Tenggara Backgrounder is a weekly briefing service combining insights and analysis by experts from the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and Universitas Prasetiya Mulya, as well as background information from The Jakarta Post journalists. Tenggara Backgrounder provides you exclusive insights into what’s happening behind the scenes along with insider scoops that are not published in the media.
10 Reasons why Ahok will return to politics
Tenggara Backgrounder February 01
Former Jakarta governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama left prison in Jakarta on Jan. 24 after serving time for blasphemy. His strong band of loyal supporters and detractors alike were anticipating his next political move upon his release, but no such announcement came.
First presidential debate: Normative or in progress?
Tenggara Backgrounder January 25
The first official presidential debate on Jan. 17 drew criticism. Critics argue that the debate was too general, or even borderline boring, as candidates offered no new programs or fresh ideas throughout the debate.
New BNPB chairman signals revival of militarism
Tenggara Backgrounder January 18
The appointment of Lt. Gen. Doni Monardo as the new Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) chairman may carry greater implications not only for the agency itself, but for the country’s civil bureaucracy at large.
Fake news is weapon of choice in 2019 election
Tenggara Backgrounder January 11
The proliferation of fake news is intensifying with the election campaign moving to high gear, three months before voting day on April 17. There is just too much fake news and the tendency is to ignore it and let it pass.
Amien Rais and the future of PAN
Tenggara Backgrounder January 4
Born out of the reform movement, the National Mandate Party (PAN) is facing an uncertain future due to a deepening schism within, as evident in the recent demand from several cofounders that Amien Rais, the party’s patron, resign.
Uighurs: Questioning Chinese factors in Indonesia
Tenggara Backgrounder December 28
News about the alleged oppression of the Uighurs in Xinjiang, China, has sparked outrage among Indonesians. Difference responses from the government and the public, however, might indicate the current political landscape in Indonesia.