Category: Politics
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NTUC Flags Politically Significant Status under Foreign Interference Law
The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is poised to be designated as a politically significant person under the Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Act (FICA), a law that empowers the authorities to address foreign interference in domestic politics. On July 11, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced this decision, citing NTUC’s significant and interconnected relationship with…
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The Importance of Diplomacy in Resolving Disputes in the South China Sea
The ongoing conflict between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea has caused significant tension and instability in the region. The recent actions of the Philippines, particularly its use of arbitration, have exacerbated the situation. It is crucial for both countries to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy in order to achieve a peaceful resolution…
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‘A Voice’ for Australia’s First Peoples: Debunking Misinformation Among Malaysians
As Australia prepares for a pivotal vote on whether to establish ‘a voice’ for indigenous citizens in the constitution, the referendum has sparked misunderstandings within the Malaysian community. Misconceptions have resulted in some individuals of Malaysian descent erroneously drawing parallels between the referendum and Malaysia’s past nativist policies. Set for October 14, the referendum aims…
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“Indonesia’s Battle Against Corruption: Navigating Through Challenges”
Indonesia has been confronting a widespread struggle against corruption, with recent scandals involving high-ranking state officials casting doubt on the efficacy of the country’s anti-corruption endeavors. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has been at the forefront of this battle, but its integrity has been questioned due to various internal controversies and political interference. The challenges…
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The Growing Issue of Censorship in Malaysia Despite Pro-Reform Pledge by Anwar Ibrahim’s Administration
A recent report entitled “People Power Under Attack 2023” illuminated the growing censorship in Malaysia under the leadership of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The report underscored the shrinking civil liberties in the country, as the closure of news portals and seizure of books contribute to an atmosphere of censorship. The report categorized countries into five…
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Malaysia’s Decision to End Diesel Subsidies: Impact and Unforeseen Fallout
In an effort to address the burgeoning diesel subsidy bill and prevent leakages from diesel smuggling, Malaysia has made the decision to remove subsidies on diesel. This policy, which took effect in Peninsular Malaysia on June 1, 2024, resulted in a 56% increase in diesel prices. While this move was necessary from an economic standpoint,…
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DepEd Explains Decision to Remove ‘Marcos Dictatorship’ from Curriculum as ‘Alignment’
The recent decision by the Department of Education (DepEd) to eliminate the name “Marcos” from the term “dictator” in its curriculum has garnered significant attention. According to Jocelyn Andaya, Director of the DepEd Bureau of Curriculum and Development, curriculum specialists made this decision in the context of aligning and organizing the lesson guide for Araling…
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Breaking down the Walls: The Dangers of Ethnic Conflict in Politics
The peril of ethnic conflict is a profoundly damaging outcome of our divisive mindset. This mindset fosters a mentality of “I versus you” and “us versus them,” leading to conflict over ethnicity, religion, politics, the economy, and nature. The origins of ethnic conflict can be traced back to the establishment of the first civilizations in…
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Malaysia’s Firm Stand Against US Request to Cut Iran’s Oil Sale
Malaysia has unequivocally communicated to the United States its decision not to participate in efforts to restrict Iran’s oil sales within Malaysian waters. The country has cited its adherence to sanctions imposed solely by the United Nations Security Council as the basis for its position. During a recent press conference, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail…
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Reviving the Supreme Advisory Council: A Proposal for Change
The House of Representatives’ Legislation Body (Baleg) is scheduled to present a proposal for the amendment of the Presidential Advisory Board (Wantimpres) Law during a plenary session on July 11. The purpose of this proposal is to reinstate the Supreme Advisory Council (DPA), a body from the New Order era that holds equivalent authority to…