The Rise Of Religious Populism In Malaysia And Indonesia - Free Websites, Share News And Posts Publicly

Good morning.

“Tread carefully.” That was what producers had to keep in mind, as they worked on two recent episodes of Insight on the rise of religious populism and politics – a volatile mix.

The impetus for this came about when the team covered the Malaysian elections last November. There were reports of supporters using social media like TikTok to attack candidates on their Islamic credentials; and of political parties being branded anti-Malay or anti-Muslim.

Soon after, the Sultan of Malaysia spoke against bringing politics into places of worship. And in Indonesia, Nahdlatul Ulama – the world’s largest Islamic organisation – emphasised the importance of religious moderation, as it celebrated its centennial.

Why did these leaders feel the need to issue such reminders?

Indonesia and Malaysia are gearing up for important elections. In Indonesia, ahead of next year’s Presidential polls, candidates are manoeuvring for the religious vote, even if it means courting fundamentalist groups.

In Malaysia, the Islamic Party (PAS) emerged as the biggest victor in GE15. Can they continue to capitalise on religious support in the upcoming state elections?

Insight examines the intersection of religion, identity and politics in Indonesia and Malaysia, treading carefully through this emotive topic. For as a former minister told Insight producer Zainudin Afandi during their interview, conflating religious conservatism with extremism was insulting to his faith.

Daniel Heng

Executive Producer, Insight