Southeast #10: In a SEA of cronies, Pt 1
The oligarchs who turned political links into wealth and influence in 2025.
I’ll be serving back-to-back Southeast Asia pieces this weekend, to not only mark the end of a tumultuous year for the region, but to lock in the idea that things won’t be as rosy as some would tout it to be.
Today’s newsletter covers the cronies on my list that made headlines and deals this year, and are expected to continue benefiting in 2026.
I cover a list from Indonesia to Malaysia to Myanmar.
These names aren’t exhaustive, for sure, but perhaps a working list of politically exposed people who’ll continue to influence policy, politics and business in their respective countries.
Southeast is a weekly section where I track money and power in the region. In many ways this is somewhat a detox from purely Malaysian content but one that also helps me see the bigger picture.
The Malaysianist runs on subscriptions. Fuel up with a monthly, annual or founding member plan.
P.S. The founding member tier doesn’t have a ceiling; you can go as high as you want — it’s the ultimate supporter badge.
And, yes, you can upgrade subscription tiers at any time.
Mulling a group purchase for family, friends and colleagues? I’ve got you. Group subscriptions come with discounts, too.
As this is a lengthy one that covers seven cronies seven countries, let’s cut to the chase and begin with Indonesia.