Jentayu is (re)launching at an important juncture in Malaysian history. The recent Anwar unity government, while attempting to project stability, has left many disenchanted with politics. The administration is also just pulling out of the economic hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and is now managing public expectations to deliver on the promise of growing the economy for all. In the midst of all this, the near victory of far-right political forces has left many from the centre and the left anxious about the social development in our country. With these circumstances in mind, we hope Jentayu will be able to serve as a valuable ideological resource in analysing and addressing the various issues of our day.
In the past, our members and our writings also served as critical voices amid the euphoria around the Pakatan Harapan 1.0. During the pandemic years, we continued to write as a progressive and left-wing voice on many issues facing the rakyat. Many of our members also actively participated in and organised social movements and protests. We look to continue writing, educating and serving as a resource or gathering point for diverse progressive and socialist struggles. We now do so as Jentayu. Firstly, to avoid the confusion that may come with using our prior name, and secondly, to renew our purpose in Malaysian society with greater clarity for ourselves and those whom we struggle with.
Jentayu will aim to produce articles that shed light on left-wing history and perspectives, both in Malaysia and from other parts of the world. We look to translate a host of 101 series of articles on subjects like capitalism, socialism, nationalism, feminism and various other isms. Most of all, we aspire to produce materials that are relevant to those who live in Malaysia and to understand our realities in all its complex facets through a progressive and socialist lens. We believe this is essential for any genuine project of liberation in the political, economic and social realms. Stay tuned!