paper over deeper structural obstacles to prevent a serious downturn.