What's behind a fresh panic about attacks on Islamic figures at the hands of "crazy people"?

Data suggest public opinion and civil society do influence judges. That's both good and bad for the quality of their decisions.

What makes the Philippines tick, and what's the one piece of art, object or artefact that could provide an answer?

Special forum in Canberra brings together scholars and civil society to survey the effects of Hun Sen's crackdown.

Indonesian law recognises both international human rights norms and 'religious values'. The latter are increasingly taking precedence.

A snapshot of the problems of Indonesia's education system from highland Papua.

A historically-focussed review of the AGNSW's Passion + Procession: Art of the Philippines exhibition.

Claims of widespread Rohingya radicalisation in Malaysia don't ring true on the ground.

Why is the PAP sidelining the most worthy candidate to succeed Lee Hsien Loong?

The experienced journalist and editor joins the New Mandala team as Contributing Editor to oversee our coverage of Malaysia's upcoming general election.

A common logic—play nice with Beijing, get investment—doesn't fit the facts in the Philippines.

Maritime historian Jeffrey Mellefont on why UNESCO has recognised the cultural significance of South Sulawesi boat-building.

The New Books in Southeast Asian Studies podcast talks to Tam Ngo about her new book on protestantism in Hmong society in Vietnam.

Jihadists know how to take advantage of the unique space for mobilisation offered by the Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines triborder area. Governments are still catching up.

Terence Gomez's 'Minister of Finance Incorporated' is a important statement on Malaysian political economy, comparable to James Puthucheary's of 58 years ago.

A personally-confronting reflection on why, sometimes, art galleries don’t seem to work for the author.

Details on a falling out between pro-Anies Baswedan political parties and the religious leaders behind the 212 movement.

Crackdowns on ‘fake news’ producers aren’t enough—Indonesian voters need better journalism and greater digital literacy.

The status quo isn't sustainable, but none of the likely exit strategies for the junta will give it what it wants.

A mini-review of the Art Gallery of New South Wales' recent exhibition of Philippine art.

How an English dictionary documents different eras of linguistic exchange between Filipinos and their colonisers.

New association "seeks to foster and facilitate opportunities for the advancement of research and knowledge relevant to Mainland Southeast Asia."

An ethnic Chinese convert to hardline Islam stands out in Indonesia’s crowded Islamic preaching market.

Farewell and good riddance to 2017, and thanks to all New Mandala contributors and readers throughout the year.