Israeli-Palestine violence impacts Southeast Asian Muslim nations’ ties with Israel
The recent violence between Israel and Palestine creates a challenge for Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei’s covert relationships with Tel Aviv.
Malaysia
Ramadan travel poses challenge for Malaysia and Indonesia’s COVID restrictions
Though Indonesia and Malaysia have already restricted travel ahead of the Eid holidays, the likelihood that millions will migrate to celebrate the festival after the month of Ramadan remains a challenge.
Indonesia and Malaysia still opposed to ties with Israel despite covert relationship
While Indonesia and Malaysia remain publicly supportive of Palestine and refuse to establish ties with Israel, both countries have successfully pursued a secret trade and diplomatic relationship with Tel Aviv for decades.
Allah row in Malaysia is settled for now but far from over
The Malaysian High Court’s decision to allow Christians to use the word Allah in their publications is commendable. However, the court’s past rulings on the subject and its political relevance for Muslim Malay political leaders indicate that the issue is far from over.
COVID-19 exposes Malaysia’s growing mental health challenges
Like in many countries, the pandemic has caused a surge in rates of mental health issues in Malaysia. But the country has struggled to recognize the seriousness of mental health disorders or address them on a national scale.
Will Mahathir emerge as a kingmaker for the Malay vote in Malaysia’s next election?
Mahathir Mohammad wants the Malaysian government to take the country’s ethnic diversity into account when making national policies. His comments appear to be an effort to appease voters—including the Malay majority—as the country prepares for the next election.
Malaysia and Huawei open Southeast Asia’s first cybersecurity center to support 5G growth
Malaysia has announced a partnership with Huawei as part of a push to become a regional leader in cybersecurity and increase the technical skills of its workers. Malaysia’s government appears unconcerned about Huawei’s reputational issues and the news comes amid ongoing cybersecurity controversies in Myanmar and Cambodia.
When will Malaysia’s football teams go private?
A push by the Football Association of Malaysia to ensure its leading clubs become private and cease relying on state handouts was challenging enough before COVID-19 arrived. While the group remains committed to the transition, it must accept that the shift will take longer than anticipated.
Quiet defiance: Understanding Malaysia’s careful stance on Uyghur Muslims
The recent release of a statement clarifying Malaysia’s stance of non-extradition for Uyghur Muslims may push its carefully managed-relationship with China into uncharted territory.
Have Macron’s controversial comments caused trouble for Southeast Asia’s Muslim governments?
Malaysia and Indonesia’s governments have been pressured by their citizens to take a strict line against the French president’s controversial remarks. However, some politicians are seemingly using the opportunity to make political gains.