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Political Islam in Indonesia: Looking at Pemilu 2024 and Beyond
While Islamist parties are still a long way from dominating the upcoming Indonesian elections, conservative Muslim voters will become increasingly indispensable to presidential hopefuls, adding pressures on religious liberty in Indonesia.
Webinar: “Sarawak State Election: Will it Rock the Boat?” – Department of Political Science, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)
In this publicly accessible webinar by IIUM’s Department of Political Science, Dr. Arnold Puyok and Mohd. Shazani Masri discuss whether the 12th Sarawak state election will lead to winds of change for Malaysia’s political environment.
Webinar: “Melaka State Election: A Litmus Test for GE 15?” – Department of Political Science, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)
The historic state of Melaka is drawing intense political interest. In this publicly accessible webinar by IIUM’s Department of Political Science, Dr. Lau Zhe Wei and Dr. Tunku Mohar Mokhtar discuss whether the 15th Melaka state election is a litmus test for GE15.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan: Ideological, Security and Geopolitical Implications for Malaysia
Despite Malaysia’s cautious approach to the recent Afghan development, it could face challenges such as the deepening of socio-religious cleavages and incitement of both violent and non-violent extremism.
Malay Political Polarization and Islamic Populism in Malaysia
Islamic populism is currently a go-to strategy for Malay-based political parties vying for support form the same pool of electorates. This has been detrimental to the rights and liberties of non-Muslims in Malaysia with the possibility of extremism.
The Limits of Islamist Democracy
The Federal Court’s ruling in favour of SIS Forum (Malaysia) sparked a wave of backlash. Responses from state and Islamist.
Hope to Survival: Malaysia’s Post-2018 Political Trajectory
Malaysia’s post-2018 politics shifted from “hope” to “survival”, with the current unity government prioritising stability and practical, verifiable delivery over sweeping reforms.
When Urban Policy Failures Meet Political Opportunism
Flawed urban policies and housing affordability issues lead to ethnic segregation and political exploitation in Malaysian cities.
A Southeast Asian Perspective on Bangladesh’s Political Transition
Like Southeast Asia almost four decades ago, Bangladesh now faces the delicate aftermath of an authoritarian collapse, where the real test is not the fall of the regime but what emerges to replace it.
Islamophobia Conference 2024: The Vanishing Public Muslim
A report on the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Conference on Islamophobia (December 2024).
Islamic Parties in Prabowo’s Era
Power, access and key positions are prioritised over ideology and identity.
Santri, Digital Divide and Their Political Voice
Asep Muizudin Muhamad Darmini · March 21, 2025 What does it mean to be a santri amid technological advancement and Indonesia’s democratic decline?
Ulamas and Their (Informal) Political Power
Ulamas’ status as informal leaders accords them a degree of influence in political contests.
IIUM x ABIM: Islam’s Role in Malaysia’s Education
Islam within Malaysia’s education system is nothing new; except when a new administration introduces its own vision on an Islamic university in the country.
The Terrorist Narrative is Disinformation, and It is Political
The unsurprising commonality between terrorist agenda and political campaign: disinformation.
When Oligarchs and Political Dynasties Hinder Women’s Representation
During Pemilu 2024, the odds were never in favor of female candidates.
The Muted Islamist Populism in Indonesia
There are a few reasons why Islamist populism does not feature heavily in political contestations ahead of the 2024 Presidential Election in Indonesia.
Examining the Impact of Islamist Feminism in Indonesia’s 2024 Presidential Election
The Islamist feminist movement in Indonesia is gaining traction and could shape the political landscape of the 2024 presidential election.
From Islamist to Muslim Majoritarianism: The Rise of PAS in GE15
In the campaign period of GE15, PAS and other right-wing groups successfully exploited the Malay Muslim insecurity. Following PAS’ spectacular showing in the election, the challenge to Malaysia ahead is not only about the growth of Islamism, but also the rise of right-wing Malay Muslim majoritarianism.
Mediatised Religion in Malaysia: Islamization by Trolling?
The dynamics behind the “Islamization race” in Malaysian politics is changing. Apart from the UMNO-PAS competition as the “defender” of Islam, Malaysia is currently experiencing “Islamization by trolling” with real life consequences.
Islamists vs Islamists in GE15
Various Islamist actors are competing and collaborating with each other across different political parties and coalitions in GE15. With different political and social participation, they have undergone various transformations although do not necessarily give up their ideological commitment.
Hijrah or Pop Islam? Implications for Malaysia
The pace of Islamisation in Malaysia has undoubtedly increase in the past decade. Spiritual Hijrah by the masses towards greater piety is of course commendable – until it is used by celebrities, entrepreneurs, and politicians for their personal gain.
Online Political Movement and the Emergence of Youth Extremism
Youths are particularly vulnerable for recruitment by extremist groups. Recent findings revealed that such vulnerabilities may be attributed to psychology rather than ideology. We explain how significance motivation may be the key to understand youth extremism.
The Politics of Religion in Indonesia: Exploiting the Islamic Identity in a Fragmented Society
The popularity of figures such as FPI leader Rizieq Shihab signals a worrying trend of growing hardline conservatism among Indonesian Muslims.
The Sustainability of the Next Islamic Initiative in Malaysia
Past governments in Malaysia had issued Islamic initiatives as the Inculcation of Noble Values, Islam Hadhari, Indeks Syariah Malaysia, Rahmatan-lil-‘Alamin, Manhaj Rabbani and Inisiatif Mantap, all of which sizzled out following the fall of their respective political advocates. What may be the next Islamic initiative by the new government after the 15th General Election (GE15)?
Irsyad Mohammad
Irsyad Mohammad is a writer, poet and researcher in history, geopolitics, and political Islam. He graduated from the History Department, Universitas Indonesia. He authored The Dialogue between Qadian Ahmadiyya and Persatuan Islam in 1933 (Atlantis Press, 2019) and has published articles about political Islam and geopolitics in media. Irsyad is also a contributor to several […]
Yahya Fathur Rozy
Yahya Fathur Rozy is a master student in Islamic Studies at Indonesian International Islamic University (IIIU). His main research interests include Qur’anic studies, political Islam, Salafism and new media.
Haidar Masyhur Fadhil
Haidar Masyhur Fadhil is pursuing his master’s degree in Islamic Studies at the Faculty of Islamic Studies, Indonesian International Islamic University (UIII). He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Al-Azhar University, Egypt. He has written for various publications and specializes in Hadith Studies, Muslim Societies and Political Islam.
Faris Ibrahim
Faris Ibrahim is pursuing his Master’s in Islamic Studies at the Indonesian International Islamic University (IIIU). Faris’ main research interests include Islam and popular culture, political Islam, and Islamic intellectual history. He previously studied theology and philosophy at Al-Azhar University in Cairo.
KDM: A Case Study in Indonesian Populism
Kang Dedi Mulyadi is now the face of Indonesian populism. Does he have what it takes to rise to the top?
HTI is Resilient. We Need an Alternative Solution.
HTI remains resilient despite repression; Indonesia needs a new, inclusive approach to address its ideological and political challenges.
From Opposition to Participation
Last year’s political contestations demonstrated the paradigm shift experienced by Indonesia’s reformed terrorists.
The Gaza Conflict Has Stirred Thailand’s Far South, Mildly
Israel’s war on Gaza has sparked concern of a rise in insurgent activities in Thailand’s southern provinces.
Identity Politics and Pilpres 2024: Learning from Aksi 212
Concerns are abound whether Indonesia would see another surge of identity politics being drummed up by Aksi 212 movement again ahead of the 2024 elections.
The Malay-Muslim Politics and Malaysia’s GE15
Underneath all of President Rodrigo Duterte’s strongman bravado is a deep-seated insecurity, resulting in a widespread defeatist attitude. This defeatism, while can be traced back to Filipino’s culture and the country’s longstanding alliance with the United States, manifests in Duterte’s pivot to China policy and neutrality in the Ukraine crisis. It has also provided a suitable context that ushered the return of the Marcos family to power.
Expected Acceptance and Rejection Factors for PAS and UMNO in Peninsula Malaysia in the 15th General Election
Underneath all of President Rodrigo Duterte’s strongman bravado is a deep-seated insecurity, resulting in a widespread defeatist attitude. This defeatism, while can be traced back to Filipino’s culture and the country’s longstanding alliance with the United States, manifests in Duterte’s pivot to China policy and neutrality in the Ukraine crisis. It has also provided a suitable context that ushered the return of the Marcos family to power.
The Recent Decline of Interfaith Dialogue in Indonesia: Causes and Challenges
The decline of interfaith dialogue in Indonesia comes at a time when there is a growing reluctance to accept people of different identities. This is concerning as recent conservatism swing has particularly made people more religious but not necessarily spiritual, making it harder for people to embrace the spirit of pluralism that has been ingrained in the Indonesian society for so long. Thus, there is an urgent need to revitalise this process in the country.
Sharia Politics in 2024: Ideology or Commodity
Sharia politics as a political force peaked in 2016 and 2017 but has struggled to maintain its momentum in recent years. Despite setbacks, it is in no way out of the picture. Will it make a comeback in 2024?
The Supply and Demand of Intolerance in Indonesia
Why religion continues being integral to Indonesians can be viewed from a supply and demand perspective. State-perpetrated religious discriminations and the potential rise of conservative and hardline groups are concerning. These may lead to a rising tide of intolerance in Indonesia.
Mohamed Fouz Mohamed Zacky
Mohamed Fouz Mohamed Zacky is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science and Madani Studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). His academic work lies at the intersection of political theory, Islamic sociopolitical thought, security and the study of Muslim minorities. He has published research articles, book reviews and conceptual essays in […]
Thailand’s High-Stakes Gamble in the South
Thailand’s 2026 shift to using civilian volunteers on the front lines has reignited the southern insurgency, reversing more than a decade-long downward trend in violence.
Iran’s “Victory” Will Reshape Geopolitics
Iran survives the 2026 war through a “resistance economy”, shattering the US and Israeli military power and reconsidering its security and political alliances.
Mining Dilemma for Non-State Actors
Indonesia’s government co-opts religious groups and universities in the mining industry, trading their moral authority for lucrative benefits.
Malaysia and Potential War in the Gulf
Israel’s strikes on Tehran force Malaysia to choose between essential US trade and its deep-rooted ties to the Islamic world.
Silencing Jokes
Pandji Pragiwaksono faces legal and digital attacks as Indonesia’s space for political satire shrinks.
The Board of Peace and the Fraying of Indonesia’s Diplomacy
Prabowo’s entry into Trump’s Board of Peace trades Indonesia’s principled diplomacy for symbolic access, while excluding Palestinian voices in Gaza.
The Trap of Permanent Coalitions
Indonesia’s “permanent coalition” proposal seeks to neutralise electoral competition and consolidate power among elites, echoing New Order-era tactics.
The Zohran Paradox
Muhammad Sinatra’s (Editor, stratsea) reflections on Zohran Mamdani, the new mayor of New York City.
The “End State” Deadlock
For a peace process to be meaningful, it must move beyond “talk shops” and address the criminalisation of political discourse in Patani.
Feature Report: Storm in the Making
A fatal school collapse triggers a national debate on safety, accountability and the future of traditional Islamic boarding schools.
Highlights from “Forum on the World Order: Preserving Sovereignty, Eluding Neo-Imperialism”
Scholars deconstruct neo-imperialism, genocide and colonial structures that threaten modern global sovereignty.
Arshad Nazran
Arshad Nazran is a researcher at the International Institute of Islamic Thought & Civilisation (ISTAC). Currently, he is pursuing postgraduate studies in Political Science at the International Islamic University Malaysia. He is open to connect through LinkedIn via www.linkedin.com/in/arshadnazran.
Muhammad Aqshadigrama
Muhammad Aqshadigrama is a master’s candidate in Political Science at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII). Previously, he was Research Assistant in Politics and Social Change Department at CSIS Indonesia. His interest is in the areas of democracy, political party and comparative politics.
Eman Zahid Jokhio
Eman Zahid Jokhio is pursuing her Masters in Political Science at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia. She is a holder of a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Sindh, Pakistan. Her work has been published in respected Pakistani magazines as well as on international platforms such as Modern Diplomacy. She can be […]
Kamilatul Farikhah
Kamilatul Farikhah is a Master’s Student in Political Science, International Islamic University of Indonesia.
Dr. Norhaslinda Jamaiudin
Dr. Norhaslinda Jamaiudin is an Assistant Professor in Political Science at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Her specialization includes public governance and public sector management, public sector reforms, public policy analysis, and personnel management in the Malaysian civil service.
Dr. Normala Mohd Adnan
Dr. Normala Mohd Adnan is an Assistant Professor in the Political Science Department of International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Her background work has been in public administration, with special attention on comparative public policy and public policy implementation. Her recent interest is on government digital transformation, especially in public service delivery and capacity building for […]
Nurul Farhah Ab Aziz
Nurul Farhah Ab Aziz is a Research Officer at the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR), Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She graduated from the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM) with a Bachelor in Political Science. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree at University of Malaya, specialising in the securitisation of ethno-religious nationalism […]
Yusya’ A Fitrachman
Yusya’ A Fitrachman is a PhD candidate in Political Science at the Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), researching security studies, sovereignty, and regional integration in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Lau Zhe Wei
Dr. Lau Zhe Wei is currently an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science, International Islamic University Malaysia. He graduated from National University of Malaysia (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia) for both his Bachelor and Master degrees before furthering his PhD studies in politics in University of Bristol, England. He is also a columnist for an […]
Muhammad Ahalla Tsauro
Muhammad Ahalla Tsauro is a lecturer at Faculty of Social and Political Science, Sunan Ampel State Islamic University, Surabaya and a research associate at Konsorsium Peneliti dan Pemberdaya untuk Kesejahteraan (KIPRAH), Jakarta.
Lee Pei May
Lee Pei May is a lecturer at the Department of Political Science and Madani Studies at the International Islamic University of Malaysia.
Tunku Mohar Mokhtar
Tunku Mohar Mokhtar is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science, International Islamic University Malaysia. His research interests are Malaysian politics, its electoral system and Malaysia’s foreign policy.
Syaza Shukri
Syaza Shukri is an Associate Professor at the Department of Political Science, International Islamic University Malaysia. She is also a Visiting Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute. Her research interests are in Islam and politics, populism, and democracy. Her other thoughts are accessible on her Twitter @syazashukri.
Robi Sugara
Robi Sugara is an Indonesian terrorism observer and a lecturer at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta.
Dr. Rabi’ah Aminudin
Dr. Rabi’ah Aminudin is an Associate Professor in Political Science at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), where she teaches Islamic Administrative System, Gender and Politics, Research Methodology, Intergovernmental Relations, and East Asian Politics. She completed her PhD from University of Manchester in 2015 with her thesis titled ” Explaining the Institutional Capacity of State […]
Feature Report: Causes and Implications of Indonesia’s 2025 Riots
Viral videos of dancing lawmakers and economic hardship fueled Indonesia’s August-September 2025 riots, damaging facilities and raising concerns.
The Middle East Crisis: Perspectives from the Philippines
The Middle East crisis profoundly impacts the Philippines through oil, migrant workers and regional stability.
Anwar’s Lack of Fortune in Thailand’s Far South
Anwar Ibrahim’s peace efforts in Thailand’s far south are continuously hampered by political instability in Bangkok.
When the Feed Feeds Back
Digital fatigue and emotional vulnerability are making Indonesian youth susceptible to extremist narratives online.
The Youth and GE16
Malaysia’s youth are not a monolith; they are a diverse group with complex concerns and a desire for genuine political representation.
Echo Chambers, Algorithms and Young Women
Far-right groups in Canada and Malaysia are using social media algorithms to influence young women by targeting identity-based insecurities.
Essay: Messiah on Speed Dial
The rise of China complicates Malaysian Chinese identity, the question over “loyalty” and their search for a political “messiah”.
MCA: Stay or Exit?
MCA grapples with an existential choice: Stay in BN or exit for an uncertain future.
Essay: Malaysia’s Economic and Masculinity Crises
The “Ordinary Malay” is not part of the upper echelon of society and feels left behind by political promises.
Understanding Muhammadiyah’s Waning Influence
Factors include outdated principles, weak branding and competition from other groups.
Unfading Threats, Shrinking Funds
Despite recording zero terrorism attacks in 2023-2024, Indonesia faces an unfading terror threat as well as shrinking funds for CT and P/CVE
Free Speech and the Freedom to Punch Your Face
A Qur’an burning incident sparks debate on free speech limits, engineered hate and the profitable “Islamophobia Industry.
Faith Extracted: Nahdlatul Ulama and Raja Ampat
A nickel mining project in Raja Ampat forces Nahdlatul Ulama to confront its position amid state and corporate entanglement.
The Power Politics of Madura’s Kiai
Madura’s kiai wield significant power, leveraging religious and local traditions to oppose phosphate mining and protect ancestral lands.
Thailand’s Conflict: Guns, Bombs and Assassinations
BRN targets local DVs, escalating violence as peace talks stall in Thailand’s restive south.
Malaysia’s Enduring Significance for Peace in Southern Thailand
Malaysia navigates a complex role in facilitating peace talks for Thailand’s southern insurgency, balancing ties and trust.
Chapter One – The Story of Ya
In this chapter, hear an audio recording of a conversation with Ya, a hamba habshi.
Thailand: Of Uyghur Deportations and Backlash
Thailand’s deportation of Uyghur detainees has strained ties with the United States and drawn backlash from human rights groups.
Democratic Action Party: From Antagonist to Conformist
Results of DAP’s internal election underscore the party’s evolving role within Malaysia’s ruling coalition and the challenges of coalition politics.
Trump’s Psychological Salvo on World’s Economies
High tariffs are imposed to bring others to the negotiating table.
Prologue: The Story of Ya
Ya, an African slave from Mecca, recalls her life in Terengganu, revealing a hidden chapter of local history.
Tensions Rise in Southern Thailand as Ramadhan Ceasefire Talks Stall
Despite efforts for peace, violence intensifies and peace talks remain deadlocked.
Challenges to Marriage Equality Rights in Thailand’s Southern Provinces
Thailand’s landmark Equal Marriage Act has an uneven impact in the more Islamic southern provinces.
Prabowo’s Rushed and Inadequate Free Meal Programme
Public enthusiasm for Prabowo’s free meal programme is undeniable, but weak oversight and poor planning threaten its success.
The Orang Asli Education: Preserving Equality or Imposing Hegemony?
Language barriers, cultural insensitivity and geographical challenges are affecting Orang Asli students’ education.
The Politics of Language: Threat of Hate Speech to ASEAN’s Inclusivity and Sustainability
“Darkness cannot drive darkness; Light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; Love can do that.” (Martin Luther King, Jr.)
In Supporting Palestine, Malaysia Must Play to Its Strengths
Despite limited impacts from the war, Malaysia remains a staunch supporter of the Palestinian plight.
Pragmatic Politics in Pilkada Are Only Symptoms of Bigger Problems
Power struggle and accumulation undermine Indonesia’s democratic vision.
Indonesia’s Stronger Middle East Commitment Under Prabowo
We may see a more proactive Indonesia in pushing for peace in the Middle East.
Malaysia and the Middle East’s Expanding War
The war has revealed the difficulty Malaysia has always faced between support for Palestine and its desire to be close to the West.
Is Support for Gaza Waning in Indonesia?
Only a few pro-Gaza protests were seen around the time of the war’s commemoration in Indonesia.
Dina Zaman’s Malayland
Dina Zaman’s new book, Malayland (Ethos Books and Faction Press), will be launched on 15 November 2024 (6pm) at National Library Singapore. She will also make an appearance at Book Bar (57 Duxton Road, Singapore 089521) for a meet-the-author on 16 Nov (2pm).
More Policy Development Needed for Children’s Welfare in Malaysia
The recent scandal highlights the inadequacy of existing policy framework to protect children’s rights.
Asatu: Democratizing Survey, Providing Data for All
Asatu Research & Insights strives to ensure that critical data can be accessible to everyone.
Rizieq Shihab’s Second Bloom
Rizieq Shihab may soon become Indonesia’s top opposition figure once again.
Turkey’s Election: A New Hope (for Women)
The fall of Erdogan’s AKP in Turkey’s local elections could spell a new hope and opportunities for Turkish women.
Malaysia In the Middle
Recent global and local events have intensified identity politics in Malaysia.
Two-Face Antisemitism in Pro-Russian Narratives
Russia weaponizes anti-Semitism to galvanize global support for its invasion of Ukraine. However, its messages are sometimes conflicting.
China’s Assertive Cyber Activism and Lessons for Indonesia
China’s aggressive activities in the cyberspace have often targeted middle powers that are its neighbours.
A Burning Bridge? Jokowi-PDI-P Saga Post-2024 Presidential Election
Jokowi’s relationship with PDI-P seems set to deteriorate. What could this culminate to?
Analysing Indonesian Netizens Response to Putin’s Projected Masculinity Two Years After the Invasion of Ukraine
After two years of Russian invasion, the pro-Russian narrative in the Indonesian audiences persisted: the alpha-male masculine leader pinned to Putin.
Indonesia’s Less than Substantial Presidential Debates
Viewers were not looking for substantive ideas when they tuned into the series of presidential and vice-presidential debate ahead of Indonesia’s.
Controversy: Anies Baswedan as Imam Mahdi
Abah Aos, a Sufi, recently called Anies Baswedan “Imam Mahdi”, sending ripples across several quarters of the society.
Women Behind Deradicalization Efforts
Women’s role in deradicalization process often goes unnoticed by the public.
Anies is Online: Bold or Risky?
Anies Baswedan’s campaign formats breathed a fresh air into Indonesia’s democratic process.
Gaza and An Alternate World Order
Introduction The crisis in Gaza shows that the multilateral world order has arrived at a new low of dysfunctionality.
State Transformation and Development in a Changing World – Conference Proceeding
The Department of Political Science, AbdulHamid AbuSulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences.
Social Media and the Manufacturing of Malay-Muslim Insecurity
Can insecurity among Malay-Muslims be manufactured? In Malaysia, this has been happening for years.
For Prabowo, Victory Remains Elusive, for Now
He may be leading in some polls, but Prabowo Subianto needs to undertake some actions to secure a victory in next year’s election.
The Green Wave as a Right-Wing Turn in Malay-Muslim Majoritarianism
The ‘Green Wave’ is a phenomenon that is not explainable by Islamism alone. Thinking of it as a right-wing turn in Malay-Muslim majoritarianism.
Behind the Veil: Taliban’s Secret Visit to Indonesia
A shroud of disquietude falls over Indonesia following a veiled visit by Taliban representatives recently.
The Case for Reviewing Malaysian Civil Servants’ Salary
The remuneration system for Malaysian civil servants have remained unchanged in the past two decades, despite recent shifts spearheaded.
Malaysia: Bracing for Impact of the “Green Wave”
The proverbial “green wave” casts a long shadow over religious freedom, minority rights and political development in Malaysia.
State Transformation and Development in a Changing World
In collaboration with the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University and stratsea.com.
The 1975’s Stunt: A Legacy of Colonialism
White saviors believe they could save the world from “backwardness”. The latest incident in Malaysia demonstrates just how wrong they are.
Iran’s Growing Ties with Indonesia
Some say Sunnis and Shiites cannot sit next to each other. Indonesia and Iran prove them wrong.
Can Malaysia’s New Electoral Democracy Last?
Malaysia’s new electoral democracy is not going anywhere soon, despite the flimsiness of the unity government and the potent challenge posed.
Combating Disinformation: Pilpres 2024 and the Youth
With easier access to information and education system, Indonesian youths may play a significant role in preventing a repeat of national polarization of the past ahead of next year’s presidential election.
A Fiery Mix of Religious Institutions and Politics in Malaysia
Malaysia’s opposition recently accused an interfaith initiative by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of attempting to evangelise Muslim youth. Notably, JAIS and MAIS also aligned themselves against this initiative. With this mix, what does it mean for Malaysia and the current government?
When Brotherhood Matters: Jokowi and MBZ
The “brotherhood” between Indonesia’s President Jokowi and Prince Mohammad bin Zayed of UAE has materialized in closer bilateral relations and symbolic appreciation of each other.
The Return of Colonial Laws and State Paternalism in Indonesia’s New Criminal Code
Indonesia’s new criminal code harks back not only to Soeharto’s New Order era, but also to the 17th century colonial period. State paternalism in the form of authoritarianism is back and in full swing in the country.
Explainer: PAS’ Performance in GE15
The 15th General Election (GE15) witnessed Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) emerging as the biggest winner after capturing 49 seats, the largest bloc by a single party in the parliament. An assessment on the rise of the Islamist party is necessary to measure how PAS’ success has changed Malaysia’s political landscape.
Indonesia-Israel: An Unlikely Normalization
Rumors of a normalization in Indonesia-Israel ties have emerged multiple times in the past decades but no substantial forward step has ever been made, owing to Indonesia’s unbending commitment to Palestine’s independence and domestic political pressure.
India’s G20 Presidency: Lessons Learned from Indonesia
This article discusses the potentials of India’s G20 presidency in 2023 and how India could learn from Indonesia to navigate its own agenda and arrange its priorities.
Indonesia-Middle East Relations in 2022: A Year in Review
This article is a stocktake of the developments in the Indonesia-Middle East relations throughout the year 2022.
Malaysia’s GE15 Compromise: How Did We Get Here?
This article traces the seeds of the protracted political crisis in Malaysia and various developments that took place in the last three years while also providing an analysis on post-GE15 events.
Challenges of Pakatan Harapan-led Unity Government
The appointment of Anwar Ibrahim as Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister may end last week’s unprecedented political instability but it is no by means a termination point of Malaysia’s political drama. Facing challenges from inside and outside his unity government, Anwar Ibrahim has no time to enjoy his government’s honeymoon period.
Prof. Dr. Haji Azyumardi Azra
stratsea.com mourns the loss of Indonesia’s Chairman of the Press Council and intellectual juggernaut Prof. Dr. Haji Azyumardi Azra, MA, MPhil, CBE, who passed away on 18 September in Malaysia. May his soul live in everlasting peace with the Almighty.
Game Theory: A Bugbear for PN and PH in the 15th General Election
Based on UMNO’s recent successes in the state elections, cooperation between Perikatan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan would benefit both in the 15th General Election. But such cooperation is irrational for both coalitions.
The Assassination of Shinzo Abe and its Security Impact on Indonesia
Though distant, the successful assassination of Shinzo Abe reinvigorates ISIS supporters in Indonesia to conduct similar feats. Indonesian security forces need to take preemptive measures to ensure that such assassinations do not take place in the country.
Assessing Malaysia’s Current Security Challenges
Malaysia’s current security threats are closely associated with its socio-political structure that it inherited from the colonial period. Simultaneously, the changing international order could also pose mounting challenges to the country’s management of the ever increasing traditional and non-traditional security threats.
Deradicalization Programs in Malaysian Prisons Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic: Limitations & Challenges
The Malaysian approach to deradicalization is facing significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The split between public and private entities towards violent extremist rehabilitation jeopardizes the effectiveness of mandatory deradicalization programs in Malaysian prisons.
PAS and Taliban are Not Two Peas in a Pod
Despite vocal support for the Taliban by several PAS leaders, such rhetoric is highly unlikely to translate into any actions beyond the permissible.
Combating Religious Extremism Through a Whole-of-Government Approach: The Bruneian Experience
Religious extremism continues to loom over Southeast Asia. Notably, the Taliban resurgence may provide fodder for legitimizing extremist religio-political ideologies. This article explores the mechanisms that enable Brunei Darussalam to remain resilient against extremist religious ideologies.
Interview with Dr. Lau Zhe Wei – Contestation Between Muslim and Non-Muslim Communities in Malaysia
Amidst the current Timah Whiskey controversy and Syariah-related developments such as that in Kelantan, rationality must prevail in multi-religious Malaysia.
Taliban’s Power Revival and Its Impact on Malaysia’s Security
The recent Taliban takeover in Afghanistan could reignite a “second front” discourse in Southeast Asia. However, the potential associated threats to Malaysia’s security need to be contextualized with the current threat environment.
Ismail Sabri’s Malaysian Cabinet: Old Wine in a New Bottle
In the third government administration since the May 2018 general elections, the current Malaysian Cabinet is nothing more than a Cabinet reshuffle with very few changes.
The Different Sides of Malaysia’s Response to the Taliban
The Taliban’s resurgence has received diverse responses from Malaysians. While other countries are facing security threats from locally-based jihadists seeking to imitate the Taliban’s success, the immediate impact on Malaysia is arguably further social polarisation.
Muhyiddin’s Failures and the Fall of the First Unelected Government in Malaysia
In March 2020, Muhyiddin Yassin led a rebellion against the government that toppled a long-standing ruling alliance tainted with corruption. His 17-months rule will be remembered for its failures to attend to people’s Covid-19-related grievances and suspension of democracy.
Terrorist Working from Home: Pandemic and The Transposition of Violent Extremism in Malaysia
COVID-19 has not only presented many unprecedented challenges to daily lives; it has changed the violent extremism landscape in Malaysia.
Returning To Our Roots: The Anger and Heartbreak of Young Malay Men
Article is a preamble to Dina Zaman’s new book on Malay(sia), Malayness. Her book is scheduled for sale in Q3 of 2021.
Leveraging on Soft Power in Indonesia’s Vaccine Diplomacy
For the 2024 Elections, certain political parties are given concessions to bypass factual verification to contest. These concessions, via Decision 55/2020, will likely hamper efforts to simplify the political system in Indonesia.
Women and Kinship Pivotal to JAD’s Future Attacks in Indonesia
Based on recent terrorist attacks in Indonesia, Jemaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) will continue exploiting women and kinship for future operations.
A Four-Component Post-Release Assessment Essential to Prevent Recidivism in Indonesia
Pledging loyalty to the Unitary Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) is an important indicator the government uses to measure the success of terrorist deradicalization programmes inside prisons. However, assessments must continue after an inmate’s release.
Gendering Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Initiatives in Malaysia
Malaysian women are no longer harmless nor immune to violent extremism. It is thus imperative for gender perspectives to be included in the design and implementation of Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) initiatives in Malaysia.
Thwarting Future Attacks by FPI Splinter Cells in Indonesia
A splinter cell of an Indonesian extremist group, Front Pembela Islam (Islamic Defenders Front/FPI), was foiled in their plans to attack the government and businesses. How can Indonesia prevent similar occurrences in the future?
Indonesian Military Under Terrorist Attack
Terrorists continue to attack Indonesia’s security apparatus including its military (TNI). TNI needs to heighten security measures to prevent future attacks on its personnel and installations.
Mothers and the Internet: Indonesian Youths Caught in Between
With the increasing roles of mothers in terrorism and the internet as a source of indoctrination, Indonesian youths are caught in between two significant spheres of influence.
The Dynamics of Terrorist Recruitment Across Online Platforms: Taking it to the Next Level
Trumping traditional media, the Islamic State in East Asia has gone digital to reach the masses.
Linguistic Appeal of Daesh’s Propaganda
Despite their defeat, Daesh’s propaganda is still garnering support globally. Key to this is the linguistic appeal of their messages.
Polemic of the Proposed Revision of the Information and Electronic Transaction Law
The Indonesian government’s plan to revise the existing UU ITE raises concerns from opposition and watchdogs speculating that the government is finding new means to criminalize freedom of speech.
Short-term Gain, Long-term Loss of Money Politics in Indonesia’s Regional Electoral Process
The issue of money-politics in Indonesia’s regional elections is a worrying sign that rent-seeking interest still plagues its representational system. When social tensions are rising, representation might become a key issue to stability in the future.
Controversies Surrounding the 2021 Presidential Regulation on Violent Extremism in Indonesia
The Indonesian government has issued a comprehensive regulation aimed at preventing the development of violent extremism. However, its signing has caused controversy, especially fears of potential witch hunts where people would prejudice and find fault with others.
Exclusive Statement by FPI Lawyer, Aziz Yanuar
This is an exclusive statement by FPI lawyer, Aziz Yanuar, sought after its disbandment. The following statement was translated verbatim into English from Bahasa Indonesia.
FPI Disbandment: Setting a Bad Precedence
After 22 years of existence and rife with controversies, the Islamic Defender Front (FPI) has finally collapsed during the Joko Widodo (Jokowi) administration. Was the government right in unilaterally disbanding FPI without warning, much less court proceedings?
Improving the Quality of Indonesian Human Resources as a Pre-requisite to Expedite the Job Creation Law: A Regional and Global Perspective
As the Job Creation Law plays a strategic role in developing the Indonesian economy, it may assist Indonesia to become a formidable regional and global competitor. Hence, it is important to synergize the law with other legislations, including the Law on the National Educational System.
The Invisible Women and Children of Malaysia: The Vulnerability of Stateless Persons to Terrorism and Violent Extremism
Since terrorist and violent extremist groups tend to flourish in marginalized areas, no sector in today’s world is at greater risk and remains severely understudied as the stateless women and children targeted for recruitment and radicalization by terrorist organizations.
Why are CPP-NPA Terrorists Deadlier than Religious Extremists?
Armed Forces of the Philippines’ official records show that the NPA communist-terrorist group has killed 13,304 of its troops from 1975 to June 2020. This is four times the soldiers killed by the MNLF and the MILF, and 5.5 times the soldiers killed by the Abu Sayyaf Group.
Arming Community Actors to Combat Violent Extremism in Malaysia
The evolving threat of violent extremism has underscored the need for a multi-stakeholder response. In Malaysia, initiatives on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) have been predominantly state-led and prioritise reactive or ‘hard’ security measures over lasting prevention.
King and People are Inseparable: Proactive Constitutional Monarch in Parliamentary System
The value of a proactive constitutional monarch in Johor lies in the fact that the monarch can effectively unite different (even mutually suspicious and hostile) ethnic groups in a multi-ethnic country.
Women in The Early Era of Terrorism in Indonesia
The first of this two-part analysis explores the roles of women in terrorism in Indonesia since the 1950s to 2010s. It describes the limited roles women play in these radical movements and the reasons behind their subordination.
Key Roles of Businesses in Indonesia to Prevent Hateful Content in a COVID-19 Era
The dissemination of hateful contents generally increases in Indonesia during crises such as COVID-19 and political contestations. Such hateful contents reflect deep-seated sentiments that have developed through Indonesia’s history.
Deciding to be Malaysia’s PM8: An Organizational Trust Perspective
Via the organizational trust theory, insights can be obtained as to why accepting the royal mandate and not rushing to call for a snap election is ideal for Muhyiddin Yassin to become Malaysia’s PM8.
Immortality via News Media? A Case Study of Former Terrorism Inmates in Indonesia
Employing Terror Management Theory (TMT), this study sought to explore the impact of the symbiotic relationship between news media and terrorism on terrorism perpetrators.
Preventing the Radicalization of Former Terror Inmates’ Children in Indonesia
Disengagement and deradicalization of individuals convicted of terrorism require a holistic approach that must continue after the individuals release from prison. This is to ensure that violence is not pursued by these individuals and their children.