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ASEAN Beat

‘One Vision, One Identity, One Community.’ That’s the ASEAN motto. But what’s the reality? Our bloggers based around this diverse and strategically key region give you an insider’s perspective on politics, security and society in South-east Asia.

Myanmar Junta Bans Men From Overseas Work in Bid to Stymie Draft Dodgers

Myanmar Junta Bans Men From Overseas Work in Bid to Stymie Draft Dodgers

By Sebastian Strangio
The enforcement of the People’s Military Service Law has prompted thousands of young people to flee the country.

The Marcos-Duterte Rift Widens in the Philippines

The Marcos-Duterte Rift Widens in the Philippines

By Mong Palatino
For the first time, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has spoken out about the growing tensions between the two political clans.
Where is Aung San Suu Kyi?

Where is Aung San Suu Kyi?

By Sribala Subramanian
Myanmar's ousted leader was reportedly whisked out of jail during a heatwave.

EU, UN Reschedule Launch of Anti-human Trafficking Project in Cambodia After Questions About Venue

EU, UN Reschedule Launch of Anti-human Trafficking Project in Cambodia After Questions About Venue

By Jack Brook
The event was scheduled to take place at a hotel owned by the L.Y.P. Group conglomerate, which also owns a casino with links to forced scamming operations.

Philippines Again Accuses China of Inflaming Maritime Tensions

Philippines Again Accuses China of Inflaming Maritime Tensions

By Sebastian Strangio
Earlier this week, two Philippine vessels were damaged in the latest confrontation with China Coast Guard patrol boats in the South China Sea.

Even If Thailand’s MFP Is Dissolved, the Monarchy Reform Movement Will Live On

Even If Thailand’s MFP Is Dissolved, the Monarchy Reform Movement Will Live On

By David Hutt
If disbanded over its pledge to reform the country's "sacred" institution, the Move Forward Party will simply re-emerge in new form.

With Latest Resignations, Vietnam’s ‘Game of Thrones’ Intensifies

With Latest Resignations, Vietnam’s ‘Game of Thrones’ Intensifies

By Huynh Tam Sang
The country's corruption crackdown, which has led to the exit of two senior leaders in recent weeks, reflects an alarming escalation of cronyism and party infighting.
Indonesia Mulling Dual Citizenship In a Bid to Reverse Brain Drain

Indonesia Mulling Dual Citizenship In a Bid to Reverse Brain Drain

By Sebastian Strangio
Recent years have seen growing numbers of young Indonesians seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in Singapore.

China Coast Guard Again Fires Water Cannons at Philippine Vessels Near Disputed Shoal

China Coast Guard Again Fires Water Cannons at Philippine Vessels Near Disputed Shoal

By Sebastian Strangio
The incident near Chinese-occupied Scarborough Shoal caused damage to two vessels, the Philippine government said.

Deforestation in Indonesia Spiked Last Year, But Some Trends Are Improving

Deforestation in Indonesia Spiked Last Year, But Some Trends Are Improving

By Victoria Milko
According to one resources analyst, large-scale deforestation appears to be shrinking compared to the past.

Thailand Confirms Former Career Diplomat as New Foreign Minister

Thailand Confirms Former Career Diplomat as New Foreign Minister

By Sebastian Strangio
Maris Sangiampongsa, a former ambassador to Australia, Fiji, and Nepal, will replace the outgoing foreign minister, who resigned unexpectedly over the weekend.
Lee and Jokowi Pledge Continuity at Final Leaders’ Summit

Lee and Jokowi Pledge Continuity at Final Leaders’ Summit

By Sebastian Strangio
For the first time, the Singaporean and Indonesian leaders attended the Leaders' Retreat along with their successors.

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