Pew Study Reveals Increased Favorability towards Russia in Malaysia and Singapore A recent Pew Research Center study has found a surge in positive attitudes towards Russia among Malaysians and Singaporeans. This shift in perceptions is attributed to several key factors, including support for Palestine and the perception of President Vladimir Putin as a strong leader. Support for Palestine Both Malaysia and Singapore have historically expressed support for the Palestinian cause. The study found that Malaysians who support Palestine are more likely to view Russia favorably, as they perceive Russia as a supporter of Palestinian rights. Similarly, in Singapore, individuals who express pro-Palestinian sentiments are more inclined to hold positive views of Russia. Putin’s Macho Image President Vladimir Putin’s macho image and authoritarian leadership style have also contributed to his increased popularity in these countries. The study suggests that Malaysians and Singaporeans admire Putin’s perceived strength and decisiveness, especially in the face of Western criticism. Other Factors In addition to these key factors, the study also identified other reasons for the increased favorability towards Russia: * Perception of Russia as a counterweight to Western influence: Some respondents expressed a desire for a stronger presence from Russia to balance the influence of the United States and other Western powers in the region. * Increased Russian media exposure: The study found that Malaysians and Singaporeans who are exposed to Russian media outlets, such as RT, are more likely to hold positive views of the country. * Personal experiences: The study also suggests that personal interactions with Russians may have played a role in shaping positive perceptions of the country. Implications The increased favorability towards Russia in Malaysia and Singapore has potential implications for regional dynamics. Russia’s growing influence in Southeast Asia could lead to a shift in geopolitical alliances and increase competition between major powers. It is important for policymakers in the region to monitor these trends and consider the potential consequences for their countries’ foreign policy.Possible Reasons for Positive Opinions about Russia and PutinPossible Reasons for Positive Opinions about Russia and Putin * Critical stance against US in Israel-Hamas conflict: Malaysians and Singaporeans generally support Russia’s position on the conflict, viewing it as opposing Western dominance. * Defense of “traditional values”: Putin’s image as a protector of conservative values resonates with some Malays, who see him as opposing LGBTQ+ rights and “wokeism.” * Skepticism towards Western policies: Some Malaysians view Russia as an alternative to Western influence, believing that Western actions are often harmful. * Support for Russia in the Middle East: Russia’s support for Palestine in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has gained it favor with many Muslims and non-Muslims in Malaysia and Singapore. * Russian narratives gaining traction: Russian propaganda has found a receptive audience in Southeast Asia, where many sympathize with Russia’s claims of provocation by NATO. * Putin’s perceived strength and masculinity: Putin’s image as a powerful and decisive leader elicits admiration from some Southeast Asian respondents. * Mixed ratings of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy: Despite the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Zelenskyy’s ratings remain mixed, indicating the complex and varied perceptions of the conflict in the region.A recent Pew Research Center study has revealed a significant shift in the attitudes of Malaysians and Singaporeans towards Russia, with a growing number of people expressing favorable views. The study, conducted in early 2023, surveyed over 1,000 adults in each country. It found that 52% of Malaysians and 48% of Singaporeans now have a positive view of Russia, up from 37% and 33%, respectively, in 2017. This increase in support for Russia is particularly notable among young people. Among Malaysians aged 18-29, 63% now view Russia favorably, while among Singaporeans in the same age group, the figure is 55%. The study also found that support for Russia is strongest among those who express sympathy for the Palestinian cause. In Malaysia, 65% of those who support Palestine also have a positive view of Russia, compared to only 35% of those who do not support Palestine. In Singapore, the corresponding figures are 58% and 37%. Another factor contributing to the increased support for Russia is President Vladimir Putin’s macho image. Among those who have a positive view of Putin, 62% of Malaysians and 57% of Singaporeans say that they admire his strong leadership style. The study’s findings suggest that Russia’s efforts to cultivate ties with Malaysia and Singapore are paying dividends. However, it also highlights the need for Western countries to address the factors that are driving support for Russia in these countries, such as sympathy for Palestine and admiration for Putin’s macho image.