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RSIS encourages a culture of collaboration and networking amongst staff. This page of ongoing research projects is continually updated with the progress of existing projects, and the launch of new ones.
This collation of ongoing projects was previously produced as hard copies, which can be accessed as PDF versions HERE.
IDSS (11)
NTS (12)
CENS (0)
CMS (2)
ICPVTR (0)
NSSP (0)
STSP (0)
SRP (9)
OTHERS (7)
Southeast Asia as a Battleground for Influence: How Southeast Asia and ASEAN shape the Sino-Japanese Competition/Rivalry
Dr Bhubhindar Singh Associate Professor and Associate Dean (Academic Affairs); Head of Graduate Studies
China and Japan have developed a competitive/rivalrous relationship, which is expected to worsen in the coming decades. Perceiving Southeast Asia as an economic, political and strategic “prize”, they have elevated the importance of Southeast Asia/Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in their foreign policy strategies. The outcome has been competitive/rivalrous relationship where both fiercely compete to gain influence in Southeast Asia at the expense of the other. While the extant literature has covered various aspects of Sino-Japanese competition/rivalry in Southeast Asia, the Southeast Asian perspective has been largely silent in this research. More specifically, these studies have ignored the role that Southeast Asian/ASEAN have played in shaping the Chinese and Japanese policies and options that make up their foreign policy strategies towards Southeast Asia.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Interrogating Responses Towards Chinese influence: A Comparative Analysis of Australia and South Korea
Dr Dylan Loh Assistant Professor, Public Policy and Global Affairs, School of Social Sciences, College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, NTU
Dr Sarah Teo Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Regional Security Architecture Programme, IDSS
Chinese influence activities have attracted widespread scrutiny from governments across the world in recent years. While the literature has chiefly been concerned about the modes and methods in which China has conducted these practices, far less attention has been paid to the "how" and the "why" of recipient countries’ reactions. We add to this tentative literature by examining the responses of Australia and South Korea towards Chinese influence activities. In explaining their different responses, we suggest that the perceived strength and/or weakness of certain dynamics predisposes recipient actors to adopt either more ambivalent or assertive strategies.
| Theme: | International Politics and Security |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific |
Turning to “Like-mindedness”: Examining Middle-power Partnerships in the Indo-Pacific
Dr Sarah Teo Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Regional Security Architecture Programme, IDSS
As Sino-US rivalry accelerates and debates continue on the decline of the liberal rules-based order, middle powers have advocated the establishment of “like-minded” networks that would contribute towards regional and global stability. While the literature has focused primarily on the form of such cooperation, such as minilateralism, less attention has been given to understanding the nuances of “like-mindedness”. Using Australia, Indonesia and South Korea as case studies, this project seeks to offer a typology of “like-mindedness”—focusing on the specific areas and functions—in middle-power networks.
| Theme: | International Politics and Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Mapping Low-Carbon Energy Transitions in Indonesia and the Philippines
Ms Margareth Sembiring Associate Research Fellow
Low carbon energy transition entails a transformation from fossil fuel-based economy to renewable energy-based one. Some countries are developing renewable energy at a faster rate than others. This research project aims to unpack the push and pull factors behind low-carbon energy transitions in the Philippines and Indonesia to examine reasons behind the Philippines’ relative progress in expanding its renewable energy systems.
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | Global / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Marine Plastic Pollution in Southeast Asia: Cooperation, Challenges and Opportunities
Mr Julius Cesar Imperial Trajano Research Fellow
Southeast Asia is both a source and victim of plastic pollution in the Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea, peripheral seas and rivers. Countries in the region are major contributors to land-based plastic waste leaking into the world’s oceans. Around 80 percent of marine plastic debris can be traced back to land-based plastic waste. Southeast Asia and the broader East Asia region are facing the toughest challenge in this regard. This research analyses national and regional efforts to address plastic pollution in Southeast Asia. It explores the contributions of governments, regional bodies, scientists, the private sector, local communities and civil society organisations to finding solutions to plastic pollution in the region. This research also examines the multisectoral approach and human security approach to marine environmental issues and plastic pollution.
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Research & Knowledge Generation on Digitalising Climate-smart Supply Chain in Farming Systems in ASEAN and India
Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony Professor of International Relations and Associate Dean (International Engagement); Head of Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies; President’s Chair in International Relations and Security Studies
Dr Paul Teng Professor and Adjunct Senior Fellow
Dr Dipinder Singh Randhawa Senior Fellow
Mr Jose Ma. Luis P. Montesclaros Research Fellow
RSIS received a grant from the German development agency, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), to pursue a study on the digitalization of climate-smart supply chains in selected farming systems between ASEAN and India. This study, led by the NTS Centre’s food security team, will assess the potential of digital technologies to address food security and climate-related food supply chain challenges, leveraging document reviews of policies under ASEAN-India cooperation; quantitative analysis of open international databases; and interviews/questionnaires/consultations with relevant stakeholders. The research will provide evidence-based results on implementation challenges and potential opportunities on the digitalization of certain parts of the selected supply chain and commodity both in the ASEAN region and India, as well as develop recommendations for promoting the scale-up of digital solutions in one selected supply chain in ASEAN and India.
| Theme: | General / International Political Economy / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Europe / South Asia / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
The Three Jewels: Essaying Buddhist Philosophy of Religion
Dr Rafal Stepien Assistant Professor and Coordinator of MSc (Asian Studies) Programme
The first book of its kind, The Three Jewels: Essaying Buddhist Philosophy of Religion constitutes a major advance in cross-cultural and inter-disciplinary philosophy of religion. More than an introduction, this volume stands at the vanguard of ongoing and increasingly urgent efforts to diversify philosophy of religion. It includes critical interventions in the field from Buddhist premises and paradigms alongside substantially new treatments of perennial questions from Buddhist sources. Covering philosophers across Buddhist Asia from the classical to the contemporary periods, this book contains specially commissioned essays written in clear and accessible prose by leading international scholars. It is both a compelling contribution to global humanities and an ideal companion for students, scholars, and all those eager to expand their knowledge of the world’s resolutely plural philosophies of religions.
| Theme: | General / Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Central Asia / East Asia and Asia Pacific / Europe / Global / South Asia / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
COVID-19 in South, West, and Southeast Asia
Dr Rohan Gunaratna Professor of Security Studies
Mr Mohd Mizan Aslam Senior Fellow, Global Peace Institute London
Aslam and Gunaratna bring together a broad analysis of the responses of states in Asia to the threats presented by the COVID-19 pandemic in its early phase. While the impact of the pandemic has undoubtedly been disastrous, it has also taught many lessons about social, political, economic, and security norms in modern civilization. The contributors to this book look at how these lessons have been learned—often the hard way—by a range of states including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Brunei Darussalam, and Jordan, as well as by international organizations including ASEAN. They look at a range of issues, going beyond the most apparent healthcare concerns to also look at challenges such as the gig economy, terrorism, extremism, religious identity, and cybersecurity. Using these country-based case studies, this book establishes a framework for understanding these challenges and establishing best practice and scalable solutions for addressing them.
| Theme: | General |
| Region: | Global / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Climate Security in the Indo-Pacific
Dr Alistair D. B. Cook Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Programme
Ms S. Nanthini Senior Analyst
Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony Professor of International Relations and Associate Dean (International Engagement); Head of Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies; President’s Chair in International Relations and Security Studies
Ms Margareth Sembiring Associate Research Fellow
This project will investigate climate security in the Indo-Pacific and its implications on regional affairs: the role of climate change as a crisis multiplier, the perceptions of climate security, and implications for defence and foreign affairs in the region. It will evaluate the place of climate change within national contexts, paying particular attention to the military by looking at its position within national discourse, the interpretations of climate security by military and civilian actors as well as its implications for regional security.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / South Asia / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Climate Security in the Indo-Pacific
Dr Alistair D. B. Cook Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Programme
Ms S. Nanthini Senior Analyst
Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony Professor of International Relations and Associate Dean (International Engagement); Head of Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies; President’s Chair in International Relations and Security Studies
Ms Margareth Sembiring Associate Research Fellow
This project will investigate climate security in the Indo-Pacific and its implications on regional affairs: the role of climate change as a crisis multiplier, the perceptions of climate security, and implications for defence and foreign affairs in the region. It will evaluate the place of climate change within national contexts, paying particular attention to the military by looking at its position within national discourse, the interpretations of climate security by military and civilian actors as well as its implications for regional security.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / South Asia / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Humanitarian Civil-Military Coordination
Dr Alistair D. B. Cook Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Programme
Mr Christopher Chen Associate Research Fellow
This project will assess the current work underway to develop HADR cooperation initiatives at the regional level and whether current crises and converging risk events necessitate an evolution of current CMCOORD. It will examine civil-military perspectives on disaster response, analyse case studies and assess the state of civil-military coordination in the Indo-Pacific. This will inform the identification of areas for improvement as well as assess attempts to develop HADR cooperation initiatives at the regional level.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Humanitarian Civil-Military Coordination
Dr Alistair D. B. Cook Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Programme
Mr Christopher Chen Associate Research Fellow
This project will assess the current work underway to develop HADR cooperation initiatives at the regional level and whether current crises and converging risk events necessitate an evolution of current CMCOORD. It will examine civil-military perspectives on disaster response, analyse case studies and assess the state of civil-military coordination in the Indo-Pacific. This will inform the identification of areas for improvement as well as assess attempts to develop HADR cooperation initiatives at the regional level.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Humanitarian Futures in Southeast Asia
Dr Alistair D. B. Cook Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Programme
Dr Lina Gong Research Fellow
This project explores what is meant by strategic futures thinking and its importance for organisations with a humanitarian mandate committed to being prepared for the future. It will map out the current humanitarian landscape primarily in Southeast Asia within a global context, analyse the strengths and weaknesses of organisations with humanitarian responsibilities in coping with the humanitarian challenges today and discuss the necessary transformation for related organisations to be better prepared for future scenarios.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Artificial Intelligence in Asian Armies: Technologies for Next Major Wars
Dr Michael Raska Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Military Transformations Programme, IDSS
As part of the 2021 NTU-MOE AcRF Tier 1 grant call, Dr Michael Raska, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Military Transformations Programme at RSIS, has been awarded $61,812 for a research project titled, “AI in Asian Armies: Technologies for Next Major Wars”. The book project seeks to explore the varying conceptual, organisational, and technological underccurrents of AI-defence innovation, development, deployment, and use in select militaries in East Asia. Comparative case studies of military AI innovation trajectories in the region may help Singaporean defence policymakers to detect a change in new approaches to combat, and prompt a debate of the validity of established strategic paradigms and operational art, and ascertain the character of future warfare.
| Theme: | Conflict and Stability / Technology and Future Issues |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Global |
Steering a Middle Way: Great Power Technological Competition in Indonesia and Vietnam
Dr Leonard C. Sebastian Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Indonesia Programme, IDSS
Dr Amir Sulfikar Associate Professor, College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, NTU
This research project looks at the role technological innovation plays in shaping power transitions and its impact on Southeast Asia. Technological competition between US and China will likely intensify over the bulk of 4th Industrial Revolution technologies over the next decade, as many of these technologies are dual-use technologies with both economic and military implications. Therefore, domination and leadership over these technologies could determine the outcome of great power competition between China and the US.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / Technology and Future Issues |
| Region: | Global / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
The Future of Planetary Health: Lessons from a Global Pandemic
Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony Professor of International Relations and Associate Dean (International Engagement); Head of Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies; President’s Chair in International Relations and Security Studies
Dr Alistair D. B. Cook Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Programme
Chen Tao Associate Professor, Nanyang Business School, NTU
Miles Powell Head of History, School of Humanities, College of Humanities, Arts and Social, NTU
Patrick Daly Senior Research Fellow, Earth Observatory of Singapore, NTU
Ms Margareth Sembiring Associate Research Fellow
Mr Christopher Chen Associate Research Fellow
This research project brings together RSIS, COHASS, NBS, and EOS to develop a full grant proposal to investigate how a planetary health approach can be adopted/applied to mitigate Anthropocene risks and build resilience for a more sustainable and prosperous world. The schools involved in this proposal have consulted their research on global governance, risk analysis in financial markets, and environmental justice and societal impacts. It aims to answer two main questions: (i) How do we mitigate Anthropocene risk to improve planetary health? (ii) Why does the Planetary Health approach offer a better way to avoid future global crises like COVID-19? Through the development of a full research grant proposal, this project aims to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective to address the planetary health challenge which will contribute to an emerging research agenda and provide insights for public policy.
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | Global |
Comparative Theology between Europe and Asia: A Hermeneutical Proposal
Dr Paul Hedges Associate Professor
A planned book project exploring methods of interpretation in studying religious diversity through a hermeneutical lens and seeking to offer a decolonial praxis of hermeneutics for comparative theology. It will engage Christian, Buddhist, Islamic, Hindu, and Chinese thought while also taking account of Jewish thought in this.
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Global |
Critical Hermeneutical Phenomenology: Towards a Theory for Studying Religion and Religious Diversity
Dr Paul Hedges Associate Professor
Building from the theoretical basis of Understanding Religion (California University Press, 2021), a model for the theoretical exploration of how we study, interpret and understand the world, with particular attention to the study of religion and religious diversity, will be explored. It is hoped to get a book project that explores this.
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Global |
Decolonizing Dialogue: A Dao-De-Jing (Way-Ethics/Principles-Classics) Approach
Dr Paul Hedges Associate Professor
To develop an approach to dialogue that is envisaged and coming out in a 4 book series (and some accompanying articles) that decolonises contemporary theorising on dialogue, focusing primarily on interreligious and intercultural dialogue. It will engage the classical Western theorists with global voices and perspectives around three poles: ethics, hermeneutics, and praxis.
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Global |
Legitimation Strategies in the International Organisation of the Asia-Pacific
Dr Joel Ng Research Fellow and Deputy Head of Centre for Multilateralism Studies
This project explores how growing Sino-US tensions have led to a contest over the regional security architecture governing the Asia-Pacific. ASEAN, still officially the default leader of regional formats such as the East Asia Summit, ASEAN Regional Forum, and ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus, has been increasingly sidestepped. The great power competitors have grown disinclined to dilute their agendas through ASEAN’s consensus mechanism and sought to formulate their own vehicles, such as the Quad Plus and Belt and Road Conference. Yet supplanting ASEAN structures requires legitimation, not only for the legitimacy of the alternative format, but also to attract support and buy-in, especially from ASEAN member states. Using Lenz and Söderbaum’s three analytical perspectives to classify US-led, China-led, and ASEAN-led initiatives in the region, the project investigates how discursive, behavioural, and isomorphic legitimation strategies have developed respectively for each actor.
| Theme: | Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Secularism and Religiosity: Global Trends and Implications for Multicultural Societies
Ambassador Mohammad Alami Musa Head of Studies in Inter-Religious Relations in Plural Societies Programme
Mr Acmal Zuheyr Iefan Bin Abdul Wahid Senior Analyst
The study aims to understand global trends relating to (i) secularisation and desecularisation; (ii) rise or decline of religion; (iii) new age religions, spirituality and study the implications of these trends on multicultural societies. It will explore prospects of positive global developments and emerging risks of negative threats regarding religiosity and its intersection with secularity. It will survey the shifting models of state-religion relations and the different modes of governing multi-cultural societies. In this regard, the study will investigate the experiences of several countries and compare them with Singapore’s evolving model of state secularism. Secular state models of the UK, US, France, Turkey, India, and Indonesia will be studied. A specific issue that will be studied is the reconcilability between Islam and state secularism, to investigate if scepticism exists towards the secular state model amongst the religious elite.
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Global |
Social Protection Framework and Rights-Based Approach to Governing Online Freelance Labour: Towards Decent Work in Digital Labour Platforms
Mr Julius Cesar Imperial Trajano Research Fellow
The emergence of cross-border, web-based digital labour platforms has been among the major transformations in the world of work over the past decade. Digital labour platforms facilitate the real-time hiring of freelance workers for a plethora of tasks, such as IT programming, language teaching, virtual assistance, marketing, graphic designing, project management, and even research and development. This is an ongoing study on the emergence of web-based, cross-border digital labour and its impact on labour rights and social protection, with a special focus on online freelance workers from Southeast Asia. It reviews the efforts of ASEAN and national governments in the region to promote social protection of these workers and address challenges to rights-based governance for digital labour platforms. It offers possible areas for action by Southeast Asian countries to promote rights and social protection for their workers who are engaged in web-based digital freelance labour.
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / South Asia / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Understanding Christian Far Right Extremism (CFRE)
Dr Paul Hedges Associate Professor
Mr Luca Farrow Senior Analyst
Through seminars and papers, this project aims to answer questions such as the following:
• To what extent have CFRE narratives gone global and what are the various forms they take?
• What are some of the key groups, traditions, and movements active in CFRE, both in specific contexts (e.g. Europe, the US, Australasia) and globally?
• How far do Christian, or other religious narratives/motifs, inspire actors both in FRE and CFRE in terms of participation, motivation, etc.?
• What are the key Christian terms, theological ideas, and symbology employed in C/FRE?
• How central are narratives of race and whiteness in CFRE, and how does this play into links with other global movements?
• How do both Islamophobia and antisemitism relate to the wider narratives in C/FRE?
• To what extent have CFRE narratives gone global and what are the various forms they take?
• What are some of the key groups, traditions, and movements active in CFRE, both in specific contexts (e.g. Europe, the US, Australasia) and globally?
• How far do Christian, or other religious narratives/motifs, inspire actors both in FRE and CFRE in terms of participation, motivation, etc.?
• What are the key Christian terms, theological ideas, and symbology employed in C/FRE?
• How central are narratives of race and whiteness in CFRE, and how does this play into links with other global movements?
• How do both Islamophobia and antisemitism relate to the wider narratives in C/FRE?
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Global |
Malaysia’s Rising Political Fragmentation and Contestation, and the Implications for Governance and Statecraft
Ms Ariel Tan Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Malaysia Programme; Deputy Head of Policy Studies
Ms Nadiah Binte Isa Research Analyst
This project aims to monitor and analyse the drivers and players in Malaysia’s evolving political system. It seeks to discover the key implications of rising political instability for the governance of Malaysia. Themes of interest include party and coalition politics, state-federal relations, public health and security, race and religion, and the mobilisation of youth and civil society. To contribute to research and public awareness, the Programme produces papers and commentaries, collaborates with experts, and organises events to discuss current developments of interest. More details may be found on the Malaysia Programme’s webpage: https://www.rsis.edu.sg/research/idss/research-programmes/malaysia-programme/#.Yd98ci8Rrj0
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Maritime Security / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism / Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Strategic Positioning: A Study of Malaysia’s Foreign and Security Policies
Mr Nawaljeet Singh Rayar Associate Research Fellow
The project studies Malaysia’s foreign relations and security policy by paying close attention to its postures in bilateral, regional and global issues. It is also attentive to the interplay between domestic and foreign policy imperatives. In doing so, the project aims to discover the nuances that give rise to Malaysia’s complex foreign policy decision-making process and its choice of security partners. To contribute to research and public awareness, the Programme produces papers and commentaries, collaborates with experts, and organises events to discuss current developments of interest. More details may be found on the Malaysia Programme’s webpage: https://www.rsis.edu.sg/research/idss/research-programmes/malaysia-programme/#.Yd98ci8Rrj0
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / International Politics and Security / Maritime Security / Non-Traditional Security / Regionalism and Multilateralism / Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Interests, Ideology and Great Power Spheres of Influence
Dr Evan Resnick Senior Associate Fellow and Coordinator of MSc (International Relations) Programme
Asst Prof Evan Resnick, Coordinator of MSc (International Relations) Programme at RSIS, has received the Ministry of Education (MOE) Academic Research Fund (AcRF) Tier 1 grant of $37,000. The three-year grant will be directed towards the completion of a book manuscript that looks into an area not well-studied in International Relations, i.e., the phenomenon of great power spheres of influence.
| Theme: | Conflict and Stability / General / International Politics and Security |
| Region: | Global |
China and its Closest Strategic Allies
Dr Hoo Tiang Boon Associate Professor
Asst Prof Hoo Tiang Boon, Coordinator of the MSc (Asian Studies) Programme at RSIS, has received the MOE AcRF Tier 1 grant of $79,730 for a research project titled “Inner Circle: A Study of China's Relations with its Closest Strategic Allies." This project seeks to better understand the nature and substance of China’s relationship with its closest strategic allies in global politics. In particular, it investigates two key puzzles: Who are China’s closest strategic allies in global politics, and what is the extent of these countries’ alignment with China? Conceptually, the project introduces the notion of the “strategic inner circle” to distinguish China’s closest allies, and addresses limitations in existing concepts such as security alliances, military coalitions, clients, and formal partnerships.
| Theme: | Conflict and Stability / Country and Region Studies / General / International Politics and Security |
| Region: | Central Asia |
Interreligious Relations between Muslims and People of other Faiths in Singapore
Dr Paul Hedges Associate Professor
This is the Singapore part of a wider cross-border research project funded by the Australian Research Council. It explores Muslim attitudes to the “Religious Other”, and involves a collection of data in the public sphere and a series of interviews, while various seminars and conferences will arise from the project alongside a book project and other publications. The topics for research include Muslim perspectives towards people of the Religious Other, evolution of understandings on the treatment of the Religious Other, historical and contemporary Islamic scholarship on the issue, validity of and counterarguments to extremist views, and other related issues. Additional topics are the need for introspection and critical review of Islamic doctrines/dogma, managing growing conservatism in religions (starting with Islam and then others). The project will involve a critical engagement with relevant Islamic legal and theological texts with regard to the religious other.
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Mapping out the Interreligious Landscape in Singapore – Interfaith Actors
Mr Luca Farrow Senior Analyst
This is a project to map out the notable interfaith actors in Singapore, in terms of who they are, the nature of their activities and how they interconnect and overlap. It will involve the production of a database containing information including the activities that the various actors engage in and how, if at all, the various actors are linked domestically and into international networks. The coverage of the database would be wide to include government bodies, civil society organisations and influential individuals active in the interreligious field.
Importantly, the project does not only involve the compilation of a database but will involve adopting and/or developing theoretical framework(s) against which to analyse the landscape of interfaith actors in Singapore and to help assess where there are strengths and weaknesses in terms of the promotion of positive interfaith relations.
Importantly, the project does not only involve the compilation of a database but will involve adopting and/or developing theoretical framework(s) against which to analyse the landscape of interfaith actors in Singapore and to help assess where there are strengths and weaknesses in terms of the promotion of positive interfaith relations.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Survey of Interreligious Relations in Singapore (Part 2)
Dr Paul Hedges Associate Professor
This project will undertake both quantitative and qualitative research into Singapore’s religious landscape, seeking to map current trends and look to stay ahead of the curve in terms of changing attitudes and issues. Building from Part 1, existing studies and issues identified as well as seeking to map out potential future fault-lines, some key areas for examination will include: perceptions of shrinking Common Space; growing tendencies towards exclusivism and rejection of shared traditions and customs; the interconnection of ethnicity, nationalism and religion, including transnational networks; perceptions about the state’s interventions and management of religion; anxieties about, and impediments to interreligious dialogue and community cohesion; interreligious literacy; building blocks for a shared national narrative on social cohesion and religious harmony.
| Theme: | Religion in Contemporary Society |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
The Political Dynamics of US Trade Policy
Dr Su-Hyun Lee Assistant Professor and Coordinator of MSc (International Political Economy) Programme
Asst Prof Lee Su-Hyun, Coordinator of the MSc (International Political Economy) Programme at RSIS, has received the MOE AcRF Tier 1 grant of $27,840 for a research project titled “The Political Dynamics of Protectionism: Origins and Consequences.” The project focuses on a book manuscript on American trade policy that examines how incumbent presidents and their parties strategically set trade policy for electoral and partisan goals, and to what extent the distributional consequences of trade affect voting behaviour in US presidential elections. As extensions, the project analyses how trade competition from low income countries, especially from China, has affected the rise of populism and anti-globalisation backlash in advanced industrial countries.
| Theme: | International Political Economy |
| Region: | Americas / Global |
Climate Change Mitigation through CDM and REDD+ in Southeast Asia
Ms Margareth Sembiring Associate Research Fellow
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has created several mechanisms to facilitate climate change mitigation efforts in developing countries. Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) were established to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the energy and forestry sectors respectively. This research assesses the interactions among actors involved in these initiatives in countries across Southeast Asia. It aims to examine the gaps and challenges in implementing climate mitigation solutions proposed by multilateral institutions such as the UNFCCC. It identifies best practices in optimising such solutions at the national level.
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
The Southeast Asian Region: A Western Definition through Nature and Landscape
Dr Victor R Savage Adjunct Senior Fellow
The book of 11 chapters tries to look at the Southeast Asian region from an external (Western) perspective. The European perspective of Southeast Asia covers over 2,000 years of history. The first European cartographic definition of the region was found in Claudius Ptolemy’s 1st century AD atlas: Map 11 was dedicated to Southeast Asia entitled India beyond the Ganges. The European definition of the region was revived in the late 15th century with travellers and traders coming to the region and formulating their perceptions of the region. In this study, I use nature and landscape to represent the intimate Western experiences in the region and how these perceptions kept changing their definitions of the Southeast Asian region.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / Regionalism and Multilateralism |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
In Search of the Singapore Identity
Mr Han Fook Kwang Senior Fellow
This research will explore issues arising out of Singapore’s search for its identity. It will discuss what constitutes the Singapore identity, how has it changed, if any, what accounts for the change, why did the change occur, and what are the implications for the future. Singapore’s search for identity is not taking place in isolation but against a global backdrop where issues of identity are coming to the fore. In Europe and the US, there has been a resurgence of public sentiment towards stronger national identities. Brexit and the election of President Donald Trump in the US were examples of this, as is the rising strength of nationalistic, right wing parties in Europe. The research will discuss Singapore’s identity in this global context. It will also explore the issue of identity in the following areas: (i) economic identity; (ii) cultural identity; (iii) political/social identity; and (iv) international identity.
| Theme: | General / International Political Economy |
| Region: | Global / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Contributing to Food Security and Fulfilling Agriculture’s Commercial Potential through Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture in Singapore
Dr Paul Teng Professor and Adjunct Senior Fellow
Mr Jose Ma. Luis P. Montesclaros Research Fellow
Singapore imports more than 90 per cent of its total food consumption, and grows some quantities of eggs, fish and vegetables. There are plans of boosting these numbers, although any initiative will need to value-add to the country’s economy and productivity. In order to be more food secure amid the limitation of space, the government has supported technologies such as vertical farming, and provided funding to help farmers upgrade practices. This study will look into the types of technologies that can be leveraged to boost farming’s productivity, and allow for greater production within the limits of space, water and labour. It will further study the enabling environment for technology, focusing on the technology-policy interface.
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Assessing Gaps and Opportunities in Food Safety for Safer Food Production in ASEAN
Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony Professor of International Relations and Associate Dean (International Engagement); Head of Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies; President’s Chair in International Relations and Security Studies
Mr Jose Ma. Luis P. Montesclaros Research Fellow
Dr Jorgen Schlundt Professor and Director, NTU Food Technology Centre
This project aims to examine the current threats to food safety in ASEAN and explore ways to foster and enhance collaboration on food security. This project will produce a policy-relevant paper on how ASEAN as an institution, and its member states can address the types of food-borne diseases (FBD) that have plagued the region over the years. This is to be achieved by mapping out the ASEAN institutions involved in FBD management, and identifying gaps when compared to successful FBD management systems in countries/institutions such as Denmark and the European Union. This study will be limited to the top three to four diseases related to biotic factors (such as bacteria, parasites, and viruses), identified based on World Health Organization (WHO) Data. Literature review and stakeholder interviews will be done to provide insights on the ground. This research is being done in collaboration with the newly established NTU Food Technology Centre (NAFTEC).
| Theme: | Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Science & Technology and Economic Security
Dr Christopher H. Lim Adjunct Senior Fellow
Studies would include: i) how the development of science & technology could change the economic future and security of any country and/or region; ii) strategies and/or initiatives of a country and/ or a region could alter the economic future and security of another country and/or region; iii) exploration on the potential usage of biomimicry concept on how science, technology and economic could auto-feed and change the dynamics and characteristics of each other.
| Theme: | General |
| Region: | Global |
Mahathir, Anwar and Malaysia’s Opposition Politics: A New Beginning?
Mr Yang Razali Kassim Senior Fellow
To review the prospects for the Malaysian opposition, following the second incarceration of Anwar Ibrahim, and the “reinvention” of Mahathir as a de facto oppositionist leader. This paper will include the broader implications on Malaysian politics as a whole, taking into account whether the Malaysian opposition will evolve or remake itself in unexpected ways.
| Theme: | Conflict and Stability / Country and Region Studies / General |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Global / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Mapping Regional Frameworks for Nuclear Energy Governance in the Asia Pacific
Dr Mely Caballero-Anthony Professor of International Relations and Associate Dean (International Engagement); Head of Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies; President’s Chair in International Relations and Security Studies
Mr Julius Cesar Imperial Trajano Research Fellow
The project explores pathways toward building a robust framework for nuclear energy governance in the Asia Pacific, including ASEAN. It has the following objectives: i) To look into the nuclear energy plans of East Asian/ASEAN countries, including the construction of nuclear power plants in the region, ii) To examine the regulatory frameworks on nuclear energy in ASEAN and the Asia Pacific and iii) To explore the feasibility of a “wider regional framework/blueprint for nuclear energy cooperation in the Asia Pacific”, building on some of the existing regional frameworks such as the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapons Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty, Forum for Nuclear Cooperation in Asia, etc.
| Theme: | Cybersecurity, Biosecurity and Nuclear Safety / Energy Security / Non-Traditional Security |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Future Maritime Security Environment — Policy Paper and Workshop
Ms Jane Chan Git Yin Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Maritime Security Programme, IDSS
The study will identify likely developments in the maritime security environment of Asia over the next decade, including shifts in the maritime balance of power and particular threats and challenges in the maritime domain. The study will take a comprehensive view of security, and will include issues such as the trends with international shipping, environmental protection and resource scarcity. The overall objective will be to identify the implications of these developments for the region and for Singapore. The geographical scope for the study will be the Indo-Pacific region.
| Theme: | Conflict and Stability / Country and Region Studies / Maritime Security |
| Region: | East Asia and Asia Pacific / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
Maritime Security and Sea Lines of Communication — Research Paper
Ms Jane Chan Git Yin Senior Fellow and Coordinator of Maritime Security Programme, IDSS
Dr Collin Koh Swee Lean Research Fellow and Coordinator of Projects (Naval/Maritime Affairs)
The programme collaborates with the Information Fusion Centre (IFC) to work on topical maritime security issues relating to Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC) and chokepoints within IFC’s areas of interest. The project aims to better understand the threats and challenges in regional waters. It will consider national, regional and inter-regional maritime law enforcement capacity, best practices and cooperation.
| Theme: | Country and Region Studies / Maritime Security |
| Region: | South Asia / Southeast Asia and ASEAN |
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Past Issues of [email protected]
The past issues of this newsletter are available in the drop-down menu below.
Note: From Sep 2018 onwards, projects are no longer compiled by issues. They have since been categorised as either "ongoing" or "completed".
Note: From Sep 2018 onwards, projects are no longer compiled by issues. They have since been categorised as either "ongoing" or "completed".
