Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
5 October 2023 | 10:20am CAT
1-min read

Picture: University of Newcastle

The Asia-Pacific Report with Ashraf Patel on Radio Islam International covered China’s investment in Indonesia, the political landscape in the Maldives and the challenges facing South Africa’s mining industry.

Indonesia launched the inaugural high-speed railway in Southeast Asia, supported by Chinese investment. Patel explained that this initiative is part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at fostering economic and social development in developing nations through quality infrastructure. The project promises world-class transportation infrastructure in Indonesia and reflects China’s expanding influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Moving on to the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu’s victory in the presidential election on Saturday was discussed. Patel shed light on the nation’s strategic importance due to its location in the Indian Ocean, making it a focal point for global players like India, China, and Europe. The recent election of Mohamed Muizzu as President-elect marked a shift in the country’s foreign policy, with an approach leaning toward China. The Maldives faces significant challenges, including vulnerability to climate change and socio-economic inequalities.

South Africa’s mining sector also featured in the conversation, with Patel highlighting the industry’s rollercoaster ride from a boom in 2021 to a rapid decline. Despite global demand for commodities, challenges such as a slowdown in China, rail constraints, and electricity load shedding have hit the industry hard. Patel emphasised the urgent need for investment in quality rail infrastructure and the importance of adding refining capacity to avoid solely relying on mineral exports.

Patel underscored the importance of industrialisation in South Africa, emphasising that the country has the policies and institutions in place but lacks strong leadership. He called for efforts to strengthen the mining sector, move beyond commodity exports, and invest in refining capabilities to drive economic growth.

Listen to the Asia-Pacific Report with Ashraf Patel on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.