Articles by Nicholas Chan

Unpacking the idea of Malaysia’s ‘deep state’

In Malaysia, the ‘deep state’ is a shorthand for the perceived institutional inertia exerted by the 1.6 million strong civil service. But is it real?

Lost in race between first world and third

Reform-minded Malaysians are fatigued after two missed opportunities since 2008, with today's centrifugal politics generating even more social tensions. Not even Dr Mahathir’s surprise (re)emergence can mend those fractures, as Malaysians dream of the First World but still struggle in the Third as inequality worsens.

Personalities and institutional power in Malaysia

An authoritarian system set up to let unpopular and weak leaders rule -- no matter what.

Najib Razak’s gamble

In the face of corruption claims, the Malaysian Prime Minister's survival hinges on economics.

Examining ISMA’s Nam Tien ideology

It is dangerous for Malay Muslims to look to 'immigrants' or the past to define themselves