Bangkok Politics in 2025: Beacon of Thai Pluralism
Paul Chambers
Bangkok’s penchant for political pluralism has persisted. In the 2026 elections, this would see a popular and independent incumbent pitted against an up and rising opposition party.

Paul Chambers
Bangkok’s penchant for political pluralism has persisted. In the 2026 elections, this would see a popular and independent incumbent pitted against an up and rising opposition party.
Francis E. Hutchinson|Tricia Yeoh
Abdullah Badawi’s brand melded the best of two worlds, namely rising living standards and technological ambition minus the angst and aggression of the Mahathir period.
Shad Saleem Faruqi
This Long Read outlines the position of Islam in Malaysia’s Constitution and the applicability of the Shariah courts, particularly in respect of criminal offences.
Norshahril Saat
Former Malaysian PM Abdullah Badawi’s signature Islam Hadhari project aimed to promote progressive Islam but faded after his tenure due mainly to lack of support from religious circles.
Jared Bissinger
The recent earthquake in central Myanmar threatens to deepen the country’s economic malaise.
Termsak Chalermpalanupap
Dubious partnerships, corruption, and poor construction materials seem to have caused the destruction of the 30-storey building in the 28 March quake.
Maria Monica Wihardja|Midzuki Low
China’s extensive investments in Southeast Asia have delivered mixed results, underscoring the importance of policies that promote productivity, positive spillovers, and innovation.
Mohd Faizal Musa
Where does Islam in Malaysia stand regarding Sufi ideology and practice? Some states are making their stance clear in response to mixed signals from the top.
Wannaphong Durongkaveroj
Thailand is trying to increase imports from the US to tackle the challenge posed by new US tariffs slapped on Thailand. This is unlikely to significantly improve Thailand’s position.
Napon Jatusripitak|Mathis Lohatepanont
The grand compromise, forged at the elite level between Thailand’s conservative establishment and Thaksin Shinawatra’s Pheu Thai Party, could lead many Thai voters to shift their party allegiance in the next general election.