ARTICLES

6 Mar 2026

Religious Elites and the Management of Islamic Affairs in Sarawak: A Mixed Scorecard

Mohd Faizal Musa

Political rather than religious authority still calls the shots in multi-religious Sarawak.

27 Feb 2026

Islam-State Relations under Prabowo: More Carrots and More Sticks, But Less Progressive and Less Civil?

Ary Hermawan

This Long Read examines President Prabowo Subianto’s relationship with the various Islamic organisations in Indonesia. While mainstream groups like Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah continue to be considered strategic allies, there has also been greater tolerance of hardline Islamist groups.

Indonesia Indonesian Politics Islam

6 Feb 2026

The Roots and Persistence of Terengganu’s Hardline Approach to Islamic Law

Mohd Faizal Musa

Since August 2025, Terengganu has implemented stringent shariah-based legislation penalising Muslim men who neglect Friday prayers, allowing for imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to RM3,000. This reflects a broader trend of rigorous shariah enforcement under the PAS-led state government.

Islam Malaysia Malaysian Politics

16 Jan 2026

Indonesia’s ‘Haj Village’ in Mecca: A Breakthrough but Strong Management and Caution Needed

A'an Suryana

The government has launched an ambitious plan to improve the experience for Indonesian haj pilgrims. The question is whether worldly rewards might compromise the holiness and rightfulness of the mission.

Indonesia Islam

21 Nov 2025

Muhammadiyah and NU’s Support for Suharto’s National Hero Status Undermines Their Credentials as Champions of ‘Civil Islam’

Iim Halimatusa’diyah|Ary Hermawan

Are the two largest Islamic organisations in Indonesia losing their ability to uphold and guide civil society?

Indonesia Indonesian Politics Islam

23 Oct 2025

Malaysia’s Islamic Authorities Risk Sowing Societal Confusion through Hasty Bans on Some ‘New Age’ Practices

Mohd Faizal Musa

By indiscriminately condemning as heretical some ‘New Age’ practices, such as those involving healing and astrology, Malaysia’s Islamic authorities could inadvertently undermine some Malay cultural traditions.

Islam Malaysia