ASEAN Journal of Research

Forest Guardians, Forest Destroyers: The Politics of Environmental Knowledge in Northern Thailand

Md. Anas Ibna — 2025-03-31

Forest Guardians, Forest Destroyers: The Politics of Environmental Knowledge in Northern Thailand by Tim Forsyth & Andrew Walker is reviewed by Md. Anas Ibna Rahman

In Defence of Barbarism

John Walsh — 2025-03-31

In Defence of Barbarism: Non-Whites against the Empire by Louisa Youfsi is reviewed by John Walsh.

Are You a Dessert Pervert? A Study on the Cultural Modelling of Western Desserts at the Mercy of Asian Sugar Addicts

Lavanchawee Sujarittanonta — 2025-04-14

This research examines how Western bakery and confectionary is interpreted by Asian and Chinese cultural mental models of desserts, resulting in similar yet very distinctly different new treats to enjoy. Though historical research on the introduction of foreign food, this paper discusses how they are culturally assimilated by the new culture, finally even becoming a national dish. It answers the questions what makes a dessert special to the recipient culture, and why some desserts become commonplace while others continue to hold a place in the hearts and minds of dessert lovers as special, high-end treats? The researchers made great health sacrifices in the data collection process, by having to identify and taste various Asian cakes, then figuring out the flavour and appearances of the original Western source. Our theoretical framework draws on cultural modelling (CM) of perverted Western desserts, through which we conduct a qualitative study of the Asian concept of the sweet food category.

Pentecostalism and Its Implications for Social-Economic Development in Post-Independence Nigerai

SEGUN OLULOWO — 2025-04-14

This study explores the influence of Pentecostalism on Nigeria’s socio-economic development since independence, with a focus on how Pentecostal churches foster economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, education, and social values. Anchored in Max Weber’s The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (1930), the research views Pentecostal teachings on hard work, discipline, and divine reward as drivers of entrepreneurial ambition and financial independence. Many Pentecostal churches offer practical skills training in areas like tailoring, ICT, farming, and small business development, thereby promoting a form of spiritualized capitalism rooted in religious ethics. Additionally, using Social Capital Theory, the study examines how Pentecostal congregations foster strong social networks built on trust, shared values, and mutual support. Through fellowship, charity, and community service, Pentecostalism enhances social cohesion and collective responsibility. However, the study also critiques the excessive focus on prosperity in some Pentecostal teachings, which may fuel materialism, widen the gap between clergy and laity, and divert attention from structural poverty and inequality. The findings underscore Pentecostalism’s potential to drive positive change, but also warn against imbalances that could hinder inclusive development. A more holistic theological and social approach is recommended—one that merges spiritual growth, economic upliftment, and communal care for national transformation.

Representation of Religious Trauma in Sefi Attah`s “Hailstones from Zamfara” in News from Home and Other Stories

Oluwakemi Abiola KALEJAIYE — 2025-04-16

This study examines Sefi Attah’s depiction of the psychological burden on women of the trauma of violence and projects religion as a factor which engenders that violence. This is with a view to identifying the patterns of faith-based domestic violence, and their implications on the psychological and emotional well-being of the victims. The study employed qualitative descriptive content analysis. It draws its theoretical insight from Rational Choice Theory (Tedeschi & Felson, 1994). This is relevant to the study because it attempts at providing a link between domestic abuse and religion. The study revealed that the private and personal lives of women are one of the unrecognised issues which affect their mental health. The findings further showed that there is degradation and the sublime traumatisation of women under the guise of religion in some cases. Moreover, victims of faith-based violence experience layers of complex psychological distress as a result of being constantly abused in marriage. It concludes that religious practices which enforce male dominance are central to the aggressive and violent tendencies exhibited by perpetuators of domestic violence.

Unplanned and Unsustainable: Impacts of Urbanization in Purbachal

Anas Ibna — 2025-03-31

Rapid urbanization and unplanned development activities have become serious problems in developing countries and Bangladesh is in that category as river pollution, land grabbing and unplanned construction works are ongoing here. The secondary effects of rapid urbanization include environmental problems, health difficulties, and poverty. This paper finds that the environmental condition of Purbachal is unbearable as developers are doing construction work for commercial purposes. The biodiversity of Purbachal is threatened due to several types of pollution, wherein air and water pollution are prominent. The River Balu is polluted by unplanned activities surrounding the study area. Moreover, the land acquisition process did not bring any positivity; instead, it took away the affluent life of the locals and, indeed, it is the prime factor in causing vulnerable socio-economic conditions. Unplanned development activities make residents more likely to be subjected to respiratory and waterborne diseases. The study also shows the authorities' apathy in protecting the area from unsustainable activities. This research concluded that careful actions of responsible bodies are badly needed to protect the area from unsustainable activities as well as environmental catastrophes.

Digital Music Marketing in Nigeria Music Industry: Perspectives of Selected Music Marketers in Ibadan

Sunday Olufemi Akande — 2025-03-31

The quest for survival among musicians in the music industry and the question of how artists get known, as well as how existing artists maintain their fans in the music industry, continues to raise a bubble of voices in the sector. This calls for a discourse in popular musicology and specifically in music marketing studies. In order effectively to market music in the vibrant and diverse music industry, Nigerian music marketers need a vibrant approach. Digital streaming platforms offer a broad reach and awareness for music releases, encompassing both local and worldwide services. This study defined the functions of music marketers and concentrated on the tactics utilized by marketers in this field. Both primary and secondary data were used in the investigation. In this discussion, a few chosen music marketers were interviewed. Results showed different platforms used in marketing and that public relations contribute to attracting and maintaining a favorable public image. Musicians attract and retain fans by using fan engagement methods including targeted digital advertising, free performance tickets, and online contests. The study concludes that the success of music marketing depends on understanding audience interest and application of digital marketing strategies. It recommends for consistent further studies on currents trends as new digital technologies emerge.