Reimagining solutions: Southeast Asia's cultural wisdom in the global fight against radicalism

Abstract

Southeast Asia’s rich cultural traditions can enhance global efforts to address issues such as radicalism, polarisation, and social cohesion. By integrating local wisdom and practices – like Singapore’s “rojak” culture, which celebrates diversity, and Indonesia’s musyawarah (deliberation and consensus) – the region offers valuable frameworks for fostering community resilience and harmony. This approach calls for more inclusive dialogue and collaboration, demonstrating that progress lies in embracing the diverse insights and strengths of Southeast Asian societies alongside Western methodologies.