Jihad in paradise : Islam and politics in Southeast Asia / Mike Millard ; foreword by Ivan Hall.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 147-150) and index.

Foreword / Ivan Hall -- 1. Arrival and discovery -- 2. Sources of jihad -- 3. Terror in Singapore -- 4. To Bali and back -- 5. Malaysia and Iraq -- 6. Looking forward.

In recent years there has been much discussion about the harsh realities, particularly in terms of socio-political contexts, facing the ASEAN countries. With the impending threat of Islamic fundamentalism rearing its head, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia, observers are keen on noting any event, personality and occurence which might indicate movements either towards or away from this broad-based fear.It is interesting that several academics have put forward all manner of argument to underline the crucial role of religious freedom in the context of the multi-cultural scenarios found in SouthEast Asia. Mike Millard's excellent book, JIHAD IN PARADISE, takes you on an expoloratory journey starting from Singapore (or Japan, really, from which this fascinating writer seems to have come!)to Malaysia. But this is only geographical ground: much of the book is centred on a larger journey - the author's personal journey as he chooses to make Singapore his home and as he confronts some hard truths in making this choice/decision.Being American, Millard is very aware of the implications, consequences and meanings of 9/11, and being in a region where the majority religion is Islam makes him think seriously of the associated realisations.So some tough issues are brought up, especially about Singapore where religious freedom is delicately balanced with inter-religious tolerance/harmony.Millard does well to interview some of the key people involved in determining, in varying degrees,the current Singaporean ethos as well as the future trends which will, invariably, help bring about basic changes in this tiny Island-Republic. JIHAD IN PARADISE is an easy read, though what it covers requires sustained engagement, for the themes brought up and scrutinsied are exacting.Millard does not mince his words, nor do the many intellectuals he meets and talks with -and this, for this reader, is the great strength of the book: straightforward narrative without unnecessary apology or diplomacy.They say tough times require tough leaders; well, we can also say, pressing times require direct writers. Millard's style is broadly conversational, his narration and anecdotes sprinkled with wit and his insights encompassing wide reading and shrewd observation.This is a *must read* -not only for thsoe who worry about Islam in SEAsia but for anyone wanting to know more about the very complex nature of the geopolitics of SEAsia, particularly the complex driving forces of tiny Singapore.