When is a Caliph not a Caliph?
Synopsis
The self-declared Caliph of ISIS has no legitimacy and does not represent Islam. While he heads an armed militia, Abu Bakr al Baghdadi’s actions are opposed to how a Caliph should behave. The international media should repudiate his claim.
Towards Closer ASEAN-Latin American Ties
Synopsis
ASEAN is poised to develop closer ties with the Pacific Alliance of four Latin American states, which share an openness to international trade and investment and are comfortable with their relationship with the major powers.
Policy Reforms in South Asia: An Overview and the Remaining Agenda
In the past few years, the pace of economic growth in South Asia has slowed considerably for two reasons: unfavourable global economic environment and the slowing pace of economic reforms that once were the key drivers of the region’s dynamic economic performance and resilience.
Salafis, Salafism and Modern Salafism: What Lies Behind a Term?
Synopsis
The use of the term Salafi and Salafism in the contemporary period is ambiguous and in many ways confusing. The pivotal question of who or what group qualifies as Salafi remains in dispute. What is Salafism and who are the Muslims referred to as Salafis?
ASEAN Economic Community: Slow Progress on Labour Issues
Synopsis
Although Southeast Asian economies rely on international labour as a key element of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), the progress of labour liberalisation has been disappointing. It is obstructed by domestic laws and regulations due to differing concerns of labour-exporting and labour-importing countries.
Jumlah Penerima Beasiswa Di Institut Teknologi Bandung 73,37% Dari Jumlah Seluruh Mahasiswa ITB
Tahun 2014 ini ITB mengelola pemberian beasiswa dengan jumlah penerima beasiswa sebanyak 11,374 dengan jumlah total dana Rp. 145,701,852,480,-. Dengan kata lain cuma dibawah 30% dari Total Mahasiswa ITB yang membayar uang kuliah secara penuh.
China’s Maritime Silk Road: Emerging Domestic Debates
Synopsis
The emerging domestic debates over the Maritime Silk Road (MSR) show that China faces difficult questions in formulating and implementing effective policies, both internal and external.
Plankton Bloom: Keeping Fish Farms Sustainable
Synopsis
Can Singapore really attain more self-sufficiency in fish supplies? The recent plankton bloom causing massive fish deaths in local farms suggests a need to rethink and refocus the strategy.
China’s “One Belt, One Road” Initiative: New Round of Opening Up?
Synopsis
China’s “One Belt, One Road” Initiative has become a priority in Beijing’s foreign policy. Other countries, especially China’s neighbours, should not hesitate to capitalise on the opportunities it provides. But can China fulfil its ambition?
China’s Maritime Silk Road: The Politics of Routes
Synopsis
China has not effectively communicated its grand connectivity ideas to South and Southeast Asian countries. Beijing urgently needs to improve its communications with external parties and seek feedback so as to counter media speculations and to have a better understanding of regional needs.