Political Islam poses a direct threat to the stability of South-East Asia Group 3 Anne Claire Flament Daniel Ding Mike Tsang Michiel Mensink Renia Lopez

Background Indonesia - riots, attacks on Chinese and women, poor living conditions Malaysia - Islamic political party gaining power Philippines - terrorist kidnappings China - Muslim demonstrations

Lack of unity amongst SE Asia’s Muslims Lack of religious leader Free interpretation of Koran Many Islamic parties Distrust between party leaders Army deeply divided over Islamic issues DISUNITY

There is discrimination against non- Muslims and women Revival of Fundamentalism –Creating an Islam state. Muslims fight for the Jihad –Deadly riots and violence –Often backed up by terrorists –Separatist demands INSTABILITY Lack of unity (cont’d)

The primary interest of Islamic political leaders is religion Power = reshape politics, society, economy and culture to comply with Koran Religious issues are given priority, to the detriment of the economic development of a country and the welfare of its people Lack of economic agenda

Restrains Development Violence predominates in Muslim society: –Detracts domestic and foreign investors –Frightens Tourism –Slows down economic development Rejection of globalization and technology Obstruct regional integration

Political Islam poses a direct threat to South-East Asia stability in terms of –Social issues –Political issues –Economic issues

Questions How can an Islamic state be modern, democratic and competitive? How can an Islamic state remain united?